Boric acid is also known as "primary boric acid". It is obtained by reacting natural borax (sodium borate) with acid. Its chemical formula is H3BO3. Its molecular weight is 61.83. It is a white triclinic prismatic crystal with lustrous surface. Its relative density is 1.43514, and its refractive indices are 1.337, 1.461, and 1.462. It is soluble in water, ethanol, and glycerol. The aqueous solution is acidic and is a monoprotic weak acid (Ka = 6×10-10). It decomposes to form metaboric acid at 169℃ (±1℃) and boracic anhydride at 300℃. It reacts with strong bases to form metaborates. In weakly alkaline conditions, tetraborates are obtained.
Preparation: It can be prepared by adding hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid to the borax solution, or by decomposing orthoboric stone with hydrochloric acid.
Applications: It is widely used in the production of borates, sodium silicate, borate esters, optical glass, porcelain glazes, paints, pigments, cosmetics, food preservatives, leather finishing, dyeing auxiliaries, and medicines. It can also be used as a preservative and astringent.
Brand: Soarwin
EC Number: 234-343-4
CAS No.: 11113-50-1
Molecular Formula: BH3O3
Density: 1.437 g/cm3
