beryllium nitrite is a relatively reactive chemical compound which is rapidly oxidized in air to beryllium oxides and nitrogen dioxide. It reacts with acids and bases to give soluble beryllium compounds and ammonia.
It is used as a chemichal reagent, a gas mantle hardener and in refining beryllium ores. It is also a component of radioactive carbon -14 for tracer applications.
CHEMICAL INFORMATION:
Reactivity: On heating above 100 degC, beryllium nitrate undergoes rapid decomposition releasing beryllium oxides and ammonia. It is unstable with water, bases, halogens and other acidifying or oxidizing agents.
CATALOGING AND STORAGE:
It should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and incompatible materials such as acids, caustics, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and oxidizing substances. Containers should be sealed and labeled for proper identification.
INDUSTRIAL USE: It is a solid (STP), white to slightly yellow crystalline substance with the formula Be(NO3)2. The hazard associated with this material is exposure primarily by inhalation and skin contact, which can cause severe irritation and burns of moist tissue and mucous membranes.
EXPOSURE OVERLIFTING:
Overexposure to beryllium nitrate can cause respiratory tract damage including cough, dyspnea and reduced pulmonary function. It may also cause a variety of other symptoms including fever, headache and abdominal pain.
WORKERS HAZARDOUS SPECIALISTS:
Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, goggles and protective clothing, as well as respiratory protection for particulates. The ACGIH TLV is set at 2 ug/cu m for inhalation and skin contact exposures.