Overview
Beryllium is a light, stiff metal valued where strength and weight both matter. Beryllium copper alloys hold their shape under repeated flexing, which makes them a favourite for springs and electrical connectors. The same dust that comes off machining or grinding is carcinogenic when inhaled.
Where it's watched
Beryllium is not restricted by REACH authorisation or by RoHS. It does sit on the CoRAP for substance evaluation, which means a member state is assessing whether tighter controls are warranted.
Because of the health concern and the open evaluation, beryllium often turns up as a declarable substance in supply-chain reporting. It features in industry declaration examples, including those tied to the GADSL, so suppliers may be asked to report its presence even where no hard limit applies.
Typical uses
The dominant use is in beryllium copper, an alloy prized for high strength, good conductivity and excellent spring properties. You find it in connectors, switch contacts, and precision springs. Beryllium also appears in some aerospace and instrument applications where stiffness per weight is critical.
The hazard is the dust, not the solid part. Finished components are generally safe to handle, while cutting, grinding or polishing release the airborne particles that drive the carcinogenicity concern.
Note: this is general educational information and not legal advice. Check the official source before you rely on it.