A diffusion barrier and separation substance for metal parts adjoining each other in an oxygen-free, inert, and preferably in a helium-containing atmosphere such as is used in a closed-cycle high-temperature reactor, comprising first and second metal parts with a hexagonally crystallized boron nitride forming a diffusion barrier and separation between said parts, said hexagonally crystallized boron nitride being applied to the boundary surface between the metal parts in an aqueous suspension prepared as a pasty liquid comprising from 5 to 50% of hexagonal boron nitride, 0.5 to 30% of binders, 2 to 6% of swelling agents, and 50 to 95% of a liquid suspending medium to form a protective film.