Borax Decahydrate

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Borax Decahydrate, also known as sodium tetraborate decahydrate, is a naturally occurring mineral and an important inorganic compound. It appears as colorless or white crystalline granules or powder with a salty, alkaline taste. This compound is widely used in detergents, cosmetics, glass manufacturing, agriculture, and various industrial applications due to its excellent buffering, emulsifying, and antiseptic properties. The “decahydrate” indicates that each molecule of borax contains ten water molecules bound in its crystal structure, contributing to its crystalline appearance and physical properties.

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Categories: Admixtures, Analytical Reagents, Bleaching Agents, Bleaching Agents, Builders, Chelating Agents, pH Adjusters, Softening Agents, Soil Conditioners, Waterproofing Agents Tags: Agricultural applications, Cleaning agent Detergent formulation, Cosmetics and personal care, Flame retardant additive, Glass and ceramics production, Mineral salt, Sodium borate decahydrate, Water softener, White crystalline powder

Description

Primary Uses

Detergent and Cleaning Products

Acts as a water softener and buffering agent in laundry detergents and household cleaners.
Enhances cleaning efficiency by maintaining alkaline pH and aiding in stain removal.

Glass and Ceramics Manufacturing

Used as a flux to lower melting temperatures and improve glass and ceramic durability and clarity.

Agriculture

Applied as a micronutrient fertilizer to supply boron essential for plant growth and development.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Used as an emulsifier and preservative in creams, lotions, and bath products.
Provides mild antiseptic and buffering action.

Industrial Applications

Used in soldering fluxes, fire retardants, and as an anti-fungal agent in wood preservation.

Secondary Uses

Water Treatment

Utilized to adjust pH and alkalinity in water treatment processes.

Laboratory and Analytical Uses

Acts as a reagent or buffer in chemical analyses and experiments.

Crafts and Household Uses

Common ingredient in homemade slime and craft projects.

Used as a mild abrasive cleaner.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium tetraborate decahydrate
Common/Trade Name: Borax Decahydrate
CAS Number: 1303-96-4
HS Code: 2840.10.00
Molecular Formula: Na2B4O7·10H2O
Synonyms:
- Sodium borate decahydrate
- Disodium tetraborate decahydrate
- Borax 10H2O
- Sodium tetraborate decahydrate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: White or colorless; odorless
Melting Point: Decomposes at ~75°C (loses water of crystallization)
Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)
Density: Approximately 1.73 g/cm³
Solubility: Soluble in water (about 5.4 g/100 mL at 20°C); insoluble in alcohol and ether
pH: Alkaline (approx. 9.5 in 1% aqueous solution)
Vapor Pressure: Negligible
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; decomposes upon heating

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Classified as irritant (skin and eye)
NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
Exposure Limits:
- OSHA PEL: Not established
- ACGIH TLV: 2 mg/m³ (inhalable dust)
Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; ingestion in large amounts may cause irritation and nausea
Reactivity: Stable; reacts with strong acids releasing boric acid

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and incompatible substances
Container Type: Sealed plastic or paper bags, drums
Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
Special Handling: Avoid dust generation; use PPE to prevent inhalation and eye contact

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for limited use in food contact applications
Environmental Regulations: Complies with REACH and other international chemical regulations
Transportation: Not classified as hazardous; follow standard handling procedures
Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local regulations; non-hazardous waste

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Low to moderate; excessive boron can be toxic to aquatic life
Persistence: Inorganic and stable in environment
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate significantly
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Not biodegradable (inorganic compound)

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Gloves
Safety goggles
Dust mask or respirator (when handling powder)
Protective clothing

Handling Measures:

Avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin or eyes
Use local exhaust ventilation if dust is generated
Handle in well-ventilated areas

Storage Measures:

Keep container tightly closed
Protect from moisture and contamination

Hygiene Practices:

Wash hands thoroughly after handling
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention if large quantities ingested

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ as appropriate for surrounding fire
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus if necessary
Decomposition Products: May release boron oxides and sodium oxides at high temperatures