Borax
Sodium Tetraborate, Borax Decahydrate
- CAS
- 1303-96-4
- EC
- 603-411-9
- Food Code
- -
Borax (sodium tetraborate decahydrate, Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O) is a white crystalline mineral used as a buffering, fluxing, and cleansing agent. It provides mild alkalinity and excellent solubility in water, forming part of the borate family of compounds.
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.