The Probert Encyclopaedia of Science & Technology

BORON

Boron is a trivalent metalloid element found in nature only in combination, often in borates or silicates (such as in borax). Boron is used in metallurgy and nucleonics, being very important in nuclear reactors. It has the symbol B and is a dark brown or green amorphous powder, which stains the skin, has no taste or odour, and is only slightly soluble in water. It combines directly with oxygen, chlorine, nitrogen, etc. Boron has been obtained crystalline in an impure state, and is then nearly as hard as diamond, in the form of dust being used for polishing.
Research Boron