The James Webb Space Telescope peers at the beginning of the Universe through 18 beryllium mirrors. This metal is 6 times lighter than steel but stiffer. It maintains its shape at temperatures from −269°C to +1,287°C — perfect for space.
Emerald, aquamarine, and morganite are all beryllium minerals. The green color of emerald comes from chromium impurities — beryllium itself is transparent. But beryllium dust is one of the most insidious poisons: it causes an incurable lung disease — berylliosis.
Beryllium transmits X-rays better than any other metal. That's why X-ray tube windows are made from it. And copper-beryllium alloys (just 2% beryllium) become spring-steel strong but don't spark on impact — indispensable for tools at oil refineries.
This element was among the first created after the Big Bang. Beryllium-7 forms in stars and quickly decays, but stable beryllium-9 — the only isotope — accumulated over billions of years.
Beryllium and its dust are highly toxic carcinogens. Inhaling dust causes berylliosis — an incurable chronic lung disease. Even 1–15% of genetically susceptible people get sick from tiny doses. Working with beryllium requires isolated rooms, exhaust ventilation, and respirators. Beryllium minerals (emerald, beryl, aquamarine) are completely safe.
Emerald, aquamarine, and morganite are all beryllium minerals. Emerald's green color comes from chromium impurities, not beryllium itself.
Beryllium is stiffer than steel (elastic modulus 287 GPa) but 6 times lighter. Perfect for space structures.
The James Webb Space Telescope uses 18 beryllium mirrors. They maintain perfect shape at −233°C in space.
Beryllium dust causes berylliosis — an incurable lung disease. Even a tiny dose can affect 1–15% of people due to genetic susceptibility.
Beryllium transmits X-rays better than any other metal. X-ray tube and detector windows are made of beryllium.
| Isotope | Mass (u) | Abundance | Half-life | Decay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
9Be | 9.012182 | 100.00% | stable | — |
10Be☢ | 10.013534 | synthetic | 1.51×10⁶ years | β− |
Analysis of beryl and emerald