MgO Board vs. Traditional Materials: Which Performs Better?

MgO board stands out as a construction material used in some of the world's most impressive structures. The versatile material earned its spot as the official construction material for the 2008 Summer Olympics. One of the world's tallest buildings, Taipei 101, uses it extensively to fireproof beams and walls. The numbers tell an impressive story - builders use about 740,000 square meters (8 million square feet) of magnesia board products in Asia.

The popularity of magnesium oxide board comes from several key advantages. These boards outperform traditional construction materials due to their exceptional fire resistance and ability to withstand extreme temperatures. They resist moisture, mold, and mildew, which makes them perfect for damp areas. MgO boards are an excellent choice for exterior wall sheathing because they maintain structural integrity while offering multiple protection layers. Compared to fiber cement board, they're lighter, more flexible, and better at resisting impact. The boards' production needs less energy and creates fewer greenhouse gas emissions than standard construction materials. This piece will help you understand how MgO boards compare to traditional materials in several performance categories, allowing you to choose the best option for your project.

What Is MgO Board Made Of?

MgO board's composition explains its exceptional performance in applications of all types. The board's chemical makeup directly contributes to its fire resistance, durability, and environmental benefits.

Magnesium oxide and periclase mineral composition

Magnesium oxide forms the foundation of MgO board's exceptional properties, as it is its main component. And the light burns magnesium oxide powders, which are stable and fire-resistant. This stability remains intact during manufacturing, making it ideal for construction.

The board's total composition includes 56-58% magnesium oxide as its core ingredient. Raw materials are derived from magnesium-rich ores, including magnesite (magnesium carbonate), brucite (magnesium hydroxide), and dolomite (calcium-magnesium carbonate). China has abundant natural deposits of magnesium carbonate (magnesite ore), which is converted into magnesium oxide through calcination.

Magnesia cement manufacturing typically occurs near periclase (magnesia-based ore) mining sites, with significant deposits located in China, Europe, and Canada. Most MgO board projects rely on Chinese or Indian materials, as the United States and Europe primarily mine microscopic magnesium-based minerals, except for specialized ceramic applications.

Manufacturers add several components to boost performance beyond the magnesium oxide base:

• Fiberglass mesh (4-6%): Provides structural integrity and impact resistance

• Perlite (3-4%): Adds insulation properties and reduces weight

• Wood fiber (5-6%): Improves flexibility and crack resistance

  
  

These ingredients work together with magnesia cement to create a versatile building material suitable for various applications.

Role of magnesium sulfate vs magnesium chloride

The binding agent creates the most significant difference in the composition of MgO boards. Two main types exist: magnesium chloride-based boards and magnesium sulfate-based boards.

Traditional MgO boards use magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) as the primary binding agent, accounting for 27-29% of the total composition. The mixture with magnesium oxide creates a chemical reaction that produces magnesium oxychloride cement, also known as Sorel cement. This reaction yields a strong, durable material that builders utilize extensively.

Magnesium chloride has one major drawback - it absorbs moisture easily. Boards with high chloride content can face problems in humid environments that lead to:

• Moisture buildup and mold growth

• Stains on surrounding materials

• Metal fasteners and fixtures are corroding

  
  

Newer formulations use magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) as the binding agent. These boards have a similar composition but replace chloride with sulfate. Changing from chloride ions (Cl⁻) to sulfate ions (SO₄²⁻) substantially improves performance, particularly in terms of moisture resistance.

Magnesium sulfate boards resist water better because they absorb less moisture. Bathrooms, kitchens, and other high-moisture areas benefit from this feature. Metal components used in construction are less susceptible to corrosion with these boards.

Comparison with gypsum and cement board ingredients

MgO board's composition and performance profile stand apart from traditional building materials. Drywall, or gypsum board, mainly consists of gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate) between two paper layers. This core material difference explains why they perform differently.

Portland cement boards contain cement, aggregate, and reinforcing fibers. MgO boards have different base chemistries but serve similar functions, often performing better.

Key composition differences include:

The composition of MgO boards gives them key advantages over traditional materials. Gypsum breaks down when wet, but MgO boards stay strong in high-moisture environments. Magnesia cement's chemical structure provides these boards with excellent fire resistance, as evidenced by tests that show a MgO content of 82.89% at 800°C.

Manufacturing requires strict control of raw materials and curing procedures. This attention ensures consistent performance in everything from wall sheathing to subflooring.

ASTM E119 fire test ratings

Fire resistance testing follows strict protocols to review how materials behave under extreme conditions. Two main standards guide this assessment: ASTM E119 (also known as ANSI-UL 263)

ASTM E119 tests complete wall assemblies through standardized fires that reach temperatures exceeding 1600°F. The test measures three significant factors:

• Structural integrity and load-bearing capacity

• Fire containment capabilities

• Thermal insulation properties

  
  

These detailed tests determine a material's Fire Resistance Level (FRL) in minutes or hours. MgO board-lined light steel frame (LSF) wall setups achieve a 30-minute FRL rating. The boards usually fail through cracking or joint opening.

Quality MgO boards achieve 1-hour and 2-hour fire ratings in proper wall assemblies without the need for additional materials. This standalone performance makes installation easier and reduces system costs. Traditional materials often require extra components, such as specialized tapes and sealants.

Performance in high-temperature environments

MgO boards exhibit exceptional heat resistance, withstanding temperatures of up to 1200°C (2192°F) without producing toxic fumes. Their chemical makeup creates this remarkable performance. The magnesium hydroxide in MgO boards releases water vapor when heated. This cools the surface and slows down flames.

Lab tests show clear differences between MgO boards and traditional materials:

Thermal property tests reveal MgO boards lose more mass at high temperatures—about 40-50% compared to gypsum's 15%. Yet MgO boards keep their structural integrity longer because they can handle very high temperatures without burning.

This difference becomes clear around 200°C (392°F). Gypsum board turns to powder within 20-30 minutes and loses all bending strength. Gypsum's surface paper gives it much of its strength, but breaks down between 200°C and 350°C.

Use in fire-rated wall assemblies

MgO boards are valuable parts of fire-rated wall systems. They stop flames from spreading and maintain their structure. Top-quality MgO panels can achieve fire ratings up to 4 hours. This is a significant development, as it means they offer more protection than traditional materials.

MgO boards play a key role in light steel frame (LSF) wall construction. Cold-formed steel studs weaken more rapidly beyond 500°C, which may cause early structural failure. MgO sheathing helps slow this process and extends the wall's fire resistance.

Wall systems with MgO boards deliver:

• 1-hour and 2-hour fire ratings for various setups

• Compliance with International Building Code requirements for Types I and II construction

• Protection from both interior and exterior fires

  
  

The MagMatrix™ system's MgO board assemblies have passed fire resistance tests on both sides of the wall. This two-sided protection helps exterior walls near other buildings or lot lines, where fire could come from either direction.

Real-world uses show MgO boards work well in:

• Fire-rated wall assemblies in multi-family buildings

• Commercial structures that need strict fire code compliance

• Floor systems that need fire protection from below

  
  

These boards don't burn and produce minimal smoke. That's why they work so well in places where people's safety is the top priority.

Moisture and Mold Resistance Comparison

Moisture resistance is a vital factor in choosing building materials. It affects the longevity of structures and the quality of indoor air. Examining how construction materials handle water exposure reveals distinct differences.

The most significant difference between magnesium oxide boards and traditional gypsum is their handling of water. MgO boards absorb just 0.34% moisture, while standard gypsum boards take in almost 3% under the same conditions. This means gypsum absorbs ten times more water, which alters how these materials function in wet environments.

High-quality magnesium oxide wallboard withstands water damage remarkably well. It keeps its strength even after being underwater for 100 days. The most extensive longitudinal study shows MgO boards barely change size when they get wet:

MgO boards resist moisture because they're made from inorganic materials. Research shows that magnesium sulfate-based boards are more effective in wet conditions than those made with magnesium chloride. Magnesium chloride boards can swell or bend when wet, but magnesium sulfate-based boards stay strong and stable in humid areas.

ASTM G-21 mold resistance certification

Microorganisms can't grow on magnesium boards due to their inorganic composition. MgO boards score a perfect 0/0/0 on the ASTM G-21 test, which proves they resist fungus completely.

These boards fight mold for three reasons:

1. They absorb very little water, so mold spores can't get the moisture they need

2. They contain no organic materials that could feed microbial growth

3. Their mineral-based composition creates an environment where mold can't survive

The magnesium oxide itself prevents the growth of mold and mildew. These boards remain free from biological breakdown even in humid conditions, making them ideal for areas with moisture issues.

Jinpeng Group -- MagMatrix Brand, one type of BMSC 517 new sulfate MgO board product, has been tested for 36 months in freeze/thaw conditions. It didn't break down when submerged in water or exposed to temperature cycles. This toughness explains why more contractors opt for magnesium oxide boards in challenging environments.

Performance in bathrooms and kitchens

Bathrooms and kitchens are tough on building materials. Magnesium oxide wallboards excel in these spaces without requiring extra treatments or sealants.

MgO boards work great for:

• Shower surrounds and bathtub enclosures

• Kitchen backsplashes and areas near sinks

• Sauna enclosures where temperature and humidity change drastically

• Indoor pool areas that stay damp

  
  

The sort of thing I love is that even water-resistant gypsum board (greenboard) can't match MgO's resistance to mold and mildew. Regular gypsum products don't last long in wet conditions and typically require replacement after prolonged exposure.

Builders love magnesium oxide boards, especially when working in coastal regions, tropical climates, or humid spaces. The higher upfront cost pays off over time because these boards need less maintenance and fewer replacements.

This high moisture resistance helps create healthier indoor spaces by stopping mold growth that could hurt air quality and people's health. This is a significant development, as it means that individuals with allergies or breathing issues receive more than just structural benefits.

ASTM D-5628 impact resistance test results

The ASTM D5628 test leads the way in measuring the impact resistance of building materials. This detailed test drops a free-falling dart (tup) onto flat specimens. The test measures how much impact-failure energy these materials need before they crack or break. MgO boards show remarkable strength against impact forces.

The test uses different shapes to check various types of impact resistance:

• Geometry FA: Standard impact testing with moderate stress concentration

• Geometry FB: Higher stress concentration for tougher specimens

• Geometry FC: Reduces punch shear failure and works best with thick sheets

  
  

MgO boards consistently outperform traditional materials in these tests. Magpanel proves its toughness and stays intact even after repeated impact testing. This makes MgO boards an excellent fit for schools, hospitals, and commercial spaces where walls are frequently damaged.

Dimensional stability under load

MgO boards excel in dimensional stability, maintaining their shape and size under various conditions. Traditional materials often change shape in response to their environment, but MgO boards remain stable.

Independent tests prove that MgO sheathing retains its shape even with exposure to moisture. The board's unique composition resists forces that cause other materials to warp. MgO boards resist:

• Shrinkage in dry conditions

• Swelling from moisture

• Warping during temperature changes

  
  

Buildings constructed with magnesium oxide boards require fewer repairs over time compared to those made with standard materials. This stability makes them perfect for projects that need lasting structural integrity.

MgO board flooring vs OSB subflooring

MgO boards and oriented strand board (OSB) show apparent differences in subflooring. MgO boards offer exceptional strength in a lightweight package and can handle heavy loads effectively.

MagMatrix® MgO Panels excel as subflooring material. You can find them in the right thickness and strength for structural sheathing. Your choice of board grade depends on joist span, spacing, size, and load requirements.

OSB starts strong but struggles to handle moisture effectively. It works fine in dry spots but soaks up water like a sponge, which leads to swelling and structural problems. Moisture exposure significantly weakens OSB, making it a poor choice for humid environments.

MgO boards prove their worth as subflooring in:

• Bathrooms and kitchens

• Basements

• High-traffic areas

• Buildings in humid climates

  
  

MgO sheathing keeps its strength even in harsh environments. Traditional materials can't match this long-term reliability.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

The environmental profile of building materials deserves a comprehensive picture now that sustainability is shaping construction decisions. The environmental impact of building materials begins with the extraction of raw materials and continues through manufacturing to end-of-life disposal. Each of these phases adds to their overall ecological footprint.

Carbon footprint of MgO vs Portland cement

The construction industry accounts for approximately 37% of global carbon emissions, making it the most significant contributor to climate change. Cement production within this sector raises serious environmental concerns, as it accounts for approximately 5-7% of global anthropogenic CO₂ emissions.

Research reveals mixed findings regarding MgO's impact on the environment in terms of carbon emissions. Several studies have shown that magnesium oxide board production generates fewer greenhouse gases than traditional materials. To cite an instance, see MagMatrix® production that makes 50% lower CO₂ emissions compared to Portland cement, gypsum drywall, or plywood.

Data comparing these materials' environmental impact shows apparent differences:

Nevertheless, other reliable research presents different findings. They suggest that reactive magnesium oxide cement might create 79-395 kg/ton more direct CO₂ emissions than Portland cement during production. This difference highlights why manufacturing methods and raw material sourcing matter so much.

MgO boards made using natural gas instead of coal show 18% lower CO₂ emissions. One of the things I love about these boards is that specific manufacturing processes enable them to absorb carbon dioxide at the molecular level.

Recyclability and biodegradability of MgO boards

MgO boards offer another environmental advantage due to their potential for a circular economy. These boards can be recycled fully and biodegrade naturally, which makes them "clean and nutritional waste".

You can recycle MgO boards in several ways:

1. Reusing broken pieces in areas requiring smaller panels

2. Grinding and repurposing as filler in new construction materials

3. Composting and breakdown - crushed and allowed to degrade naturally

   
   

This recyclability stands in stark contrast to traditional materials. Portland cement waste typically ends up in landfills, whereas gypsum is subject to strict disposal rules to prevent the release of hydrogen sulfide.

MgO boards' biodegradability stems from their natural material composition, which does not contain toxic chemicals. Ground-up boards actually help enrich the soil with nutrients. They break down into MgO, Mg(OH)₂, and MgSO₄, which provide magnesium that helps plants grow and balances the soil.

LEED certification and green building compliance

MgO boards help get LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, which serves as a globally recognized green building rating system. This system awards points corresponding to certification levels: Certified (40-49 points), Silver (50-59 points), Gold (60-79 points), and Platinum (80+ points).

MgO panels support many LEED credits:

• MR Credits 2 and 4: Optimized packaging through palletization and use of recycled materials

• MR Credit 6: Manufactured using a closed-loop system recycling all process byproducts

• MR Credits 2.1 and 2.2: Minimal waste generation during installation

• MR Credits 3.1 and 3.2: Potential for repurposing when installed with screw fastening techniques

• EQ Prerequisite 1 and Credits 4.1-4.4: Free from harmful substances like formaldehyde, asbestos, and VOCs

  
  

MgO boards' environmental benefits last throughout their lifecycle. They begin with manufacturing processes that avoid toxic chemicals or VOCs and continue with long-term performance, releasing no harmful substances. Using MgO boards in construction projects reduces ecological footprints while meeting eco-friendly building requirements.

Health and Indoor Air Quality Considerations

The chemical composition of building materials plays a crucial role in maintaining occupant health through improved indoor air quality. MgO boards create healthier indoor spaces thanks to their unique chemical properties.

Silica-free and asbestos-free composition

The chemical makeup of high-quality MgO boards sets them apart from standard construction materials. These boards don't contain asbestos, formaldehyde, crystalline silica, or toxins. This makes them a lot safer for everyone involved, from installers to occupants.

MgO boards' manufacturing process excludes:

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

• Heavy metal salts

• Hexavalent chromium

• Toxic antifungal additives

  
  

Safety precautions remain crucial. Workers need to wear masks and silica/concrete respirators when cutting and sanding MgO boards to protect against dust particles.

VOC emissions and hypoallergenic properties

Pollutant levels inside buildings can be ten times higher than outdoor air. Americans spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, so the emissions from building materials can impact their health over time.

MgO boards release almost no toxic off-gassing. LEED certification labels them as "Inherently Non-Emitting" materials. Lab tests confirm:

• Zero formaldehyde emissions (meeting ASTM D6007-14 standards)

• No measurable VOCs based on ASTM D5116-10 testing

  
  

The World Health Organization lists formaldehyde as a known human carcinogen. This common building material component can cause skin, eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as breathing problems, headaches, and fatigue. MgO boards eliminate these health risks.

MgO board safety in residential interiors

MgO boards help create healthier homes, which proves valuable for people with sensitivities. Their antimicrobial features fight mold, mildew, fungus, and rot. This reduces common indoor allergens.

These qualities protect residents from mold exposure symptoms like:

• Asthma flare-ups

• Coughing and wheezing

• Throat and eye irritation

• Nasal stuffiness

• Skin irritation

  
  

Individuals with asthma exhibit more pronounced reactions to inhaled irritants. This makes non-toxic building materials, such as MgO boards, a necessity rather than a choice. Schools and hospitals benefit the most from MgO installation because they house people with developing or weakened immune systems.

MgO boards offer a detailed solution for health-conscious construction. They protect against indoor pollutants and create spaces that enhance occupant health, rather than harming it.

Installation and Cost Comparison

Project timelines and budgets are heavily dependent on construction materials, installation requirements, and associated costs. MgO boards' practical aspects can streamline your project workflow.

Ease of cutting and fastening MgO boards

MgO boards are dense but easy to cut. A circular saw with a thin carbide blade gives you clean cuts. You can score and snap thinner boards (8mm or less) with a razor blade. The edges may require additional finishing, though. Diamond bits work best for routing edges in larger projects.

You'll need corrosion-resistant fasteners. Here are your options:

• Stainless steel or phosphoric-coated drywall screws

• Screws with self-countering boring heads

• Gun nails that work with wood and light-gauge steel framing

  
  

Place your fasteners 3/8 to 3/4 inch from the edges and at least 2 inches from the corners.

Labor and tool requirements vs drywall

MgO boards make installation easier than traditional materials. You'll save about 30% on installation time compared to drywall. MgO boards weigh more than gypsum products but offer several advantages:

• No need for corner beads (40% less work than gypsum installation)

• You won't need backing materials for shelving or fixtures

• Paint the same day using a "tile" approach to finishing

  
  

These benefits make MgO boards perfect for time-sensitive projects. You'll need extra hands because of their weight, though.

Cost comparison with cement board and OSB

MgO boards cost more upfront than other options. Professional installation with materials runs between USD 3.00 and USD 8.00 per square foot. Gypsum costs between USD 2.21 and USD 2.62 per square foot.

OSB remains the most cost-effective option, ranging from USD 0.50 to USD 1.00 per square foot. Building costs account for only 10-20% of lifetime expenses. Maintenance and operations take up the other 80-90%.

MgO boards last 20-30 years, twice as long as gypsum's 10-15 years. The total ownership costs indicate that MgO boards offer better long-term value. They need less maintenance and fewer replacements over time.

Sourcing challenges outside China

Getting MgO boards remains one of the most significant problems for global construction projects. U.S. projects mostly rely on Chinese manufacturers, as North American production hasn't yet caught up. This creates several challenges:

• Raw material prices keep changing, which affects manufacturing costs and final pricing

• Project schedules often get delayed because of long shipping times

• Project budgets increase due to high transportation costs

  
  

Production happens mostly near periclase mineral deposits found in China, Europe, and Canada. China, North Korea, and Russia collectively control approximately 65% of the world's magnesite resources. This concentrated control makes the supply chain vulnerable and creates procurement problems when projects need steady material delivery.

Performance issues with magnesium oxychloride boards

The chemical composition of MgO boards plays a crucial role in determining their longevity. The market offers two main formulations:

Denmark's construction industry learned this the hard way back in 2015. The whole ordeal with "crying" or "weeping" boards clearly highlighted these performance risks. These boards absorbed too much moisture from humid air and leaked chloride-filled droplets, which ruined nearby materials. Poor manufacturing and wrong magnesium-to-chloride ratios caused this problem.

Corrosion risks with embedded fasteners

Metal fasteners inside magnesium oxychloride boards can deteriorate over time. Tests show that 0.8 mm-thick zinc flashings can completely corrode within 1-2 years when they come into contact with leaching MgO boards. Electro-galvanized steel profiles, nails, and screws face the same fate.

Boards manufactured correctly with proper molecular ratios alleviate these risks. A2 and A4 grade stainless steel fasteners resist corrosion well. The real danger comes from boards containing unreacted magnesium chloride—or "free chlorides." These boards actively draw in water vapor and create saline solutions that aggressively attack metal parts.

Conclusion

We've examined how MgO boards compare to traditional construction materials in various performance areas. The results indicate that these boards possess several significant advantages in key areas.

Fire resistance is definitely the most impressive feature of MgO boards. These boards can withstand temperatures up to 1200°C without emitting toxic fumes, making them significantly safer than gypsum or wood-based products. They also resist moisture really well. MgO boards absorb just 0.34% water, compared to gypsum's 3%, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and other humid spaces where regular materials tend to deteriorate quickly.

MgO boards shine in terms of durability, too. They resist impact better and remain stable under various conditions, which means they last longer and require less maintenance. The original cost is higher than that of gypsum or OSB, but these boards last 20-30 years, which is twice as long as gypsum. This makes them a better value over time.

The health benefits of MgO boards are another plus. They don't contain asbestos, formaldehyde, crystalline silica, or VOCs, creating healthier spaces inside buildings. This makes them ideal for hospitals, schools, and homes where air quality is a concern.

MgO boards do have some drawbacks. Most production takes place in China, which can lead to supply chain issues. Quality issues can also arise, such as poorly made magnesium oxychloride, which can cause metal fasteners to corrode quickly. Better magnes”. Better magnesium sulfate-based boards have mostly fixed these issues.

Choosing between MgO boards and traditional materials ultimately comes down to your specific needs, budget, and performance priorities. MgO boards are a superior option for projects that require excellent fire resistance, moisture protection, and long-term durability, even though they may be more expensive upfront. Projects with tight budgets and basic requirements might do fine with traditional materials.

Considering all the facts, MgO boards represent a significant advancement in construction technology. Especially the Jinpeng Group MagMatrix brand BMSC 517 new sulfate MGO board formulation and technology presents the most innovation and upgrade technology for the new sulfate MGO board for the exterior fire rated and structurally wall sheathing, subfloor sheathing and roofing sheathing panels applicatioins. They solve many problems that regular building products often struggle to address. Increasingly prestigious projects worldwide are utilizing them, which demonstrates their effectiveness. As manufacturing spreads globally and more people become aware of them, these innovative boards should become more accessible to builders seeking better building solutions.

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