Boric Acid (H3BO3, CAS 10043-35-3) is a white crystalline solid (density about 1.51) that dissolves slowly in water, about 5% at room temperature and more when heated, to form a very weak acid. It is used in fiberglass and borosilicate glass, flame retardants, nuclear reactor coolant control, wood preservatives, insecticides and mild antiseptics. Boric acid solutions are usually stored warm or dilute to prevent crystals settling out. Use the compatibility ratings to choose the right tank resin, fittings and gaskets.
HDPE is the most economical tank material for Boric Acid, rated Excellent. Polypropylene, PVDF (Kynar®) and nylon are also rated Good or better. Avoid aluminum hardware.
How Boric Acid works with the plastics used to make our storage tanks.
| Material | Relative cost | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| HDPE $ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
| Polypropylene $$ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
| Nylon $$$ | $$$$ | B Good |
| PVDF (Kynar®) $$$$ | $$$$ | A Excellent |
How Boric Acid works with the plastics used for tank fittings.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| HDPE | A Excellent |
| PVC | A Excellent |
| CPVC | A Excellent |
| Polypropylene | A Excellent |
| PVDF | A Excellent |
How Boric Acid works with gasket and O-ring materials.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| Buna-N | A Excellent |
| EPDM | A Excellent |
| Viton® | A Excellent |
How Boric Acid works with the metals used for fittings and bolts.
| Material | Rating |
|---|---|
| 316 Stainless Steel | A Excellent |
| Hastelloy | A Excellent |
| Titanium | — No Data |
| Aluminum | D Not Recommended |
Storing this chemical in polypropylene?
Polypropylene tanks from 25 to 6,000 gallons with polypropylene fittings installed. Confirm concentration and temperature with us before you order.
Send the chemical, concentration, temperature and size. We’ll match the tank and fittings and send a quote.