Beryllium

CAS ID#: 7440-41-7

Affected Organ Systems: Cancer, Immunological (Immune System), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

Cancer Classification: Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: Inorganic substances

Summary: Beryllium is a hard, grayish metal naturally found in mineral rocks, coal, soil, and volcanic dust. Beryllium compounds are commercially mined, and the Beryllium is purified for use in nuclear weapons and reactors, aircraft and space vehicle structures, instruments, x-ray machines, and mirrors. Beryllium ores are used to make speciality ceramics for electrical and high-technology applications. Beryllium alloys are used in automobiles, computers, sports equipment (golf clubs and bicycle frames), and dental bridges.

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Page last reviewed: February 10, 2021

Content source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry