ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a detailed discussion on the occurrence and production, uses, chemical and physical properties, exposure and exposure limits, toxicokinetics, and effects of boron in humans. Boron is produced from bedded deposits and lake brines in California and Turkey, from a mixture of complex minerals. The element of boron is prepared by reduction by active metals, heat, or electrolytic means. Major uses of boron include glass (including thermal shock resistant and fiberglass), ceramics, soaps and cleansers, agriculture, and herbicides. Boron is a metalloid with a unique chemistry. Commercial compounds of boron include borates, boron oxides and halides, borohydrides, and boranes. Boric acid and sodium borate have been used as a food preservative. The effects of boron in humans include information on acute toxicity, chronic toxicity, biochemistry, specific organs and systems, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity.
