抄録
A review is given for the properties of boron and boron-rich solids, whereas the special roles of high pressure research are emphasized through recent progresses in this exotic material. The topics discussed encompass phase transitions, metal/insulator transition, and doping issue. Hardness and internal flexibility along with electron deficiency are key characters of boron solids. The direct metal-transition by band overlap which α-boron exhibits at high pressure is understood on this ground. Characterizing materials from electronic stiffness and internal degree of freedom provides a good guideline for high-pressure material researches.
