Synthesis of Magnesia Powder from East Java Dolomite through Leaching, Precipitation and Calcination

Abstract

At the present paper, a process of magnesia (MgO) synthesis from East Java dolomite through hydrochloride acid leaching, precipitation and calcination as well as characteristic of the product is discussed. Results of the experimental works show that the dissolution rate of magnesium and calcium from dolomite in hydrochloride acid solution was very rapid. Complete magnesium extraction was obtained by the leaching test with acid concentration of 1.5 molar, particle size distribution of -325#, solid-liquid ratio 1:20 (g/mL), stirring speed 200 rpm at room temperature after only 10 seconds. Precipitation of Mg(OH)2 by the addition of 20% (v/v) CaO slurry into pregnant leach solution resulted in 97.5% Mg precipitation after 1 minute. Solution pH must be maintained at a level of 10-10.5 by adjusting CaO addition in order to minimize calcium co-precipitation and to obtain high purity of Mg(OH)2 precipitate. Calcinations of Mg(OH)2 were performed at temperature range of 550-800°C in which 99% of crystal water removal took place after 5 minute at temperature of 800°C. Lower temperature requires longer time of crystalline water removal from Mg(OH)2. XRF analysis showed MgO purity of 88% with the main impurities of calcium and chloride. XRD analysis detected the presences of calcium as calcite (CaCO3) and portlandite (Ca(OH)2) as impurities in the MgO product. SEM analysis of the MgO powder revealed a nano size of MgO with particle diameter of about 50 nm.