Pidgeon process

Definition

The Pidgeon process is a method for extracting magnesium from its ores using silicon as a reducing agent. It involves heating dolomite in the presence of ferrosilicon to produce magnesium vapor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Pidgeon process was developed by Lloyd Montgomery Pidgeon in the 1940s.
2. Dolomite (CaMg(CO3)2) and ferrosilicon are the primary raw materials used in this process.
3. The chemical reaction involved is: 2CaO⋅2MgO + Si → 2Mg + Ca2SiO4.
4. Magnesium vapor produced is then condensed into solid magnesium.
5. This method is energy-intensive and has largely been replaced by more efficient processes like the electrolytic reduction of magnesium chloride.

Related terms

Dolomite:

A mineral composed of calcium magnesium carbonate (CaMg(CO3)2) used as a raw material in the Pidgeon process.

Ferrosilicon:

An alloy of iron and silicon used as a reducing agent in the extraction of magnesium during the Pidgeon process.

Electrolytic Reduction: A modern method for producing metals like magnesium, where metal ions are reduced to pure metal using an electric current.