Applications
Magnesium oxide boards can be used in the same ways as gypsum and portland cement sheathings in many applications. The substitution while not totally identical is very similar. Difference in terms of sheet thicknesses, fastening methods and joint treatments do exists at times. This makes Magnesium oxide boards an easy product to use. Some of it many uses are listed below :
The modern use of Magnesium oxide to make sheathing panels goes back several decades. Magnesium oxide boards have been used in Asia and the Middle East on many large, world-class projects, particularly for partitions and fire walls. While the use of sheathing of this type is relatively new in the Indian market, it has a a long, successful track record elsewhere around the globe.
Magnesium oxide boards come in various forms. The thinnest boards are about a quarter inch thick, while the thickest are about an inch. Sheet sizes are similar to those of drywall.
Various surface finishes are available for these boards. Some are super smooth and can be painted as-is, while others are rougher and better suited for non-aesthetic purposes, such as structural sheathing or a tile backer board, or for the application of thick coatings.
Magnesium oxide board is a "low-tech" and "energy-friendly" product. Carbon dioxide, attributed to causing global warming, is high on the list of "greenhouse" gases. Magnesium oxide production is simple, energy efficient, and produces few "greenhouse" gases. This aspect, from the standpoint of being a green or eco-friendly product, would indicate that Magnesium oxide based products have a promising future.
