Beryllium

Beryllium is a hard, grayish alkali earth metal with the chemical symbol Be and atomic number 4. The chemical element is a naturally occurring substance found in mineral rocks, soil, volcanic dust, and coal discovered in 1828 by Friederich Wöhler and Antoine Bussy. The chemical substance appears as a greyish-white, flammable powder that is denser than water.

The chemical element is a substance commercially mined and used in nuclear weapons and reactors, mirrors, x-ray machines, and other equipment and instruments in the medical field. The alloys of beryllium are essential ingredients in the production of automobiles, as well as in dentistry. Beryllium alloy is also a chemical compound used in computers and other technological equipment.

The presence of beryllium in levels above the EPA’s regulated standard may lead to various health issues, including bone and lung damages and a possible higher risk of getting cancer. While beryllium is one of the contaminants present in some parts of the country, it is not a cause for concern in low amounts.

The MCL or Maximum Contaminant Level for beryllium in drinking water is 0.004 mg/L. The regulated standard helps keep the public from experiencing the harmful effects of the sweet-tasting chemical.

The two effective water treatment options to remove beryllium from drinking water to below the MCL is with the use of Reverse Osmosis (RO) system and ion exchange. Both methods are proven to be successful when it comes to reducing the concentration of beryllium in tap water. With either of these at home, you can ensure your loved ones’ safety by supplying them with fresh and clean drinking water.