PLANET BORON

We have only one planet. Resources are finite, and it is our joint responsibility to take action to make the world a better place for future generations. Planet Boron is an initiative by Borates Today to harness the strengths and benefits of one of the world’s most precious resources – BORON – and publish news and events about boron’s availability, applications, benefits for achieving the collective vision and shared goals as we embrace multiple goals related to four key areas: Decarbonization; Advanced Energy, Food Security and Micronutrients.

DECARBONIZATION

ADVANCED ENERGY

FOOD SECURITY

MICRONUTRIENTS

FOOD SECURITY

Fluoride Toxicity With Boron

Fluoride is a toxic chemical that can cause severe health problems despite the best efforts of the WHO to provide recommended levels of fluoride intake by source. Fluoride toxicity is seen in both animals and humans but how can boron help to lower toxicity.

ADVANCED ENERGY, Innovation, RESEARCH

Boron Monosulfide Nanosheets

Boron monosulfide nanosheets may provide efficient energy sources in applications including batteries, catalysts, and electronic devices. Boron monosulfide nanosheets unique structures, giving them exciting superconducting, thermoelectric properties.

ADVANCED ENERGY, Batteries and Capacitors, PODCASTS

Podcast – Lithium Battery Prices Set to Soar

Lithium battery prices have been steadily increasing since 2022 taking both manufacturers and consumers by surprise. This shift marks a significant rise and is a trend set to continue over the next few years.

Agriculture, FOOD SECURITY

Boron Steel In Agriculture

Boron steel is a material that modern agricultural and industrial machinery manufacturers rely on to produce devices of the highest quality.

ADVANCED ENERGY, Efficient Power Sources, Nuclear Energy, PODCASTS

Podcast – Boron Rocket Fuel

In today's podcast, we're going to look at research into how boron can be used as rocket fuel. Boron has a high intrinsic energy density. It's inexpensive, plentiful, and stable, making it a good choice for solid rocket fuels and an additive for jet fuels to increase energy output.

Food Access, Food Availability, FOOD SECURITY, Food Stability

Global Food Dynamics and Boron

Global Food Dynamics and Boron: According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization), nearly 1/3 of all fruit & vegetables produced globally are wasted each year. How can Boron Help alleviate this wastage?

Agriculture, Crop Management

Pomegranate Fruit and Boron

Pomegranate fruit is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and other minerals. However, the fruit may lose its quality due to fruit cracking. This is due to inadequate water management or lacking essential micronutrients such as boron and calcium.

Agriculture, Farming, MICRONUTRIENTS

Boron: The Micronutrient For Plants

Boron is a mineral of importance to plant growth and health; it is involved in processes like cell division, pollination, and seed production.

DECARBONIZATION, MINING

Rio Tinto Decarbonization

Rio Tinto announced a $7.5 billion plan to reduce carbon emissions to 50% by 2030 in October 2021. Rio Tinto stated that it aimed to reduce carbon emissions by half by 2020 as steel and iron ore producers push for compliance with international climate commitments. Rio pushed forward its 2020 target for a 15% reduction of emissions from 2018, five years earlier than it had previously planned.

MICRONUTRIENTS

Micronutrient Deficiency, Boron and the WHO

What is micronutrient deficiency and how can boron help? In simple words, it is when your body is not getting the necessary nutrients it needs to function properly and for good health. It is a matter of concern all around the globe, but especially in countries with...

ADVANCED ENERGY, Batteries and Capacitors, Energy Management

Boron and Micro-Supercapacitors

Boron nitride (BN) has shown great potential for microelectronics in the architecture of micro-supercapacitors. Boron Nitride has a large bandgap (5.5eV), superior thermal stability, and high thermal conductance. Boron Micro-supercapacitors in the laboratory exhibit high energy density. They can also withstand harsh environments such as high temperature or electromagnetic interference much better than silicon-based micro capacitors.

Food Availability, FOOD SECURITY

Gender Inequality In The Face of Food Insecurity

Gender inequality contributes significantly to food insecurity. Boron is an essential micronutrient that aids in the improvement of food security and, there are implications for gender equality by increasing agricultural production efficiencies.

FOOD SECURITY

Food Insecurity: The Crisis For America

The food insecurity problem in America has been plaguing the country for years. Boron will help combat this issue and promote better nutrition.

ADVANCED ENERGY

Nuclear Energy and Boron

We live in a world where the environment is constantly going through changes. This is because we are running out of fossil fuels, and all it takes for our society to collapse is one more natural disaster. Therefore, the invention of new materials that facilitate the mission statement of a low carbon future is essential in today's day and age to decrease our dependence on fossil fuels.

ADVANCED ENERGY, Energy Management

Solar Cell – The Science Behind Solar Energy

A solar cell or photovoltaic (PV) cell is made of semiconductor materials that convert sunlight into electricity. But how does it work and what role does boron play in solar cells?

ADVANCED ENERGY, Superconductors

Strength of Rare Earth Magnets

Rare earth magnets are arguably among the most important and powerful permanent magnets. They are made from alloys of rare earth elements and are incredibly powerful. But how powerful are these? And what makes them so strong?

Anti Bacteria, Anti-fungal, APPLICATIONS, BENEFITS, Biocides, Forests and Parks, Pest Control, Wood Protection

Boron the Super Saviour of Wooden Products

Overview The ultimate defense against wood-destroying fungi and bacteria. Woods are great. They keep us warm and cozy and give a rustic yet chic feeling to our homes or any other place they adorn. It makes us one with nature. But like in nature, woods inside our...

ADVANCED ENERGY, Efficient Power Sources, Energy Management, Energy Management Systems

Boric Acid in Energy Storage Systems

Energy storage is a key piece of the puzzle in easing energy transition, and a new system developed by scientists at TU Wien can store a large amount of energy in an eco-friendly way.

DECARBONIZATION

Low Carbon Future with Boron

Food Access, Food Availability, FOOD SECURITY

Does Boron Rich Food Help In Weight Loss?

Does Boron Rich food help with weight loss? Can they help you lose weight quickly and how much boron do you need? Boron-rich food plays a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism. Even very low amounts of Boron can induce significant body weight loss. Boron appears to be important in burning body fat for energy. It also regulates carbohydrate metabolism.

RESEARCH, Superconductors

Boron Nitride Nanotubes

Boron nitride nanotubes are a new material that has been studied for use in strengthening lightweight materials, such as plastics and polymers. It is also being researched for use in electronics, aerospace engineering, and medicine. The Boron Nitride Nanotubes market has grown steadily over the past few years.

FOOD SECURITY

Boron and Food Security Utilization

Food Utilization, or food metabolization, is one of three drivers of Food Security (the other two being Availability and Accessibility). Food Utilization is all about the ability of animals and humans to use and benefit from nutrients in their food either through absorption or intake via the proper natural consumption of food.

ADVANCED ENERGY, Aerospace, Defense

Boron: The Holy Grail of Aerospace and Defense

It is one of the most common metals on our planet, but did you know that it has uses outside the industry? Aerospace and defence have used boron for decades due to its ability to be doped with other elements. Let's explore how it can help your business stay...

BENEFITS, FOOD SECURITY, Human Health

Boron and Daily Diet

Boron is an essential mineral in our daily diet. Boron can be found in foods such as fruits and vegetables. If you are showing signs of Boron deficiency such as brittle fingernails. hair loss, muscle weakness, joint pain, supplements may be required. Boron is typically taken as borax, boric acid, or as a boron citrate supplement for those looking to include Boron in a regular diet.

ADVANCED ENERGY, Batteries and Capacitors

Battery Storage is The Top Climate Tech Investment

Battery storage is set to be the most in-demand climate technology investment, and this is even more promising as boron can be used in developing lithium batteries.

Agriculture, Crop Management, Food Availability

Alfalfa Plant Needs A Powerful Dose Of Boron

Alfalfa plant need boron to thrive and reach their full potential. It's a trace element, but even in small amounts, it can make all the difference for this plant.

ADVANCED ENERGY, MINING, PODCASTS

Podcast – The Solar Power Market is Red Hot

The solar power market is growing with the demand for renewable energy sources.

DECARBONIZATION, Environmental Protection

Global Warming: Boron is Key

Global warming: Boron is key. It is a key element in combatting carbon emissions and fuel efficiency. It is an essential component of solar panels and wind turbines and is used to manufacture highly efficient batteries.

ADVANCED ENERGY

Wind Turbine: The Need for Permanent Magnet

Magnets in wind turbines are revolutionizing energy production, providing a steady supply of electricity with their reliable magnetic powertrain.

Batteries and Capacitors, Efficient Power Sources, Electricity Generation

Boron Powers Neodymium Magnets

What are Neodymium magnets? The answer is “Super Magnets”. Neodymium (Nd-Fe-B) are rare earth magnets are composed of neodymium, iron, boron, and a few transition metals. The elements of neodymium are classified as “rare earth” magnets because they lie in the...

Agriculture, Crop Management

Boron Deficiency In Woody Plants

Boron deficiency is widespread around the globe and constrains the growth and development of agriculture and forestry due to the lack of Boron in soil. Trees have a large body size, longer lifespan, and more Boron reserves than herbaceous plants, implying that woody species are more likely to suffer from long-term or mild Boron deficiency.

DECARBONIZATION, Environmental Protection

Biogeochemical Cycle of Boron

The biogeochemical cycle of boron is active in three main areas: the atmosphere, terrestrial, and marine (hydrosphere). Boron is present in trace amounts in these reservoirs and plays a vital role in many geochemical processes.

FOOD SECURITY, PODCASTS

Podcast – Boron and Food Security

In today's podcast, we're going to look at boron and food security. Boron plays a considerable role in food utilization, principally by improving the nutritional value of fertilizers for plant growth development. It also increases crop yield through increased nitrogen fixation rates in soils deficient in micronutrients.

Carbon Cycle, DECARBONIZATION

Carbon Capture Funding and Boron

Carbon capture technology has been developed for coal-fired power plants with FECM support for over two decades. Over 20 successful pilot-scale projects have been implemented including a showcase demonstration project which captures and stores over one million metric tons of carbon dioxide per year.

ADVANCED ENERGY, MINING, PODCASTS

Podcast – Mining Decarbonization

In today's podcast, we're going to look at decarbonization opportunities in the mining industry and how mining can help achieve net zero emissions.

DECARBONIZATION, MINING

Balancing Habitat versus Critical Mineral Mining

Balancing Habitat versus Critical Mineral Mining: Lithium and boron are two examples of crucial minerals essential in reducing our planet's carbon footprint for industries such as defense, automotive, construction, aviation, and aerospace. It is challenging to preserve the natural environment when starting new mines to extract these resources. How do companies such as Rio Tinto, American Pacific Borates (currently rebranding to 5E Advanced Materials), and Ioneer manage this dilemma and obtain the permits necessary in their respective locations?

Carbon Cycle, DECARBONIZATION, Energy Management, Environmental Protection

Boron Reduces Carbon Dioxide

Boron reduces carbon dioxide: Boron is one such amazing catalyst that reduces CO2 in the presence of only water and light irradiation. This serves as a foundation for a new and more efficient method of transforming CO2 into a usable carbon source for manufacturing fuels and chemicals.

Boron and Battery production BNNT Boron Nitrate Nanotubes

ADVANCED ENERGY, INVEST IN BORON

Demand Surges for Boron from Battery Producers

The clean energy shift is happening, and it’s more than just an environmental movement. As more people turn to renewable sources of power, the demand for battery minerals is increasing exponentially worldwide. Boron, lithium, and graphite are essential minerals seeing increased share prices because of this trend.

ADVANCED ENERGY, APPLICATIONS, Automotive, INDUSTRY SECTORS

Ford Boron Steel Bodywork

Automotive makers, including Ford, are taking advantage of boron's high tensile strength to build stronger, safer, and lighter cars. Boron steel is a crucial ingredient in the Ford Fiesta's pillars and structural elements and its other car brands. Boron steel is steel alloyed with small amounts of boron. It is four times higher than the average high-strength steel.

ADVANCED ENERGY, Energy Management

Geothermal Energy Could Solve Lithium Shortage

The potential for geothermal energy to provide a sustainable and reliable energy source is well known. But what is less appreciated is geothermal energy's role in solving one of the 21st century's most pressing challenges.

Podcast – Boron Market the Threat of a Shortage

By Borates Today | ADVANCED ENERGY, PODCASTS

Podcast – Boron Market the Threat of a Shortage

Podcast - With new applications demanding boron’s use in decarbonisation and green energy, as well as the traditional applications related to agriculture feeds and commercial applications for glass and ceramic ware, boron is becoming increasingly valuable as a strategic mineral.

Boron-based Polymers for EV Storage

By Borates Today | FOOD SECURITY, Innovation, RESEARCH, SCIENCE

Boron-based Polymers for EV Storage

Boron-based Polymers for EV Storage: Boron-based Polymers to Improve Electric Vehicle Energy Storage: Boron-based polymers such as BNNTs are 2D nanomaterials with excellent properties for improving electric vehicle energy storage given their high surface areas, large aspect ratios, and good thermal conductivities. Borates Today examines the potential for use of BNNTs in electric vehicle transmissions and batteries.

Boron’s Importance in Maintaining the Health of Coral Reefs

By Borates Today | Anti Bacteria, Anti-fungal, APPLICATIONS, MICRONUTRIENTS

Boron’s Importance in Maintaining the Health of Coral Reefs

Boron is an essential element in our daily lives and crucial for a successful reef tank. It is necessary to ensure the health of corals and invertebrates.

Video – Surge in Interest in the Solar Power Market

By Borates Today | ADVANCED ENERGY, Solar

Video – Surge in Interest in the Solar Power Market

The solar power industry is soaring, moved by cost-cutting measures and government incentives encouraging the use of boron for efficient energy storage.

Creeping Charlie with Borax: The Best Weedkiller

By Borates Today | Agriculture

Creeping Charlie with Borax: The Best Weedkiller

Creeping Charlie weed is difficult to eliminate, but borax can kill the plant's roots, preventing it from spreading, and taking over lawns or gardens.

Electrification: The Key to a Connected World

By Borates Today | Chemistry, Efficient Power Sources, SCIENCE

Electrification: The Key to a Connected World

Electrification is the process of using electricity to power something. It is essential for power systems for devices and technologies that we rely on every day. As our world becomes more interconnected, electrification will become increasingly important and Boron has a role to play.

Podcast – Turkey and Boron

By Borates Today | ADVANCED ENERGY, MINING, PODCASTS

Podcast – Turkey and Boron

Today, we're going to look at Turkey and Boron. Turkey is the world's largest producer of boron through the government-owned Eti Maden. With enough reserves to cover global demand for the next 500 years, Turkey stands first in market share, manufactures, and markets 62% of the world's boron.

DECARBONIZATION: Oil and Gas Sector Focus

By Borates Today | DECARBONIZATION

DECARBONIZATION: Oil and Gas Sector Focus

It is no secret that the world needs decarbonization. For our planet to remain habitable, we need to lower the number of greenhouse gases in the air. Decarbonizing a material refers to lowering the amount or the intensity of carbon in it or by lowering the amount...

Boron – The Building Block of Urbanization

By Borates Today | Agriculture, Crop Management, DECARBONIZATION, Environmental Protection, Farming, Food Access, Food Availability, Food Stability, Food Utilization, Forests and Parks, Human Health, RESEARCH

Boron – The Building Block of Urbanization

Boron is a metal useful to modern societies for over 100 years. It is most commonly available as borax in household cleaning products. Or, as the boric acid in eye drops and mouthwashes. However, it has many other uses in urbanization. It is present in construction...

Critical Material Boron Powering Decarbonization

By Borates Today | DECARBONIZATION

Critical Material Boron Powering Decarbonization

Boron is a critical raw material for many sectors such as solar cells, fiber optics, and semiconductor manufacturing. Boron production is also tied to other elements like lithium which are increasingly in demand.