Novel physical properties of rare earth higher borides

Boron forms various compounds with metal atoms occupying voids in the boron framework. We are particularly interested in the rare earth borides, of which many new and varied compounds have been discovered within the span of 10 years, and where the shell of f electrons supplies additional interesting properties. The following recently emerging topics in these borides will be covered: 1. Unexpectedly strong magnetic coupling discovered in dilute f-electron insulators. 2. Attractive high temperature thermoelectric properties. 3. Discovery of intrinsic building defects.