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The effects of B 2 O 3 on viscosities, structures and phase transitions of CaO–MgO–Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 –MnO-(0-8.0 wt%)B 2 O 3 slags were investigated in this work. From the viscosity experimental results, the slag viscosities declined and the E η decreased from 205.19 to 175.95 kJ/mol with the addition of B 2 O 3 in slags from 0 to 8.0 wt%. From the structure analysis by using FTIR and XPS, B 2 O 3 entered into the silicate network to increase the slag polymerization degree, while the formation of simple two-dimensional BO 3 trihedral units could significantly decline the symmetry and stability of the structure. The effects of decreasing the network stability and forming low-melting eutectics were more dominated than the effects of increasing the structure polymerization degree, which could reduce the slag viscosity. Furthermore, adding B 2 O 3 could decrease the slag initial precipitation temperature and change the primary crystal phase of the slag from melilite to spinel. The comprehensive effects of reducing the slag structure stability and decreasing the influence of solid phase on viscosity eventually resulted in the improvement of the slag fluidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a new core component of surge arresters, it is crucial for manganese dioxide varistors to solve the challenges of reducing the leakage current and lowering the residual voltage ratio. In this study, the electrical characteristics of tin dioxide varistors using B2O3 as the acceptor dopant and Ta2O5 as the donor dopant are investigated. Several tin dioxide based varistors doped with different amounts of B2O3 are prepared and characterized by the researchers. X ray diffraction (XRD) is used to analyze the structural features of the samples and to observe the phases involved. It is found that the B2O3 dopant provides oxygen vacancies, reduces the grain size, increases the barrier height, and decreases the residual pressure ratio. The Ta2O5 dopant provides donor defects and free electrons needed to form the barrier. When balancing the concentrations of B2O3 and Ta2O5, the optimum dopant concentrations is found to be 0.1 mol% of B and 0.05 mol% of Ta; these concentrations result in a leakage current of 0.25 μA cm−2, a residual pressure ratio of 1.95, a nonlinear coefficient of 25, and a voltage gradient of 394 V mm−1 for the varistor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass properties play crucial roles in ensuring the safety and reliability of electronic packaging. However, challenges, such as thermal expansion and resistance to acid corrosion, pose long-term service difficulties. This study investigated the impact of the microstructure on acid resistance by adjusting the glass composition. A glass material with excellent acid resistance was obtained by achieving a similar coefficient of thermal expansion to tantalum; it exhibited a weight loss rate of less than 0.03% when submerged in 38% sulfuric acid at 85 °C for 200 h. Theoretically, this glass can be used to seal wet Ta electrolytic capacitors. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to analyze the glass transition temperature and thermal stability of borosilicate glasses. X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy were used to study the microstructure of the amorphous phase of the borosilicate glass, which revealed a close relationship between the degree of network phase separation in the borosilicate glass and the degree of polymerization (isomorphic polyhedron value, IP) of the glass matrix. The IP value decreased from 3.82 to 1.98 with an increasing degree of phase separation. Boron transitions from [BO4] to [BO3] within the glass network structure with increasing boron oxide content, which diminishes the availability of free oxygen provided by alkaline oxide, resulting in a lower acid resistance. Notably, the glass exhibited optimal acid resistance at boron trioxide and mixed alkaline oxide contents of 15% and 6%, respectively. Raman experiments revealed how the distributions of various bridging oxygen atoms (Qn) affect the structural phase separation of the glass network. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy revealed the depolymerization of Q4 into Q3, thereby promoting high-temperature phase separation and highlighting the unique advantages of Raman spectroscopy for phase recognition.

Glass properties play crucial roles in ensuring the safety and reliability of electronic packaging. However, challenges, such as thermal expansion and resistance to acid corrosion, pose long-term service difficulties. This study investigated the impact of the microstructure on acid resistance by adjusting the glass composition. A glass material with excellent acid resistance was obtained by achieving a similar coefficient of thermal expansion to tantalum; it exhibited a weight loss rate of less than 0.03% when submerged in 38% sulfuric acid at 85 °C for 200 h. Theoretically, this glass can be used to seal wet Ta electrolytic capacitors. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to analyze the glass transition temperature and thermal stability of borosilicate glasses. X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy were used to study the microstructure of the amorphous phase of the borosilicate glass, which revealed a close relationship between the degree of network phase separation in the borosilicate glass and the degree of polymerization (isomorphic polyhedron value, IP) of the glass matrix. The IP value decreased from 3.82 to 1.98 with an increasing degree of phase separation. Boron transitions from [BO4] to [BO3] within the glass network structure with increasing boron oxide content, which diminishes the availability of free oxygen provided by alkaline oxide, resulting in a lower acid resistance. Notably, the glass exhibited optimal acid resistance at boron trioxide and mixed alkaline oxide contents of 15% and 6%, respectively. Raman experiments revealed how the distributions of various bridging oxygen atoms (Qn) affect the structural phase separation of the glass network. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy revealed the depolymerization of Q4 into Q3, thereby promoting high-temperature phase separation and highlighting the unique advantages of Raman spectroscopy for phase recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrolysis of MgH2 delivers high hydrogen capacity (15.2 wt%), which is very attractive for real-time hydrogen supply. However, the formation of a surface passivation Mg(OH)2 layer and the large excess of H2O required to ensure complete hydrolysis are two key challenges for the MgH2 hydrolysis systems. Now, a low-cost method is reported to synthesize MgH2@Mg(BH4)2 composite via ball-milling MgH2 with cheap and widely available B2O3 (or B(OH)3). By adding small amounts of B2O3, the in-situ formed Mg(BH4)2 could significantly promote the hydrolysis of MgH2. In particular, the MgH2–10 wt% B2O3 composite releases 1330.7 mL·g−1 H2 (close to 80% theoretical hydrogen generation H2) in H2O and 1520.4 mL·g−1 H2 (about 95%) in 0.5 M MgCl2 in 60 min at 26 °C with hydrolysis rate of 736.9 mL·g−1·min−1 and 960.9 mL·g−1·min−1 H2 during the first minute of the hydrolysis, respectively. In addition, the MgCl2 solution allows repeated use by filtering and exhibits high cycle stability (20 cycles), therefore leading to much reduced capacity loss caused by the excess H2O. We show that by introducing B2O3 and recycling the 0.5 M MgCl2 solution, the system hydrogen capacity can approach 5.9 wt%, providing a promising hydrogen generation scheme to supply hydrogen to the fuel cells.

Metal additives play an essential role in explosive and propellant formulations. Boron (B) is widely used in propellant applications owing to its high energetic content. The addition of B to explosives and propellants increases their energy density, making them more efficient and powerful. Nevertheless, B forms oxide layers on its surface during combustion, slowing down the combustion rate and reducing rocket motor efficiency. To overcome this issue, other metal additives such as aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), and titanium (Ti) are revealed to be effective in boosting the combustion rate of propellants. These additives may improve the combustion rate and therefore enhance the rocket motor’s performance. The present study focused on preparing and investigating the ignition and combustion behavior of pure hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB)-B fuel supplemented with nano-titanium and nano-magnesium. The burn rates of HTPB-B fuel samples were evaluated on the opposed flow burner (OFB) under a gaseous oxygen oxidizer, for which the mass flux ranges from 22 kg/(m2·s) to 86 kg/(m2·s). The addition of Ti and Mg exhibited higher regression rates, which were attributed to the improved oxidation reaction of B due to the synergetic metal combustion effect. The possible combustion/oxidation reaction mechanism of B–Mg and B–Ti by heating the fuel samples at 900 °C and 1100 °C was also examined in a Nabertherm burnout furnace under an oxygen atmosphere. The post-combustion products were collected and further subjected to X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analyses to inspect the combustion behavior of B–Ti and B–Mg. It has been observed that the B oxide layer at the interface between B–Ti (B–Mg) is removed at lower temperatures, hence facilitating oxygen transfer from the surroundings to the core B. Additionally, Ti and Mg decreased the ignition delay time of B, which improved its combustion performance.

R2+ (R = Ca, Ba) and B2O3-modified waste soda-lime glass's immobilization of Cs is investigated using product consistency tests. The introduction of Ca2+ and Ba2+ to waste glass can inhibit the diffusion motion of Cs+ in glass network, and thus reducing the leaching concentration of Cs+. The excessive addition of Ca2+ to waste glass produced the crystallization of CaSiO3 and Ca(Si2O7)B2O phases and worsened the ability to immobilize Cs. When B2O3 exists as [BO4] units in glass, the normalized leaching concentration of Cs+ is decreased, the existence of [BO3] units in glass can diminish its ability to immobilize Cs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An economical synthesis of MgH 2 @Mg(BH 4) 2 composite is developed by using B 2 O 3. • The composite exhibits fast hydrolysis kinetics with high hydrogen yield. • The system hydrogen density could approach 5.9 wt% by recycling the MgCl 2 solution. • The mechanism of hydrolysis is clarified. The hydrolysis of MgH 2 delivers high hydrogen capacity (15.2 wt%), which is very attractive for real-time hydrogen supply. However, the formation of a surface passivation Mg(OH) 2 layer and the large excess of H 2 O required to ensure complete hydrolysis are two key challenges for the MgH 2 hydrolysis systems. Now, a low-cost method is reported to synthesize MgH 2 @Mg(BH 4) 2 composite via ball-milling MgH 2 with cheap and widely available B 2 O 3 (or B(OH) 3). By adding small amounts of B 2 O 3 , the in-situ formed Mg(BH 4) 2 could significantly promote the hydrolysis of MgH 2. In particular, the MgH 2 –10 wt% B 2 O 3 composite releases 1330.7 mL·g−1 H 2 (close to 80% theoretical hydrogen generation H 2) in H 2 O and 1520.4 mL·g−1 H 2 (about 95%) in 0.5 M MgCl 2 in 60 min at 26 °C with hydrolysis rate of 736.9 mL·g−1·min−1 and 960.9 mL·g−1·min−1 H 2 during the first minute of the hydrolysis, respectively. In addition, the MgCl 2 solution allows repeated use by filtering and exhibits high cycle stability (20 cycles), therefore leading to much reduced capacity loss caused by the excess H 2 O. We show that by introducing B 2 O 3 and recycling the 0.5 M MgCl 2 solution, the system hydrogen capacity can approach 5.9 wt%, providing a promising hydrogen generation scheme to supply hydrogen to the fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R2+ (R = Ca, Ba) and B2O3-modified waste soda-lime glass's immobilization of Cs is investigated using product consistency tests. The introduction of Ca2+ and Ba2+ to waste glass can inhibit the diffusion motion of Cs+ in glass network, and thus reducing the leaching concentration of Cs+. The excessive addition of Ca2+ to waste glass produced the crystallization of CaSiO3 and Ca(Si2O7)B2O phases and worsened the ability to immobilize Cs. When B2O3 exists as [BO4] units in glass, the normalized leaching concentration of Cs+ is decreased, the existence of [BO3] units in glass can diminish its ability to immobilize Cs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal additives play an essential role in explosive and propellant formulations. Boron (B) is widely used in propellant applications owing to its high energetic content. The addition of B to explosives and propellants increases their energy density, making them more efficient and powerful. Nevertheless, B forms oxide layers on its surface during combustion, slowing down the combustion rate and reducing rocket motor efficiency. To overcome this issue, other metal additives such as aluminum (Al), magnesium (Mg), and titanium (Ti) are revealed to be effective in boosting the combustion rate of propellants. These additives may improve the combustion rate and therefore enhance the rocket motor’s performance. The present study focused on preparing and investigating the ignition and combustion behavior of pure hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB)-B fuel supplemented with nano-titanium and nano-magnesium. The burn rates of HTPB-B fuel samples were evaluated on the opposed flow burner (OFB) under a gaseous oxygen oxidizer, for which the mass flux ranges from 22 kg/(m²·s) to 86 kg/(m²·s). The addition of Ti and Mg exhibited higher regression rates, which were attributed to the improved oxidation reaction of B due to the synergetic metal combustion effect. The possible combustion/oxidation reaction mechanism of B–Mg and B–Ti by heating the fuel samples at 900 °C and 1100 °C was also examined in a Nabertherm burnout furnace under an oxygen atmosphere. The post-combustion products were collected and further subjected to X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analyses to inspect the combustion behavior of B–Ti and B–Mg. It has been observed that the B oxide layer at the interface between B–Ti (B–Mg) is removed at lower temperatures, hence facilitating oxygen transfer from the surroundings to the core B. Additionally, Ti and Mg decreased the ignition delay time of B, which improved its combustion performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the possibilities of using low-grade manganese ores in ferromanganese production by smelting process. It is aimed to increase the consumption areas of boron ores. Fluorspar, ulexite, and boroxide were added to manganese ores, and slag fluidity at determined temperatures was examined. Reference samples without flux were used for comparison. The charge materials were melted in graphite crucibles at 1650 °C for 2 hours. The metal/slag phases were separated from each other and their chemical analyses were made. At the end of the experiments, thanks to boron ores, Mn leakage in the slag phase was reduced to a minimum, while 99% Mn was obtained in the metal phase. As a result, it has been determined that the slag fluidity increases more with boron ores (compared to fluorspar), the smelting time decreases, it is possible to use boron ores in ferromanganese production, and their usage areas can be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The borosilicate scales with different B 2 O 3 contents were prepared on MoSi 2 ceramics by cold pressing, pressureless sintering and pre-oxidation. Hot corrosion with Na 2 SO 4 was carried out at 1000 °C for 8 h. The pre-oxidized borosilicate scale on ceramics with 10 wt% B 2 O 3 has an excellent hot corrosion resistance. B 2 O 3 –SiO 2 barrier scales mainly contained amorphous borosilicate glass which can reacted with Na 2 SO 4 producing sodium borosilicate glass to cover and heal the corroded surface. The Mo-based particles under the barrier scale were isolated to avoid severe reactions producing Na 2 MoO 4 , so the borosilicate barrier scale had an excellent corrosion resistance to Na 2 SO 4 molten salt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research report aimed the use of a bioactive glass systems of the chemical composition (80-x)SiO2–15CaO–5P2O5–xB2O3; 0 (MBG) ≤ x ≤ 15 (15.0B-MBG) mol% as radiation protection candidate for γ-rays. The density (ρ) of the investigated glasses reduced slightly from 2.6785 to 2.6637 g/cm3 and the molar volume (Vm) increased from 23.7353 to 24.4042 cm3/mol. The mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) for photon energies ranging from 15 keV to 100 keV using the XCOM code and Phys-X software was estimated. The highest discrepancy among the MAC values calculated by XCOM and Phys-X was found less than 2.5% at 15.0 keV and 5% at 100 keV. In terms of the effective-atomic-number (Zeff), it found that the sample encoded as MBG had the uppermost Zeff. In general, the analysis showed that the selected MBG-15.0B-MBG glasses provide adequate protection against low-energy photons (i.e., E < 30 keV), but their shielding ability decreases at high energies (60 < E < 100 keV). In addition, the various elastic-mechanical intrinsic of samples were calculated, including the total dissociation energy (G), which decreased from 65.425 to 57.565 kJ/cm3 as the B2O3 content increased from 0.0 to 15.0 mol%. The Poisson's ratio (σ) improved from 0.41253 to 0.41603 and Young's modulus reduced from 79.110 to 72.510 GPa. Results shows a significantly impact of B2O3 insertion into the investigated glasses network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to reduce the sintering temperature and obtain higher fracture toughness of WC cemented carbides without metallic binder, WC cemented carbide was toughened by MgO and B2O3. Dense WC-MgO-B2O3 bulk materials were prepared at the relative low temperature of 1400℃ via spark plasma sintering(SPS), and the effects of MgO-B2O3 addition on sintering mechanism, microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of WC cemented carbides without metallic binder were studied. The results show that the addition of MgO-B2O3 promotes the sintering densification of WC, and reduces the sintering temperature of WC cemented carbides without metallic binder. With the increase of MgO-B2O3 contents, the morphology of some second phases in the microstructure is gradually transformed from short rod-shaped to long rod-shaped, and then to aggregated block. When MgO-B2O3 content reaches 8% (mass fraction), the bulk material has better fracture toughness of (9.45±0.37) MPa·m1/2, and its hardness is (18.16±0.17) GPa.

Different B 2 O 3 content was added to Ce3+–doped Gd 2 O 3 –Al 2 O 3 –SiO 2 (xBGAS:1.1Ce3+, x = 0, 5, 10, 15) glasses to improve the photoluminescence (PL) and scintillation properties. The transmittance of 15BGAS:1.1Ce3+ glass is over 80%. The X–ray absorption near edge spectroscopy (XANES) spectra imply that Ce4+ can be effectively reduced to Ce3+ in the glasses by adding Si 3 N 4. The excitation and emission spectra show a blue shift with increase of B 2 O 3 content. The photoluminescence quantum yield (PL QY) increases with the increase of B 2 O 3 content, reached the maximum of 59.55% when x = 15. The PL decay time of the glasses exhibits typical values (44–50 ns) due to 5d→4f transition of Ce3+ ions. The PL thermal activation energy become larger, indicating that xBGAS:1.1Ce3+ glasses have better luminescent thermal stability. The integral X–ray excited luminescence (XEL) intensity of the 15BGAS:1.1Ce3+ glass is 37.38% of Bi 4 Ge 3 O 12 (BGO) crystal, and the light yield is 1267 ph/MeV with an energy resolution of 23.22% at 662 keV when exposed to γ–rays. With the increase of B 2 O 3 content, the fast component of scintillation decay time gradually becomes shorter and the slow component becomes longer. The thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) curves were measured to investigate the trap depth and density of defects in xBGAS:1.1Ce3+ glasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NASICON-type (Sodium Super Ionic Conductor) Na3Zr2Si2PO12 solid electrolyte is one of the most promising electrolytes for solid-state sodium metal batteries. When preparing Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic using a traditional high-temperature solid-state reaction, the high-densification temperature would result in the volatilization of certain elements and the consequent generation of impurity phase, worsening the functional and mechanical performance of the NASICON electrolyte. We rationally introduced the sintering additive B2O3 to the NASICON matrix and systemically investigated the influence of B2O3 on the crystal structure, microstructure, electrical performance, and electrochemical performance of the NASICON electrolytes. The results reveal that B2O3 can effectively reduce the densification sintering temperature and promote the performance of the Na3Zr2Si2PO12 electrolyte. The Na3Zr2Si2PO12-2%B2O3-1150 ℃ achieves the highest ionic conductivity of 4.7 × 10−4 S cm−1 (at 25 °C) with an activation energy of 0.33 eV. Furthermore, the grain boundary phase formed during the sintering process could improve the mechanical behavior of the grain boundary and inhibit the propagation of metallic sodium dendrite within the NASICON electrolyte. The assembled Na/Na3Zr2Si2PO12-2%B2O3/Na3V1.5Cr0.5(PO4)3 cell reveals the initial discharge capacity of 98.5 mAh g−1 with an initial Coulombic efficiency of 84.14% and shows a capacity retention of 70.3% at 30 mA g−1 over 200 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Na[Ln(edta)(H2O)n] (Ln = Dy, Ho, Yb and Er, n = 1-3) complexes were synthesized using lanthanide salts and Na4(edta). The synthesized lanthanide complexes were characterized using different techniques including elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FT-IR and fluorescence spectroscopy. Their structures were also optimized using DFT method. Then, the complexes were refluxed in the presence of a mixture of Al(OH)3 and H3BO3 for 24 h. The reaction mixture was then calcined at 400°C for 5 h. The obtained powder as a new phosphorescent pigment was dispersed in water and acrylicpolyurethane resin, and new phosphorescent pigments were finally prepared by adding different percentages of lanthanide oxides to the original pigment. The prepared phosphorescent pigments were investigated using XRD, XRF, and solid state phosphorescence spectroscopy.

Ludwigite is usually introduced into iron ore concentrate as an additive to enhance the quality of pellets. It is widely accepted that the addition of B2O3 can facilitate the growth of hematite grains and enhance the compressive strength of pellets. However, there is currently no consensus regarding the influence of B2O3 on the stability of hematite reduction process. This study employed X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy to analyse the impact of B2O3 contents (0–8 wt.%) and roasting times (10–40 min) on the stability of magnetite oxidation process and hematite reduction process. The results indicate that the growth and crystallisation of hematite are facilitated with the increase of B2O3 content and roasting time. The addition of B2O3 induced crystal defects in Fe2O3. However, the properties in question exhibited a downward trend when B2O3 content exceeds 6 wt.%. Furthermore, the reduction degree exhibited a notable decline with an increase of B2O3 content. Fe2O3 particles are tightly enveloped by a liquid phase rich in boron element, hindering their reduction. Nonetheless, the discovery of the effect of B2O3 on hematite reduction process has contributed to the application of ludwigite in pellets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boro-tellurite glasses in the (70-x) B 2 O 3 –5TeO 2 –10Bi 2 O 3 –10SrCO 3 –5K 2 CO 3 -xWO 3 system, with varying WO 3 content (x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 mol %), were synthesized using the melt quenching technique. The effectiveness of radiation protection was assessed using the Phy-X/PSD tool across a broad energy spectrum ranging from 15 keV to 15 MeV. The results indicated that the mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) values increased proportionally with the concentration of WO₃ in the glass samples. At approximately 0.015 MeV, the MAC reached its maximum for all glass compositions, ranging from 45.822 g cm−2 for BW1 to 51.258 g cm−2 for BW5. However, beyond 15 keV, a notable decrease in MAC values was observed, primarily attributed to the dominance of photoelectric interactions at lower energy levels. Furthermore, the effective atomic number (Z eff) ranged from 64.08 to 65.44, with a peak observed at 15 keV. Beyond this energy, the Z eff values for all the produced glass samples showed a marked decrease as the energy of gamma photons increased, mirroring the trend observed in the MAC values. Conversely, the half-value layer (HVL) and mean free path (MFP) exhibited a consistent reduction. A comparative analysis of the MFP of the glass samples with other shielding materials demonstrated that the BW5 glass exhibited superior performance at 1.50 MeV. These findings highlight the potential of the BW5 glass sample for radiation shielding applications, which has the highest WO₃ content and density, positioning it as a promising material for future radiation protection technologies. • The melt-quenching method was used in the preparation of glass samples. • X-ray diffraction spectra proved that all glass samples are amorphous. • Radiation shielding traits of the studied glass system are effective for gamma-rays. • The 5.0 mol% of WO 3 is found to be the best shielding glass composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to study the radiation shielding properties of lanthanide glasses, according to the formula x TiO 2 -51La 2 O 3 -(24- x) B 2 O 3 –8Gd 2 O 3 -8Nb 2 O 5 -6ZrO 2 -3SiO 2 (x = 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, wt. %). Using FLUKA Monte Carlo code, the mass attenuation coefficients (MAC), half-value layers (HVL), and effective atomic numbers (Z eff) of the lanthanide glasses were estimated at medical diagnostic energies (between 20 and 150 keV). The MACs of the glasses are between 0.5183 and 24.407 cm2/g for 0Ti, 0.5215-24.788 cm2/g for 4Ti, 0.5193-25.161 cm2/g for 8Ti, 0.5163-25.529 cm2/g for 12Ti, and 0.5183-25.916 cm2/g for 16Ti. These results are consistent with the Phy-X theoretical database (with a percentage difference below 3 %). The lanthanide glasses showed good photon shielding ability compared to lead concrete, and RS-360 & RS-253-G18 commercial glasses, commonly used shielding materials. In this work, 16Ti possesses the highest, lowest, and highest values of MAC, HVL, and Z eff , respectively, at the various energies investigated, which implies that the 16Ti sample has better shielding performance. All in all, this work demonstrated that adding TiO 2 to the glass samples could provide preferable shielding features. • The radiation shielding properties of lanthanide glasses were investigated with the FLUKA Monte Carlo code. • The MAC, HVL, and Z eff of the lanthanide glasses were estimated at medical diagnostic energies (between 20 and 150 keV). • The MAC results were compared with the Phy-X calculation. The theoretical and simulated values were in excellent agreement. • 16Ti glass had the greatest gamma shielding qualities. • This work helps analyze the samples and estimate the results before implementing a real NaI(Tl) detector experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone tissue engineering is the most used technology in recent years for repairing damaged bones. A novel heterogeneous biomaterial is prepared and studied to be suggested as a promising bone substitute biomaterial, based on three different nanoparticles: hydroxyapatite (HAP), boron oxide (B2O3), and graphene oxide (GO) a triple nanocomposite is designed HAP/B2O3/GO. This hybrid scaffold is analyzed with XRD to examine the crystalline structure of HAP/B2O3/GO and shows its crystal planes. Moreover, the interaction between the three nanoparticles and their distinctive active functional groups is illustrated with FTIR analysis. Further, TEM micrographs demonstrate the structural alteration and the uniform incorporation of HAP and B2O3 into GO sheets with an average length of 30 nm and diameter of 6 nm for HAP, and a size of 8 mm for B2O3. Furthermore, SEM micrographs reveal the porous structure of HAP/B2O3/GO with a grain size of 5–10 nm. The maximum roughness average value is obtained by HAP/B2O3/GO which is 11.04 nm. Besides, HAP/B2O3/GO nanocomposite shows the highest cell viability value of 96.1 ± 1.2%. The bacterial toxicity of HAP/B2O3/GO is confirmed with the obtained inhibition zone against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus of 15.7 ± 1.1 mm and 16.2 ± 0.8 mm respectively. In addition, the hardness of the triple composite is improved showing a maximum value of 3.7 ± 0.3 GPa. Distinctly, the addition of B2O3 to HAP and GO nanosheets alter the morphological properties and enhances the roughness parameters of HAP/B2O3/GO. Besides, HAP/B2O3/GO shows improved porosity, cell viability, and biodegradability. Hence, studying HAP/B2O3/GO nanocomposite with different scans and analyses reveals its porous integrated structure and shows an excellent antibacterial property, so that HAP/B2O3/GO composite can be suggested as a promising bone substitute biomaterial.

Recently, there has been a great demand for boron‐containing compounds (BCCs) with unique biological properties. The demand for the use of these compounds not alone but as additives in composite materials is increasing day by day. In this study, the effect of adding B2O3 compound to the blend of PLA and PEG polymers, which is an important biocompatible shape memory polymer, was investigated. In order to examine the effect of increasing B2O3 additive on the thermal properties of PLA‐PEG blend, it was determined by using a Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), and it was seen that while the melting temperature of PEG decreased, the melting temperature of PLA increased. In addition, when the thermal stability of the composites was examined, increasing of thermal stability was observed with the addition of B2O3 and a three‐step degradation occurred. It was determined that the B2O3/PLA‐PEG composite was homogeneous by taking X‐ray measurements and SEM measurements. The antimicrobial property of the PLA‐PEG blend improved with the increasing B2O3 contribution were observed from the antimicrobial activity measurements of the composite against 4 different bacteria. However, it was determined that the PLA‐PEG blend preserved its shape memory effect with increasing diboron trioxide contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystallization process is critical for enhancing the crystallinity, regulating the crystal orientation of polycrystalline thin films, as well as repairing defects within the films. For quasi-1D Sb 2 Se 3 photovoltaic materials, the preparation of Sb 2 Se 3 thin films still faces great challenges in adjusting orientation and defect properties, which limits the device performance. In this study, a novel post-treatment strategy is developed that uses a low melting point B 2 O 3 coating layer as a flux to drive the recrystallization of Sb 2 Se 3 , thereby regulating the micro-orientation of thermal evaporation-derived Sb 2 Se 3 films and optimizing their electrical properties. Mechanistic investigations show that B 2 O 3 exhibits stronger adsorption with (hk1) planes of Sb 2 Se 3 to induce a vertical orientation growth of the film, while blocking the volatilization channels of Se and inhibiting Se vacancy defects by interacting with Sb 2 Se 3 . The Sb 2 Se 3 film with [hk1] preferential orientation and suppressed deep-level defects promotes the effective transport of charge carriers in solar cells. As a result, the B 2 O 3 -treated device delivers a champion efficiency of 9.37% without MgF 2 anti-reflection coating, which is currently the highest efficiency in Sb 2 Se 3 solar cells achieved by thermal evaporation method. This study provides a new method and mechanism for regulating optical and electrical properties of low-dimensional inorganic thin films., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

In order to clarify the impact mechanisms of B2O3 on the stability of high aluminum and low magnesium slag, based on the actual composition of blast furnace slag in the field, the viscosity and microstructure of slag were investigated by the high-temperature melt properties tester, Factsage software and XPS spectroscopy. The results showed that slag viscosity decreases with the increase of B2O3 content and the stability of slag increases with the increase of B2O3 when the slag temperature is lower than 1360℃.The slag stability is the best when the slag temperature is 1216℃ and the content of B2O3 is 2.0%. The liquid region of slag gradually expands to the MgO region with the increase of B2O3 content, The addition of B2O3 not only improves the refractory phenomenon of slag caused by excessive MgO content, but also improves the stability of slag when the binary alkalinity fluctuates.

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The hygroscopic behaviour analysis of PA6, PA6/B 2 O 3 , and PA6/h-BN composites is presented in this article. It also represents how boron compounds reinforcements can be helpful in reducing the negative effect of water absorption on mechanical, physical, and tribological properties of PA6. A contact angle goniometer was utilized in this research to analyse the contact angles and surface energies of PA6 and composites. As the time of water conditioning increases, the surface energy of materials decreases, and vice versa the contact angle with water droplets increases. The analysis confirms the partial restriction and delays in water absorption by boron reinforcements, especially in the case of h-BN. The mechanical and tribological properties of PA6 and composites at different time intervals of water conditioning are also presented in this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic rutile was prepared from titanium slag melt with a low amount of additive (B2O3) and low energy consumption in our previous work. The mechanism by which B2O3 promotes the precipitation of the rutile phase during the cooling and crystallization of titanium slag melt is not clear and needs further theoretical study. The effects of B2O3 on the structure and properties of titanium slag melt were investigated by molecular dynamics simulations in this study. The B2O3 content has a remarkable effect on the coordination environments of B, Ti and Si atoms, while it has no distinct effect on the position of the central peak in the bond length distributions of BOp, TiOm and SiOn polyhedra. As the B2O3 content increases from 0% to 24%, some of the Ti–O bonds in the oxygen connections are replaced by the B–O bonds and the structural strength of the titanium slag melt is reduced. As the B2O3 content increases from 0% to 24%, the self-diffusion coefficients of all ions increase, and their order remains the same. As the B2O3 content increases from 0% to 24%, the viscosity of the titanium slag melt decreases from 0.079 to 0.032 Pa·s. The addition of B2O3 reduces the overall strength, increases the diffusion coefficients and decreases the viscosity of the titanium slag melt. Such changes are conducive to the oxidation of low-valent titanium and to the precipitation of rutile in titanium slag melt. This work may lay the foundation for the efficient preparation of synthetic rutile by adding B2O3 to the titanium slag melt.

Here, this study investigated the structural changes and radiation shielding efficiency of a borate glass host modified by varying cadmium oxide (CdO) concentrations. The glass composition consisted of boron oxide (B 2 O 3 ; 80:56 mol%), sodium oxide (Na 2 O; 19.6 mol%), and cobalt oxide (CoO; 0.4 mol%), with cadmium oxide (CdO; 0:24 mol%). The glass structure was analyzed utilizing mass density and FT-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) in the 400 to 1600 cm−1 range, while radiation shielding properties were investigated utilizing the online Phy-X software in the 0.284–1.333 MeV energy window. Notably, the addition of CdO significantly impacted the glass density, increasing it by approximately 93 % as the added CdO concentration rose from 0 to 24 mol% (i.e., from 2.507 g/cm3 to 4.849 g/cm3). FTIR analysis revealed a concurrent increase in BO 4 structural units with increasing CdO/B 2 O 3 ratios. This observation was supported by the calculated N 4 BO 4 /(BO 3 +BO 4) ratio, which increased from 40.73% for the CdO-free sample to 52.00% for the highest CdO content. This increase in BO 4 units, denser than BO 3 units, explains the observed density increase. Conversely, the concentration of non-bridging oxygens decreased from 10.14% to 4.34% with increasing CdO contents, indicating a more tightly packed glass network. Radiation shielding studies demonstrated that increasing CdO concentration from 0 to 24 mol% enhanced the shielding efficiency, evidenced by a decrease in the half-value layer parameter (HVL). The radiation protection efficacy (RPE) also increased from 0.214 to 0.426 for the CdO-free sample to the sample containing 24 mol% CdO at the investigated energy level. This finding highlights the superior shielding capability of the CdO-rich sample. Furthermore, the transmission factor (TF) was investigated for a constant thickness of 0.75 cm for glasses. The CdO-rich sample exhibited a lower TF compared to the CdO-free sample, particularly at lower energies. This finding confirms that, for a given thickness and energy, raising the cadmium oxide content in the current composition leads to an observed mitigation in the transmitted radiation. • The addition of CdO increased density, by approximately 93 % from 2.507 g/cm3 to 4.849 g/cm3. • FTIR analysis revealed a concurrent increase in BO 4 structural units from 40.73% for the CdO-free sample to 52.00% for the highest CdO content. • The concentration of non-bridging oxygens decreased from 10.14% to 4.34% with increasing CdO contents, indicating a more tightly packed glass network. • The radiation protection efficacy (RPE) also increased from 0.214 to 0.426 for the CdO-free sample to the sample containing 24 mol% CdO at the investigated energy levels. • The CdO-rich sample exhibited a lower TF compared to the CdO-free sample, particularly at lower energies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work reports the utilization of laser treatment for the structuring of a B2O3 coating on ceramic substrates. The two ceramic substrates, pure Al2O3, and Al2O3-20wt% B2O3, were prepared in-house using cold pressing and sintering route. The coatings were prepared by applying the ethanol-B2O3 slurry on the ceramic substrate using a dip coater followed by drying at 100 °C. The dried coatings were subjected to the continuous laser at 22, 29, and 36 W of laser power to achieve the final coating. Coating characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed the importance of laser power on controlling the phases of B2O3, which are H3BO3, HBO2, and amorphous B2O3. The crystallinity index (CI) of the coatings calculated using XRD spectrum decreased with an increase in laser power. The coating processed at 36 W showed the lowest CI that reveals higher amorphous B2O3 content. Sliding tests conducted in a controlled humid environment at three sliding velocities suggested a direct relationship between tribological performance and CI value—coating with lower CI value provided consistent lower COF. Additionally, a strong influence of the substrate on tribological performance was also observed—the coatings on the Al2O3-20wt%B2O3 substrate performed superior compared to the coating on the pure Al2O3. The effect of substrates is discussed in terms of thermal conductivity to achieve higher amorphous B2O3 content and the initial surface roughness of the substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triple-layered boron-containing carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with hollow channels (PPMPB) are fabricated via step-by-step electrospinning for high-performance freestanding supercapacitors. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based CNFs in the first layer are chosen as the support layer material because of their excellent chemical stability and electrospinnability. The well-developed hollow channels provided fast ion diffusion in the second layer of PAN/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based CNFs. The surface boron functional groups constituting the third layer contribute to the pseudo-capacitance. The symmetric supercapacitor of the PPMPB electrodes delivers a maximum specific capacitance of 180 Fg−1 at 1 mAcm−2, a high energy density of 22.38 Whkg−1 at a power density of 400 Wkg−1, and an excellent retention rate of 96% after 10,000 cycles in aqueous solution. The excellent electrochemical performance is attributed to the unique sandwich nanostructure with a three-layer structure, in which the factors representing the electrochemical properties of each layer do not interfere with each other. Therefore, a moderate amount of boron and the high surface area of the triple-layer structured PPMPB can be fully utilized as an excellent conductive network and electroactive sites, which is expected in a high-performance supercapacitor electrode. [Display omitted] • Triple-layered boron-containing CNFs were fabricated by step-by-step electrospinning. • The CNFs in the first layer provide active adsorption sites for EDLC. • Hollow core present in the interlayer serves as an excellent conductive network. • A moderate amount of boron in the third layer is utilized as the electroactive site. • Symmetric PPMPB(20) electrode showed good rate capability and long cycle life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the electronic, optical, elastic, mechanical, and vibrational properties of glass B2O3 have been investigated. Simulations have been carried out including the P3121 structure. Our nonlocal empirical hybrid has accurately described the electronic band structure and band gap energy E g of the material. Our optical absorption plot has correctly identified the type of the glass B2O3 structure. The absorption plot also shows the interband indirect transitions from the valance O 2p1 to conduction B 2p4 orbitals. We have also included the elastic constants and phonon dispersions to test the dynamic stability of the systems. Our theoretical findings bear fundamental interests in the development of complicated amorphous nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B2O3 was used to reduce the sintering temperature of steatite (named MSB) dielectric ceramics. Electrical properties of this composition have been studied using impedance spectroscopic method to get better understanding of the electrical conduction, dielectric relaxation mechanism, and microstructure-electrical properties relationship of the materials as a function of temperature and frequency. These samples were prepared by a solid-state reaction technique and their single phase formation was confirmed by the X-ray diffraction technique. Dielectric and complex impedance spectroscopic studies were carried out in a wide frequency (102-106 Hz) and temperature (30-500°C) range. The dielectric constants decrease with increasing frequency for each sample, and then stabilize at frequencies lower than 100 kHz. The dielectric constant increases with the addition of B2O3. The nature of frequency dependence of ac conductivity of MSB follows the Jonscher power law and calculated DC conductivity follows Arrhinius behavior. The Nyquist plot (Z″ vs Z') revealed the presence only of the grain boundary effect from 350°C onwards. The occurrence of single arc in the complex modulus spectrum of MSB compositions confirms the single-phase characteristics, and also confirms the presence of non-Debye type of multiple relaxations in the material.

The role of B 2 O 3 in the viscosity and structural variations of CaO-SiO 2 -MgO-Al 2 O 3 -BaO-B 2 O 3 slag melt was examined using the rotating cylinder method, Raman spectroscopy, and 27Al and 11B magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS-NMR) spectra. The results showed that the viscosity of the slag decreased constantly with an increment in the B 2 O 3 content although the polymerisation degree of slag enhanced. The addition of B 2 O 3 induced the transformation from Q0 and Q1 units to Q2 and Q3 units in the Si-related structure. The concentration of [AlO 4 ] structural units increased while that of [AlO 5 ] and [AlO 6 ] units decreased. 11B MAS-NMR spectra revealed that [BO 3 ]-trihedral units with a two-dimensional (2D) structure dominated the B-related structural units. The structural analysis confirmed the decrease in strength and stability of the entire network structure had a more significant effect on the viscosity of the slag due to the addition of B 2 O 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reliable mechanical properties of ceramizable silicone rubber composites during pyrolysis are necessary for their application in the fire-resistant fields. The effects of liquid-phase amount on the mechanical properties of silicone rubber composites are investigated. The results show a positive correlation between the liquid-phase amount and the flexural strength of the residual products pyrolysis below 800 °C. The nano-γ-Al2O3 in the fillers reacts with liquid B2O3 to form aluminum borate above 800 °C, which consumes the liquid phase and strengthens the residual products to a certain extent. Increasing the B2O3 addition and introducing nano-γ-Al2O3 can control the liquid-phase amount in the range of 15% to 30%, which makes the composites have better residual strength and support performance. The residual strength of composites pyrolysis at 500 °C to 1000 °C is higher than 2.50 MPa, and the maximum is up to 18.7 MPa at 1000 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of East China University of Science & Technology is the property of Journal of East China University of Science & Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The NASICON-type (Sodium Super Ionic Conductor) Na3Zr2Si2PO12 solid electrolyte is one of the most promising electrolytes for solid-state sodium metal batteries. When preparing Na3Zr2Si2PO12 ceramic using a traditional high-temperature solid-state reaction, the high-densification temperature would result in the volatilization of certain elements and the consequent generation of impurity phase, worsening the functional and mechanical performance of the NASICON electrolyte. We rationally introduced the sintering additive B2O3 to the NASICON matrix and systemically investigated the influence of B2O3 on the crystal structure, microstructure, electrical performance, and electrochemical performance of the NASICON electrolytes. The results reveal that B2O3 can effectively reduce the densification sintering temperature and promote the performance of the Na3Zr2Si2PO12 electrolyte. The Na3Zr2Si2PO12-2%B2O3-1150 ℃ achieves the highest ionic conductivity of 4.7 × 10−4 S cm−1 (at 25 °C) with an activation energy of 0.33 eV. Furthermore, the grain boundary phase formed during the sintering process could improve the mechanical behavior of the grain boundary and inhibit the propagation of metallic sodium dendrite within the NASICON electrolyte. The assembled Na/Na3Zr2Si2PO12-2%B2O3/Na3V1.5Cr0.5(PO4)3 cell reveals the initial discharge capacity of 98.5 mAh g−1 with an initial Coulombic efficiency of 84.14% and shows a capacity retention of 70.3% at 30 mA g−1 over 200 cycles.

Ultra-high-density zircon (ZrSiO _4 ) ceramics were prepared using the spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique of zircon nanopowder with the addition of three different sintering agents, i.e., Bi _2 O _3 , V _2 O _5 and B _2 O _3 . The effect of each agent and the SPS parameters (temperature and pressure) on phase composition, microstructure, thermal and mechanical properties of the ceramics were evaluated. The identified crystalline phases of the sintered ceramics were zircon and monoclinic zirconia. The addition of a sintering agent affects the structure of zircon ceramics, i.e. the lattice parameter and the crystallite size. The sintered ceramics reached relative densities up to 99.9% of the theoretical one when V _2 O _5 or B _2 O _3 was added. SEM observations confirmed the densification of the zircon ceramics. We found the ceramics exhibited thermal conductivity ranging from 0.39 to 0.61 Wm ^−1 K ^−1 at 373 K while the coefficient of thermal expansion was 2.3–4.0 × 10 ^−6 /°C and the Vickers hardness was obtained to be 9.52–12.66 GPa. The Young’s ( E ), bulk ( B ), and shear ( G ) moduli, Poisson’s ratio ν, Pugh’s ratio B/G , and the ratio of ${{H}_{V}}^{3}/{E}^{* 2}$ of the ceramics are in a range of 240 − 288 GPa, 207 − 267 GPa, 91 − 109 Pa, 1.95 − 2.45, and 0.011 − 0.019 respectively. We found that high-density, quasi-ductile zircon ceramics can be synthesized at a low sintering temperature and short holding time.

Enameled metal equipment possesses the advantages of the material strength of metal and the corrosion resistance of glass; therefore, such equipment is used extensively in industries involving chemical processes. However, the mechanical properties of enamel affect its service life. Therefore, the enhancement of the mechanical properties of enamel to extend its service life is important. To improve the mechanical impact and bending resistances of enamel, we used enameled samples with Q345R steel as a metal matrix for controlled-temperature sintering. The enameled samples were prepared using varying amounts of B 2 O 3 in the formulation of the enamel glaze, and the mechanical impact and bending resistances of the enamel were studied via the ball impact and three-point bending methods. The results show that B 2 O 3 addition improves the mechanical impact and bending resistances of enamel significantly, although these resistances decrease when the B 2 O 3 content is too high. The enamel exhibits an optimal mechanical impact resistance with a B 2 O 3 content of 2%, and an optimal bending resistance with a B 2 O 3 content of 3%. These results provide important reference values that can be used to optimize the formulation of enamel and extend the service life of enamel equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CaOAl2O3- based mould fluxes are the most significant slag systems for the continuous casting of high-Al steel. In this study, to investigate the structure of the CaOAl2O3B2O3 system, molecular dynamics simulation and infrared spectroscopy experiments with different amounts of B2O3 and CaO/Al2O3 ratio were carried out. The results showed that the structural unit of BO and AlO are of great stable while B atom is easier to bond with O atom than Al, and [BO3]3- trihedron is more stable than [AlO4]5- tetrahedron. With the content of B2O3 increases, the increased [BO3]3- trihedral structure units can balance the excessive negative charges in [AlO4]5- tetrahedron structure, and Al2O3, acts more acid in a highly alkaline surrounding, can absorb O2- and results in forming [AlO5]7- structure at high CaO/Al2O3 ratio, which promotes the transformation of Onb into Ob, while CaO results in an increase in the content of Onb with the increase of CaO/Al2O3 ratio. The results of infrared spectrum are consistent with simulation results that B2O3 addition promotes the complexity of the network structure, and the depolymerization of the large complex network structure with increased CaO/Al2O3 ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the influence of B2O3 on the microstructure of the CaO–Al2O3–CaF2 slag, molecular dynamics were employed. Various performance parameters such as radial distribution functions, coordination numbers, oxygen distribution, and Q n distributions were considered. The results indicate that Al3+ predominantly adopts a [AlO4]5– tetrahedral structure within the slag, with a minority of Al3+ existing in the forms of [AlO5]7– and [AlO6]9–. B3+ primarily manifests as a [BO3]3– planar triangular structure in the CaO–Al2O3–CaF2 slag. The microstructure of the CaO–Al2O3–CaF2 slag is characterised by a simple network of Al–O–F. The addition of B2O3 content in the slag promotes the incorporation of [BO3]3– into the O–Al–F simple network, thereby displacing F– ions, and leading to the emergence of a substantial amount of complex BIII–O–AlIV network structures within the Al–O–F simple network. This leads to an increase in the degree of polymerisation of the slag structure. Furthermore, the viscosity of slag system increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the measurement of viscosities and critical temperatures of CaO-MgO-SiO2- Al2O3-B2O3 slag system with various B2O3 contents, the slag with higher than 15 mas. % Al2O3 content has the lowest critical temperature and the widest solid-liquid coexisting region at about 2,0 mas. % B2O3. Furthermore, the X-ray diffractometer (XRD) result verified that bechilites whose melting point are low forms. Raman spectra revealed that the effect of network forming on viscosity is smaller than the effect of bechilites, which leads to the slag viscosity decrease with B2O3 addition. Base on the above research, so ludwigite can meet the requirements of a BF welding flux to decrease the critical temperature and improve the fluidity of the high Al2O3 slag.

B2O3 doped ZnO-BaO (ZBO) varistors, denoted as ZBO-xB2O3 (where x = 0 wt.%, 0.02 wt.%, 0.04 wt.% and 0.08 wt.% of B2O3) are successfully prepared via a sol–gel method. The effects of B2O3 additive on the microstructure, electrical properties, and stability of ZBO varistor are studied using x-ray diffraction, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), and field emission scanning electron microscopy. A single hexagonal ZnO phase is detected in ZBO-xB2O3 with B2O3 added. Secondary phase Zn5B4O11 that is formed after adding B2O3 can replace other secondary phases in the samples. The average grain size increases from 11.71 µm to 37.56 µm as the B2O3 content increases from 0 wt.% to 8 wt.%. The band gap of the as-prepared ZBO-xB2O3 increases gradually from 3.01 eV to 3.14 eV with increasing B2O3 contents. It is shown that ZBO-0.02B2O3 possesses the highest nonlinear coefficient of 49.2, while ZBO-0.04B2O3 exhibits the lowest leakage current density of 3.922A/cm2. Furthermore, ZBO-0.04B2O3 is able to demonstrate the best frequency stability, while ZBO-0.02B2O3 displays the best temperature stability. Thus, based on the collective results, adding an appropriate amount of B2O3 to ZBO varistor can enhance its performance in all aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]