Magnesium Sulphate Heptahydrate

General Properties and Industrial Significance:

Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate (chemical formula: MgSO₄·7H₂O) is the most common form of magnesium sulfate and is widely known as Epsom salt. It appears as colorless or white crystals and contains about 9.8% magnesium by weight.

Applications:

• Agriculture:

1. Used as a magnesium fertilizer to treat magnesium-deficient soils.

2. Essential for chlorophyll production, photosynthesis, and enzyme function.

3. Applied via soil, foliar spray, or irrigation systems.

• Animal Nutrition:

1. Added to livestock feed or drinking water to prevent magnesium deficiency, especially in grazing animals (e.g., to prevent grass tetany in cattle).

• Medical Use:

1. Used as a laxative, muscle relaxant, and to treat magnesium deficiency in humans (typically via oral or intravenous administration).

2. Also used in soaking baths to relieve sore muscles and reduce inflammation.

• Industrial Uses:

1. Involved in textile processing, tanning, paper manufacturing, and ceramics.

2. Acts as a coagulant in rubber and a source of magnesium in various chemical processes.