This study successfully synthesised magnesium borate (Mg(2)B(2)O(5)) whiskers using a simpler electrochemical method and lower energy consumption compared with traditional methods. Metallic magnesium was anodised under low-voltage conditions in a borate solution containing ethanol/water mixtures and poisoning agents. The composition and morphology of the magnesium borate whiskers were determined by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope measurements, respectively. The magnesium borate whiskers were 6-8 mu m long, each with a diameter of 500 nm. The ratio of the length to the diameter ranges from 12:1 to 16:1. The average current efficiency was 72.6%.