borax

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borax The most common borate mineral (hydrated sodium borate, Na2B4O7.10H2O), used to make heat-resistant glass, pottery glaze, water softeners in washing powders, fertilizers, and pharmaceuticals. It is found in large deposits in dried-up alkaline lakes in arid regions as crusts or masses of crystals. It may be colourless or white, transparent or opaque.

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