The Probert Encyclopaedia of Science & Technology

BORIC ACID

Boric acid or boracic acid is a compound of boron, hydrogen and oxygen found naturally as a saline incrustation in some volcanic regions, is an ingredient in many minerals, and is contained in the steam which, along with sulphureous exhalations, issues from fissures in the soil in Tuscany.. It is also known as acidum boricum, it is widely used as an eyewash. The acid forms white, shining, scaly crystals, which on heating melt into a transparent mass, when cooled resembling glass. It dissolves in water, and has a slight acid taste; it colours blue litmus purple, and the yellow colouring matter turmeric brown. The chief use of the acid is as a source of borax, the biborate of sodium.
Research Boric acid