Epsom Salts browning when dehydrating - burning or normal?

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In summary, heating epsom salts in the oven at 450F can result in the transformation of white crystals to a solid white powder with brown edges and corners. This could be due to impurities, over-heating, or leaving it in the oven for too long. The substance may also contain anhydrous and other compounds that can be cooked out through the "column packing" process.
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R_Rose
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I heated epsom salts in the oven at 450F to make some make-shift desiccants and it went from white (some even clearish) crystals to solid white powder (caked together) with the edges turning a light shade of brown and a deeper brown at the 4 corners of the pan.

Can this damage the MgSO4, is this impurities or what? Is it over-heating? Can it be left in the oven too long and damage the compound?
 
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  • #2
R_Rose said:
clearish) crystals
The hydrate.
R_Rose said:
white powder (caked
Mostly anhydrous.
R_Rose said:
brown and a deeper brown
Little oven cleaner residue, soap residue, odd iron from the pan, other sources being cooked out (chromatographed) through your "column packing" in two dimensions, a layer in the pan.
 

Related to Epsom Salts browning when dehydrating - burning or normal?

1. Why do Epsom salts turn brown when dehydrating?

Epsom salts contain water molecules which are essential for their crystal structure. When dehydrated, these water molecules are removed, causing a change in the chemical composition of the salt and resulting in a brown color.

2. Is the browning of Epsom salts when dehydrating a sign of burning?

No, the browning of Epsom salts during dehydration is a normal chemical reaction and is not a sign of burning. Burning would result in a black or charred appearance.

3. Can Epsom salts be dehydrated without turning brown?

No, the browning of Epsom salts during dehydration is a natural process and cannot be avoided. However, the intensity of the brown color can be reduced by controlling the temperature and duration of the dehydration process.

4. Is it safe to consume Epsom salts that have turned brown during dehydration?

Yes, the browning of Epsom salts does not affect their safety or efficacy. They can still be used for their intended purposes after dehydration.

5. How can I prevent Epsom salts from turning brown when dehydrating?

The best way to prevent Epsom salts from turning brown during dehydration is to control the temperature and duration of the process. Lower temperatures and shorter durations can help reduce the intensity of the browning. Additionally, storing the dehydrated salts in an airtight container can help maintain their color for longer periods of time.

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