Sodium metaborate (NaBO2) is an inorganic compound with a variety of applications. It has a white flake or powder appearance, has no odor, and is a colorless solid that dissolves easily in water. The density of sodium metaborate is 2.464 g/cm³, the melting point is 966 °C, and the boiling point is 1434 °C. When dissolved in water, sodium metaborate can form a strong alkaline solution. It usually exists in the form of 2 or 4 crystalline waters, which can be removed at specific temperatures to give anhydrous sodium metaborate.

Sodium metaborate is a versatile chemical that has a wide range of uses in various fields:

1. Glass and ceramic industries: Sodium metaborate is used as an additive in these industries to improve the heat and alkali resistance of products.

2. Chemical analysis: In chemical laboratories, sodium metaborate is often used as an analytical reagent to help with various chemical analyses.

3. Cleaners and rust removers: Its cleaning ability makes it very useful in making detergents and rust removers.

4. Intermediate products for the manufacture of borax: Sodium metaborate is an important intermediate for the manufacture of borax.

5. Agricultural applications: In agriculture, sodium metaborate can be used as a herbicide to help control unwanted plant growth.

6. Buffer: In some chemical reactions, sodium metaborate can be used as a buffer to help maintain the pH stability of the solution.

7. Preservatives and antimicrobial agents: Sodium metaborate also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, so it is used as a preservative or antimicrobial agent in some products.

8. Personal care products: In cosmetics and personal care products, sodium metaborate is sometimes used as a pH adjuster or stabilizer.