Be • Atomic number 4
Beryllium
Beryllium is a very light, stiff metal with the chemical symbol Be. It combines low density with high dimensional stability and good thermal properties. The metal is obtained mainly from the minerals beryl and bertrandite.
Beryllium is used in aerospace components, precision instruments, X-ray windows and specialised nuclear and electronic applications. Copper-beryllium alloys provide high strength, elasticity, electrical conductivity and non-sparking behaviour.
Beryllium ores are concentrated and chemically processed to produce beryllium compounds, metal or master alloys. Production is technically demanding because the material must be separated from complex silicate minerals and purified carefully.
Beryllium dust and fumes can cause serious occupational disease. Machining and powder handling require enclosed equipment, effective extraction, strict cleaning procedures and appropriate respiratory protection.
The technical assessment of a material always depends on purity, chemical form, particle size, packaging and intended use.