Based on the provided reference, MgCl₂ (Magnesium Chloride) has a shelf life of 3 years from the date of manufacture.
Understanding Shelf Life
When asking "How long does MgCl₂ last?", you are generally referring to its shelf life. Shelf life is the recommended maximum period during which a product can be stored while maintaining its intended quality and characteristics.
For the specific MgCl₂ preparation mentioned in the reference, the shelf life is clearly defined:
| Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 95.2 g/L |
| Storage | Room temperature |
| Recommended Life | 3 years from date of manufacture |
This means that, under the specified storage condition (room temperature), this particular MgCl₂ solution is expected to remain suitable for its intended use for up to three years from when it was produced.
Factors Influencing Shelf Life
While the reference specifies a 3-year shelf life, several factors can potentially affect how long MgCl₂ maintains its quality in storage:
- Storage Conditions: Storing MgCl₂ at temperatures or conditions different from the recommended room temperature could potentially impact its stability, though magnesium chloride is generally quite stable.
- Container Integrity: The container must be kept tightly sealed to prevent contamination, evaporation (if a solution), or absorption of moisture (if a solid). Moisture absorption by solid MgCl₂ (it is hygroscopic) can lead to clumping or degradation if not stored properly.
- Contamination: Introducing foreign substances can affect the purity and effectiveness of the MgCl₂ over time.
- Physical Form: The shelf life reference provided is for a solution (95.2 g/L). Solid, anhydrous MgCl₂ or different concentrations might have slightly different characteristics, though the inherent chemical stability of magnesium chloride is high.
Adhering to the recommended storage instructions is key to ensuring the product lasts for its full stated shelf life.
Practical Considerations
- Always check the label for the specific date of manufacture and the stated shelf life for the product you have.
- Store MgCl₂ in a cool, dry place, ideally at room temperature, and ensure the container is properly sealed.
- If the product is past its stated shelf life, its quality or potency may be diminished, and it should ideally be replaced or re-evaluated before use in critical applications.
In summary, based on the reference provided for a 95.2 g/L solution stored at room temperature, MgCl₂ lasts for 3 years from the date it was made.
