Sodium tetraborate pentahydrate

Sodium tetraborate pentahydrate (CAS 12179-04-3), commercially known as borax pentahydrate, is an inorganic boron salt supplied as a partially hydrated form of borax. It functions as a pH buffer, corrosion inhibitor, biocide, and flame retardant across a broad range of industrial and consumer product applications.

In detergents and industrial cleaning formulations, borax pentahydrate boosts alkalinity and enhances surfactant performance, improving soil and grease removal. Coatings and adhesive manufacturers use it as a crosslinking agent for PVA-based systems and as a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids.

Flame-retardant treatments for cellulosic textiles, paper, and wood products rely on its boron content to meet fire-resistance specifications. In water treatment, it serves as a buffering agent to stabilize process pH, and in agriculture it provides a soluble boron source for micronutrient fertilizer blends.

Sodium tetraborate pentahydrate is available as a free-flowing white powder or granules, with granule size influencing dissolution rate and handling characteristics for different process requirements. Standard supply grades include technical grade for industrial use and refined grades meeting USP or pharmaceutical specifications.

Bulk supply is common in 25 kg bags or bulk sacks, with concentration typically expressed as percentage B₂O₃ content for industrial purchasing specifications. This versatile chemical ensures stability and performance in diverse manufacturing environments globally.