Anhydrous MgCO3: Controllable synthesis of various morphology based on hydrothermal carbonization

A novel, simple and efficient anhydrous MgCO3 (AMC) synthesis method using ascorbic acid (ASA) has been developed based on the hydrothermal carbonization. In this process, ASA acts as both a CO2 source and a crystal modifier to regulate and control the crystallization of AMC. Furan derivatives, aldehydes and ketones from ascorbic acid play an unexpected role as a structure-directing agent. The effect of pH values of ASA, reaction time and the concentrations and types of Mg2+ were systematically investigated. Pure AMC with different morphology were successfully prepared.

Automated summary

A novel, simple and efficient method for synthesizing anhydrous MgCO3 (AMC) using ascorbic acid (ASA) as a CO2 source and crystal modifier has been developed based on hydrothermal carbonization. Furan derivatives, aldehydes and ketones from ascorbic acid unexpectedly act as structure-directing agents. The effects of ASA pH values, reaction time and concentrations and types of Mg2+ were systematically investigated, resulting in the successful preparation of pure AMC with different morphologies.