Sodium borate is used in glass production detergents and industrial chemical processing. Primary Applications
Cleaning & Laundry: Acts as a water softener, pH buffer, and detergent booster.
Industrial Manufacturing: Crucial in producing heat-resistant glass (Pyrex), ceramics, and enamel glazes.
Safety & Preservation: Used as a flame retardant in insulation and as a preservative for wood against biological decay.
Pest Control: Effective as a low-toxicity insecticide and fungicide.
Science & Hobby: Famous as the cross-linking agent used to create DIY slime.
Safety and Health Risks
While naturally occurring, sodium borate is not safe to ingest and should be handled with care.
Ingestion: Can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Large amounts may lead to kidney failure or shock.
Contact: May cause skin rashes, eye irritation, or respiratory issues if the powder is inhaled.
Reproductive Health: Chronic overexposure has been linked to damage to the male reproductive system and risks to unborn children.
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