Chapter 62 - Boric Acid and Inorganic Borate Pesticides

Abstract

This chapter focuses on boric acid and inorganic borates, primarily borax, and disodium octaborate tetrahydrate and their derivatives, because the major pesticide uses involve these three materials. Boric acid and inorganic borates are water-soluble, low-acute toxicity, low-volatility white powders; they are non-mutagenic and non-carcinogenic. Animal studies at higher doses show reproductive toxicity, primarily male effects. Borates are used for stump treatment (sapstain) and algae control in swimming pools. They are also used for flea control in carpets. Developmental effects related to exposure to boric acid and inorganic borates have been reported in mice, rats, and rabbits. In general, acute toxicity of boric acid and inorganic borates is considered to be low. Boric acid and disodium octaborate tetrahydrate produced mild eye irritation in the Draize test in rabbits. Borax yielded severe eye irritation. Boric acid is rapidly distributed throughout the body water in both animals and humans. The only tissue that appears to accumulate boron significantly above blood levels is bone.