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MgO flooring board, or magnesium oxide board, is a type of construction material that is gaining popularity as a durable and sustainable alternative to traditional flooring materials like plywood, gypsum board, and cement board.

Composition

MgO boards are typically made from a mixture of natural mineral components, including:

• Magnesium Oxide (MgO): The primary ingredient, providing the board’s core strength and fire-resistant properties.
• Magnesium Chloride (MgCl2​): Acts as a binder, holding the other components together.
• Fillers and Reinforcements: Materials like perlite (for insulation and reduced weight), sawdust or wood fiber (for flexibility and strength), and fiberglass mesh (for enhanced structural integrity and impact resistance) are often added.

Key Properties and Advantages

MgO flooring boards offer a wide range of benefits that make them suitable for various applications, both residential and commercial:

• Exceptional Durability and Strength: They are highly resistant to impact, wear, and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Fire-Resistant: MgO is a non-combustible material that can withstand extremely high temperatures, providing a high level of fire safety. This is a significant advantage over many wood-based products.
• Water and Moisture Resistant: Unlike wood, MgO boards do not swell, warp, or rot when exposed to moisture, making them an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
• Mold and Mildew Resistant: The inorganic and alkaline nature of the material prevents the growth of mold, mildew, and other fungi, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
• Eco-Friendly: MgO is a mineral-based product with a less energy-intensive production process than some other materials. It is also often free of harmful substances like asbestos, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• Soundproofing: They have good acoustic properties and can help reduce noise transmission.
• Dimensional Stability: MgO boards have a low thermal expansion/shrinkage rate, which makes them a stable option, even for use with underfloor heating systems.

Applications

While the term “MgO flooring board” specifically refers to its use as a finished floor, the same material is widely used in other construction applications, including:

• Subflooring and Underlayment: Providing a stable, durable, and moisture-resistant base for other flooring types like tile or hardwood.
• Wall and Ceiling Panels: Used as a substitute for drywall due to its fire and moisture resistance.
• Sheathing: Used for both interior and exterior walls.
• Tile Backer Board: A perfect substrate for tiling in wet areas.