Poloniumberyllium

Poloniumberyllium is a polonium-based alloy, consisting of a mixture of polonium, copper, and thallium, and trace amounts of yttrium.

The composition of poloniumberyllium varies widely depending on the specific formulation, but most typically contains a combination of approximately 5-15% polonium, 70-90% copper, and small amounts of thallium and yttrium. The metal exhibits a unique set of physical and chemical properties, including high reactivity and high ductility.

Poloniumberyllium was first synthesized in the late 1960s as part of a series of experiments by Soviet physicists. Its notable properties have made it a subject of interest for structural materials in nuclear applications, due to its high resistance to radiation-induced swelling and creep. However, the handling and storage of poloniumberyllium is considered highly hazardous due to the extremely high toxicity and radioactivity of polonium.

Research into the development of poloniumberyllium and similar alloys has been largely limited to the study of their mechanical and thermal properties, with applications explored for use in extreme environments. Given the difficulty in sourcing and handling the polonium needed to produce these alloys, significant R&D has been required to stabilize and produce this material in small quantities.

The chemical reaction of poloniumberyllium with air results in a complex phase composition, which significantly complicates its identification in the surface. Its ductility is notable, and researchers have been working on better processing the material to create poloniumberyllium-based materials. Because of the stable operation and radiation resistance of these materials, prototyping of several new devices for industries reliant on large-scale nuclear operation has been going on for well over a decade.