Magnesium

Magnesium

Magnesium (Mg) is a lightweight, silvery-white alkaline earth metal known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent machinability, and superior thermal conductivity. It is widely used in aerospace, automotive, electronics, and biomedical sectors.

Goodfellow’s magnesium product range, which includes Magnesium Sputtering Targets, Magnesium Pellets, and Magnesium Thin Films, supports advanced research and industrial applications. Magnesium plays a crucial role in the development of lightweight alloys, energy storage systems, and thin-film coatings. With specialized options like light-tight foil and precision wire, Goodfellow’s magnesium offerings enable laboratory researchers and R&D professionals to explore practical solutions for improving efficiency in manufacturing and material design.



General Properties

PropertyValue
Atomic Number12
Density1.74 g/cm³
Melting Point650 °C
Boiling Point1090 °C
Thermal Conductivity156 W/m·K
Electrical Resistivity45.4 nΩ·m
Crystal StructureHexagonal close-packed (HCP)

Mechanical Properties

PropertyValue
HardnessMohs ~2.5
Elastic Modulus45 GPa
Poisson’s Ratio0.29

Chemical Properties

PropertyValue
Corrosion ResistanceProne to oxidation; requires protective coatings or alloying
ReactivityHighly reactive; burns with bright white flame
Oxidation States+2
Surface OxideMagnesium oxide (MgO)
IdentifierValue
SymbolMg
Atomic Number12
CAS Number7439-95-4
UN NumberUN1418 (powder)
EINECS Number231-104-6
IsotopeTypeNotes
Mg-24Stable78.99% natural abundance
Mg-25Stable10.00% natural abundance
Mg-26Stable11.01% natural abundance

Scientific Applications

Use CaseDescription
Alloy DevelopmentUsed in studying lightweight structural alloys
Biomedical ImplantsInvestigated for biodegradable medical implants
Energy Storage ResearchExplored in next-gen Mg-ion batteries
Combustion StudiesUsed in studying metal combustion and thermochemistry
Thin Film CoatingsUsed in PVD coatings for lightweight applications

Industrial Applications

Use CaseDescription
AutomotiveUsed in engine blocks, wheels, and housings to reduce weight
AerospaceApplied in lightweight structural components
Consumer ElectronicsUsed in casings for laptops and smartphones
Metal ReductionUsed as a reducing agent in titanium and uranium production
Additive ManufacturingEmerging use in 3D printing for lightweight parts
GradeDescription
99.8%Suitable for general laboratory use, pyrotechnics, and reduction reactions
99.9%High-purity form for electronics and alloy preparation
99.97%Ultra-high-purity for specialized research and precision alloys
AZ31Magnesium-aluminum-zinc alloy with good strength and weldability; used in automotive panels and aerospace
AZ61Higher aluminum content for increased strength; used in forgings and structural parts
AJ62Magnesium alloy with aluminum and strontium; offers excellent creep resistance for high-temperature automotive use
EV31ARare earth-based alloy (Nd, Gd) offering excellent strength and corrosion resistance; used in aerospace and motorsport applications
Synonym
Mg
Elemental Magnesium
Magnesium Metal