A program of research leading to the production and industrial application of magnesium and its compounds, to be extracted from the salts of the Dead Sea, has been proposed by a United Nations Technical Assistance expert who returned to New York this week after a three-month detailed study of the situation in Israel.
In his report to the Government of Israel, Samuel A. Abrahams, a chemical engineer from San Francisco, recommends a broad program of research to devise manufacturing processes in Israel that can compete in the existing world market, and to develop new uses and applications of magnesium compounds in industry.
He suggests, for instance, product research to produce a sound-and-heat-insulating material, utilizing fibers native to Israel; the development, in cooperation with a local refractory concern of suitable refractory bricks for use in the steel, cement, copper, lead and other industries.
A small pilot plant capable of producing and testing a wide variety of magnesium compounds has already been put into operation by Israel mining industries, Mr. Abrahams reported. The pilot plant, he added, would serve as a forerunner for the construction of a full-scale plant when sufficient knowledge and experience have been gained. At the appropriate time, he has suggested that a large United States concern experienced in designing, building and operating this type of plant, be consulted.
Mr. Abrahams has also suggested a basic research program on magnesium compounds and has recommended the awarding of research grants at two Israeli institutions–the Technion Institute and Hebrew University–for basic research on the physical and chemical properties and decomposition of the compounds.
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