Chemical Type(s)
Location(s)
- Chicago
Description
Borax Pentahydrate (Borax 5 mol)
Chemical Formula: Na₂B₄O₇·5H₂O
Borax Pentahydrate, also known as Borax 5 mol, is a naturally occurring mineral and a hydrated sodium borate. It is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water, though less so than borax decahydrate. The “5 mol” indicates that it contains five water molecules of hydration. While it shares many uses with borax decahydrate, there might be subtle differences in its application or effectiveness due to the lower water content.
Key Uses:
- Cleaning Products:
- Laundry Booster: Can be used as a laundry booster similar to borax decahydrate, although it might have slightly different solubility or performance characteristics.
- Household Cleaner: Used as a general household cleaner for various surfaces.
- Laundry:
- Stain Remover: Can be employed as a pre-treatment for some stains.
- Water Softener: May contribute to water softening, though potentially less effectively than the decahydrate form.
- Pest Control:
- May be used as a natural pesticide for certain insects, similar to borax decahydrate.
- Other Applications:
- Gardening: Used in small amounts as a micronutrient fertilizer and to adjust soil pH. It is important to note that excessive boron can be harmful to plants.
- Ceramics and Glass: Used in the production of ceramics and glass as a flux.
- Welding: Can be used as a flux in welding and soldering.
- Arts and Crafts: May be used in some arts and crafts projects.
Packaging: bags and supersacks