Borax Decahydrate
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.
Borax Pentahydrate
Borax Pentahydrate (sodium tetraborate pentahydrate) is an inorganic compound and a hydrated form of borax. It typically appears as colorless to white crystalline granules or powder. This compound contains five molecules of water of crystallization per formula unit, distinguishing it from other borax hydrates such as the decahydrate form. Borax Pentahydrate is widely used across industries including detergents, glass production, agriculture, and cosmetics, valued for its buffering capacity, emulsification, and antiseptic properties. It is soluble in water and exhibits alkaline properties in aqueous solution.
Boric Acid
Boric Acid, chemically known as hydrogen borate or boracic acid, is a weak, monobasic Lewis acid of boron. It appears as a white, crystalline powder or granules that are odorless and slightly soluble in water. Boric Acid is commonly used in antiseptics, insecticides, flame retardants, and as a buffering agent in various industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Due to its mild antiseptic and antifungal properties, it is often used in ophthalmic, dermatologic, and other personal care formulations. It also plays a key role in glass and ceramics manufacturing as well as in agriculture.
Calcium Chloride Dihydrate
Calcium Chloride Dihydrate (CaCl₂·2H₂O) is a hydrated form of calcium chloride, appearing as white crystalline granules or flakes containing two molecules of water of crystallization. It is highly soluble in water and exhibits strong hygroscopic and deliquescent properties. This compound is widely used in industrial, pharmaceutical, food, and agricultural sectors due to its moisture absorption, de-icing, dust control, and calcium supplementation capabilities. Compared to anhydrous calcium chloride, the dihydrate form has lower hygroscopicity but is easier to handle and store.