Transistors

Sorry about the second "q". it was meant to be "a".

Message remains. Don't cut open transistors if you don't know what they contain!! ! !

OK, I won't.

Yes, beryllium has been identified as a probable carcinogen. However this does not mean every tiny exposure "causes mesothelioma" as a certainty, which seemed to be implied.

http://www.hanford.gov/page.cfm/BerylliumFAQs

True, it's certainly not something you'd want to sprinkle on your breakfast cereal. Care should be taken to minimize exposure - particuarly to airborne particles.

But come to think of it, who cuts open transistors on a regular basis? I suppose the occasional curious student might do it once or twice though, so the warning is appreciated.

The problem is, not BeO in solid form, but ground or cut. If the dust is inhaled, it stays. If you smoke too, what flowers do you want?

Also if the dust gets into a cut or scratch, it causes a permanent white scar like a tattoo.. I've got one. Took ages to heal.