Concept in Definition ABC

Boron is widely distributed in nature, as it can be found in water, soil, or rocks. East chemical element is presented in the periodic table with the symbol B. It is a metalloid, so it has properties in an intermediate range between metals and non-metals. It was discovered in 1808 by a French chemist, Gay Lussac y Thenard. Later it was discovered that this mineral it was also found in plants.

Boron and its various compounds have multiple applications

In ancient times the Egyptians used this element for various purposes: in the mummification process, in metallurgy and as a medicinal ingredient. Greeks and Romans used it for tasks related to cleaning.

In Arab culture it was used as a medicinal substance and during the Middle Ages European artisans used it in the manufacturing of jewels.

Its industrial applications are especially significant, since it increases the resistance of steel, serves as an oxidant in the metallurgical sector and enhances the action of semiconductors.

On the other hand, some boron compounds are used to preserve food or to make glass and ceramics.

This chemical element is a trace element that has an essential role in the physiology animal and vegetable. In this sense, it intervenes in the metabolic processes related to the bone structure and the production of minerals.

In recent years it has been used as a nutritional supplement when there is a deficiency of calcium, magnesium or vitamin D. On the other hand, it is considered an effective element to prevent osteoporosis and other bone diseases.

It is a highly appreciated micronutrient for the care of gardens and orchards. Likewise, it is used in the manufacture of fungicides and herbicides. In the plant world, boron intervenes in two processes: pollination and maturation of the fruit.

Borax and kernite are two compounds that are made from boron

Borax is a substance that is sold in powder form and is also known as sodium borate. It is used in very different contexts: to remove dirt on the home, as a pesticide to fight pests, to unclog drains or to eliminate odor in garbage bags. Kernite is a mineral integrated into borates and is highly appreciated in the chemical industry, in nuclear technology in the sector of building.

There are more than 200 boron minerals, but only a few have any economic relevance (in addition to borax and kernite, colemanite and ulexite also stand out).

In Chile, Argentina, California and Turkey there are abundant deposits of minerals related to boron.

Fotolia photos: Andriano_cz / Alfaolga / Xhico