Magnesium Olivine Brick
Magnesium Olivine brick is a type of brick which is formed by combining the special magnesium olivine minerals with small amounts of marl, fire clay and other minerals. The process of manufacturing this type of brick is complex and is more expensive than that of conventional bricks.
Magnesium olivine bricks are known for their unique properties which enhance their strength and walling ability. Magnesium olivine bricks provide improved thermal insulation, better water absorption and higher compressive strength than the common fired clay bricks. The majority of the bricks are made from magnesium olivine, which has properties similar to quartz and granite. However, magnesium olivine is not as hard as quartz and granite, so it is essential to apply additional processing to enhance its strength.
The majority of magnesium olivine brick manufactured for walling applications is made from magnesite, a type of magnesium-rich ore. Magnesium olivine brick provides excellent colouring, strength and wear resistance compared to conventional fired clay bricks. Magnesium olivine brick is ideal for exterior and interior walling applications where a high-quality finish is desired.
The main advantages of magnesium olivine brick over conventional fired clay brick include improved insulation and greater strength. Magnesium olivine brick is more expensive than the common fired clay brick, however the cost is offset by the additional insulation and good wear resistance of the brick. In addition, the increased thermal insulation properties of magnesium olivine brick can result in improved energy efficiency and lower energy bills.
Magnesium olivine brick can be purchased at brick and stone retailers where it is sometimes referred to as Magnesia brick. It is important to ensure that the brick and mortar are compatible with the type of brick being used. If the mortar does not adhere correctly to the brick, it can decrease the longevity of the wall and potentially result in water ingression and consequent damage.
Magnesium olivine brick can be used in wet locations and in areas exposed to frost. Additionally, the brick can be safely used in load bearing constructions or object constructions where a high quality finish is desired, such as patios, walkways and retaining walls.
To ensure that high-quality results are achieved, high levels of detail must be applied during the construction process. Magnesium olivine brick should only be installed by trained and experienced professionals and only when the appropriate tools are used, such as diamond blades.
In conclusion, magnesium olivine brick is a special type of brick which is formed by combining the special magnesium olivine minerals with small amounts of marl, fire clay and other minerals. This type of brick provides improved insulation and greater strength than conventional fired clay brick, however it is more expensive. Magnesium olivine brick can be safely used in wet locations and in areas exposed to frost and the brick should be installed by trained professionals.
