Borax, Powdered

Borax Decahydrate is the refined form of natural sodium borate. Composed of boric oxide (B2O3), sodium oxide, and water, it is a mild, alkaline salt, white and crystalline, with excellent buffering and fluxing properties. Borax Decahydrate is an important multifunctional source of B2O3 (e.g. frits), particularly for processes in which the simultaneous presence of sodium is beneficial. Borax is available in large crystal, powder, and granular form, the latter being the most practical for ceramic use. Although the 10 molecules of water in the theoretical formula vary somewhat, they are the source of the designation "10 Mol Borax". The water content can vary with storage (it tends to loose water with time). Where precision is required, it is necessary to measure the water content just before use. It begins to melt in its own water of crystallization at 60.8C. It is soluble in water, acids, glycol and other solvents. Almost all American borax comes from deposits of the crystalline precip