. Further, the organoboron precursor may be dissolved in liquid ammonia prior to aerosolization. The aerosolized organoboron precursor and carrier gas, and the nitriding agent are simultaneously swept or injected into the furnace. The flow of the combined gas stream (organoboron precursor and carrier gas) may have a predetermined flow rate. The injection step of the nitriding agent may have a predetermined flow rate. The step of heating the furnace comprises 