Definition of Boric Acid

Borates are mineral compounds that contain boron that is linked with oxygen atoms in a +3 oxidation state. When borates come into contact with sulfuric acid, boric acid is born. Ever since the times of the Ancient Greeks, boric acid has been used regularly in the home. Since then, it has found its place in industrial and other applications where is proves useful in many ways.

Properties

The chemical makeup of boric acid is one part of boron, three parts oxygen and three parts hydrogen. The hydrogen in boric acid allows multiple molecules to link together and form parallel layers in its crystalline, solid state. It has a melting point of 171 degrees Celsius, in which it turns into metaboric acid. It comes in the form of a colorless crystal or a white, powdery substance. Boric acid is only slightly water-soluble, though completely soluble in lower alcohol solutions.

Toxicology

Boric acid has been tested on rats and dogs and has been found to be a low-level carcinogenic substance. It is about as toxic as table salt, though, so large amounts will be needed in order poison or otherwise cause harm to a mammal. The issue lies in the prolonged use of the chemical. If a person or animal is exposed to a regular dose of boric acid over a long period of time it is possible for cancer cells to form. This is very rare, though. Still, 2,660 mg/kg body mass of boric acid can be considered lethal.

Insecticide

One of the first uses of boric acid was as an insecticide. It is still considered to be one of the best remedies for insects in the home and a pretty powerful pest-controlling agent can be made at home with it. Just mix 1 tsp. of powered boric acid with 10 tsps. of sugar and 2 cups of water to make an insecticide perfect for ants. A boric acid gel is also available for roaches and other insects. When ingested, boric acid acts as a stomach poison. It will dehydrate an insect, thus killing it. Because it kills in this way it is impossible for an insect to build up immunity to boric acid.

Medicinal Purposes

Boric acid also has slight medicinal properties. Keeping some around at home is a great idea in case of accidental cuts or scrapes. Boric acid acts as an antiseptic agent that can be spread topically on wounds to kill bacteria. It is also good for preventing infections that may be caused by minor burns. It is not, however, ideal for use on larger wounds, which you should seek medical attention for. As a powder, boric acid can be applied to the feet or genital region to relieve athlete's foot or jock itch.

Nuclear Applications

Nuclear power plants keep a regular supply of boric acid around in order to regulate reactions that occur there. Neutrons, which are present in a reactor, cause fission chain reactions and if left to their own devices these reactions could get out of hand. Boric acid is added to the coolant mixture that keeps a nuclear power plant from overheating. Its job is to limit the survival rate of neutrons so that less will be used for fission. When reactions are needed to be kept at a minimum, more boric acid is added.