BORON APPLICATIONS

Boron in quantum computing is one of the most exciting areas in science today. Currently, silicon-based qubits provide the processing power for these hugely powerful machines. However, Hexagonal Boron Nitride, hBN, is a promising material for quantum technologies. hBN benefits include lower error rates, an increase in the number of qubits per chip, increased stability, better conductivity, and reduced energy loss. They are also more cost-effective.

Borates in Metallurgy have been used over the centuries for both non-ferrous smelting and precious metals refining. Evidence suggests that gold-makers used borates as a fluxing agent even in Babylonian times. Borates lower the melting point and prevent oxidation. They also remove metal oxides and help to adjust the slag's viscosity for easier removal from the molten metal. Borates can also be used in lead recycling and metal recovery.

White Howlite is a remarkable gemstone, from stylish jewelry pieces to the soothing properties it holds, this captivating borate mineral has certainly made an indelible mark.

Borates in Paints: Borates are widely used in paints, coatings, and printing inks as buffering agents. They also provide flame retardant, anti-corrosive, and anti-bacteria protective benefits, applied in marine and aviation coatings for example. Boric acid, borax decahydrate, borax, zinc borate, and perborates/metal borates are compounds most used in paints and coatings.

Boron lubricants are multifunctional additives used in oil and gas exploration, drilling, and production. In addition to controlling pH, viscosity, and corrosion, they are also used to provide lubrication and exert other physical and chemical effects. Borates may be used in drilling fluid formulations to achieve several of these effects.

Buffer solutions are widely used in industry. Industrial processes require buffering solutions include fermentation, controlling dye processes and manufacturing pharmaceuticals. Potassium tetraborate is a great buffering agent. It can lower the pH level of strong alkalis. It can also be used in brazing fluxes, welding, and soldering. Potassium borates are dispersed in a finely divided state, which improves their anticorrosion and anti-wear properties in industrial and automotive lubricants. They are beneficial for heavier loads.

The boric acid global market is projected to grow by 321.1 thousand MT, or a CAGR of 4.68%, during 2020-2025 due to its applications in various industries.

Boron in eyewear and optics has many applications. Borate minerals such as potassium borate, sodium tetraborate, and boric acid are widely used in manufacturing optical materials. Boron has been an essential ingredient for manufacturers of optical materials since 1887 for eyewear given its water-soluble presence, with benefits including durability, resistance to scratching, and suitability for light transmission.

Potassium Borates - Salts is a naturally occurring mineral. The ionising properties of borate salts can inhibit protein synthesis and disrupt the bacterial cell membrane. This can affect growth and function. This mineral can be toxic to humans and pets. It can also be used as a disinfectant. There are many uses for potassium borate salts.

Boron in Flat Panel Display Glass is an important mineral used in LCD and plasma television panels. It is commonly used in high-tech glass for LCD and plasma TV screens. Its use in these products significantly increased around 2000 as consumer preference shifted away from CRT TVs to flat-panel screens. Substitutes for boron are, however, beginning to appear given its presence in glass, which some consider an environmental hazard.