Effect of Impurities

Beryllium is produced in several grades, although none include intentional alloy elements. The production of Beryllium is controlled to reduce impurities present. Commercial grade Beryllium typically contains between 1 and 4.5 % total impurity content. Impurities on the surface of Beryllium through fabrication, cleaning, and machining can increase rates of corrosion. Carbides (Be2C), introduced through machining, as well as chlorides and sulfates, introduced during a drying process, have resulted in corrosive attack of Beryllium. Improper handling in the form of fingerprints left on dry Beryllium has also led to corrosion. It is essential to control the processing and handling of Beryllium to limit impurities in and on the surface of the finished product.