PREPARATION OF ANHYDROUS MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE

摘要

The invention relates to a process for the preparation of anhydrous magnesium chloride from magnesium carbonate preferably magnesium carbonate ores such as magnesite. The process comprises reacting solid magnesium carbonate pieces preferably screened ore in a packed bed reactor comprising the magnesium carbonate pieces with gaseous chlorine in the presence of carbon monoxide at a temperature above the melting point of magnesium chloride and below 1200.degree.C. The off-gas predominantly carbon dioxide is withdrawn from above the packed bed and molten anhydrous magnesium chloride is withdrawn from below the packed bed. The invention provides a process having low energy requirements which can be applied industrially on a continuous basis using simple apparatus.