سدیم بورهیدرید

Sodium borohydride is a white, crystalline solid and one of the most widely used reducing agents in organic and inorganic chemistry. It is especially valued for its selectivity and stability in reducing aldehydes, ketones, and some metal ions under mild conditions.

🏭⚗️ Production
Sodium borohydride is industrially synthesized by reacting sodium hydride (NaH) with trimethyl borate (B(OCH₃)₃), followed by hydrolysis. An alternative method involves high-temperature reaction of borax (Na₂B₄O₇) with metal hydrides in the presence of reducing agents. The production process is energy-intensive and requires controlled conditions due to the compound’s reactivity with water and alcohols.

🔬 Properties
The chemical formula of sodium borohydride is NaBH₄, and it has a molar mass of approximately 37.83 g/mol. It appears as a white to grayish powder and is soluble in water and certain alcohols, although it reacts slowly, releasing hydrogen gas. It is stable in dry air but decomposes in the presence of moisture or acids. The compound is typically stored under inert atmospheres or in sealed containers to avoid hydrolysis.

🧪 Applications
Sodium borohydride is widely used as a reducing agent in the pharmaceutical industry, fine chemical synthesis, and metal recovery. It is especially effective for reducing aldehydes and ketones to alcohols in organic synthesis. In industrial applications, it is used for bleaching pulp and paper, purifying pharmaceuticals, and removing heavy metals from wastewater. It also serves in the preparation of noble metal catalysts by reducing metal salts.

⚠️ Safety
Sodium borohydride is highly reactive, especially with water, acids, and alcohols, which can result in the rapid evolution of flammable hydrogen gas. It may cause severe irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Contact with moisture can lead to exothermic reactions. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats must be worn, and work should be conducted in a well-ventilated area or fume hood. The compound must be stored in dry, airtight containers, away from heat and moisture.