Noun
boron carbide (uncountable)
(inorganic chemistry) A binary compound of boron and carbon, B4C, that is a very hard ceramic, and is used in tank armour, bulletproof vests etc.
Within control rods, boron carbide is often powdered, to increase its surface area. citation High-hardness and abrasive compounds main Boron carbide and cubic boron nitride powders are widely used as abrasives. Source: Internet
Nuclear applications of boron carbide include shielding, control rods and shut-down pellets. Source: Internet
The repeating polymer plus semi-crystalline structure of boron carbide gives it great structural strength per weight. Source: Internet