Product Identification

Product Name

Disodium tetraborate decahydrate

Synonyms

Borax
Borax decahydrate
Sodium pyroborate decahydrate
Sodium tetraborate decahydrate

CAS

1303-96-4

Formula

B4H20Na2O17

Molecular Weight

381.37

EINECS

215-540-4

RTECS

VZ2275000

RTECS Class

Agricultural Chemical and Pesticide; Mutagen; Reproductive Effector; Human Data

Beilstein/Gmelin

754595 (G)

EC Index Number

005-007-00-2

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

White, crystalline solid, odorless.

Solubility in water

Soluble

Melting Point

75

Boiling Point

320

Vapor Pressure

1.6 (20 C)

Density

1.73 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

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.

Vapor Density

LIKE WATER

Saturation Concentration

Approximately zero

First Aid Measures

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.

Handling and Storage

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.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation.

Skin

May cause skin irritation.

Eyes

May cause eye irritation.

Ingestion

May cause irritation of the digestive tract. Human fatalities have been reported from acute poisoning.

EC Safety Phrase

S 24/25

UN (DOT)

1458

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal 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.

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.

Exposure limit(s)

TLV: 5 ppm; mg/m3 (ACGIH 1996). NIOSH REL: TWA 5 mg/m3

Poison Class

5

Fire Fighting Measures

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

Accidental Release Measures

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.

Stability and Reactivity

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.

Transport Information

UN Number

1458

HS Code

2840 19 90