Sodium borate decahydrate

  • Sodium tetraborate decahydrate
  • Sodium pyroborate decahydrate
  • Borax
Formula Na2B4O7.10H2O
Structure
Description White, crystalline solid, odorless.
Uses As preservative, either alone or with other antiseptics against wood fungus, artificial aging of wood, fireproofing fabrics & woods, soldering metals, manufacture of glazes & enamels, curing & preserving skins, tanning, pharmaceutic aid (alkalizing agent) vet: antiseptic, detergent, astringent for mucous membranes.

Registry Numbers and Inventories.
CAS 1303-96-4
EC (EINECS/ELINCS) 215-540-4
EC Index Number 005-007-00-2
EC Safety Phrase S 24/25
RTECS VZ2275000
RTECS class Agricultural Chemical and Pesticide; Mutagen; Reproductive Effector; Human Data
UN (DOT) 1458
Beilstein/Gmelin 754595 (G)
EPA OPP 11102
Swiss Giftliste 1 G-2621
Canada DSL/NDSL DSL
US TSCA Listed
Austrailia AICS Listed
New Zealand Listed
Korea ECL Listed

Properties.
Formula B4Na2O7 . 10H2O
Formula mass 381.37
Melting point, °C 75
Boiling point, °C 320
Vapor pressure, mmHg 1.6 (20 C)
Vapor density (air=1) LIKE WATER
Saturation Concentration Approximately zero
Density 1.73 g/cm3 (20 C)
Solubility in water Soluble

Hazards and Protection.
Storage Store in a tightly closed container. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.
Handling Wash thoroughly after handling. Use with adequate ventilation. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Do not breathe dust, vapor, mist, or gas. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.
Protection Eyes: Wear appropriate protective eyeglasses or chemical safety goggles as described by OSHA's eye and face protection regulations in 29 CFR 1910.133 or European Standard EN166. Skin: Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent skin exposure. Clothing: Wear appropriate protective clothing to prevent skin exposure.
Respirators A respiratory protection program that meets OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements or European Standard EN 149 must be followed whenever workplace conditions warrant a respirator's use.
Small spills/leaks Vacuum or sweep up material and place into a suitable disposal container. Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.
Disposal code 28
Stability Stable at room temperature in closed containers under normal storage and handling conditions.
Incompatibilities Strong oxidizing agents, strong acids.
Decomposition Irritating and toxic fumes and gases, oxides of boron.

Fire.
Fire fighting Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. Extinguishing media: Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire. In case of fire use water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or appropriate foam.
Fire potential Nonflammable
NFPA Health 2
  Flammability 0  
  Reactivity 0  

Health.
Exposure limit(s) TLV: 5 ppm; mg/m3 (ACGIH 1996). NIOSH REL: TWA 5 mg/m3
Poison_Class 5
Exposure effects Significant ingestions or dermal exposures can be associated with weak, rapid pulse, cyanosis and abnormally low blood pressure. The patient may present with reduced body temperature, elevated body temperature or normal body temperature. Headache, lethargy, restlessness, weakness, CNS irritation, and/or seizures may occur with long term or repeated exposures. There is insufficient information concerning the reproductive effects of borates in humans. Adverse testicular effects and infertility have been reported in animals. <br>There have been limited animal studies which suggest decreased ovulation, fetotoxicity and developmental defects may occur with very high exposure levels. Maternal toxicity was present in some studies.
   Ingestion May cause irritation of the digestive tract. Human fatalities have been reported from acute poisoning.
   Inhalation May cause respiratory tract irritation.
   Skin May cause skin irritation.
   Eyes May cause eye irritation.

First aid
 
   Ingestion Get medical aid. Do NOT induce vomiting. If conscious and alert, rinse mouth and drink 2-4 cupfuls of milk or water. Wash mouth out with water.
   Inhalation Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid if cough or other symptoms appear. Get medical aid.
   Skin Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Get medical aid if irritation develops or persists. Wash clothing before reuse.
   Eyes Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the upper and lower eyelids. Get medical aid.

Transport.
UN number 1458
Response guide 140
USCG CHRIS Code BOR  
HS Code 2840 19 90  
IMO Pollution Category D