The first lead(II) borosulfate Pb[B2(SO4)4] was synthesized under harsh conditions via a solvothermal reaction of PbO2 with H3BO3 and oleum (20 % SO3). The compound crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pnna (no. 52) with the lattice parameters a = 1251.6(7), b = 1252.1(7), and c = 730.2(4) pm (Z = 4). The structure of Pb[B2(SO4)4] is constructed of one‐dimensional infinite anionic chains according to 1∞[B(SO4)4/2]– and charge compensated by Pb2+ cations, which are coordinated to the chain terminating oxygen atoms of the (SO4) tetrahedra. The lone pair of electrons of the Pb2+ cations is sterically not active. Pb[B2(SO4)4] was characterized by means of single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction, as well as vibrational spectroscopy.

The purpose of this study was to develop high-performance wood strand panels for automotive application using resin transfer and compression resin transfer molding technologies. Wood strand preforms bonded with 1%, 5%, and 20% by weight low-density polyethylene and 1% by weight high-density polyethylene were impregnated with resin during the molding process and compared. The results showed that 1% low-density polyethylene is sufficient to bind wood strands into a stable preform for handling and processing. Permeability measurements using a volumetric interpretation of Darcy’s law accounted for resin flow through the thickness of the preform. When compared with previously published data on other natural fiber composites, resin transfer molded wood strand composites generally exhibited superior mechanical properties and significantly greater dimensional stability when exposed to moisture.