MEDICINAL, COSMETIC, CHEMICALAND OTHER APPLICATIONS OF BORATES

Abstract

Boron and its related compounds are found in abundance in nature such as soil, water, and plants. Use of
borates dates back to the time of Babylonians and Egyptians, some 4000 years ago, for gold refining and
mummifying the dead. It was later discovered as a useful laboratory and industrial agent along with an
effective antiseptic and insecticidal compound. In combination with other compounds, boron complexes
showed a positive effect as an anticancer agent. Currently, borates are extensively employed in the field
of medicine, dentistry, cosmetology, nuclear, aeronautical fuels, weaponry, agricultural, chemicals, etc.
Moreover, they are also used in industrial processes as abrasives, refractories, flame retardants, glazes,
frits, enamels, and metallurgy. The various characteristics of borates including its application are discussed
and reviewed in this article, which may be beneficial for researchers in the development of various scientific
and technological fields.