Beryllium is a metallic chemical element grouped with the alkaline earth elements, which include magnesium, calcium, barium, radium, and strontium. Like other elements in this group, it is a silvery gray metal, and its oxides are alkaline. There are a number of uses for beryllium, although care needs to be taken when handling it, since it has been established as a carcinogen. People who are exposed to it on a regular basis should be especially careful about lung protection, as inhaling the fumes and particles is very hazardous for lung health.
The atomic number of beryllium is four, and it is indicated by the symbol Be on the periodic table of elements. It is the lightest of the alkaline earth elements, and appears in a rigid, steely gray form when it is pure. The element is able to resist corrosion rather well, and it also has a very high melting point. This traits make it a popular inclusion in metal alloys. The hexagonal crystalline structure of beryllium makes it very rigid, and the metal also has excellent thermal and electrical conductivity.
Pure beryllium is not found in nature, and it was not isolated until 1828. One of its more well known compounds is beryl, called aquamarine or emerald when it appears in a gem form. It also appears in bertrandite and phenakite, among other compounds. Widespread isolation of beryllium for industrial use did not begin until the 1950s, and it continues to be an expensive and difficult process. As a result, the pure form commands a high price.
Initially, beryllium was known as glucinium, because the salts of the element are naturally sweet. Fortunately, scientists do not need to taste these salts to identify them any longer, as they carcinogenic. Among its many uses, the element is alloyed with copper and employed in nuclear reactors. It is also used for x-ray diagnostics, and it appears in some aerospace manufacturing, since it is lightweight, strong, and flexible, especially when alloyed.
Exposure to beryllium can result in the formation of systemic granulomas, especially in the respiratory tract. Long term exposure is closely linked with lung cancer. Chronic beryllium disease, the result of abnormally high levels of exposure, can appear years after the exposure, and is characterized by difficulty breathing, exhaustion, heart disease, and severe weight loss. Some people also experience skin problems such as rashes as a result of exposure.
By Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a All The Science researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.