Magnesium hydroxide

Magnesium hydroxide is a halogen-free, environmentally friendly and cost-effective flame retardant additive used in polymer compounds. It is widely employed to produce a variety of low-smoke, halogen-free flame retardant materials for multiple applications.

Magnesium hydroxide functions as a flame retardant through an endothermic decomposition reaction that releases water. This decomposition occurs at approximately 330°C and results in the formation of a metal oxide by-product, which contributes to a stronger char layer that insulates the polymer from heat and oxygen.

Magnesium hydroxide is preferred for formulating polymer compounds that must be processed at temperatures near or above the decomposition point of aluminum hydroxide or alumina trihydrate, which is around 220°C. It is especially suitable for use in polypropylene compounds and engineering thermoplastics.

The use of magnesium hydroxide flame retardants also allows for higher processing temperatures compared to aluminum hydroxide based compounds, thereby enhancing compounding efficiency and increasing extrusion throughput.

Physical Properties of Magnesium Hydroxide (MDH)

Huber Advanced Materials is an expert in the development of magnesium hydroxide (MDH) flame retardants.

Huber Advanced Materials’ technology and market expertise is the foundation for developing innovative products that meet the exacting performance requirements for each application. We specialize in the design, manufacture and marketing of a comprehensive product portfolio based on MDH. Beyond that, we offer comprehensive technical guidance in using our array of high-performing magnesium hydroxide flame retardants.

Magnesium hydroxide flame retardant for polyamide, wire and cable

Magnifin® magnesium hydroxide (MHD) is a high-purity synthetic magnesium hydroxide produced using a patented manufacturing process. Magnifin® allows processors to produce flame-retarded polyamide without halogen or phosphorus-containing compounds and ensures extremely low levels of smoke density, without affecting the color of the finished product. In wire and cable applications, it meets and exceeds compounders’ and producers’ most demanding requirements.

Superior fire retardance for a wide range of applications

Vertex® magnesium hydroxide (MDH) from Huber Advanced Materials imparts outstanding fire retardance and smoke suppression in wire and cable jacketing applications. It is also ideal for applications such as fire retardant bins, containers, plastic pallets and electrical boxes used in regulated areas such as hospitals, schools, warehouses and office buildings.

Delivering enhanced compound performance

Zerogen® magnesium hydroxide (MDH) offers improved mechanical property balance and enhanced electrical and color performance benefits when high-temperature wet electrical properties are needed. Designed for wire and cable applications where electrical and mechanical performance considerations are most critical.