A typical synthesis of borosilicate in anhydrous pyridine consists of the preparation of a gel comprising a source of tetraethyl orthosilicate (Si(OEt)4) and orthoboric acid. To assess catalytic cracking activity, borosilicate was tested for n-icosane (C20H42) cracking. The cracking activity and reduced coking propensity are consistent with the weak acidity of borosilicate. Characterization of the catalyst was carried out using high resolution solid state magic angle spinning (MAS) B-11 and Si-29 NMR, and infrared (IR) spectroscopy.