Why MGO Boards Are Fire-resistant?

Jan 14, 2026

The fire resistance of MGO boards stems from three core factors: raw material composition, crystal structure, and high-temperature reaction characteristics. Overall, they meet the national Class A non-combustible material standard. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key points:

 

1. Core raw materials are inorganic non-combustible mineralsThe main base materials of MGO boards are magnesium oxide (MgO) and magnesium chloride (MgCl₂), both of which are inorganic minerals and inherently non-combustible. They have extremely high melting points (the melting point of magnesium oxide is about 2800℃). When exposed to fire, they will not burn, nor release flammable gases or toxic smoke.Unlike organic boards (such as wood-based panels and polystyrene boards) that rely on added flame retardants for fire resistance, the fire resistance of MGO boards is an inherent characteristic of the raw materials rather than a post-modification feature.

 

2. A stable 5·1·8 type hydromagnesite crystal structure forms after curingMagnesium oxide and magnesium chloride undergo a hydration reaction in an aqueous solution to form 5·1·8 type hydromagnesite crystals. This crystal structure has stable chemical properties, is high-temperature resistant and dense in structure.When exposed to fire, the crystal structure will not decompose easily, which can maintain the basic shape of the board and avoid combustion-supporting phenomena such as melting and dripping.

 

3. A "sintered insulation layer" forms at high temperatures to block fire spreadWhen MGO boards are in a high-temperature fire environment, the free moisture inside the boards evaporates rapidly, absorbing a large amount of heat and lowering the surface temperature of the boards.As the temperature continues to rise, a slight sintering reaction occurs on the surface layer of the board, forming a dense inorganic sintered layer. This layer can effectively insulate oxygen and heat from conducting to the interior of the board, and at the same time prevent the internal components of the board from participating in combustion, thereby blocking the further spread of fire.

 

4. The proportion of organic components is extremely low, with no support for combustion pointIn the production formula of high-quality MGO boards, the addition amount of organic adhesives and organic fillers is usually less than 5%, and some high-end products even contain no organic components at all.Even at high temperatures, a small amount of organic components will only carbonize, without creating conditions for sustained combustion and without exacerbating the fire.

 

5. Reinforced structure helps improve fire stabilityMost MGO boards are mixed with reinforcing materials such as glass fiber cloth and non-woven fabric. These materials are also non-combustible, will not burn in high-temperature environments, and can enhance the structural strength of the board, preventing the board from cracking and falling off due to high-temperature baking, and maintaining the integrity of the fire barrier.

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