Brucite is a mineral composed primarily of magnesium hydroxide, with the chemical formula Mg(OH)2. It typically appears as a white or colorless crystalline substance and is often found in metamorphic rocks. Brucite is known for its high thermal stability and is used in various industrial applications, including fireproofing materials and as a filler in plastics. This mineral is named after the American geologist Archibald Bruce, who contributed to its discovery. Brucite can also be found in association with other minerals such as serpentine and dolomite, and it plays a role in the formation of certain types of magnesium-rich soils.