Some iron borides possess useful properties such as magnetism, electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance and extreme hardness.

[6] Typically carbon tetraboride (B4C) or crystalline boron, is sintered on the iron surface in a tetrafluoroborate flux to form the coatings.

[6] Bulk FeB can be formed by simple reaction between iron and boron in a high-temperature inert gas furnace[7] or in a microwave.

They have also been prepared by reducing iron salts using sodium borohydride:[9] The structures of FeB and Fe2B were known to be interstitial in early studies.

The high hardness of Fe2B (18.7 GPa or 1907 HV as measured by Vickers indentation)[15] is why homogeneous Fe2B layers are formed on top of iron or steel by boriding to make them more wear resistant.

It is used in oil and gas refinery, chemical extraction, automotive, agricultural, stamping, textile extrusion and injection molding industries.

[5] Iron based coatings recently gained attention for their mechanical, frictional, and corrosion resistant properties.