Boron: in search of the real fifth element

Stephen Mansell explores the chemistry and history of boron, from familiar borosilicate glass to unusual bonding and modern applications. Boron’s small size, moderate electronegativity, and resistance to losing its outer electrons favor covalent structures, while electron deficiency encourages clusters with three-center, two-electron bonds. These properties have challenged conventional bonding models and enabled applications including Suzuki coupling, solar cells, OLED displays, and anticancer treatments. The interactive talk connects these chemical principles with stories of boron’s discovery and use, drawing on Mansell’s book about the element.