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Na2B8O13· 4H2O Disodium Octaborate Tetrahydrate
USA and France
Polybor is particularly effective as a fire retardant in cellulosic materials such as wood composites, cellulose insulation, cotton batting, paper, and fabric. When these materials ignite, borates produce a charring action that suppresses smoldering and diverts decomposition products that can smolder and combust. Fire retardant lumber, plywood shingles, and shakes can be made by vacuum or pressure impregnation with Polybor solutions.
Polybor solutions can also be applied to fabric by direct spraying or dipping. In this way, the product can be used in fire retardant treatments for clothing, drapes or curtains, rugs, ironing board covers, firefighter clothing, fabric heat deflectors for stoves or fireplaces, and fire-smothering blankets. Solutions can also be used in the manufacture of fire-retarded paper products, such as high-gloss or file-storage boxes.
Polybor can also be incorporated in aqueous and non-aqueous systems for corrosion inhibition, lubrication, or thermal oxidative stabilization. Corrosion inhibition makes it useful in the manufacture of water-treatment chemicals.
Polybor’s ability to aid emulsification of oils and to act as a soft abrasive makes it ideal for use in cleaners. When combined with polyhydroxyl compounds, Polybor can be used for viscosity control. Add Polybor to formulations used to clean hard surfaces. The product is also used as an additive in hand cleaners, polishes, and waxes, and industrial/institutional cleaning compounds.
Borates’ cleaning uses go beyond clothing into the industrial workplace.
Borates’ cross-linking capabilities are useful in the oil and gas industry.
Polymers incorporate borate fire-retardant additives to meet safety standards.
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Formula weight: 412.52
Appearance: Fine, white powder
Solubility: Polybor's solubility in water (as Na2B8O13·4H2O) increases with increased temperatures, with the most significant changes in solubility occurring at or below room temperature. For details, download the product datasheet.
Stability: Polybor shows little tendency to cake except after prolonged storage or if it severely wetted by rain or substantial water penetration. It can also absorb moisture if exposed to a humid environment and can form crystals of sodium pentaborate when exposed to water.
Boric oxide, B2O3: 66.2 to 69.0%
Sodium oxide, Na2O: 14.0 to 15.1%
Containers: Products may be available in bulk, IBCs, or small bags
Polybor is a mild alkaline salt. It takes the form of an amorphous fine white powder that is readily soluble even in cool water. When dissolved, the product results in a supersaturated solution with a high boron concentration.
When used in flame retardants for paper, the amount of material required can result in a stiffening effect. This effect can be overcome by the inclusion of a softening agent (eg, urea) in the treating solution.
Aqueous solutions of Polybor show a slight decrease in pH with increasing concentration. Saturated solutions are nearly neutral. Details of Polybor's hydrogen ion concentration can be found in the product data sheet.
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