Borax is a white, crystalline mineral commonly used in a variety of applications, including as a flux in soldering, a cleaning agent, and in the manufacture of glass and ceramics. It is highly soluble in water and has alkaline properties.
- Cleaning Products: Used in detergents, soaps, and as a multi-purpose cleaner.
- Glass Industry: Used in the production of glass and fiberglass.
- Textile Industry: Applied as a fire retardant and in dyeing processes.
- Agriculture: Used as a fertilizer and pesticide in agriculture.
- Chemical Manufacturing: Used in the production of other boron compounds.
Physical and Chemical Properties:
| Properties |
Data |
| Appearance |
White crystalline solid |
| Odor |
Odorless |
| Molecular Formula |
Na2B4O7·10H2O |
| Molecular Weight |
382.37 g/mol |
| Melting Point |
743 °C (decomposes) |
| Density |
1.73 g/cm³ |
| Solubility |
Soluble in water
|
| pH (1% solution) |
9.3 - 9.7 |
| Chemical Stability |
Stable under normal conditions, but sensitive to moisture and heat |