Characteristics of Sorel cement prepared from impure materials

Abstract

Abstract Production of potassium nitrate from potassium chloride and magnesium nitrate is related with the production of by-product, which is water solution of MgCl2 having concentration (24-30) mass %. Along with magnesium chloride this solution contains also nitrates and potassium and calcium cations. This solution can be used as defrosting agent or as a component for the production of building material based on Sorel cement. Sorel cement is material originating from the reaction of MgCl2 solution with solid MgO of suitable reactivity which depends on the temperature of calcinations of MgCO3 and size of MgO particles. Sorel cement paste is prepared by mixing MgO and MgCl2 in molar ratio 9 : 1 with the addition of water in appropriate amount. This cement settles in 2 hours and it can be treated within 24 hours, depending on the reactivity of MgO. This paper deals with the preparation and properties| of Sorel cement made of by-product (MgCl2) from the production of fertilizer KNO3 and MgO prepared from Slovak magnesite (Jelsava) with high content of impurities. We will show that properties of this material are suitable for application in building industry.