Boron

While its compounds are common, elemental and high-purity Boron are reserved for applications where performance is paramount:

• Advanced Composites & Filaments: The primary use of elemental Boron is in the creation of high-strength Boron filaments. Similar to carbon fibre—but with significantly higher compressive strength and stiffness—these filaments are woven into advanced composite materials used extensively in military and commercial aerospace. 
• Fibreglass & Structural Materials: About half of all Boron consumed globally goes into the production of fibreglass. As a key additive, it improves the thermal and chemical resistance of the glass, making it essential for building insulation and lightweight structural panels. 
• Ceramics & Polymers: Boron is a critical ingredient in high-strength, lightweight structural ceramics and refractory materials. It allows these materials to survive extreme temperatures and harsh industrial environments without fracturing. 
• Semiconductors: In the electronics industry, ultrapure Boron is a vital component. A tiny amount is used as a “dopant” in silicon wafers to create p-type semiconductors, which are the fundamental building blocks of modern integrated circuits and solar cells. 
• Chemical Synthesis: Boron reagents act as vital intermediates in the synthesis of complex organic fine chemicals, particularly in the pharmaceutical and agricultural industries.