Effect of Calcined MgO-rich Byproduct from the Extraction of Li2CO3 on the Performance of Magnesium Phosphate Cement

Magnesium phosphate cement was prepared with an MgO-containing byproduct (EL-MgO) obtained through the ex-traction of Li2CO3 from salt lakes, and was used to replace dead burnt MgO in magnesium phosphate cement (MPC) formulations. The properties of EL-MgO after calcination at various temperatures were investigated. Changes in pH, alternating-current impedance, and hydration-heat-release rate were assessed. Surface area and reactivity decreased while the degree of crystallization increased with increasing calcination temperature, resulting in longer setting times. The compressive strength of MPC prepared with EL-MgO calcined at 1000°C was 53.9 MPa after 1 day, which is high for quick-repair materials.