Boric Acid

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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.

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Description

Primary Uses

Pharmaceuticals and Medical

Used as an antiseptic for minor burns, cuts, and wounds.
Formulated in eyewashes and solutions for treating eye infections (boric acid eye wash).
Incorporated in antifungal powders and ointments for skin infections such as athlete’s foot and candidiasis.

Pest Control

Utilized as an insecticide and pesticide, particularly effective against ants, cockroaches, termites, and fleas.

Industrial Applications

Used in the manufacture of borosilicate glass, ceramics, and fiberglass due to its thermal and chemical resistance properties.
Acts as a flame retardant in plastics, textiles, and cellulose insulation.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Functions as a buffering agent and pH stabilizer in cosmetics and skin care products.
Acts as an anti-fungal agent in foot powders and bath salts.

Agriculture

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

Secondary Uses

Laboratory and Analytical

Used as a reagent and buffering agent in chemical laboratories.
Component in buffer solutions for biological and chemical research.

Water Treatment

Utilized to control pH and bacterial growth in cooling towers and water systems.

Household Products

Ingredient in some detergents, soaps, and cleaning agents.

PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Boric acid (Hydrogen borate)
Common/Trade Name: Boric Acid
CAS Number: 10043-35-3
HS Code: 2810.00.00
Molecular Formula: H3BO3
Synonyms:
- Orthoboric acid
- Boracic acid
- Acidum boricum
- Boron trioxide hydrate

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: White; odorless
Melting Point: 169.5 °C (decomposes)
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Density: Approx. 1.435 g/cm³
Solubility: Slightly soluble in cold water (~5.3 g/L at 25 °C); more soluble in hot water; soluble in alcohol and glycerol
pH: Weakly acidic (pH ~5.1 in 0.1M solution)
Vapor Pressure: Negligible
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; decomposes at high temperature

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS):
- Eye irritant (Category 2A)
- Reproductive toxicity (Category 1B) — chronic exposure risks
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; chronic exposure can affect reproductive health
Reactivity: Stable; reacts with strong bases and reducing agents

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials (strong bases, reducing agents)
Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers to prevent moisture uptake
Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
Special Handling: Avoid dust generation; use PPE when handling powder

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Approved for limited pharmaceutical and cosmetic use with restrictions due to toxicity concerns
Environmental Regulations: Listed under REACH; subject to workplace exposure regulations
Transportation: Not classified as hazardous material
Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local regulations; avoid environmental release

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Moderate toxicity to aquatic life at high concentrations
Persistence: Inorganic, does not biodegrade
Bioaccumulation: Low potential for bioaccumulation
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Not biodegradable

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, ingestion, and eye or skin contact
Use in well-ventilated areas
Minimize dust formation

Storage Measures:

Keep containers tightly closed
Protect from moisture and incompatible substances

Hygiene Practices:

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

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately 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

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ for surrounding fire
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and respiratory protection if needed
Decomposition Products: May release boron oxides and toxic fumes when heated