Optimisation of the carbonation process for obtaining a high-purity basic magnesium carbonate. Laboratory scale study

Abstract

This project studies the carbonation process for obtaining high-purity hydromagnesite (HM) [Mg₅(CO₃)₄(OH)₂·4H₂O] from two industrial Mg-based secondary sources: i) low-grade magnesium oxide (LG-MgO) and ii) low-grade magnesium hydroxide (LG-MH). Both are industrial by-products derived from the calcination of natural magnesite by the company Magnesitas Navarras S.A. (MAGNA). The experimental work, carried out at laboratory scale (TRL 3), evaluates the influence of temperature and Mg-based secondary source on the carbonation yield and identifies the optimal operating conditions that maximise it. In addition to the technical study, the project develops a business plan to assess the viability of reactivating the industrial pilot plant previously operated by MAGNA. The analysis covers the value proposition, the market and competitive environment, the production system, the capital and operating expenditures, and the expected economic and environmental results, with the aim of transforming a low-value industrial residue into a high-value-added product with relevant industrial and environmental applications