Boron compounds
Boron compounds are compounds that contain boron and at least one other element. Such compounds are generally either covalently bonded or ionically bonded combinations of boron and another element, usually a nonmetal but often a post-transition metal. Many of these play an important role in biochemistry, particularly the boron hydrides, which are commonly involved in hydroxylation reactions.
Most boron compounds contain boron covalently bonded to three other atoms in a triangular arrangement, forming boron trimers such as borazine, B3N3H6. Boron also forms polyhedral structures containing six and more atoms. These polyhedral structures, particularly those with more than six atoms, generally exhibit only ionic bonding.
The most important boron compounds are the boron hydrides, which are compounds containing boron and hydrogen. Examples include boric acid (H3BO3) and borane, a special class of compounds often informally called boranes. Boranes can be reduced to metal borides, compounds containing boron and a metal. Other important types of boron compounds are organoboranes, which are molecules containing boron and carbon. Organoboranes are typically produced by the addition of organohalides to borane and can be used in a variety of applications, such as curing certain polymers.
Boron is also important in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. Some of the most common boron-containing pharmaceuticals include boron-containing antacids and chemotherapeutic agents. Boron also plays an important role in the biochemistry of the human body, with boron-containing enzymes and biopolymers playing critical roles in various metabolic pathways.
Due to borons ubiquitous presence in the environment, some forms of boron compounds are considered environmental pollutants. Unfortunately, boron-containing waste products from industries such as boron smelting are increasingly being discharged into the environment. In addition, boron compounds used in various agricultural processes or for pest control can also pollute the environment; for example, boron-containing insecticides are often used in many regions of the world and may impact the environment if not disposed of properly.
In conclusion, boron compounds are essential components of many industries and play an important role in the biochemistry and chemistry of the human body. Unfortunately, some of the most widely used boron compounds, such as boron hydrides, borates, and organoboranes, can cause environmental pollution if not disposed of properly. Although it is important to minimize the use and potential release of these compounds, boron compounds are nevertheless essential pieces of technology in many industries and thus cannot be completely avoided.
