About Pharma Grade Magnesium Carbonate
Pharma grade magnesium carbonate is a high-purity basic magnesium carbonate supplied in light and heavy forms for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturers. It is used as an excipient, as a source of magnesium and as an ingredient in antacid formulations that are developed and registered by the customer.
The two physical forms behave differently in production. Light magnesium carbonate has a low bulk density and high absorbency, which is useful when it serves as a carrier or in powder blends. Heavy magnesium carbonate is denser and more compact, which typically gives better flow, a smaller volume per dose and easier compression in tablet and capsule manufacture. Formulators usually select the form according to process route, target dose and the excipient system around it, and may use both in different products.
Obsidian Minerals manufactures this grade in Gujarat and tests assay, calcium, acid-insoluble matter, iron and bulk density for every lot. IP, BP and USP conforming grades are available on request. Final responsibility for qualifying the material, and for any regulatory filing, rests with the customer. To support that evaluation we provide the Technical Data Sheet, MSDS/SDS, batch Certificate of Analysis and samples, and we can respond to supplier questionnaires on request.
Typical specifications
| Parameter | Typical Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Assay (as MgO) | 40.0–43.5 % | Internal method (titration) |
| Calcium as CaO | ≤ 0.6 % | Internal method |
| Acid-insoluble matter | ≤ 0.05 % | Internal method |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 200 mg/kg | Internal method |
| Bulk density, light form | 0.10–0.20 g/cm³ | Internal method |
| Bulk density, heavy form | ≥ 0.40 g/cm³ | Internal method |
| Pharmacopoeial testing | IP/BP/USP conforming grades available on request | As per monograph |
Typical values for guidance only. Guaranteed limits are stated on the Technical Data Sheet and batch CoA. Pharmacopoeial conformity applies only where specifically agreed at order.
Key features & benefits
Light and heavy options
Pharma grade magnesium carbonate is offered as low-density light powder or compact heavy powder, so formulators can choose between absorbency in blends and better flow and compressibility in tablets.
Low impurity profile
Calcium, iron and acid-insoluble matter are controlled and reported for each lot, giving QC laboratories the data they need for incoming inspection and supplier qualification.
Pharmacopoeial grades on request
IP, BP and USP conforming grades are available on request, with test data matched to the monograph your registration references. Please state the edition you require when you enquire.
Consistent physical properties
Bulk density and particle size are monitored alongside chemistry, because shifts in these physical properties affect blend uniformity, fill weight and tablet hardness in routine production.
Applications
Antacid formulations
Used as an acid-neutralising ingredient in chewable tablets, suspensions and powders that are formulated, tested and registered by pharmaceutical manufacturers in line with their local regulations.
Magnesium source in supplements
Supplies magnesium in nutraceutical tablets and capsules; heavy grades help keep tablet size down at a given dose. Product claims and dosage remain the responsibility of the brand owner.
Tablet and capsule excipient
Acts as a diluent, flow aid or absorbent in solid dosage forms, where its whiteness and low water solubility are useful, subject to compatibility testing with the active ingredient.
Carrier for liquids in powders
Light grades absorb liquid actives, oils or flavours and convert them into free-flowing powders suitable for granulation, sachet filling or capsule filling, subject to the formulator's own stability testing.
Usage & handling
- Select the light form for absorbency and blending, and the heavy form for direct compression and small dose volume.
- Dosage in a formulation is defined by the customer's own development work and regulatory dossier; we do not advise on doses.
- Store sealed in a dry, clean area at ambient temperature, segregated from odorous and reactive materials.
- Sample and dispense under your site's quality procedures, and follow the SDS for dust control and PPE.
Packaging & supply
- 25 kg HDPE or paper bags with inner liner on request
- Jumbo bags of 1 MT or 1.2 MT for larger users
- Custom labelling and private-label packing on request
Frequently asked questions
Is your pharma grade magnesium carbonate IP, BP or USP?
IP, BP and USP conforming grades are available on request. Tell us which monograph and edition your product registration references, and we will confirm the grade and the test data we can supply. Typical values on this page are for guidance; guaranteed limits appear on the Technical Data Sheet and batch Certificate of Analysis.
Should I choose light or heavy pharma grade magnesium carbonate?
Choose light magnesium carbonate when you need absorbency, for example to carry liquids or oils in a powder blend. Choose heavy magnesium carbonate when flow, compressibility and a small dose volume matter, as in direct-compression tablets and capsules. Many formulators test both forms in early development before fixing the specification for their product.
What documents support supplier qualification?
Each shipment includes an MSDS/SDS, Technical Data Sheet and batch Certificate of Analysis, with testing carried out in an NABL-accredited laboratory under ISO 9001 certified processes. If your qualification process needs further information, such as a completed questionnaire, please send it with your enquiry and we will respond on request.
Can you supply a specific particle size or bulk density?
Yes, within the range achievable for the light and heavy forms. Custom particle size and bulk density targets can be developed with customers where a formulation or process requires them. Share your current specification and process route, and we will advise on feasibility and arrange samples for evaluation in your laboratory.
How should pharma grade magnesium carbonate be stored?
Store the material in its original sealed packaging in a clean, dry area at ambient temperature, away from odorous, volatile or reactive substances. Light magnesium carbonate is absorbent and can take up moisture or odours if exposed. Reseal opened packs promptly and use stock within the retest or shelf-life period stated on the Technical Data Sheet.