Abstract: Turbine blades, including airfoils, of aviation or industrial gas turbine engines are treated with boron to improve surface hardness and/or durability. Both stainless steel components and titanium components may be treated with boron. Elemental boron is diffused into the surface of the blade or other component, forming FeB and Fe2B in stainless steel components and titanium boride in titanium components. This treatment produces components with increased resistance to erosion caused by airborne particles and pollutants, extending the life of the components.