Magnesium is the 8th most abundant metal comprising 2.1% of the earths surface however does not occur in elemental form.
Primary use is in the form of an alloying element essential for the aluminium industry
Magnesium is lighter and stronger than aluminium and steel and lends itself well to alloying with them
Improves the mechanical, fabrication and welding characteristics of aluminium when used as an alloying agent.
When used in aircraft and car construction Mg reduces weight and hence fuel consumption
Used in a variety of industry sectors, such as transport (automotive, aircraft, train, motor & e-bikes), consumer electronics (laptop, mobile phone, tablet), steel industry, Titanium and Zirconium production, pharmaceutical and agricultural chemical production and medical implants.
Current supply risk is the limiting factor on more widespread use.
EU imports over 95% of its Mg metal demand from China and recent events have shown the weakness and associated risks in supply chains.
Magnesium is 30% lighter than aluminium and 75% lighter than steel making it the strongest and lightest metal known based on weight to density ratio.