Borax

Borax, also known as sodium borate, sodium tetraborate, or disodium tetraborate, is an important boron compound, a mineral, and a salt of boric acid.
Powdered borax is soluble in water and has a colorless crystalline structure.
Its partially dehydrated form is the commercially available version.

1. Household Cleaning: Borax is frequently used in the production of cleaning products. It is particularly effective at stain removal. It can be found in laundry detergents, cleaning pastes, and cleaning solutions.
2. Insect Repellent: Borax can be used for insect control at home. It can be particularly effective at keeping away pests such as cockroaches and ants. However, caution should be exercised during this use, as excessive use or improper application can be harmful to pets.
3. Flame Retardant: Borax is used in the production of some flame retardant materials. Such materials can help prevent the spread of flames during a fire.
4. Semi-Precious Stone Processing: In jewelry making, borax can be used for cleaning, polishing, and processing certain semi-precious stones or minerals.
5. Paper Making: Borax can be a component used in paper making. It can be used in mixing paper pulp or in the production of certain specialty papers.
6. Soap Production: Borax can also be used in handmade soap making.
7. Chemical Reactions and Laboratory Applications: Borax can also be used in laboratories for buffering or pH adjustment in certain chemical reactions.