Properties: White or colorless, smooth crystals or powder, soluble in water, alcohol and glycerin. Uses: It is chemical used for making ceramics, glazes, cements, wicks, food preservatives, special glasses; also for leather dressing compounds for preparation of hides prior to tanning; artificial precious stones; as flux in metallurgical industry, fire-proofing compositions and linings for safes; also for pigments; enamel paints, paper glazes, cosmetics, soaps, textiles, medicines, etc