What Is Borax?

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Borax is a multifaceted compound with a broad spectrum of applications ranging from industrial processes to medical research. Its unique chemical properties make it an invaluable resource in various fields. However, it is essential to consider safety measures to mitigate any potential health risks associated with its use.

Borax, also known as sodium tetraborate decahydrate (Na2B4O7·10H2O), is a naturally occurring mineral and a salt of boric acid. It has a wide range of applications, from household cleaning products to industrial processes and even in medical and scientific research. This article explores the properties, production methods, applications, and safety considerations of borax.

Properties of Borax

Borax is a white crystalline compound that is stable at room temperature. It is highly soluble in water and forms alkaline solutions. The compound is known for its ability to form complex structures with various organic and inorganic substances, making it a versatile agent in different chemical reactions10.

Production of Borax

Borax can be produced from boron-bearing tailings through a process involving sodium roasting and pressure leaching. This method is cost-effective and results in well-crystallized borax with a high recovery rate of boron2. Another method involves the conversion of borax ore into boric acid, which can then be crystallized to obtain high-purity borax3. Additionally, anhydrous borax can be produced from borax pentahydrate using specialized furnaces and powder atomization techniques7.

Applications of Borax

Industrial Uses

Borax is widely used in various industrial applications. It serves as a flux in metallurgy, a component in glass and ceramics production, and a fire retardant. It is also used in the manufacture of detergents and cosmetics9.

Medical and Scientific Research

In the field of medical research, borax is used as a crosslinking agent for hydrogels, which have applications in biomedicine and tissue engineering. These hydrogels exhibit enhanced mechanical and self-repair properties due to the dynamic and reversible borate/di-diol interactions1 5. Borax is also used in toxicological studies to understand its effects on living organisms6.

Environmental and Agricultural Uses

Borax is employed in environmental applications to recover boron from industrial waste, thereby reducing pollution8. In agriculture, it is used as a micronutrient in fertilizers to support plant growth.

Safety Considerations

While borax has many beneficial uses, it is important to handle it with care. Toxicological studies have shown that high levels of borax can cause adverse effects such as growth suppression, testicular atrophy, and reproductive issues in animals6. Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to safety guidelines when using borax in any application.