Pentahydrate Bora Etimaden

What is Borax?

Sodium Tetraborate, commonly known as Borax (chemical formula Na₂B₄O₇·10H₂O), is also referred to by various names, including borate, sodium borate, disodium tetraborate, and decahydrate or pentahydrate borax. This compound exists in two forms: anhydrous (dry) and hydrated, with the hydrated form further categorized into pentahydrate and decahydrate based on the amount of water present in their structure.

Types of Borax

1. Pentahydrate Borax: Contains five water molecules in its structure.
2. Decahydrate Borax: The most widely used type, containing ten water molecules.

In this article, we will examine Pentahydrate Borax and its characteristics.

What is Pentahydrate Borax?

Pentahydrate Borax, or Sodium Tetraborate Pentahydrate (Na₂B₄O₇·5H₂O), is a hydrated form of borax and belongs to the class of boric acid salts. This substance is a white, odorless powder that easily dissolves in water. Although the applications of pentahydrate borax are fewer than those of its decahydrate counterpart, it still possesses significant properties and benefits for various industries.

Technical Specifications of Pentahydrate Borax

• Chemical Formula: Na₂B₄O₇·5H₂O
• Appearance: White powder, odorless
• Molecular Weight: 3 g/mol
• Specific Gravity: 1.435
• Melting Point: 566 °C
• Solubility: 38 g/l in water at 20 °C
• Dissolution Process: Exothermic
• Flammability: Non-flammable
• Alkalinity: pH 8.5-9
• Reactivity: Low
• Purity: 90%

Properties and Characteristics of Pentahydrate Borax

• Solubility: Dissolves easily in water and can also dissolve in certain organic solvents. The dissolution process releases heat.
• Reactivity: This chemical compound has low reactivity and generally participates slowly in chemical reactions.
• Non-flammable: Not classified as a flammable material.
• Alkalinity: Its pH ranges from 8 to 9.

Thermal Characteristics

• When exposed to an open flame, the crystallization water is lost first, followed by melting at 742 °C.
• In a confined space, it will melt at 128 °C.

Applications of Pentahydrate Borax

Pentahydrate Borax is a versatile chemical compound with various applications, including:

1. Paper and Carton Production: Used in starch-based papermaking to act as a gelling agent and aid in water absorption.
2. Cleaning Products: One of the primary uses of pentahydrate borax is in the production of detergents and hygiene products. It is used in laundry powders, dishwashing powders, and liquid soaps.
3. Slime Production: Adds elasticity to the gel texture of slime.
4. Insecticides: Used as a natural insecticide.
5. Agriculture: Acts as a boron supplement to promote plant growth and enhance the quality of agricultural products.
6. Food Industry: Recognized as a permitted food additive (E285), it helps prolong the shelf life and improve the quality of food products.
7. Pharmaceuticals: In the pharmaceutical field, pentahydrate borax is known for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, assisting in the treatment and reduction of inflammation in certain medical conditions.

Conclusion

Given the extensive and varied applications of Pentahydrate Borax, this compound is recognized as an important and effective chemical. Observing safety principles and using appropriate quantities for each application is crucial.

How to Use Pentahydrate Borax

Due to potential hazards associated with the use of pentahydrate borax, users should follow these safety guidelines:

1. Skin Protection: Wear protective clothing and gloves to prevent skin irritation.
2. Respiratory Protection: Use masks to avoid inhaling harmful gases.
3. Eye Protection: Employ safety goggles to shield the eyes from injury.

Final Thoughts

By adhering to safety measures, the risks associated with using Pentahydrate Borax can be minimized, enabling various industries to harness its benefits effectively. Prioritizing safety and the proper use of this chemical is essential for safeguarding the health of users.