BorATES in Urbanization

Sustainability in modern cities 

U.S. Borax products support sustainable development, efficient energy consumption, human safety, and technological advances. From ultra-high-strength steel in our cars, to fire retardants and wood protectants in our homes, to borate-based cleaning products and the borosilicate glass on our mobile devices, boron plays an essential role in the way we live.

Built to last

Durability and safety—we expect these qualities in our homes, vehicles, and city infrastructures. U.S. Borax products increase building materials’ ability to resist rot, corrosion, pests, and heat, improving the performance and staying power of everything from wood siding to roof tiles, railway ties to automobile frames. 

 

Sustainable development

Efficient, affordable living

If building materials last longer, repair and replacement costs go down. If energy consumption is more efficient, heating and transportation costs are more reasonable. 

  • Whether used in building construction or railway ties, the durability of U.S. Borax-treated wood can reduce repair and replacement expenses. 

  • Borates impart benefits during the manufacture of glass fiber insulation and contribute to the thermal insulation properties of the final product. Borate-containing insulation reduces heat loss in buildings—improving energy efficiency and lowering heating and cooling costs. 

  • Boron is an essential nutrient for crop growth. Boron supplementation can help farmers increase crop yield and quality, which can help reduce bottom-line food costs. 

 

Enabling tomorrow’s tech

Don’t let our 150-year history fool you: U.S. Borax is firmly rooted in the future. Borates help strengthen your cell phone screen. They boost the cleaning power of laundry detergent. And, U.S. Borax products help build everything from wind farms to test tubes—dozens of products that keep us moving forward. They are used: 

  • To create heat-, shock-, and crack-resistant borosilicate glass for use in LCD screens in televisions, cell phones, and other electronic devices 
  • In lithium ion batteries, capacitors, and supercapacitors—enabling electric vehicles and road transportation. Batteries and supercapacitors are also used in intermittent renewable energy technologies such as wind and solar power. 
  • In industrial cleaners and laundry detergents, thanks to their stain-removal and bacteria-control capabilities.

We care about sustainability. Our Product Stewardship and Health, Safety, Environment (HSE) teams are dedicated to the responsible production and safe use of U.S. Borax products.

BORATES AT WORK

Learn more about the applications of borates in modern urbanization.

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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.

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