Borato

Borato, or borate, is a family of compounds consisting of boron–oxygen networks derived from boric acid. The inorganic borates contain boron centers bonded to oxygen, forming structural units such as BO3 triangles and BO4 tetrahedra that link into three-dimensional frameworks or discrete anions. They occur as alkali or alkaline earth salts (for example, metaborates and tetraborates) and as borate esters in organoboron chemistry.

Common inorganic borates include borax (sodium tetraborate decahydrate, Na2B4O7·10H2O) and colemanite (Ca2B6O11·5H2O). Structurally, borates exhibit a range of anionic motifs from discrete BO3 and BO4 units to extended borate networks. In acid–base chemistry, boric acid H3BO3 acts as a Lewis acid and forms B(OH)4− in solution.

Occurrence and production: Borates are natural minerals found in evaporite deposits and are mined in several countries; major production regions include Turkey and parts of the Americas. Industrially, they are extracted from brines and processed into salts, acids, and esters for use in various industries.

Applications: In glass, ceramics, and enamel production, borates act as fluxes and stabilizers. They serve as buffers, fire retardants, and corrosion inhibitors, and as essential micronutrients in agriculture. In detergents, sodium perborate acts as a bleaching agent. Organoborates and borate esters are important intermediates in organic synthesis, including boronate esters used in cross-coupling reactions.

Safety and environment: Borates generally have low acute toxicity but can be harmful if ingested in large amounts and may irritate skin or eyes. Environmental release should be managed to prevent accumulation in water bodies.