Cement and concrete remain the foundation of modern construction. While Portland cement is still universally used, many projects in complex environments demand more than what conventional formulations can offer.
That’s especially true if you’re producing cement for sulfate-rich environments, extreme climates, or specialized sites such as nuclear power plants.
Borates deliver the performance characteristics needed to overcome unique construction challenges.
Common cement challenges
Construction sites are dynamic environments where numerous real-time factors impact success. When it comes to cement, your team might have to navigate:
- Extreme temperatures that can cause cement to set too quickly
- Large or complex pours that require more workability and fluidity
- Sulfate-rich soils that degrade cement over time
- High-pressure environments such as oil wells that demand precise setting behavior
- Long-term durability concerns, including cracking, shrinking, and corrosion
- Compliance with sustainability goals
Boron is a small, yet powerful additive, adept at handling these specialized needs.
Boron offers control, safety, and durability in cement mixtures
While you’ll find that other additives are more common in cement mixes, boron’s value shouldn’t be overlooked.
Set retarder in hot climates
Controlling or delaying concrete setting is imperative in hot climates or large-scale projects such as dams, bridges, and skyscrapers. When concrete sets too quickly, it results in poor workability, weak bonds, or cracking.
Boron-based retarders—such as borax or boric acid—can help delay hydration, giving crews more time to place and finish the mix properly.
Radiation shielding in nuclear facilities
To be considered truly safe, nuclear facilities must be able to shield people and the surrounding environment from harmful radiation. Thanks to a particular isotope (10B isotope), boron can capture thermal neutrons1, making it ideal for shielding radiation in areas such as:
- Reactors
- Spent fuel storage
- Accelerators
- Hot cells and waste handling
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, nuclear power is projected to grow by 2.5 times current production by 20502. That presents an opportunity for more boron-based cement formulations.
U.S. Borax is an experienced supplier to the nuclear energy industry. We offer specialty-grade products that adhere to U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission requirements. Optibor® SQ, manufactured at our Coudekerque site, is specifically designated for nuclear usage.
Learn more about boron in nuclear applications
Hydration control for challenging projects
Borates help provide greater control over cement hydration, allowing cement to reach great depths before setting occurs. This is especially useful for industrial applications such as oil wells. Deep wells frequently experience extreme heat and pressure, conditions that cause cement to cure faster.
Learn more about borates in oil and gas
Resistance to sulfates and chemicals
Exposure to sulfates can cause serious damage to concrete. Wastewater facilities, chemical factories, structures exposed to seawater, and areas with sulfate-rich soils are more susceptible to sulfate attack.
Boron could help protect these sites where the risk of sulfate exposure is higher. A 2020 research study3 showed boron-active belite cement provided superior sulfate resistance compared to Ordinary Portland Cement.
Interested in hearing more about boron in cement?
We encourage to explore our refined borate products in greater detail. If you have questions about how you can incorporate boron into your cement formulation, contact our technical team.
References
1Gokul P, et al. 2023. Additives in concrete to enhance neutron attenuation characteristics. Case Stud Constr Mater. 19:101281.
2International Atomic Energy Agency. September 16, 2024. Press release: IAEA Outlook for Nuclear Power Increases for Fourth Straight Year, Adding to Global Momentum for Nuclear Expansion. Vienna, Austria.
3Abdulkadir A, et al. 2020. Sulphate Resistance of Boron Active Belite Cement Concrete. Cem Concr Compos. 1:11-15.
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