Magnesium hypochlorite has the chemical formula of
Mg(OCl)2 and the molecular weight of 127.286 g/mol.
Its assigned CAS number is 10233-03-1. It can be
prepared by reaction of hypochlorous acid upon magnesium
carbonate in water. However, the product is not
stable in water and decomposes to form basic magnesium
hypochlorite, Mg(OCl)2·2Mg(OH)2, which is
useful in bleaching and sanitizing applications.
Basic magnesium hypochlorite, Mg(OCl)2·2Mg(OH)2,
is a solid compound having an available chlorine content
in the range of from about 50 to 60%. Textiles are bleached
by immersing them in an aqueous solution of this salt.
