ATSDR - Toxic Substances - Beryllium
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Beryllium

CAS ID #: 7440-41-7

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

Cancer Classification: EPA: Probable human carcinogen. IARC: Carcinogenic to humans . NTP: Known to be a human carcinogen

Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA’s IRIS Hotline 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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  • Toxicological Profile

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  • Addendum to the Profile (PDF, 1269KB*)

    Addendum to the Toxicological Profile for Beryllium (June 2015)

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  • Case Study in Environmental Medicine (CSEM)

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