Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property |
Typical Value / Description |
| Appearance |
White crystalline solid or powder |
| Assay (H₃BO₃) |
≥99.5% (standard industrial grade); higher purities available |
| Molecular Weight |
61.83 g/mol |
| Melting Point |
~170.9°C (decomposes) |
| Solubility in Water |
~4.7 g/100 mL at 20°C |
| Moisture |
≤0.5% |
| Chloride (Cl) |
Standard / Contact for COA |
| Sulfate (SO₄) |
Standard / Contact for COA |
Applications
- Cooling water systems: forms a protective layer on mild steel surfaces, reducing general and localized corrosion; also contributes to alkalinity control in recirculating systems.
- Crop protection: formulated as insecticidal dusts or baits for control of ants, cockroaches, silverfish, and other crawling insects; effective as a stomach poison.
- Wood preservation: provides fungicidal and insecticidal activity in interior wood protection and remedial treatments, often combined with other co-biocides.
- Adhesives and sealants: cross-links polyvinyl alcohol chains, increasing water resistance and mechanical strength of starch/PVOH-based paper and packaging adhesives.
- Fertilizers: used as a water-soluble boron source in foliar sprays, soil applications, and compound NPK fertilizers to correct boron deficiency in arable crops and horticulture.
Packaging & Storage
- Commonly supplied in 25 kg multi-wall paper/PE bags, 25 kg woven polypropylene bags, or 1,000 kg FIBCs.
- Smaller or customized packaging available upon request, subject to order volume and handling requirements.
- Store in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from strong reducing agents and alkali metals.
- Keep containers tightly closed when not in use; protect from moisture to avoid caking.
- Palletized and stretch-wrapped shipments for container transport are standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the typical minimum purity for industrial grade boric acid?
A: Standard industrial grade boric acid typically has a purity of ≥99.5% (as H₃BO₃). Higher purity grades (e.g., 99.9%) are available for pharmaceutical or specialty uses. The exact specification should always be verified with the certificate of analysis provided with the shipment.
Q: Is boric acid soluble in water and what handling precautions apply?
A: It has moderate water solubility – approximately 4.7 g per 100 mL at 20°C; warm water accelerates dissolution. Boric acid is non-flammable and has low acute oral toxicity, but inhalation of fine dust should be avoided. Normal industrial hygiene practices, including the use of dust masks and protective gloves during prolonged handling, are recommended.
