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MgO board is very strong, with properties that often exceed or match traditional building materials like OSB and even concrete. Its strength comes from its unique mineral composition and the reinforcement provided by fiberglass mesh.

Here’s a breakdown of its strength properties:

Compressive Strength

MgO board has excellent compressive strength, which is its ability to withstand forces that push down on it. This makes it a great material for load-bearing walls and flooring applications. Typical compressive strength values for MgO boards range from 12 to 25 MPa (megapascals), which is comparable to, and in some cases better than, traditional cement board. In contrast, OSB typically has a compressive strength of 10.3 to 17.2 MPa. This high compressive strength is one reason MgO is a good choice for structural uses.

Flexural and Bending Strength

Flexural strength refers to a material’s ability to resist bending or deformation under a load. MgO board has a strong flexural capacity, with values often ranging from 14 to 22 MPa. This is a crucial property for wall sheathing and other applications where the board may be subjected to lateral forces, like wind or seismic activity. This high bending strength helps the material maintain its structural integrity without cracking or breaking.

Shear Strength

Shear strength is the resistance of a material to forces that cause it to slide or shear past one another. MgO board provides excellent shear strength, which is vital for providing a racking shear resistance to a building’s structure. This means it helps a building withstand forces like high winds or earthquakes that try to push the structure out of square. The ability of MgO to hold fasteners firmly also contributes to its strong shear performance.

Impact Resistance

Thanks to its dense, mineral-based composition and fiberglass reinforcement, MgO board is also highly resistant to impact. It is much more robust than drywall and can handle significant blows without cracking. This makes it a great choice for areas that might be subjected to bumps and knocks, like hallways and public spaces. This is also why it’s a good choice for exterior sheathing in areas prone to hail or other impact hazards.

In summary, MgO board’s strength is multifaceted. It’s not just strong in one dimension; its combination of high compressive, flexural, and impact strength, along with its excellent resistance to moisture and fire, makes it a superior and durable building material.