Potassium tetraborate
Description
Potassium tetraborate (CAS 1332-77-0), also known as dipotassium tetraborate or potassium borate, is an inorganic boron salt used across industrial processing as a buffering agent, flame retardant, and preservative.
Its combination of functions makes it a practical single-source additive in formulations where pH stability and biological protection are both required. In water treatment, it acts as a pH buffer and biocide.
This chemical helps to control microbial growth in process water and cooling systems. Textile manufacturers apply it as a flame retardant finish on natural and synthetic fibers to reduce combustibility.
In leather processing, it functions as a preservative during curing and tanning, extending material stability before finishing. This ensures the leather remains durable throughout the manufacturing cycle.
Agricultural applications include use as a boron micronutrient source in fertilizer blends. This is essential for addressing boron-deficient soils that often limit crop yield and overall plant health.
The product is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granules. It is available in technical grade for industrial applications, with material specifications typically defined by purity and moisture content.
Quality is often measured by the boron oxide equivalent within the batch. Packaging ranges from small bags to bulk quantities depending on the specific application volume and logistical requirements.
Physical Properties
| Density | 0.4-0.7 g/cm³ |
| Color | white crystals, crystalline powder |
| Form | white crystalline powder |
| Water Solubility | soluble 4 parts H2O; slightly soluble alcohol [MER06] |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Documentation
Other Names
potassium borate|Dipotassium tetraborate|RefChem:175432|Boron potassium oxide (B4K2O7)|Potassium borate (K2B4O7)|ZV5114S322|Boric acid, dipotassium salt
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