Borax
Sodium Tetraborate, Borax Decahydrate
- CAS
- 1303-96-4
- EC
- 603-411-9
- Sectors
- Home Care & Industrial Cleaning, Building & Construction
Borax (CAS 1303-96-4) is the decahydrate form of sodium tetraborate, a white crystalline mineral powder of the borate family that acts as a buffering, fluxing and cleansing agent, and is used in detergents, cleaning formulations, glass and ceramics. It provides mild alkalinity and excellent solubility in water, forming part of the borate family of compounds.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | B4Na2O7.10H2O |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 381.37 g/mol |
| Form | Powder/Solid |
| Color | White, gray, bluish or greenish white |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Melting point | 75 °C |
| Boiling point | 320 °C |
| Density | 1.73 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | 60 g/L (20 °C) |
| pH | 9.15-9.20 (25°C, 0.01M in solution) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 28401990 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Borax
Applications
Used in glass and ceramic industries as a flux to improve melting properties and transparency. In detergents and cleaning formulations, it acts as a pH buffer and water softener. Also applied in flame retardants, fertilizers, and metallurgical fluxes.
Safety & Risks
Low acute toxicity but prolonged exposure can cause skin or eye irritation. Avoid inhalation of dust. Environmental discharge should be minimized due to aquatic sensitivity.
Packaging
Supplied in 25–50 kg polyethylene-lined paper bags or bulk big bags. Store sealed, cool, and dry to prevent moisture absorption and caking.