Whisker-type magnesium hydroxide sulfate hydrate (5Mg(OH)2·MgSO4·3H2O, abbreviated 513 MHSH), is used in filler and flame-retardant composites based on its hydrate phase and its ability to undergo endothermic dehydration in fire conditions, respectively. In general, the length of whiskers is determined according to various synthetic conditions in a hydrothermal reaction with high temperature (~180oC). In this work, high-quality 513 MHSH whiskers are synthesized by controlling the concentration of the raw material in ambient conditions without high pressure. Particularly, the concentration of the starting material is closely related to the length, width, and purity of MHSH. In addition, a ceramic-coating system is adopted to enhance the mechanical properties and thermal stability of the MHSH whiskers. The physical properties of the silica-coated MHSH are characterized by an abrasion test, thermogravimetric analysis, and transmission electron microscopy.

Abstract
 1. Introduction
 2. Experimental
  2.1. Synthesis of 5Mg(OH)2·MgSO4·3H2O whisker
  2.2. Silica coating
 3. Results and Discussion
 4. Conclusions
 References

• Ri Yu(Engineering Ceramic Center, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology)
• YooJin Kim(Engineering Ceramic Center, Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology) Corresponding Author