Periclase(MgO) is not a very frequently occurring mineral and this is produces m

Question

Periclase(MgO) is not a very frequently occurring mineral and this is produces mainly from burning Magnesium Carbonate(MgCO_3). Periclase is very chemically stable at high temperatures and is used in the production of refractory bricks and among other uses is added to Portland cement. However when a high enough concentration is present and water is introduced I can compromise the structural integrity of concrete. Identify the product of the MgO + H_2 O reaction and explain why it causes damage in concrete and when does this damage occur.

Explanation / Answer

the product which is produced by the above reaction is brucite, which is a magnesium hydroxide mineral with chemical formula Mg(OH)2

as it contains OH in its chemical composition, it is expansive and can exert a great pressure on the rocks leading to fractures and cracks in concrete. the reason for this is reaction of magnesium with water

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