Applications Development and Technology

Borax works to develop borate-based solutions that address social and industrial issues with the ultimate goal of creating business value. The Application Development process starts with a problem that borates may be able to solve. If criteria for market potential and value are met – including social, environmental and economic considerations – technical and marketing solutions are developed. Following successful customer trials, new applications are fully commercialized.

Borax's portfolio changes regularly as new applications transition from ideas to projects to applications. In 2005, Borax will focus on:

• Developing borates’ potential as a safe and effective treatment for wood-plastic composites to protect wood from decay and plastic from UV damage
  

• Promoting borates as a binder and flux to ceramic tile body formulas to lower energy requirements and emissions, and to allow producers to use a wider range of raw materials.
  
• Developing liquid borates to improve productivity and durability in brick manufacture
  
• Progressing new applications in metallurgy, coal fly ash treatment, textiles and wood adhesives