Introduction
Magnesium-26 (Mg-26) is one of the stable isotopes of magnesium, comprising approximately 11% of naturally occurring magnesium. With 12 protons and 14 neutrons, Mg-26 is non-radioactive and has unique applications across geochemistry, cosmochemistry, environmental studies, and tracer-based biological research.
Due to its stable nuclear configuration and naturally occurring abundance, Mg-26 is widely used as a tracer in scientific investigations involving magnesium cycling, metabolic pathways, and isotope fractionation.
Physical and Nuclear Properties
- Symbol: Mg-26
- Atomic Number (Z): 12
- Mass Number (A): 26
- Isotopic Mass: 25.982593 u
- Natural Abundance: ~11.01%
- Stability: Stable (non-radioactive)
Key Applications
1. Geochemistry and Cosmochemistry
Mg-26 plays a key role in studying the formation of terrestrial and extraterrestrial materials. In meteorites, Mg-26 anomalies are used to trace the decay of radioactive Al-26, shedding light on early solar system processes. Geochemists also use Mg isotope ratios to investigate weathering, mineral formation, and sedimentation processes on Earth.
2. Metabolic and Nutritional Research
Stable Mg-26 tracers are administered in clinical and nutritional studies to analyze magnesium absorption, distribution, and excretion in the human body. These applications are important in assessing magnesium deficiency and bioavailability in various diets and supplements.
3. Environmental Tracing
Mg-26 is used in hydrology and soil science to study nutrient cycling, soil formation, and the movement of magnesium in natural ecosystems. Its use as a stable, safe tracer makes it ideal for long-term environmental monitoring.
4. Isotope Enrichment and Calibration
Mg-26 is frequently used as a calibration standard in mass spectrometry, particularly in multi-collector ICP-MS, due to its isotopic stability and availability in high-purity enriched forms.
Where to Buy Magnesium-26
High-purity Mg-26 isotopes are available for purchase from specialized isotope suppliers. At Nakima Ltd, we offer enriched Magnesium-26 in metallic, oxide, or compound form tailored to research and industrial requirements.
When purchasing Mg-26, key considerations include:
- Isotopic Enrichment Level – Choose based on precision and experimental design.
- Physical Form – Options include powder, metal, or salts, depending on the intended application.
- Purity and Certification – Ensure batch traceability and quality assurance.
- Shipping Compliance – Packaged and delivered in accordance with international safety standards.
Future Outlook
With growing interest in planetary science, biogeochemistry, and precision nutrition, the relevance of Mg-26 continues to rise. As instrumentation and analytical techniques evolve, magnesium isotopes like Mg-26 are expected to contribute further to research in sustainable agriculture, climate science, and life sciences.
Interested in Mg-26 for your lab or project? Visit Nakima Ltd or contact us directly to request a quote or consultation on Magnesium-26 isotopes.