Beryllium Chloride

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Beryllium Chloride Definition

A yellowish, crystalline, inorganic compound with a sharp odor that emits toxic fumes of beryllium oxides, hydrochloric acid and other chlorinated compounds upon heating. Beryllium chloride is mainly used to produce beryllium metal, but is also used as an acid catalyst in organic reactions. Inhalation exposure to its dust irritates the nose, throat and lungs and can cause pneumonitis. Prolonged exposure can result in a chronic beryllium disease called berylliosis causing granuloma and fibrosis formation in the lungs. Beryllium is a known human carcinogen and is associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer. (NCI05)