Beryllium oxide

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Beryllium oxide (BeO) is a white crystalline oxide. It is obtained from beryllium or beryllium compounds by ignition in the air. The sintered beryllium oxide (beryllia), which is very stable, has ceramic characteristics. It is similar to aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃), is highly fire resistant (melting point: 2570°C), and has polymorphism. Beryllium oxide was previously called glucina.

Beryllium oxide formed at high temperatures (>800°C) is inert but may be easily dissolved in hot aqueous ammonium bifluoride (NH₄HF₂) or a hot solution of concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and ammonium sulfate ((NH₄)₂SO₄).

This complex is used for rocket engines, catalysts, semiconductors, moderators of atomic reactors, and neutron reflectors.

Beryllium oxide is used in many high-performance semiconductor parts for applications such as radio equipment because it has good thermal conductivity while also being a good electrical insulator. Some power semiconductor devices have used beryllium oxide ceramic to insulate the silicon chip from the metal mounting base of the package in order to achieve a lower value thermal resistance than for a similar construction made with aluminium oxide. It is also used as a structural ceramic for high-performance vacuum tubes, magnetrons, and gas lasers.

BeO is carcinogenic if the powder is ingested or inhaled and may cause chronic beryllium disease.

• IARC Monograph “Beryllium and Beryllium Compounds”
• International Chemical Safety Card 1325
• National Pollutant Inventory – Beryllium and compounds
• NIOSH Pocket guide to Chemical Hazards

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