The strength loss mechanism of the phosphate bonded sand mold/core was studied. The morphology and composition of phosphate membrane on the surface of sands was analyzed with electron probe X-ray microanalyzer. Results show that magnesium causes cracks in cured phosphate membrane and results in the decrease of sand molds/cores strength. However, the addition of magne-sium significantly enhanced hygroscopy resistance of phosphate membrane. In addition, the phosphate binder added with the magnesium modifier has more rapid hardening reaction speed compared that without or with low magnesium binder. It can be concluded that the phosphate binder with the addition of magnesium modifier is favorably used in high humid and cold circumstance.