The element occurs as orthoboric acid usually found in volcanic spring waters and as borates in boron and colemantie. Extensive borax deposits are also found in Turkey. At room temperature, Boron is a poor conductor of electricity. However, at high temperatures, boron is a good conductor. Some boron hydrogen compounds are toxic and require special care in handling.
Amorphous boron is used for fireworks and also in rockets as an igniter.
It is used to manufacture insulation fiberglass and sodium perborate bleach. Boric acid is an important boron compound used in textile products. Borax is used as a mild antiseptic. Other boron compounds are used to make borosilicate glasses and also show promise in treating arthritis. Bayer Corporation is a research-based company with major businesses in health care and life sciences, and chemicals.