Define Borax
Borax is a natural compound used in many industries for heavy-duty cleaning, pesticides and as a preservative in certain products. Borax is found deep underground. In the United States, borax is mined closer to the surface in areas such as Death Valley, California. Borax is also a common household cleaning product that can be used safely in conjunction with other cleaning products.
Other People Are Reading
-
Composition
-
Borax is a chemical compound made from sodium, boron, oxygen and hydrogen. A single borax molecule has a molecular weight of about 382 grams. Borax crystals are typically white or clear but can also appear green, gray or blue due to chemical impurities. The crystals are very brittle and can break off with a light touch.
Common Uses
-
The most common uses for borax around the home are as a cleaning agent, insecticide and disinfectant. Many people use a diluted solution of borax to launder clothing and cloth baby diapers. Borax is a relatively stable compound, so it can also be mixed with bleach or other household cleaners to make them stronger.
Outside of the home, borax can be used as a pesticide and herbicide. Plants need a small amount of boron for healthy growth, but beyond that, borax can be used to kill weeds and rid the garden of unwanted pests.
-
Considerations
-
Some people prefer to use borax instead of store-bought cleaners because it is a naturally occurring substance. Borax is a stable substance, which means it is not flammable and rarely reactive with other chemical compounds. The only types of substances that borax doesn't work well with is acids. It is, however, toxic if ingested. Some forms of borax, such as boric acid, are also toxic if the fumes are inhaled. It is best to use gloves and a mask when working with different forms of borax.
Forms
-
Borax can be purchased in powdered form similar to laundry detergent or it can be purchased as larger crystals. Either type can be mixed with water or other cleaners to make a strong disinfectant or pesticide. Those using borax should carefully follow the directions for use on the package.
Warning
-
There are a few health risks associated with the use of borax. Borax can be toxic to plants, animals and humans in large quantities. A pet or small child can die from ingesting no more than five grams of borax. The lethal dose of borax for adults is about 15 to 20 grams. Signs of toxic exposure to borax include seizures and peeling skin. Those affected can quickly go into kidney failure.
People can use borax safely if they do not use the substance around food, anywhere a child or pet can ingest the substance or around pregnant women due to the risk of exposure to an unborn child.
-
References
- Photo Credit picasaweb.google.com/
