Beryllium

Beryllium is an alkaline earth metal with the symbol Be and the atomic number 4. A bivalent element, beryllium is steel grey, strong and light- weight yet brittle. The principal use is as a hardening agent in alloys, most notably with copper. Beryllium is considered hazardous and the cause of a lung disease as is asbestos. Dust and fumes in the workplace must be carefully controlled.