Borax

Borax_crystals

Borax is a chemical compound with the chemical formula Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O. It is also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate. Borax is a white, odorless powder that is soluble in water.

History

Borax was first discovered in Tibet in the 8th century, where it was used as a flux in metalworking. It was later imported to Europe, where it became known as "tincal." In the 19th century, large deposits of borax were discovered in California, leading to the development of the borax industry in the United States.

Production

Borax-unit-cell-3D-balls

Borax is primarily produced from the mineral borate, which is found in deposits in California, Turkey, and other countries. The borate is mined and then processed to remove impurities, resulting in a pure form of borax. Borax can also be synthesized by reacting boric acid with sodium hydroxide.

Uses

Borax has a wide range of uses, including:

Household use

Borax is commonly used as a household cleaner, particularly as a laundry booster. It can also be used as a pesticide to control insects, including ants and cockroaches.

Industrial use

Borax is used in the production of glass, ceramics, and enamel. It is also used in the manufacture of fiberglass insulation and as a flux in welding and soldering.

Personal care

Borax is used in some personal care products, such as toothpaste and deodorant, as an antiseptic and as a preservative.

Food

Borax is sometimes used as a food additive, particularly in some Asian cuisines, where it is used as a preservative and to impart a firm texture to foods.

Safety

Borax is generally considered safe when used in household and industrial applications. However, it can be toxic if ingested or inhaled in large quantities, and it can cause skin irritation. Borax is also an eye irritant and can cause respiratory problems if inhaled. Therefore, it is important to handle borax with care and to keep it out of reach of children.

In popular culture

Borax has been referenced in popular culture, particularly in its use as a laundry detergent in the Western United States. In the 1950s, the "20 Mule Team Borax" brand was used to promote borax laundry detergent in a popular television program called Death Valley Days. The program featured a fictional story about the use of borax by a team of mules to transport borax across the desert. The brand and the program became so popular that borax is still associated with the "20 Mule Team" to this day.

See also

Boron Boric acid Sodium carbonate Sodium bicarbonate

External links

• ATSDR - Public Health Statement: Boron and Compounds
• EPA - Technical Fact Sheet: Borax
• NIOSH - International Chemical Safety Card: Borax
• ATSDR - Public Health Statement: Boron and Compounds
• EPA - Technical Fact Sheet: Borax
• NIOSH - International Chemical Safety Card: Borax

Borax Resources
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