Preparation of Magnesium Titanate by Using Magnesium Chloride a Byproduct of Titanium Plant

Abstract

This study explores the preparation of magnesium titanate using magnesium chloride, a byproduct of the titanium production plant as a precursor. The synthesis involves the reaction of MgCl₂ with titanium tetrachloride under controlled thermal conditions. Initially, MgCl₂ and TiCl₄ are thoroughly mixed in stoichiometric proportions with an excess of oxalic acid solution to produce magnesium titanyl oxalate. The mixture is then subjected to a calcination process at temperatures ranging from 300 °C to 1000 °C in an oxygen-rich environment. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized MgTiO₃ were analyzed using EDS, XRD, TG/DTA, SEM, and particle size analysis. This comprehensive set of analytical techniques provides a thorough understanding of the elemental, structural, thermal, morphological and physical characteristics of magnesium titanate. The formation of pure magnesium titanate is confirmed at temperatures above 800 °C, with lower temperatures leading to the presence of intermediate phases such as MgTi₂O₅. The synthesized MgTiO₃ exhibits a homogeneous microstructure with well-defined grain boundaries, indicating successful preparation of the desired ceramic material.