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Borax

PubChem CID
16211214
Structure
Borax_small.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • Sodium tetraborate decahydrate
  • 1303-96-4
  • BORAX
  • Borax decahydrate
  • Borax (B4Na2O7.10H2O)
Molecular Weight
381.4 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Dates
  • Create:
    2007-07-12
  • Modify:
    2025-01-18
Description
SODIUM BORATE is a small molecule drug and has 1 investigational indication.
Borax is a mineral with formula of Na2B4O5(OH)4·8H2O. The IMA symbol is Brx.
See also: Sodium Borate (annotation moved to); Borates, tetra, sodium salts (Decahydrate) (annotation moved to); Sodium tetraborate, decahydrate (annotation moved to).

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Borax.png

1.2 3D Status

Conformer generation is disallowed since MMFF94s unsupported element, mixture or salt

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

disodium;3,7-dioxido-2,4,6,8,9-pentaoxa-1,3,5,7-tetraborabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane;decahydrate
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/B4O7.2Na.10H2O/c5-1-7-3-9-2(6)10-4(8-1)11-3;;;;;;;;;;;;/h;;;10*1H2/q-2;2*+1;;;;;;;;;;
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

CDMADVZSLOHIFP-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

B1(OB2OB(OB(O1)O2)[O-])[O-].O.O.O.O.O.O.O.O.O.O.[Na+].[Na+]
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

B4Na2O7.10H2O
B4O7Na2. 10H2O
B4H20Na2O17
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

1303-96-4
1313726-63-4
71377-02-1

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

12322-85-9, 1242163-03-6, 12447-40-4, 1344-90-7, 1443500-22-8, 1820039-99-3, 61028-24-8, 71377-02-1, 910783-71-0, 950582-60-2

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 ChEMBL ID

2.3.6 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.7 ICSC Number

2.3.8 RTECS Number

2.3.9 Wikidata

2.3.10 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • borax
  • Na(2)B(4)O(7) decahydrate
  • sodium borate decahydrate

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
381.4 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
10
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
17
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
382.0868084 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
382.0868084 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
102 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
23
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
121
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
13
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Dry Powder; Other Solid; NKRA; Pellets or Large Crystals
White, odorless, crystalline solid; Becomes anhydrous at 608 degrees F; [NIOSH]
WHITE CRYSTALS OR CRYSTALLINE POWDER.
White, odorless, crystalline solid.

3.2.2 Color / Form

White, monoclinic crystals
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-91
Hard crystals, granules or crystalline powder; efflorescent in dry air, the crystals often being coated with white powder
Yalkowsky, S.H., He, Yan, Jain, P. Handbook of Aqueous Solubility Data Second Edition. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1595
Crystalline granules or crystalline powder
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. V3: 3234
White, crystalline solid [Note: Becomes anhydrous at 608 degrees F]
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2010-168 (2010). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg

3.2.3 Odor

Odorless
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2010-168 (2010). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg

3.2.4 Taste

Alkaline
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 337

3.2.5 Boiling Point

608 °F

3.2.6 Melting Point

75 °C (decomposes)
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-91
167 °F

3.2.7 Solubility

Aqueous solution is alkaline to litmus and phenolphthalein; pH about pH = 9.5
Yalkowsky, S.H., He, Yan, Jain, P. Handbook of Aqueous Solubility Data Second Edition. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1595
At 100 °C loses 5H2O; at 150 °C loses 9H2O; becomes anhydrous at 320 °C; borax dissolves many metallic oxides when fused with them
Yalkowsky, S.H., He, Yan, Jain, P. Handbook of Aqueous Solubility Data Second Edition. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1595
In water, 5.93X10+4 mg/L at 25 °C
Shiu WY et al; Rev Environ Contam Toxicol 116: 15-187 (1990)
3.17 g/100 g water at 25 °C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-91
1 g/16 mL in water; 1 g/0.6 mL boiling water; 1 g/1 mL glycerol; insoluble in alcohol
Yalkowsky, S.H., He, Yan, Jain, P. Handbook of Aqueous Solubility Data Second Edition. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 1595
Insoluble in ethanol
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-91
0.60 g/100 g acetone
Weed Science Society of America. Herbicide Handbook. 5th ed. Champaign, Illinois: Weed Science Society of America, 1983., p. 64
Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 5.1

3.2.8 Density

1.73 g/cu cm
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-91
Relative density (water = 1): 1.7
1.73

3.2.9 Vapor Pressure

Approximately 0 mm Hg
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2010-168 (2010). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg
0 mmHg (approx)

3.2.10 Stability / Shelf Life

Stable. When heated above about 62 °C, borax loses water of crystallization, first forming the pentahydrate and then anhydrous sodium tetraborate.
Tomlin CDS, ed. Borax (1303-96-4). In: The e-Pesticide Manual, 13th Edition Version 3.0 (2003-04). Surrey UK, British Crop Protection Council.

3.2.11 Decomposition

When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of /sodium oxide and boron/.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3234

3.2.12 Corrosivity

Solutions are not a corrosion hazard to ferrous metals.
Weed Science Society of America. Herbicide Handbook. 5th ed. Champaign, Illinois: Weed Science Society of America, 1983., p. 64

3.2.13 pH

pH at 20 °C: 9.3 (0.1% solution); 9.2 (1.0% solution)
Ball RW et al; Boron. Patty's Toxicology. 6th ed. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. On-line posting date: 27 Jan 2012

3.2.14 Refractive Index

Index of refraction: 1.447 (alpha); 1.469 (beta); 1.472 (gamma)
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-139

3.2.15 Other Experimental Properties

A 2.6% solution is iso-osmotic with serum
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 337
Moh's hardness: 2.3
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-139
Loses water of crystallization when heated, with melting, between 75 °C and 320 °C; fuses to a glassy mass at red heat (borax glass); effloresces slightly in warm, dry air
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 1138
Degree of hydration: 36.5% B2O3
Schubert D; Boron Oxides, Boric Acid, and Borates. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 14 Apr 2011
Stable
MacBean C, ed; e-Pesticide Manual. 15th ed., ver. 5.1, Alton, UK; British Crop Protection Council. Borax (1303-96-4) (2008-2010)

3.3 Chemical Classes

Metals -> Metalloid Compounds (Boron)

4 Spectral Information

4.1 IR Spectra

4.1.1 FTIR Spectra

Technique
KBr WAFER
Source of Sample
Mallinckrodt Inc., St. Louis, Missouri
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail

4.2 Raman Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
Thermo Nicolet FT-Raman 960
Technique
FT-Raman
Source of Sample
Aldrich Chemical Company, Inc.
Copyright
Copyright © 2003-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail
2 of 2
Instrument Name
Bio-Rad FTS 175C with Raman accessory
Technique
FT-Raman
Source of Sample
Mallinckrodt Inc., St. Louis, Missouri
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
Thumbnail

6 Chemical Vendors

7 Drug and Medication Information

7.1 Drug Indication

7.2 FDA National Drug Code Directory

7.3 Drug Labels

Drug and label
Homeopathic product and label

7.4 Therapeutic Uses

Borax has a feeble bacteriostatic action similar to that of boric acid. It is not used internally. Applied externally it is mildly astringent and was formerly used as a gargle or mouthwash in the treatment of aphthous ulcers and stomatitis, as a lotion in bromidrosis and inflammatory conditions of the eye, and as a nasal douche.
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 337
Borax Glycerin and Honey of Borax were formerly used as paints for the throat and tongue and to alleviate dryness of mouth but excessive use may cause toxic effects, they should not be used. /Borax Glycerin and Honey of Borax/
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 337
Borax was used for treatment of 31 patients suffering from skeletal fluorosis. The amount administered was gradually increased from 300-1100 mg/day during a three month period, with one week resting period each month. Experimental criteria included observation of symptoms, of physical signs such as movement of joints, and urinary excretion of fluoride and boron tetrafluoride. Findings in patients given borax were compared with data obtained from controls to whom no borax was administered. Borax appeared to be effective.
Zhou LY et al; Fluoride 20 (1): 24-27 (1987)
Clinically, sodium borate and boric acid have been used as irrigants, dressings, antiseptics, buffers, and preservatives.
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)
EXPTL THER: Sodium borate and boric acid are used or have been tested for medical purposes in many foreign countries. /In Japan,/... 5% sodium borate is sprayed on the skin following application of analgesic agents to form a transparent, flexible, water-resistant film. ...In India, a formulation of "indigenous Indian drugs" and 25% sodium borate is reported to be a long-acting (4 months) oral contraceptive; it has been reported that the drug acts by inhibiting endometrial alkaline phosphatase and preventing ovum implantation. ...In Russia, sodium borate is administered orally to patients with hepatocerebral dystrophy to remove accumulated pathological quantities of copper from the body.
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)

7.5 Drug Warnings

Borax and boric acid used in powders and ointments have resulted in serious poisonings and death.
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 135

7.6 Reported Fatal Dose

Fatal doses for humans are variously estimated to be 5 to 6 g for children and 10 to 25 g for adults.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 3059

8 Agrochemical Information

8.1 Agrochemical Category

Insecticide

9 Minerals

1 of 3
Name
Formula
Na2B4O5(OH)4.8H2O
System
Monoclinic
2 of 3
Name
borax
Link
3 of 3
Name
Formula
Na2B4O5(OH)4·8H2O
IMA Symbol
Brx
PDF Link

10 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

10.1 Bionecessity

Acts as an abrasive on the exoskeleton of insects
USEPA/Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Boric Acid and its Sodium Salts p.5 (September 1993). Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm

10.2 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

A 1 mL oral dose of borax solution was given orally to male Wistar rats at eleven concentrations (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 mg boron/L). Twenty four hour urine samples were analyzed and the reported recovery was 99.6 +/- 7.9%.
Krieger, R. (ed.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2, 2nd ed. 2001. Academic Press, San Diego, California., p. 1434
These compounds /boric acid and borax/ may enter body by inhalation, ingestion or by skin absorption through mucous membranes or skin burns. Absorption through damaged skin is rapid and almost complete; absorption also occurs through undamaged skin but not to sufficient extent to cause poisoning. Following absorption, there is a rise in concentration of boron in cerebrospinal fluid, but highest concentrations are found in brain tissues, liver and adipose tissue. Repeated doses have cumulative effect with retention ... greatest in bone tissue. ... Elimination is mainly in urine but also to a lesser extent in feces, milk and sweat.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 320
... Absorption and transportation greatest via roots; moves to growing parts of plant.
Weed Science Society of America. Herbicide Handbook. 5th ed. Champaign, Illinois: Weed Science Society of America, 1983., p. 64
In a carefully conducted human in vivo study, found that only 0.23, 0.21, and 0.12% of a saturated dose of boric acid, borax, and disodium octaborate tetrahydrate, respectively were absorbed.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V3 540
For more Absorption, Distribution and Excretion (Complete) data for BORAX (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.3 Biological Half-Life

... Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and excreted in the urine with a half-life of about 24 hours.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 3058
... A group of rats (n = 10) was dosed intravenously with borax at 0.4 mg boron/100 g of body weight. The following kinetic parameters were reported: elimination half life was 4.64 hr; total clearance was 0.359 mL/min per 100 g body weight.
Krieger, R. (ed.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2, 2nd ed. 2001. Academic Press, San Diego, California., p. 1434

11 Use and Manufacturing

11.1 Uses

Sources/Uses
Used as a preservative, antiseptic and fungicide; also used to manufacture glazes, enamels, soldering fluxes and cleaning compounds and to fireproof textiles and wood; [ACGIH] Boric acid and borates as tablets or powder are used to kill larvae in barns and other insects in houses. Rarely, they are sprayed as herbicides. [EPA: Recognition of Pesticide Poisonings] Used in photo developing bath; [www.ci.tucson.az.us/arthazards/medium.html] Borax (borax decahydrate) is found naturally in some salt lakes and alkaline soils. Boric acid is formed by crystallizing a solution of hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid and borax. [Hawley]
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.
Hawley - Lewis RJ. _Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, _15th Ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 2007.
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure

Soldering [Category: Heat or Machine]

Using Disinfectants or Biocides [Category: Clean]

Farming (Pesticides) [Category: Industry]

Photographic Processing [Category: Other]

Textiles (Printing, Dyeing, or Finishing) [Category: Industry]

For borax (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 011102) ACTIVE products with label matches. /SRP: Registered for use in the U.S. but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
National Pesticide Information Retrieval System's Database on Borax (1303-96-4). Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/
Long been used as a mild antiseptic fungicide and as a herbicide ... Total control of vegetation on non-crop land, such as paths, giving long-term control. Also used in insect baits for food stores to control Formicidae.
MacBean C, ed; e-Pesticide Manual. 15th ed., ver. 5.1, Alton, UK; British Crop Protection Council. Borax (1303-96-4) (2008-2010)
Soldering metals; manufacture of glazes and enamels; tanning; in cleaning compounds; artificially aging wood; as preservative, either alone or with other antiseptics against wood fungus; fireproofing fabrics and wood; curing and preserving skins; in cockroach control. In buffers; as a complexing or masking agent in analytical chemistry. Pharmaceutic aid (alkalizer).
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1595
Used in ant poisons, for fly control around refuse and manure piles, as a larvicide, in manufacture of glazes, enamels, cleaning compounds, and in soldering metals
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. V3: 3234
For more Uses (Complete) data for BORAX (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.1.1 Use Classification

EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Enzymes and Enzyme Stabilizers
Safer Chemical Classes -> Yellow triangle Yellow triangle - The chemical has met Safer Choice Criteria for its functional ingredient-class, but has some hazard profile issues

11.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Adhesives and sealant chemicals
  • Soil amendments (fertilizers)
  • Agricultural chemicals (non-pesticidal)
  • Cleaning agent

11.1.3 Consumer Uses

  • Adhesives and sealant chemicals
  • Agricultural chemicals (non-pesticidal)
  • Soil amendments (fertilizers)

11.1.4 Household Products

California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP)

Cosmetics product ingredient: Disodium tetraborate decahydrate

Product count: 3

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 263 consumer products that contain Sodium borate decahydrate (borax) in the following categories is provided:

• Auto Products

• Commercial / Institutional

• Home Maintenance

• Inside the Home

• Landscaping/Yard

• Personal Care

• Pesticides

• Pet Care

11.2 Methods of Manufacturing

Processing of sodium borate ores by crushing, heating, mechanical separation, selective crystallization, and finally flotation of borax decahydrate or pentahydrate from the resultant concentrated borax liquor
SRI
Disodium tetraborate (borax) containing 5 or 10 molecules of water is produced mainly from sodium-containing borate ores. The mined ore is crushed and ground before dissolution in a hot recycled aqueous solution containing some borax. Insoluble gangue (clay particles) present in the hot slurry is separated off to produce a clear concentrated borax solution. Evaporative cooling of this solution to selected temperatures results in crystallization of the desired products, which are then separated from the residual liquor and dried. /Borax/
WHO; Environmental Health Criteria Document No. 204 (1998): Boron (7740-42-8) p. 18. Available from, as of April 4, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/ehc.html
Fractional crystallization from Searles Lake brine, solution of kernite ore followed by crystallization. Also from colemanite, natural borax, uxelite, and other borates.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 1138

11.3 Formulations / Preparations

Grades: crystals; granulated; powdered (refined, USP); CP /chemically pure/; Technical
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 1138
Technical borax is a herbicide; "Nippon" insecticide. Mixtures include: borax + bromacil; borax + sodium chlorate
Worthing, C.R. and S.B. Walker (eds.). The Pesticide Manual - A World Compendium. 8th ed. Thornton Heath, UK: The British Crop Protection Council, 1987., p. 85
Refined borax is technically known as sodium tetraborate decahydrate and is 99% pure
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS SYNOPSIS: BORAX, 1984
BOROCIL mixture (borax plus bromacil); UREABOR mixture (borax plus monuron)
Weed Science Society of America. Herbicide Handbook. 5th ed. Champaign, Illinois: Weed Science Society of America, 1983., p. 63
For more Formulations/Preparations (Complete) data for BORAX (36 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.4 Consumption Patterns

(For borax decahydrate, pentahydrate, & anhydrous): 23% as component of insulation glass fibers; 20% as germicide in household cleaning products; 11% as component of borosilicate glasses; 8% as flux in enamels, frits, & glazes; 8% as chemical intermediate for perborates; 7% as nutrient in fertilizers; 5% as antifreeze corrosion inhibitor; 4% as chemical intermediate for derivatives other than perborates; 3% as nonselective herbicide; 11% as algicide in water treatment; 1% as flame retardant & as metallurgical flux; 10% in misc applications (1975)
SRI
Glass fiber insulation, 18%; textile glass fiber, 11%; chemical fire retardants, 15%; borosilicate glass, 5%; soap and detergents, 4%; misc, 13%; exports, 44% (1985)
CHEMICAL PROFILE: BORATES, 1985

11.5 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: <1,000,000 lb

2018: <1,000,000 lb

2017: <1,000,000 lb

2016: <1,000,000 lb

(1972) 5.46X10+11 G (DEMAND)
SRI
Production volumes for non-confidential chemicals reported under the Inventory Update Rule.
Year
1986
Production Range (pounds)
No Reports
Year
1990
Production Range (pounds)
No Reports
Year
1994
Production Range (pounds)
No Reports
Year
1998
Production Range (pounds)
10 thousand - 500 thousand
Year
2002
Production Range (pounds)
10 thousand - 500 thousand
US EPA; Non-confidential Production Volume Information Submitted by Companies for Chemicals Under the 1986-2002 Inventory Update Rule (IUR). Borax (1303-96-4). Available from, as of February 24, 2014: https://epa.gov/cdr/tools/data/2002-vol.html

11.6 U.S. Imports

(1987) 5 short tons
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1989 P.28
(2000) 1 thousand metric tons
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries, Boron (2005). Available from, as of June 1, 2005: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/
(2001) 1 thousand metric tons
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries, Boron (2005). Available from, as of June 1, 2005: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/
(2003) 19 thousand metric tons
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries, Boron (2005). Available from, as of June 1, 2005: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/
(2004) 5 thousand metric tons (estimated)
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries, Boron (2005). Available from, as of June 1, 2005: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/

11.7 U.S. Exports

(1985) 2.95X10+11 G /EST BASED ON 44% OF PRODUCTION EXPORTED/
CHEMICAL PROFILE: BORATES, 1985

11.8 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
  • Pesticide, Fertilizer, and Other Agricultural Chemical Manufacturing
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Borax (B4Na2O7.10H2O): ACTIVE
The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard identifies borax (technical grade) as Class III: slightly hazardous; Main Use: fungicide, other than for seed treatment.
WHO International Programme on Chemical Safety; The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard and Guidelines to Classification 2009 p.34 (2010)
Borates were known before Babylonian times to be useful as a flux for welding gold and have been found in enamels from China as early as 300 B.C. At the end of the 13th century Marco Polo brought borax from Mongolia to Europe. This became the primary European source for use as a soldering and aneameling agent.
Smith RA; Boric Oxide, Boric Acid, and Borates. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Jun 2000

12 Identification

12.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

In plant material: (b) ignite with barium hydroxide, extract ash with dilute acetic acid & determine Colorimetrically with p-nitrobenzeneazo-1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene-3,6-disulfonic acid: Austin CM & Mchargue JS, J Assoc of Agric Chem 31: 427 (1948).
Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982., p. 48
Airborne borax ... may be collected as aqueous solution in impingers. Metallic ions may be determined by titration with dilute hydrochloric acid. Acidic B2O3 moiety may then be measured by complexing with mannitol & titrating with dilute NaOH.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 3058
An automated fluorometric method is described for measuring boron in compounds such as boric acid, borax, & sodium perborate in water & sewage effluents.
Afgahan BK et al; Water Res 6 (12): 1475 (1972)

13 Safety and Hazards

13.1 Hazards Identification

13.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 5
View All
Note
Pictograms displayed are for > 99.9% (2846 of 2847) of reports that indicate hazard statements. This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for < 0.1% (1 of 2847) of reports.
Pictogram(s)
Irritant
Health Hazard
Signal
Danger
GHS Hazard Statements

H319 (12%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H360 (93.2%): May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P203, P264+P265, P280, P305+P351+P338, P318, P337+P317, P405, and P501

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 2847 reports by companies from 30 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1 of 2847 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 29 notifications provided by 2846 of 2847 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

13.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Eye Irrit. 2 (12%)

Repr. 1B (93.2%)

Reproductive toxicity - category 1B

13.1.3 EPA Safer Chemical

Chemical: Borax

Yellow triangle Yellow triangle - The chemical has met Safer Choice Criteria for its functional ingredient-class, but has some hazard profile issues. Specifically, a chemical with this code is not associated with a low level of hazard concern for all human health and environmental endpoints. (See Safer Choice Criteria). While it is a best-in-class chemical and among the safest available for a particular function, the function fulfilled by the chemical should be considered an area for safer chemistry innovation.

13.1.4 Fire Hazards

Not combustible.

13.1.5 Hazards Summary

The basis for the TLV for inorganic borate compounds is irritation of the nose and respiratory tract. Studies of workers exposed to sodium borate dusts found no evidence of pulmonary function or reproductive impairment. [ACGIH] Repeated skin exposure may cause dermatitis; Toxic by ingestion with effects on the liver, kidneys, and CNS; [ICSC]
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.

13.1.6 Fire Potential

Not combustible.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on Borax. (April 1997). Available from, as of January 29, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0567.htm

13.1.7 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

... Borax ... /is an irritant/ ... when in contact with mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and other sites in the respiratory tract and skin.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Documentation of Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices for 2001. Cincinnati, OH. 2001., p. 1
... May produce irritation of the nasal mucous membranes, the respiratory tract, and eyes. /Boron compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 380

13.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

13.2.1 Explosive Limits and Potential

A mixture of hydrated borax and zirconium explodes when heated.
National Fire Protection Association; Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 14TH Edition, Quincy, MA 2010, p. 491-209

13.2.2 OSHA Standards

Vacated 1989 OSHA PEL TWA 10 mg/cu m is still enforced in some states. /Borates, tetra, sodium salts (decahydrate)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 97-140. Washington, D.C. U.S. Government Printing Office, 1997.

13.2.3 NIOSH Recommendations

Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hour Time-Weighted Average: 5 mg/cu m.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2010-168 (2010). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg

13.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest.
Skin First Aid
Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.
Eye First Aid
Rinse with plenty of water (remove contact lenses if easily possible).
Ingestion First Aid
Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention .

13.4 Fire Fighting

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media.

13.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Use extinguishing measures that are appropriate to local circumstances and the surrounding environment.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

13.5 Accidental Release Measures

13.5.1 Spillage Disposal

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

13.5.2 Cleanup Methods

Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Pick up and arrange disposal without creating dust. Sweep up and shovel. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

13.5.3 Disposal Methods

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.
SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.
Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

13.5.4 Preventive Measures

SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in such a manner so that there is no direct personal contact by personnel who handle, dispose, or clean the clothing. Quality assurance to ascertain the completeness of the cleaning procedures should be implemented before the decontaminated protective clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not be taken home at end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for cleaning.
Keep out of reach of children ... Wash thoroughly after handling.
Weed Science Society of America. Herbicide Handbook. 5th ed. Champaign, Illinois: Weed Science Society of America, 1983., p. 64
SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.
The worker should wash daily at the end of each work shift, and prior to eating, drinking, smoking, etc.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2010-168 (2010). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for BORAX (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.6 Handling and Storage

13.6.1 Safe Storage

Well closed. Dry.

13.6.2 Storage Conditions

Separated from acids.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on Borax. (April 1997). Available from, as of May 18, 2005: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0567.htm
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html

13.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Maximum Allowable Concentration (MAK)
0.75 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction[German Research Foundation (DFG)]

13.7.2 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

2.0 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction
TLV-STEL
6.0 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 2 mg/cu m, inhalable fraction; 15 min Short Term Exposure Limit (STEL): 6 mg/cu m, inhalable fraction. /Borate compounds, Inorganic/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. ACGIH, Cincinnati, OH 2014, p. 14
A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Borate compounds, Inorganic/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. ACGIH, Cincinnati, OH 2014, p. 14
(inhalable fraction): 2 mg/m
TLV-TWA (Time Weighted Average)
2 mg/m³ (inhalable particulate matter) [2004]
TLV-STEL (Short Term Exposure Limit)
6 mg/m³ (inhalable particulate matter) [2004]

13.7.3 Other Standards Regulations and Guidelines

Both Belgium (1974) and the Netherlands (1976) have adopted the values of 5 mg/cu m for decahydrate ...
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices. 5th ed. Cincinnati, OH: American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 1986., p. 60
Limit for livestock is 5 ug/ml boron in water. /Boron/
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 135

13.7.4 Inhalation Risk

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly , especially if powdered.

13.7.5 Effects of Short Term Exposure

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system and kidneys. This may result in impaired functions.

13.7.6 Effects of Long Term Exposure

Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the testes. Animal tests show that this substance possibly causes toxicity to human reproduction or development.

13.7.7 Allowable Tolerances

An exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is established for residues of the pesticidal chemical boric acid and its salts, borax (sodium borate decahydrate), disodium octaborate tetrahydrate, boric oxide (boric anhydride), sodium borate and sodium metaborate, in or on raw agricultural commodities when used as an active ingredient in insecticides, herbicides, or fungicides preharvest or postharvest in accordance with good agricultural practices.
40 CFR 180.1121 (USEPA); ; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse

13.7.8 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

/Workers should wear/ protective gloves. Local exhaust or breathing protection /are needed/.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on Borax. (April 1997). Available from, as of January 29, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0567.htm
Wear goggles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection if powder.
IPCS, CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on Borax. (April 1997). Available from, as of January 29, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0567.htm
Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed.
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
Eye/face protection: Safety glasses with side-shields conforming to EN166 Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
Sigma-Aldrich; Material Safety Data Sheet for Sodium Tetraborate Decahydrate. Product number: S9640, Version 4.6 (Revision Date 06/12/2014). Available from, as of August 25, 2014: https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/safety-center.html
For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for BORAX (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.7.9 Preventions

Exposure Prevention
PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! STRICT HYGIENE!
Inhalation Prevention
Use local exhaust or breathing protection.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
Eye Prevention
Wear safety spectacles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

13.8 Stability and Reactivity

13.8.1 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Zirconium, strong acids, metallic salts.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2010-168 (2010). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg
Incompatible with alkaloidal salts, mercuric chloride, zinc sulfate, and other metallic salts. ... With gums and mineral acids.
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 337

13.9 Transport Information

13.9.1 EC Classification

R: 60-61; S: 53-45; Symbol: T

13.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Borax (B4Na2O7.10H2O)

13.10.1 Federal Drinking Water Guidelines

EPA 600 ug/L /Boron/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

13.10.2 State Drinking Water Guidelines

(CA) CALIFORNIA 1000 ug/L /Boron/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(NH) NEW HAMPSHIRE 630 ug/L /Boron/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(ME) MAINE 1,400 ug/L /Boron/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(MN) MINNESOTA 1,000 ug/L /Boron/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(WI) WISCONSIN 960 ug/L /Boron/
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

13.10.3 FIFRA Requirements

An exemption from the requirement of a tolerance is established for residues of the pesticidal chemical boric acid and its salts, borax (sodium borate decahydrate), disodium octaborate tetrahydrate, boric oxide (boric anhydride), sodium borate and sodium metaborate, in or on raw agricultural commodities when used as an active ingredient in insecticides, herbicides, or fungicides preharvest or postharvest in accordance with good agricultural practices.
40 CFR 180.1121 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse
The Agency has reassessed the current exemptions from the requirement for tolerances from boric acid/sodium borate salts (see Table 6 for tolerance exemptions). As a result of this assessment, the Agency determined that the active tolerances exemptions should be maintained and are considered reassessed as safe under section 408(q) of the FFDCA. It should be noted however that the higher application rates for the swimming pool uses resulted in residential post-application scenarios which exceed the Agency's LOC. The high rates for these pool and spa uses must be deleted from the end-use product labels. Registrants have agreed to amend their labels by removing the higher application rates to Agency acceptable levels. Taking into consideration the available information on all uses; including the inert ingredient uses, of boric acid, sodium metaborate, and sodium tetraborate, there is a reasonable certainty that no harm to any population subgroup will result from aggregate exposure when considering dietary exposure and all other remaining non-occupational sources of pesticide exposure for which there is reliable information. Therefore, the three exemptions from the requirement of a tolerance established for residues of boric acid, sodium metraborate, and sodium tetraborate in/on raw agricultural commodities under 40 CFR 180.920 and the exemptions for tolerances established for the boric acid/sodium borate salts under 40 CFR section180.1121 are considered reassessed as safe under section 408(q) of the FFDCA.
USEPA/Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Report of the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) Tolerance Reassessment Eligibility Decision (TRED) for Boric Acid/Sodium Borate Salts p.11 (July 2006). Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm
Based on the reviews of the generic data for the active ingredients of boric acid and its sodium salts, the Agency has sufficient information on the health effects of boric acid and its sodium salts and their potential for causing adverse effects in fish and wildlife and the environment. Therefore, the Agency concludes that products containing boric acid and its sodium salts for all uses are eligible for reregistration. The Agency has determined that boric acid and its sodium salts, labeled and used as specified in the RED document, will not pose unreasonable risks or adverse effects to humans or the environment.
USEPA/Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Boric Acid and its Sodium Salts p.34 (September 1993). Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm
As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their continued use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines newer health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether the use of the pesticide does not pose unreasonable risk in accordance to newer safety standards, such as those described in the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Borax is found on List A, which contains most pesticides that are used on foods and, hence, have a high potential for human exposure. List A consists of the 194 chemical cases (or 350 individual active ingredients) for which EPA issued registration standards prior to FIFRA '88. Case No: 0024; Pesticide type: insecticide, fungicide herbicide; Registration Standard Date: 11/01/85; Case Status: RED Approved 9/93; OPP has made a decision that some/all uses of the pesticide are eligible for reregistration, as reflected in a Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) document.; Active ingredient (AI): borax; Data Call-in (DCI) Date(s): 2/16/94; AI Status: OPP has completed a Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for the case/AI.
United States Environmental Protection Agency/ Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Status of Pesticides in Registration, Reregistration, and Special Review. (1998) EPA 738-R-98-002, p. 90

13.10.4 FDA Requirements

Borax is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
21 CFR 175.105 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse
Textiles & textile fibers may be safely used as articles or components of articles intended for use in producing, manufacturing, packing, processing, preparing, treating, packaging, transporting, or holding food, subject to the provisions of this section. Borax is included on this list for use as a preservative only.
21 CFR 177.2800 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 21, 2014: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse

13.11 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment

IMAP assessments - Boric acid and precursors to boric acid: Environment tier II assessment

IMAP assessments - Borax (Na2(B4O7).10H2O): Human health tier II assessment

13.11.1 Special Reports

USEPA/Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Boric Acid and its Sodium Salts (September 1993). The RED summarizes the risk assessment conclusions and outlines any risk reduction measures necessary for the pesticide to continue to be registered in the U.S.[Available from, as of February 21, 2014: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm]
USEPA/Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Report of the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) Tolerance Reassessment Eligibility Decision (TRED) for Boric Acid/Sodium Borate Salts (July 2006). EPA issues a TRED for a pesticide that requires tolerance reassessment decisions, but does not require a reregistration eligibility decision at present because: the pesticide was initially registered after November 1, 1984, and by law is not included within the scope of the reregistration program; EPA completed a RED for the pesticide before FQPA was enacted on August 3, 1996; or the pesticide is not registered for use in the U.S. but tolerances are established that allow crops treated with the pesticide to be imported from other countries.[Available from, as of February 21, 2014: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm]
California Environmental Protection Agency/Department of Pesticide Regulation; Toxicology Data Review Summaries. Boric Acid and related inorganic Borates.[Available from, as of May 6, 2005: http://www.cdpr.ca.gov/docs/risk/toxsums/toxsumlist.htm]

14 Toxicity

14.1 Toxicological Information

14.1.1 NIOSH Toxicity Data

14.1.2 Evidence for Carcinogenicity

Cancer Classification: Group E Evidence of Non-carcinogenicity for Humans
USEPA Office of Pesticide Programs, Health Effects Division, Science Information Management Branch: "Chemicals Evaluated for Carcinogenic Potential" (April 2006)
A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Borate compounds, Inorganic/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. ACGIH, Cincinnati, OH 2014, p. 14

14.1.3 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

14.1.4 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Cough. Sore throat.
Skin Exposure
Redness.
Eye Exposure
Redness. Pain.
Ingestion Exposure
Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Headache. Weakness. Drowsiness. Convulsions.

14.1.5 Adverse Effects

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Reproductive Toxin - A chemical that is toxic to the reproductive system, including defects in the progeny and injury to male or female reproductive function. Reproductive toxicity includes developmental effects. See Guidelines for Reproductive Toxicity Risk Assessment.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Classifiable.

14.1.6 Acute Effects

14.1.7 Interactions

Alteration of borate toxicity has been demonstrated in young, 4 to 6 wk old mice by simultaneous administration of d-glucose with borax. Least toxic were molar ratios of 1:1.5 and 1:2 borax-d-glucose, which reduced mortality from 100% to 45 and 37.5% ... Borax ... complexes with polyhydroxy compounds in aqueous solution, resulting in altered toxicities.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 2986

14.1.8 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

Emergency and supportive measures: Maintain an open airway and assist ventilation if nescessary. Treat coma, seizures, hypotension, and renal failure if they occur. /Boric acid, Borates, and Boron/
OLSON, K.R. (Ed). Poisoning and Drug Overdose, Sixth Edition. McGraw-Hill, New York, NY 2012, p. 147
Decontamination: Administer activated charcoal (although boric acid is not well absorbed). Consider gastric lavage for large ingestions. /Boric acid, Borates, and Boron/
OLSON, K.R. (Ed). Poisoning and Drug Overdose, Sixth Edition. McGraw-Hill, New York, NY 2012, p. 147
Enhanced elimination: Hemodialysis is effective and is indicated after massive ingestions and for supportive care of renal failure. Peritoneal dialysis has not proved effective in enhancing elimination in infants. /Boric acid, Borates, and Boron/
OLSON, K.R. (Ed). Poisoning and Drug Overdose, Sixth Edition. McGraw-Hill, New York, NY 2012, p. 147
In acute poisonings, if a large amount has been ingested and the patient is seen within one hour of exposure, gastrointestinal decontamination should be considered ... .It is important to keep in mind that vomiting and diarrhea are common, and severe poisoning may be associated with seizures. Therefore induction of emesis by syrup of ipecac is probably contraindicated in these exposures. Catharsis is not indicated if diarrhea is present. /Boric acid and Borates/
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare, p. 77
For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for BORAX (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.9 Medical Surveillance

Urinary excretion levels can also be useful indicators of elevated total body burden of boron. Concentrations of boron in the normal population range from 0.07 to 0.15 mg/100 mL and 0.004 to 0.66 mg/100 mL. In one infant, the urine contained 13.9 mg boron/L as borax or 1.38 mg boron/mL of boric acid following ingestion of a borax and honey mixture over a period of 12 weeks. Virtually complete urinary excretion was indicated by the recovery of 93.9% (over a 96-hr collection period) of a boric acid solution ingested by three human volunteers.
DHHS/ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for Boron (PB/93/110674/AS) (July 1992). Available from, as of April 25, 2005: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxpro2.html
No specific considerations are needed for boric acid or borates except for general health and liver and kidney function. /Boric acid and borates/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 380

14.1.10 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ A cumulative irritancy test was used to study the effect of repeated exposure of a hair preparation containing 3.2% sodium borate and a cleansing cream containing 1.7% sodium borate on the skin of 12 and 14 subjects, respectively. The test material was applied under an occlusive patch to the backs of subjects daily for 21 consecutive days. Sites were scored one hour after patch removal. Applications 4 to 21 of the hair preparation produced erythema and papules in most subjects; the total cumulative irritancy score was 571 (maximum =630). The cleansing cream caused slight erythema in two subjects only, resulting in a total irritancy score of 6.4. The investigators concluded that, under the condition of the study, the hair preparation was a "mild to moderate" cumulative irritant, whereas the cleansing cream was practically nonirritating. /3.2% and 1.7% Sodium borate formulations/
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ The Kligman maximization procedure was used to study the sensitizing potential of a hair preparation containing 3.2% sodium borate in 25 subjects. The material was initially applied under a 48 hr patch to each subject to determine whether sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) pretreatment was required. The test material was found to be irritating; it was determined that SLS treatment was unnecessary. The undiluted hair preparation was applied under occlusion to one arm of each subject for 48 hr. This procedure was repeated every other day for 10 days (5 application). 10 days after removal of the fifth induction patch, a 48 hr occlusive challenge patch was applied to a fresh site. Sites were scored at 48 and 72 hr. The hair preparation containing 3.2% sodium borate induced no irritation during challenge phases of the test; this product was determined to be nonsensitizing when applied to human skin. /3.2% Sodium borate formulation/
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Two cleansing creams, each containing 1.7% sodium borate, were assayed in panel tests. In each study, panelists were given the product and asked to use it daily for 2 weeks. In a group of 100 subjects, one cream produced no irritation. In the other panel, which included 90 subjects, there was one report of irritation; a subject accidentally instilled some of the cream into her eyes. A stinging sensation was experienced; however, the irritation subsided following eye rinse. /1.7% Sodium borate formulation/
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Workers industrially exposed to borax often suffer from chronic eczema. Long-term exposure to borax dust may lead to inflammations of the mucous membranes of the airways (bronchitis, laryngitis) and to conjunctivitis.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 320
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for BORAX (20 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.11 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Boron has well-defined biological effects and may be of therapeutic benefit. In the current paper, the effect of boron in the form of borax was tested in experimental animal model of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). The syndrome was induced in female Wistar rats by three consecutive daily intraperitoneal injections of thioacetamide (400 mg/kg). In the treatment groups, rats received borax (4.0 mg/kg) orally for three consecutive days followed by thioacetamide. The group administered with thioacetamide plus vehicle, and the borax alone treated rats served as controls. In all groups, rats were terminated 4 hr after administering the last dose of thioacetamide, and the tissue/serum was used to measure hepatic levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, reduced glutathione, and various enzymes associated with oxidative stress including peroxide metabolizing enzymes and xanthine oxidase. In thioacetamide treated group, many fold increase in the activity level of serum marker enzymes suggesting FHF was observed that could be brought down significantly in rats receiving boron. Modulation and a correlation in the activity level of oxidant generating enzyme and lipid peroxidation as well as hepatic glutathione level was also observed in rats receiving thioacetamide. In the group receiving boron followed by thioacetamide, these changes could be minimized moderately. The activity level of the peroxide metabolizing enzymes and the tripeptide glutathione, which decreased following thioacetamide treatment were moderately elevated in the group receiving boron followed by thioacetamide. The data clearly shows that borax partly normalizes the liver and offsets the deleterious effects observed in FHF by modulating the oxidative stress parameters.
Pawa S et al; Chem Biol Interact. 160(2):89-98 (2006)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The dermal irritation potential of borax and boric acid was studied. Ten mL of 5% aqueous boric acid (17.5 g B/L) were applied under occlusion to the clipped, intact and abraded skin of rabbits and guinea pigs. Sites were scored for irritation at 24 and 72 hours. Both borax and boric acid were found to be mild to moderate irritants.
Roudabush RL, et al Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 7: 559-65 (1965) as cited in USEPA; Health Advisory for Boron (Draft) p.8 (1988)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Sodium borate was administered ip to mice and the animals were observed for 5-12 days. ...Convulsions usually occurred within 3 hr. Trunk muscular contractions and opisthotonic responses were generally observed. General motor activity and respiration rate were depressed for several hours. Mice were frequently observed to have motor activity depression through the second day after administration. Most deaths occurred within 3 days following administration.
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In order to determine the effectiveness of sodium borate in neutron-capture cancer therapy, 20 mg/kg of boron as sodium borate was injected ip into groups of tumor-bearing mice. Animals were sacrificed at 72 hr and the boron content of various tissues was determined colorimetrically. Tumor-bearing animals had as high a boron concentration in the tumor as in the brain.
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for BORAX (50 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.12 Human Toxicity Values

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Fatal doses for humans are variously estimated to be 5 to 6 g for children and 10 to 25 g for adults.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 3059

14.1.13 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LD50 Rat oral 396-689 mg boron/kg
USEPA; Health Advisory for Boron (Draft) p.5 (1988)
LD50 Rat oral 5.66 g/kg (SRP: 5,660 mg/kg)
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1595
LD50 Mouse oral 2000 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3234
LD50 Mouse ip 2711 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3234
For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for BORAX (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.14 TSCA Test Submissions

Borax (CAS No. 1303-96-4) was evaluated for the potential to induce eye irritation in New Zealand White rabbits. Six young adult rabbits were administered 0.1 g of the test article into 1 eye by gently pulling the lower lid away from the eyeball to form a cup into which the material was instilled. The lids were then held together for second. The untreated eye in each animal served as control. The eyes were examined at 1, 24, 48, and 72 hours post-treatment and scored against the Draize Scale for Ocular Lesions. Mean irritation scores ranged from 34.5 at the 24 hours examination to 20.7 at the 72 hours examination. One animal exhibited slow and incomplete recovery by 21 days post-treatment. Based on this, the test material was considered severely irritating.
U.S. Borax; Primary Eye Irritation Study with 20 Mule Team Lot #USB-11-84 Disodium Tetraborate Decahydrate in New Zealand White Rabbits (2/8/85); EPA Doc. No. 8EHQ-0592-4690; Fiche No. OTS0539984

14.2 Ecological Information

14.2.1 EPA Ecotoxicity

Pesticide Ecotoxicity Data from EPA

14.2.2 Ecotoxicity Values

LC50; Species: Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow Trout); Concentration: 54 ppm (hard water; exposure was initiated subsequent to fertilization and maintained through 4 days posthatching.) /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/
Birge WJ, Black JA; Sensitivity of Vertebrate Embryos to Boron Compounds p.1-77 (1977) NTIS# PB-267O85
LC50; Species: Ictalurus punctatus (Catfish); Concentration: 155 ppm (soft water; exposure was initiated subsequent to fertilization and maintained through 4 days post-hatching.) /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/
Birge WJ, Black JA; Sensitivity of Vertebrate Embryos to Boron Compounds p.1-77 (1977) NTIS# PB-267O85
LC50; Species: Ictalurus punctatus (Catfish); Concentration: 71 ppm (hard water; exposure was initiated subsequent to fertilization and maintained through 4 days post-hatching.) /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/
Birge WJ, Black JA; Sensitivity of Vertebrate Embryos to Boron Compounds p.1-77 (1977) NTIS# PB-267O85
LC50; Species: Carassius auratus (Goldfish); Concentration: 65 ppm (soft water; exposure was initiated subsequent to fertilization maintained through 4 days post-hatching.) /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/
Birge WJ, Black JA; Sensitivity of Vertebrate Embryos to Boron Compounds p.1-77 (1977) NTIS# PB-267O85
For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for BORAX (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.2.3 ICSC Environmental Data

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

14.2.4 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

Borax production and use in soldering metals, manufacture of glazes and enamels, tanning, curing and preserving skins, buffers, as a complexing or masking agent in analytical chemistry, fireproofing fabrics and as a pharmaceutic aid (alkalizer) may result in its release to the enviornment through various waste streams. Its use as in cleaning compounds, artificially aging wood, as a preservative, either alone or with other antiseptics against wood fungus, fireproofing wood, in cockroach control, use in ant poisons, and for fly control around refuse and manure piles as a larvicide will result in its direct release to the environment. Boron is naturally occurring and ubiquitous in the environment. The most common boron containing ores are alkali and alkaline earth borates, including borax (Na4B4O2.10H2O), kernite (Na2B4O7.4H2O), colemanite (Ca2B6O11.5H2O), and ulexite (NaCaB5O9.8H2O), and as borosilicate minerals. Boron containing minerals are concentrated in arid regions, such as Turkey and California's Death Valley. Borax is stable to photolysis. Disappearance from soil is by washing out. Persistence in soil is about 2 years, depending on rainfall and soil structure. Borax does not biodegrade. Borax is stable to hydrolysis. Monitoring and use data indicate that the general population may be exposed to borax via dermal contact with this compound via consumer products containing borax. (SRC)

14.2.5 Natural Pollution Sources

Extensive tincal (borax ore) deposits are found in the Mojave Desert, US and in Turkey(1,2), and Argentina(2).
(1) Haynes WM, ed; CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press LLC. p. 4-6 (2013-2014)
(2) Schubert D; Boron Oxides, Boric Acid, and Borates. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 14 Apr 2011
Boron is widely distributed in the environment. ... Borax, kernite, and tourmaline are three of the more commonly mined boron minerals. /Boron/
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 130
The most common boron containing ores are alkali and alkaline earth borates, including borax (Na4B4O2.10H2O), kernite (Na2B4O7.4H2O), colemanite (Ca2B6O11.5H2O), and ulexite (NaCaB5O9.8H2O)(1), and as borosilicate minerals(3). Boron containing mineral are concentrated in arid regions, such as Turkey and California's Death Valley(2). /Boron/
(1) Jansen LH; in Kirk-Othmer Encycl Chem Technol. Kroschwitz JI, ed. 4th ed, New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons 4: 360-365 (1992)
(2) Cotton FA, et al; Advanced Inorganic Chemistry 6th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley and Sons, pp. 131-174 (1999)
(3) Culver BD et al; Patty's Toxicology. 5th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons 3: 519-82 (2001)

14.2.6 Artificial Pollution Sources

Borax production and use in soldering metals, manufacture of glazes and enamels, tanning, curing and preserving skins, buffers, as a complexing or masking agent in analytical chemistry, fireproofing fabrics and as a pharmaceutic aid (alkalizer) may result in its release to the enviornment through various waste streams(SRC). Its use as in cleaning compounds, artificially aging wood, as a preservative, either alone or with other antiseptics against wood fungus, fireproofing wood, in cockroach control(1), use in ant poisons, and for fly control around refuse and manure piles as a larvicide(2) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).
(1) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 15th ed., Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, p. 1595 (2013)
(2) Lewis RJ Sr, ed; Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th ed., Hpoboken, NJ: Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. V3: 3234 (2004)

14.2.7 Environmental Fate

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Boron is naturally occurring and ubiquitous in the environment. No microbial degradation. Disappearance from soil is by washing out. Persistence in soil is about 2 years, depending on rainfall and soil structure.
MacBean C, ed; e-Pesticide Manual. 15th ed., ver. 5.1, Alton, UK; British Crop Protection Council. Borax (1303-96-4) (2008-2010)

14.2.8 Environmental Biodegradation

No biotransformation processes have been reported for boron compounds(1).
(1) WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 204, Boron. World Health Org (1998). Available from, as of Mar 10, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc204.htm

14.2.9 Environmental Abiotic Degradation

Borax is stable to hydrolysis and photolysis(1).
(1) MacBean C, ed; e-Pesticide Manual. 15th ed., ver. 5.1, Alton, UK; British Crop Protection Council. Borax (1303-96-4) (2008-2010)

14.2.10 Environmental Bioconcentration

In a greenhouse experiment with sandy loam soil treated with 0-8.0 ppm boron as borax, boron toxicity symptoms appeared earliest in lentil plants and barley seedlings exposed to 8.0 ppm boron. In barley the severity of boron toxicity decreased with the decrease in boron levels, whereas in lentil the severity of the symptoms eventually reached the same level in 2 and 4 ppm boron treatments as with the highest concentration. Dry matter yield decreased 38.6% in lentil and 23.4% in barley exposed to 8.0 ppm boron in comparison with controls. Boron contents of lentil and barley plants on soil treated with 8 ppm boron were approximately 7- and approximately 8-fold those of control plants, respectively.
Singh V, Singh SP; Indian J Agron 29 (4): 545-6 (1984)

14.2.11 Atmospheric Concentrations

SOURCE DOMINATED: Concentrations of borax dust ranging from 1.1 to 14.6 mg/cu m have been reported in large borax mining and refining plants(1).
(1) WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 204, Boron. World Health Org (1998). Available from, as of Mar 10, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc204.htm

14.2.12 Milk Concentrations

EXPERIMENTAL: Two cows received 18-23 g/day sodium borate in their feed for 42 days. Sodium borate was excreted in the urine, feces, and milk. There was no detectable retention in the body and borate excretion returned rapidly to pre-experiment levels after the experiment.
Christian M, ed; J American College of Toxicology 2 (7): 87-125 (1983)
These compounds /boric acid and borax/ may enter body by inhalation, ingestion or by skin absorption through mucous membranes or skin burns. ... Elimination is mainly in urine but also to a lesser extent in feces, milk and sweat.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 320

14.2.13 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 443,687 workers (88,699 of these were female) were potentially exposed to borax in the US(1). The NOES Survey does not include farm workers. Occupational exposure to borax may occur through inhalation of dust and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where borax is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to borax via dermal contact with this compound or other consumer products containing borax(SRC).
(1) NIOSH; NOES. National Occupational Exposure Survey conducted from 1981-1983. Estimated numbers of employees potentially exposed to specific agents by 2-digit standard industrial classification (SIC). Available from, as of Mar 10, 2014: https://www.cdc.gov/noes/
Concentrations of borax dust ranging from 1.1 to 14.6 mg/cu m have been reported in large borax mining and refining plants(1).
(1) WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 204, Boron. World Health Org (1998). Available from, as of Mar 10, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc204.htm
These compounds /Boric acid & borax/ may enter body by inhalation, ingestion or by skin absorption through mucous membranes or skin burns.
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 320

15 Associated Disorders and Diseases

16 Literature

16.1 Consolidated References

16.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

16.3 Springer Nature References

16.4 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.6 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

17 Patents

17.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

17.2 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.3 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.4 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

18 Biological Test Results

18.1 BioAssay Results

19 Classification

19.1 MeSH Tree

19.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

19.3 EPA Safer Choice

19.4 ChemIDplus

19.5 UN GHS Classification

19.6 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

19.7 EPA DSSTox Classification

19.8 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

19.9 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

19.10 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

19.11 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

20 Information Sources

  1. Athena Minerals
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  8. EPA Chemicals under the TSCA
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  9. EPA DSSTox
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    https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/DTXSID701014356
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  13. ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
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    SODIUM TETRABORATE DECAHYDRATE
    https://www.osha.gov/chemicaldata/199
  15. California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Product Database
  16. Consumer Product Information Database (CPID)
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  18. DailyMed
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  20. EPA Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database
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    EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients Classification
    https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice
  22. Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS), Safe Work Australia
  23. NITE-CMC
    Sodium tetraborate decahydrate [Borax] - FY2017 (Revised classification)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/17-mhlw-2092e.html
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  27. SpectraBase
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    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/LHtdMvBKzil
    BORIC ACID (H2B4O7), DISODIUM SALT, DECAHYDRATE
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/2pohm69Wwnw
  28. Springer Nature
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CONTENTS