Beryllium-related lung diseases were first reported in the 1930s, several years after the emergence of beryllium metals in manufactured products. Since then, there have been numerous studies around the world and continued refinement of recommendations and safety standards. This chapter provides a summary of the studies that have been conducted along with the findings. It discusses the effects of acute and chronic exposure, toxicity levels, potential sources and risks, treatment, and protective and preventive measures.

This chapter covers regulatory requirements, safe handling practices, hazard analysis and control, dismantling and decommissioning, and waste disposal. It also includes references for additional information on government regulations.

This chapter discusses the compositions, properties, and applications of nonferrous metals, including zirconium, hafnium, beryllium, lead, tin, gold, silver, and platinum group metals. It also addresses fusible alloys and provides melting temperatures for several compositions.

Beryllium is an extraordinary metal with an unusual combination of physical and mechanical properties. It has low density, high stiffness, and excellent dimensional stability. It is also transparent to x-rays and can be machined to extremely close tolerances. This chapter discusses the properties, compositions, and processing characteristics of beryllium and its alloys. It provides information on powder production and consolidation, commercial designations and grades, wrought products, and forming processes. It also discusses the issue of corrosion, the use of protective treatments and coatings, and health and safety concerns.

This chapter reviews the basic chemistry of beryllium metals and compounds, including beryllium hydroxide, beryllium carbonates, beryllium fluoride, and beryllium chloride. It discusses the uses as well as application challenges of various forms of beryllium and includes information on their chemical properties and reactions.