Overview
Ammonium pentaborate is a borate compound primarily used as an analytical reagent in laboratories. Its chemical formula, NH4B5O8·4H2O, reflects its composition of ammonium ions and borate groups with four water molecules. This compound is valued for its stability and solubility in water, making it suitable for various chemical analyses and industrial processes. In addition to its role in analytical chemistry, ammonium pentaborate serves as a flame retardant and a component in the production of specialty glasses and ceramics. Its ability to release boron at high temperatures enhances its utility in fire-resistant materials and other high-temperature applications.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Ammonium pentaborate appears as a white crystalline powder with a density of 1.58 g/cm³. It is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which necessitates careful storage in sealed containers. The compound decomposes at around 120°C, releasing water and ammonia, and is soluble in water but only slightly soluble in alcohol. Its stability under normal conditions and non-flammable nature make it a safe choice for many laboratory and industrial applications. However, its hygroscopicity requires handling in low-humidity environments to prevent degradation and maintain its efficacy as a reagent.
Main Applications
Ammonium pentaborate is widely used as an analytical reagent in laboratories for titration and other chemical analyses. Its precise boron content makes it ideal for calibrating instruments and preparing standard solutions. Beyond laboratories, it acts as a flame retardant in textiles, plastics, and wood products, where it releases boron to inhibit combustion. In industrial settings, ammonium pentaborate is a key ingredient in the manufacture of borosilicate glasses and ceramics, where it improves thermal and chemical resistance. It also finds use in metallurgy as a flux and in agriculture as a micronutrient fertilizer, though these applications are less common compared to its analytical and flame-retardant uses.
Safety and Storage
While ammonium pentaborate is generally safe, it requires proper handling to avoid health risks. Inhalation of dust or contact with skin and eyes can cause irritation, so protective gloves, goggles, and masks are recommended. In case of exposure, rinse affected areas with plenty of water and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Storage should be in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and incompatible substances like strong acids. Sealed containers are essential to prevent absorption of moisture, which can compromise the reagent's quality. Proper labeling and segregation from food and beverages are also critical to avoid accidental ingestion.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring ammonium pentaborate, B2B buyers should prioritize suppliers who provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify purity and composition. Bulk purchases often offer cost advantages, but ensure the supplier has adequate storage facilities to maintain product integrity. Consider the reagent's intended use—higher purity grades (e.g., 99%+) are essential for analytical applications, while industrial uses may tolerate lower grades. Lead times and logistics should also be evaluated, especially for international shipments, to ensure timely delivery and compliance with local regulations regarding chemical imports.
Related Manufacturers
- 主营：氯金酸、卡尔费休、乙醇、化学试剂、色谱试剂、硼酸、异丙醇、药用辅料、依地酸钙钠、碳酸钠、盐酸氨丁三醇、龙胆酸、枸橼酸钠、甲醇、氢氧化钠、钴锰催化剂、硫酸锰、乙腈、助剂、指示剂、醋酸锰、醋酸钴、氨丁三醇、尿素
- 主营：棕榈酸、乙酸铋、异喹啉、化学试剂、分析试剂、胶粘剂、丙烯酸酯、透明液体、二乙二醇、光引发剂、岩白菜素、对甲苯磺酸、苯甲酸苄酯、偏苯三酸酐、六氟异丙醇、纳米氧化铽、六氟磷酸铯、表面活性剂、蓖麻醇酸锌、乙基纤维素、荧光指示剂、2-乙二硫醇、4-二氟苄溴|、丙烯酸羟乙酯、3-丙烷磺内酯
- 主营：1-苯丙醇、1-萘甲醚、金刚烷醇、科隆试剂、罗恩试剂、阿拉丁试剂、麦克林试剂、科密欧试剂、大小化工试剂、1-溴十八烷、2-恶唑烷酮、1-甲酰哌啶、2-氟苯甲醛、2-甲基吡嗪、2-氮己环酮、1-溴金刚烷
- 主营：羟甲基脲、溴化钾
- 主营：化学试剂
- 主营：乙醇钾、烯丙基碘、异戊酰氯、分析纯试剂、癸二酰氯、偏钒酸钾、丙二酰氯、糠基硫醇、硫代乳酸、1-乙基哌啶、n-丁基苯胺、2-环己烯酮、2-乙基吡啶、4-乙基吡啶、4-碘硝基苯、3-碘硝基苯、二丙基硫醚、碘代仲丁烷、间硝基苯胺、硫氰酸苄酯、硫氰酸甲酯、环氧溴丙烷、乙酸间甲苯酯、氯仿酸氯甲酯、重氮乙酸乙酯
- 主营：氧化石蜡皂、选矿药剂、表面活性剂、硫化铵、乳化剂、捕收剂、萃取剂、阻燃剂
- 主营：阻燃剂、乙酸镍、胶黏剂、胶溶剂、指示剂、六溴苯、磷酸铁、肉桂醇、碳酸镁、麝香酮、肉桂醛、异丁酸、乙氧基、四甘醇、衍生物、癸酸酯、浮选剂、稀释剂、羟乙基、异恶唑、马尿酸、十八烷、珠光剂、乙酸锶、米氏酮
- 主营：阻燃剂、胶黏剂、硫酸锆、五硼酸铵、聚合物、锂电池、烟酰胺、牛磺酸、灭火剂、肉桂醇、碳酸镍、碳酸镉、乙氧基、浮选剂、稀释剂、胶凝剂、马尿酸、珠光剂、甲酸钙、偏磷酸、米氏酮、酸甲酯、抑制剂、乙酸锌、甲酸钠、碳酸锰