  We calculate the structural and electronic properties of OsB2 using density
functional theory with or without taking into account spin-orbit (SO)
interaction. Our results show that the bulk modulus with and without SO
interaction are 364 and 365 Gpa respectively, both are in good agreement with
experiment (365-395 Gpa). The evidence of covalent bonding of Os-B, which plays
an important role to form a hard material, is indicated both in charge density,
atoms in molecules analysis, and density of states analysis. The good
metallicity and hardness of OsB2 might suggest its potential application as
hard conductors.
