Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate

Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate
Other names Aquabor / Boron sodium oxide Sodium octaborate Tim-bor insecticide, Polybor
Identifiers
CAS number	12280-03-4
Properties
Molecular formula	Na2B8O13.4H2O
Molar mass	412.5270 g/mol
Appearance	white powder
Y octaborate tetrahydrate (verify) (what is: Y/N?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa)
Infobox references

Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate, an alkaline salt, is produced in two forms. One is a clear, liquid concentrate, which can be mistaken for corn syrup if repackaged and not properly labeled or it is packaged as a white, odorless, powdered chemical substance that is not flammable, combustible, or explosive and has low acute oral and dermal toxicity. This salt, which is commonly confused with Boric Acid, is used as an insecticide ^[1] and fungicide, and is commonly sold as an insecticide in liquid or powder form. It is also effective against fungi and algae. It has an infinite shelf life and is not affected by temperature. "Bor-Ram" is the liquid form suitable for use in a sprayer. The powdered brands are "Tim-Bor," "Borathor" or "Termite Prufe" as sold in the United States. This chemical is also a flame-retardant^[2]. In the liquid form, it is commonly diluted and sprayed on wood surfaces to kill termites, carpenter ants, fungi and algae. This alkaline salt is not to be confused with Boric Acid (an acidic chemical) or the laundry detergent additive used for stains. The do-it-yourself pest control product may be purchased from a licensed pest control person either online or locally.

In common use as a termite control, the liquid is used at a ratio of 1:1 as a remedial termite treatment. The advantages to this chemical over conventional pest control treatment is that it is non-carcinogenic and non-toxic to humans and pets. It is also odorless and proper application lasts for the lifetime of the wood. Repeat treatment is not necessary. It is best used during new construction, however, it is more commonly used after the fact on homes originally treated with chemicals that have become inactive.

It was shown to significantly reduce dust mite populations in the home when combined with regular vacuuming^[3].

See also

• Polybor
• Bor-Ram

References

1. ^ Nan-Yao Su and Rudolf H. Scheffrahn (1998). "A review of subterranean termite control practices and prospects for integrated pest management programmes". Journal Integrated Pest Management Reviews 3 (1): 1–13. doi:10.1023/A:1009684821954. 
2. ^ B.J Brotherton Boron: Inorganic Chemistry Encyclopedia of Inorganic Chemistry (1994) Ed. R. Bruce King, John Wiley & Sons ISBN 0-471-93620-0
3. ^ http://www.dustmitex.com/Allergy_DOT_Study.pdf