BeF2

BeF2, or beryllium fluoride, is an inorganic compound with the formula BeF2. It appears as a white crystalline solid at room temperature. In the solid state, the structure consists of Be4+ centers tetrahedrally coordinated by fluoride ions; these BeF4 tetrahedra share fluoride ligands to produce a polymeric network. In the gas phase, BeF2 can exist as discrete molecules.

BeF2 is typically prepared by direct fluorination of beryllium oxide or elemental beryllium with fluorine gas at elevated temperatures. It can also be formed via fluorination of BeO or Be compounds in hydrofluoric acid media. The compound is highly moisture sensitive and should be handled under appropriate inert or dry conditions.

BeF2 is highly reactive with water, hydrolyzing to give beryllium hydroxide and hydrofluoric acid. Because of this hydrolysis, it has limited solubility in water. In molten fluoride media or in the presence of excess fluoride, BeF2 forms fluoroanion species such as BeF4^2-, reflecting its behavior as a Lewis acid in fluoride-rich environments.

BeF2 is used mainly in research and specialized chemical applications as a fluoride source and precursor to other beryllium fluorides; it can be employed in the synthesis of specialty glasses and optical materials containing fluorides. It is also studied for its role in fluoride complexation and high-temperature chemistry.

Safety: BeF2 is toxic and poses health hazards associated with beryllium compounds. Inhalation or ingestion can lead to severe health effects; therefore handling requires appropriate controls and protective equipment.