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.

Description

Primary Uses 

  1. 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.

  1. Glass and Ceramics Manufacturing

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

  1. Agriculture

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

  1. Cosmetics and Personal Care

  • Used as an emulsifier and preservative in creams, lotions, and bath products.

  • Provides mild antiseptic and buffering action.

  1. Industrial Applications

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

Secondary Uses 

  1. Water Treatment

  • Utilized to adjust pH and alkalinity in water treatment processes.

  1. Laboratory and Analytical Uses

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

  1. 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