Boron Applications

Refined borates from U.S. Borax improve both manufacturing processes and finished products. See how boron benefits your specific application.

Agriculture

Boron is an essential micronutrient that supports crops during critical growth stages, resulting in higher yields for farmers.

Ceramics, enamels, 
and glazes

Borates are the key to producing high-performing frits, resulting in more efficient manufacturing and better quality end products.

Fire retardancy

Zinc borates provide exceptional fire retardancy benefits across multiple materials such as wood, polymers, and more.

Wood protection 
and biocides

Boric acid ensures the long-term health of wood materials by protecting them from fire, moisture, fungi and pests.

Decarbonization

Adhesives, caulks, and sealants

Benefits: Optimum viscosity, greater tack, faster bonding, better fluid properties, and fire retardancy.

More details 

Decarbonization

Batteries and capacitors

Benefits: Improved battery life and performance, more efficient manufacturing, and better lifecycle management.

More details 

Decarbonization

Cleaners and detergents

Benefits: Boosts surfactant performance, buffers pH, fights corrosion, and enhances stain and oils removal.

More details 

Decarbonization

Glass and glass fibers

Benefits: Produces heat, chemical, scratch, and shock resistant glass suitable for a range of products.

More details 

Decarbonization

Industrial fluids and lubricants

Benefits: Prevents corrosion and sludge, controls pH, reduces moisture sensitivity, and more.

More details 

Decarbonization

Insulation

Benefits: Meets fire retardancy standards, prevents heat loss, deters mold and corrosion.

More details 

Decarbonization

Metals and gold

Benefits: Improves metal recovery, reduces corrosion, strengthens alloys, and makes high-performing fluxes.

More details 

Decarbonization

Nuclear energy

Benefits: Safeguards against emergencies, controls nuclear reaction rate, and inhibits corrosion.

More details 

Decarbonization

Oil and gas production

Benefits: Controls cement setting, inhibits corrosion, and improves lubrication properties of drilling fluids.

More details 

Decarbonization

Pharmaceutical use

Benefits: Pharmaceutical-grade boric acid provides mild antibiotic and buffering properties in eye drops.

More details 

Decarbonization

Polymers and coatings

Benefits: Inhibits flame combustion, promotes char formation, and suppresses smoke formation and afterglow.

More details 

Decarbonization

More applications

From automobiles to gypsum board to water treatment chemicals, explore borates’ extensive list of applications.

More details 

If you have questions that aren’t answered on our applications pages, check out
our frequently asked questions (FAQ).

U.S. Borax, part of Rio Tinto, is a global leader in the supply and science of borates—naturally-occurring minerals containing boron and other elements. We are 1,000 people serving 650 customers with more than 1,800 delivery locations globally. We supply around 30% of the world’s need for refined borates from our world-class mine in Boron, California, about 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles.  Learn more about Rio Tinto.

Copyright © 2024 Rio Tinto. All Rights Reserved.
Terms and Conditions Privacy and Cookies Modern slavery statement
Cookie Preferences