Silicothermic reduction of MgO using diode laser: Experimental and kinetic study

As a step toward realizing magnesium civilization, which needs a sustainable Mg production process, the reduction of MgO to Mg has been investigated. Direct diode laser (DDL) produces high power and continuous beam in tiny spots. The laser with energy density up to 83*105 W/cm2 is focused on MgO/Si target inside the vacuum chamber, creating the high temperature zone, which stimulates the Mg production reaction. The vapor is collected on the copper plate; and then, analyzed chemically in terms of Mg production efficiency. The largest reduction and energy efficiencies in Ar atmosphere were 41% and 15.3 mg kJ−1, while in the vacuum, 13.5% and 15.8 mg kJ−1 were attainable. The reactions of MgO and Si have been investigated. Calculations revealed that the MgO reduction with Si proceeds as heterogeneous reaction. The rate of reaction of Si with MgO is faster than the rate of MgO evaporation and Mg vapor deposition.