Boric acid is naturally occurring compound found in rocks, soil and water as well as foods such as fruits and vegetables, grains and nuts. Similar in appearance to table salt, boric acid is used extensively in agricultural and industrial industries due to its diverse and beneficial properties. Although safe in small amounts, high levels of boric acid can be toxic to humans, animals and the environment.
Pesticide
Boric acid has been registered as a pesticide, which includes herbicides, insecticides and fungicides, in the United States since 1948. It helps protect agriculture and non-agricultural products from insects, spiders, mites, mold and fungi, weeds and algae. It interferes with reproduction in molds and fungi, dehydrates and disrupts normal plant functions, and is a stomach poison to insects. Boric acid pesticides are available in a variety of application forms such as aerosols, liquids, powders and pellets. Boric acid also inhibits microorganism growth and is commonly found in baby powders and vaginal creams, among other products.
Ophthalmology
Boric acid is used medicinally in ophthalmology to protect against bacterial and fungal infections. According to drugs.com, boric acid is used to cleanse and wash the eyes and provides relief from irritants such as smog, chlorine and other chemicals. Boric acid is also a common ingredient in contact lenses solutions due to its antiseptic properties.
Heat Resistance and Flame Retardance
Boric acid is a commonly used chemical in a variety of materials due its flame-retardant and heat-resistant properties. It helps prevent fires by inhibiting the release of flammable gases from burning products and also releases water to form a carbon char that helps prevent further ignition of flames. Common products using boric acid as a flame retardant include mattresses, furniture, insulation, plastics and textiles. Boric acid's heat-resistant properties make it a commonly used compound in light bulbs, kitchenware, glass and laboratory products.
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