UlexAndes-USA’s borates are a critical cross-linker used in fracking fluids by the oil industry. Borates maintain fluid viscosity as temperature rises. Borate-cross-linked fluids are guar-based fluids cross-linked with boron ions (from aqueous borax/boric acid solution). These gels have higher viscosity at pH 9 and higher and are used to carry propellants. Boron’s many industrial applications include the production of glass and ceramics. Boron compounds create glass with greater strength and breakage resistance in comparison to ordinary soda lime glass. Boron polymers and ceramics meet specialized needs as high-strength lightweight structural and refractory materials. Boron is also used in water treatment and as a wood preserver.
