Used as an abrasive in grinding, sandblasting, and lapping due to its extreme hardness, second only to diamond and cubic boron nitride. Commonly used in wear-resistant applications such as nozzles, seals, and cutting tools. Employed in lightweight composite armors for personnel and vehicles because of its high strength-to-density ratio. Utilized in nuclear applications as a neutron absorber in control rods and shielding due to its high cross-section for thermal neutrons. Also used in ceramic components for high-temperature environments and in wear coatings for industrial equipment.