WIDE RANGE APPLICATIONS of BORAX
	Available in powder or granular form from U.S. Borax, borax decahydrate serves as a versatile source of B₂O₃, especially valuable in processes where the presence of sodium provides added benefit.
	Industrial Soaps and Detergents
	Borax decahydrate is widely incorporated into industrial and institutional cleaning products, where it functions as:
	It is also used as an additive in polishes and waxes to enhance performance.
	Metallurgical Fluxes
	In metallurgical applications, borax decahydrate is used to dissolve metal oxides during the recovery of metals such as brass, copper, lead, and zinc from scrap or smelting slag. In ferrous metallurgy, it acts as a cover flux, protecting molten ingots from surface oxidation. Additionally, in welding, brazing, and soldering, it shields metal surfaces from air exposure, preventing oxidation while also serving as a solvent and cleaning agent.
	Corrosion Inhibition
	Borax decahydrate is frequently used in aqueous systems that require corrosion protection, including applications in automotive and engine systems.
	Coolant Formulations and Water Treatment
	Borax decahydrate is an important component in coolant blends and water treatment chemicals. Its aqueous solutions have replaced chromates in railroad and other diesel engine coolants, offering effective corrosion protection for ferrous metals. Thanks to its high solubility in ethylene glycol, it is especially valuable in automotive antifreeze formulations, where it neutralizes acidic byproducts of ethylene glycol decomposition and reduces oxidation on metal surfaces.
	Adhesives
	In starch adhesive formulations for corrugated paper and paperboard, borax decahydrate acts as a peptizing agent in the manufacture of casein- and dextrin-based adhesives. By crosslinking conjugated hydroxyl groups, it significantly enhances tack and green strength.
	Refractories
	Borax decahydrate compounds serve as stabilizers and bonding agents in specialty abrasives. They provide an intermediate-temperature glassy bond before the establishment of the final ceramic bond, after which the borate compound often volatilizes from the system.
	Wire Drawing
	In wire drawing, borax decahydrate neutralizes residual acid left from the pickling process. The salt deposit that remains on the wire also acts as an effective carrier for dry powdered lubricants.
	Consumer Products
	Borax decahydrate is widely used in consumer formulations, particularly in laundry detergents, where it assists in removing oily soils, stabilizes enzymes, and softens water. It also functions as a crosslinking agent to emulsify waxes and paraffins used in lotions, creams, and ointments. In contact lens solutions, it is combined with boric acid to act as a mild cleaner and buffering agent. Due to its skin-friendly yet effective cleaning properties, borax decahydrate is often incorporated into powdered hand soaps.
	Additional Applications
	Beyond cleaning and personal care, borax decahydrate has diverse industrial uses. It serves as a flame retardant for cellulosic materials, a buffer and catalyst in organic dye processes, a carrier for herbicides, and a degreasing buffer in enameling operations.