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Difference Between Magnesium Oxide Board and Calcium Silicate Board

Magnesium Oxide (MgO) board and Calcium Silicate (CaSi) board are commonly used in construction due to their fire resistance, durability, and versatility. However, they have distinct differences in composition, properties, and applications. Here's a comparison of the two:


Composition

Magnesium Oxide Board (MgO Board)

It is made primarily from magnesium oxide and other materials such as magnesium sulfate or magnesium chloride, non-organic minerals, and sometimes fiber mesh composites. MgO is derived from light-burning MGO active powder, making it a sustainable material.


Calcium Silicate Board (CaSi Board)

They are composed of calcium silicate, a compound made from limestone and quartz. For additional strength, they are often reinforced with cellulose fibers or other materials.

It requires high-temperature processing and autoclaving during production.


Fire Resistance


MgO Board

Naturally fire-resistant, MgO boards can withstand extremely high temperatures (often up to 2000°F or 1093°C). They are known for achieving Class-A fire ratings and are used in applications that require high fire performance.


CaSi Board

They are also highly fire-resistant but generally less so than MgO boards. It can typically resist temperatures up to around 1000°C (1832°F). However, it is still suitable for fire-rated applications and is widely used in fireproofing systems.


Water Resistance and Moisture Behavior

MgO Board

MgO boards are generally moisture-resistant, but they can absorb water if not properly sealed. They dry out quickly without losing strength or integrity, which makes them resistant to mold, mildew, and rot.


CaSi Board

Calcium silicate boards are more resistant to water absorption and often more suitable for humid or wet environments. They maintain their structural integrity when exposed to moisture and are frequently used in areas like bathrooms and exterior walls.


Strength and Durability


MgO Board

MGO Board is known for its high-impact strength and durability. It is lighter than calcium silicate board and has good flexibility, which makes it more resistant to cracking or breaking under stress.


CaSi Board

Calcium silicate board is generally heavier and denser, providing a higher compressive strength but less flexibility. It is more prone to cracking if subjected to impact or movement but is highly durable in static applications.


Thermal and Sound Insulation


MgO Board

It offers moderate thermal insulation properties but excels in sound insulation, making it useful in applications requiring both fire resistance and noise control.


CaSi Board

Typically has better thermal insulation than MgO board, especially at higher temperatures, which makes it more suitable for applications like high-temperature insulation in industrial settings.


Environmental Impact


MgO Board

MgO boards have a lower carbon footprint than calcium silicate boards due to the more sustainable production process. Magnesium oxide is abundant, and its production process emits fewer greenhouse gases.


Calcium silicate production is more energy-intensive and involves high-temperature autoclaving, which increases its environmental impact. However, it's still considered an eco-friendly alternative to other non-green materials.





Applications


MgO Board

They are used in residential and commercial construction for walls, ceilings, flooring, and sheathing due to their versatility, fire resistance, and moisture control properties. It's also used in sound insulation applications. MagMatrix BMSC 517 new sulfate MGO board develops a whole series of panels for the modular construction from timber frame to the steel frame systems to the SIP panels offsite constructions and from the fire-rated exterior wall sheathing to the roof sheathing to the subfloor sheathing plus the interior fire resistance laminated decorative wall board.


CaSi Board

Often used in industrial applications such as fireproofing and insulation in high-temperature environments. It’s commonly seen in areas that require durability and moisture resistance, such as basements, bathrooms, and exterior cladding.


Cost

MgO Board

Due to its specialized composition and superior fire, moisture, and sound resistance qualities, MgO boards can be more expensive upfront than CaSi boards.


CaSi Board

Generally more affordable than MgO board, though pricing can vary depending on the specific formulation and intended application.


Conclusion


The MgO Board is ideal for fire-rated, moisture-resistant, and soundproof applications. It offers a sustainable, lightweight, flexible, robust, and impact-resistant solution.


CaSi Board: Better suited for high-temperature insulation and industrial environments, with superior water resistance and thermal insulation but lower flexibility and impact resistance.


Both boards excel in different areas, so the choice between them depends on the project's specific requirements, such as fire rating, moisture conditions, and budget.


Magnesium and Calcium Silicate Boards: What’s the Usage?


Magnesium Oxide (MgO) and Calcium Silicate (CaSi) boards are used for various purposes in modern construction, with their main applications extending beyond aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown of their key uses before diving into a comparison:


Usage of MgO and CaSi Boards


Aesthetic Improvement

Both boards can enhance the look of your home. When used as wall panels, ceiling panels, or decorative surfaces, they provide a clean, smooth finish that can be painted or finished to match a room’s design.

Fire Resistance

Both MgO and CaSi boards are highly fire-resistant and are used in fire-rated walls and ceilings, providing vital fire protection in residential and commercial buildings.

Moisture and Mold Resistance

These boards are excellent in humid environments like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements, where they resist mold, mildew, and water damage.


Insulation

Their insulating properties help maintain a comfortable temperature inside rooms. Both boards are used in walls and ceilings for thermal insulation, keeping spaces more relaxed in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Soundproofing

With their sound-insulating qualities, MgO and CaSi boards can be used in partition walls and ceilings to reduce noise transmission between rooms, enhancing privacy and comfort in homes or offices.

Structural Use

While often hidden behind finishes, these boards provide structural support in various applications, such as wall sheathing, flooring and underlayments, and roof decking. MgO, in particular, is commonly used for load-bearing applications.


Conclusion


While both boards can serve similar purposes in aesthetics, fire resistance, and soundproofing, they each excel in different areas. MgO boards are lighter, more flexible, and offer better fire resistance and sound insulation, making them ideal for residential and commercial projects where fire safety and soundproofing are essential. CaSi boards, on the other hand, are denser, provide better thermal insulation, and are more water-resistant, which makes them suitable for industrial applications or areas exposed to high moisture.


The choice between them depends on the specific needs of your project, such as fire safety, moisture control, or budget.


What Makes MagMatrix the Best MgO Board?


MagMatrix is a leading manufacturer of chloride-free magnesium oxide (MgO) board based in Jiangsu, China. With over ten years of industry experience, we specialize in producing wall sheathing, wallboard, and subflooring. Our daily production capacity reaches 10,000 sheets, and our products meet ISO standards, are CCRR from Intertek, and are ICC-ESR certified, ensuring both safety and high quality.


Our BMSC 517 new sulfate MGO boards are known for being environmentally friendly, durable, fire-resistant, and lightweight. We have a presence in over 20 countries, making them a trusted global supplier. Their advanced machinery and large workforce enable them to offer a wide range of magnesium-related services.


MagMatrix is committed to customer service, providing 24/7 availability for consultations, project discussions, and sample requests. They offer door-to-door client service, ensuring convenience from project planning to material delivery. You can easily reach MagMatrix through their social media handles to get instant responses and tailored project support.


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