A pure form of B2O3

Borates can be incorporated into frits—glassy, silica-rich materials that are used in the manufacture of glazes and enamels—to make them insoluble and help reduce glass viscosity. This improves fit, luster, durability, and chemical resistance.

By enhancing stain removal and bleaching capabilities, stabilizing enzymes, buffering alkalinity, softening water, and boosting surfactant performance, borates’ cleaning power fits into the industrial workplace.

Heat resistant, chemical resistant, scratch and shock resistant, borosilicate glass—made with silica and boron trioxide—provides strength and durability across a range of products from cell phones to solar panels.

Borates’ anticorrosive, antimicrobial, and pH-balancing capabilities make them useful components in industrial fluid formulations. From cleaning compounds to gear lubricants to metallurgy, borates keep numerous manufacturing processes running smoothly.

Borates make excellent fluxes and help protect ferrous metals from oxidation. In refractories, they help stabilize and extend the useful life of bonded firebricks and castables. Borates help harden steel and are used in the production of numerous alloys, amorphous metals, and rare-earth magnets. And, boron-hardened steel improves the safety of auto frames.

Polymers can ignite and burn easily which is why flame retardant additives are often required to meet safety standards. One of the many commercial applications of borates is fire retardancy.