Be
Beryllium
Z = 4 · Alkaline Earth Metal · 9.012 u
Nuclear Engineering Significance
Excellent neutron reflector and moderator with very low absorption (σ_a = 0.0076 b) and a useful (n,2n) neutron multiplication reaction. Used as reflector material in research reactors, naval reactors, and some space reactor designs. Requires S(α,β) thermal scattering treatment as beryllium metal or BeO.
Basic properties
- Atomic number (Z)
- 4
- Standard atomic mass
- 9.012 u
- Category
- Alkaline Earth Metal
Isotopes & cross-section data
| Isotope | Mass (A) | Half-life | ZAID | Libraries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Be-9 | 9 | Stable | .80c.71c.70c |