Anhydrous MgCO3: Controllable synthesis of various morphology based on hydrothermal carbonization

Abstract A novel, simple and efficient anhydrous MgCO3 (AMC) synthesis method using ascorbic acid (ASA) has been developed based on the hydrothermal carbonization. In this process, ASA acts as both a CO2 source and a crystal modifier to regulate and control the crystallization of AMC. Furan derivatives, aldehydes and ketones from ascorbic acid play an unexpected role as a structure-directing agent. The effect of pH values of ASA, reaction time and the concentrations and types of Mg2+ were systematically investigated. Pure AMC with different morphology were successfully prepared.