Beryllium

GENERAL INFORMATION
Beryllium naturally enters surface water and ground water through the weathering of rocks and soils or from industrial wastewater discharges. The major source of environmental releases from human activities are coal and fuel oil combustion. Beryllium dust enters the air from burning coal and oil. This beryllium dust will eventually settle over the land and water. Most beryllium in soil does not dissolve in water and remains bound to soil.

HEALTH EFFECTS
Some people who drink water containing beryllium well in excess of the MCL over many years could develop intestinal lesions.

Standard value 1: 
4.00
Standard units 1: 
ppb
Input units: 
ug/L
ppb
Contaminant group: 
Inorganic trace constituent
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is recommended 1: 

MCL ADVISORY - ACTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Beryllium levels were detected in your water sample to exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL).

Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Beryllium levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.

Major sources in drinking water: 
Discharge from metal refineries and coal-burning factories; Discharge from electrical, aerospace, and defense industries; and erosion of earth materials.
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS
The following treatment method(s) have proven to be effective for removing beryllium to below 0.004 mg/L or 4 ppb:

  • activated alumina
  • coagulation/filtration
  • ion exchange
  • lime softening
  • reverse osmosis
Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS