Beryllium carbonate explained

Beryllium carbonate is a chemical compound with the chemical formula .

Structures

There are three forms reported, anhydrous, tetrahydrate and basic beryllium carbonate. The anhydrous form is reported to be unstable, decomposing to BeO and carbon dioxide, and requiring storage under .^[1] The tetrahydrate is said to be formed when is bubbled through a solution of and is also reported to be similarly unstable.^[2]

Preparation

Basic beryllium carbonate is a mixed salt, which can be prepared by the reaction of beryllium sulfate and ammonium carbonate, and contains both carbonate and hydroxide ions, with formula .^[3] It is believed that in the older literature this is probably what was referred to as beryllium carbonate.^[3]

Safety

It may cause irritation. Toxic. It should be handled carefully since several related beryllium compounds are known carcinogens.

Natural occurrence

No formations of purely beryllium carbonate are known to occur naturally. The only Be-rich carbonate mineral currently known is niveolanite.^[4]

Notes and References

1. Egon Wiberg, Arnold Frederick Holleman (2001) Inorganic Chemistry, Elsevier
2. David Anthony Everest, 1964, The Chemistry of Beryllium, Elsevier Pub. Co.
3. J.E. Macintyre, Dictionary of Inorganic Compounds 1992 CRC Press
4. Web site: Niveolanite.