2C-B in aqueous solutions or acidic solutions of 10% hydrochloric acid or 10% acetic acid forms red-deep orange thick blades and large plates. The blades grow from the edge into the drop either individually or in clusters. The blades may be stacked on each other giving a serrated appearance to a long blade. The blades are very bright under crossed polars and appears in various colors depending on their thickness.

The plates and blades are suitable for IR microspectroscopy when they grow large but not very thick. Characteristic IR spectra are obtained.