What are magnesiums electrochemical and other uses?
Magnesium anodes are used to prevent galvanic corrosion of steel in certain environments such as underground pipelines, storage tanks and domestic water heaters. The use of magnesium anodes to suppress corrosion and thus decrease leaks in pipelines and vessels contribute both to increase safety and conservation of resources. Magnesium is also used as a reducing agent in the production of beryllium, titanium, zirconium, hafnium and uranium. Organic chemistry applications of magnesium include important industrial syntheses such as the Grignard reaction. In finely divided form, magnesium is used in pyrotechnics, either as pure magnesium or alloyed with 30 percent or more aluminum. It is also used in dry cell and reserve cell batteries, principally in military applications. In the printing industry, wrought magnesium alloy plates are used for photoengraving. Magnesium etches rapidly to provide a sharp impression, and the by-products are less hazardous than alternative metals.
