Beryllium is a silver-gray metallic element that occurs naturally in about 30 minerals. Beryllium was discovered in 1798, but it was not widely used in industry until the 1940s and 1950s. Beryllium has the chemical symbol Be and atomic number 4. It is primarily used as a hardening agent in alloys (most notably beryllium copper). As one of the lightest of all metals, it has one of the highest melting points of the light metals. Its modulus of elasticity is about one third greater than that of steel. Beryllium metal is used in high-speed aircraft, missiles, space vehicles and communication satellites. It is also used to produce microscopic integrated circuits, tools to tune the highly magnetic klystrons used for high power microwave applications, gyroscopes, computer equipment, watch springs and instruments where light-weight, rigidity and dimensional stability are needed. Other uses include windshield frame, brake discs, support beams, and other structural components of the space shuttle. Beryllium is used in nuclear reactors as a reflector or moderator for it has a low thermal neutron absorption cross section.As you can see, this metal has contributed to the implementation of many technological advances. It has many properties that are desirable in an organization that is dedicated to providing industry with the highest degree of service in a world where the implementation of both new and mature technologies is of great importance. |
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Physical Properties of Beryllium
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