Product Identification

Product Name

Dipotassium tetraborate

CAS

1332-77-0

Formula

K2B4O7

Formula

B4K2O7

Molecular Weight

233.44

EINECS

215-575-5

Merck

12,7852

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Odorless, white crystalline powder.

Solubility in water

158 g/L (20 C)

Melting Point

815

Density

1.95 g/cm3

Usage

A component of many detergents, cosmetics, and enamel glazes. It is also used to make buffer solutions in biochemistry, as a fire retardant, as an anti-fungal compound for fiberglass, as an insecticide, as a flux in metallurgy, and as a precursor for other boron compounds.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

If conscious, give several glasses of water or milk and induce vomiting by touching finger to back of throat. Get medical attention.

Inhalation

Remove to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration, preferably mouth-to-mouth. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen if a qualified operator is available. Get medical attention.

Skin

Wash with plenty of soap and water, then flush with water until all chemical is removed. Remove any contaminated clothing and wash before reuse. Get medical attention if irritation persists.

Eyes

Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Get medical attention should discomfort or irritation persist.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a cool, dry area. Keep containers tightly closed and upright.

Hazards Identification

Ingestion

Harmful if ingested. Symptoms include nausea, headache, chills and general weakness. Large doses may cause liver and kidney damage, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, and potentially fatal respiratory collapse. Overall toxicity estimated to be moderate.

Inhalation

Product dusts may irritate the throat and respiratory tract.

Skin

May cause irritation, especially if contact is prolonged or repeated. Prolonged exposure to broken or abraded skin may result in symptoms similar to those of ingestion.

Eyes

Dusty or misty conditions can cause eye irritation.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Wear full protective clothing (long-sleeve shirt and trousers) and cotton (or similar) gloves when handling dry product. Use impervious gloves for handling product solutions. Under normal conditions, wear safety glasses. Under dusty conditions, wear chemical safety goggles.

Respirators

A high-efficiency NIOSH-approved dust respirator should be used for dusty conditions or when transferring product from containers.

Poison Class

4

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Water or any standard extinguishing agent can be used. Use water spray to cool fire-exposed containers. Firefighters should wear full protective clothing and NIOSH- approved, self-contained breathing apparatus if fire produces irritating fumes.

Fire Potential

Material will not burn but melts @ 815 C to form a glassy, flowable material that might ignite combustibles on contact.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Sweep or shovel spilled material into containers with a minimum of dusting. Close, label and store container for later disposal. Flush area with water to complete clean-up.

Stability and Reactivity

Incompatibilities

Can react explosively if heated in the presence of zirconium.

Stability

Stable under normal conditions.