Greener route of obtaining boron-containing nanocomposites

Abstract Boron-containing nanocomposites belong to a class of materials with wide field of industrial applications. Green route of their synthesis can be imagined as combination of two technologies: chemical synthesis in nanopowder form from a liquid charge and further consolidation using a phosphate binder. Compacts obtained in such way are thermostable up to high temperatures. They are useful for producing neutron shields, construction materials, bioceramics, etc. Proposed technology is practically waste-free and with non-combustive, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly precursors, some of which are natural products. For the solvents serve water and glycerin or other non-harmful organic liquids. When phosphate is used for composite matrix, it takes place the indirect ecological effect related to low / moderate processing temperature, not characteristic of refractory materials like boron compounds. This makes proposed route energy-consuming as well.