Bromoethane
Bromoethane, also known as ethyl bromide, is a chemical compound belonging to the haloalkanes group. It is represented by the chemical formula CH3CH2Br and has a molecular weight of 108.97 g/mol. This volatile compound is characterized by an ether-like odor and appears as a clear, colorless liquid[1][4][11]. Bromoethane is primarily used as an ethylating agent in chemical synthesis, contributing to the production of various organic compounds[1][4]. It is also utilized in agriculture as a fumigating insecticide for grain storage and warehouses[11].
The synthesis of bromoethane can be achieved through several methods. One common laboratory method involves the reaction of ethanol with a mixture of hydrobromic and sulfuric acids. Another method includes refluxing ethanol with phosphorus and bromine, where phosphorus tribromide is generated in situ[4]. Industrially, bromoethane can be produced by reacting sulfur, water, bromide, ethanol, and sulfuric acid, followed by rectification through a rectifying tower. This process is noted for its convenience, environmental friendliness, and the high purity of the resulting bromoethane[2].
Regarding safety, bromoethane is classified as a potentially dangerous alkylating agent, with bromides being more potent alkylating agents than chlorides. Exposure to bromoethane should be minimized due to its classification by the State of California as carcinogenic and a reproductive toxin[4]. It is highly flammable, and precautions against static discharges are advised. Bromoethane should not be released into the environment, and protective measures including gloves, clothing, and respiratory protection are recommended to prevent exposure[3].
Bromoethane is soluble in water, and its solubility decreases with increasing temperature. It has a boiling point of 38.4°C and a melting point of -118.6°C. The compound is stable under normal conditions but should be kept away from open flames, hot surfaces, and sources of ignition. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong bases, and certain metals[3][7].
The toxicological profile of bromoethane indicates that it poses risks upon inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, potentially causing symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting. It is advisable to handle bromoethane with good industrial hygiene and safety practices[3].
In summary, bromoethane is a valuable chemical in organic synthesis and agricultural applications. However, its use requires careful handling and adherence to safety guidelines due to its potential health hazards and environmental impact.
Citations:
[1] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Bromoethane
[2] https://patents.google.com/patent/CN103804121B/en
[3] https://www.fishersci.com/store/msds?countryCode=US&language=en&partNumber=AC154215000&productDescription=BROMOETHANE+98%25+500ML&vendorId=VN00032119
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bromoethane
[5] https://patents.google.com/patent/CN104130098A/en
[6] http://www.ilo.org/dyn/icsc/showcard.display?p_card_id=1378&p_lang=en&p_version=2
[7] https://publications.iarc.fr/_publications/media/download/1831/5bf8d46d1d1f2c8562a83b1a28ebe718c237c49d.pdf
[8] https://eureka.patsnap.com/patent-CN103804121B
[9] https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/CL/en/sds/sial/239607
[10] https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/files/bromomethanefaq.pdf
[11] https://www.chemicalbook.com/article/general%20de-cription%20of%20bromoethane%20.htm
[12] https://www.carlroth.com/medias/SDB-4195-GB-EN.pdf?context=bWFzdGVyfHNlY3VyaXR5RGF0YXNoZWV0c3wzMzM2ODJ8YXBwbGljYXRpb24vcGRmfHNlY3VyaXR5RGF0YXNoZWV0cy9oNTEvaDc3LzkwNTgwNjg0MzA4NzgucGRmfDAwNTQ3NTI3YTM1MTAzNjIwMzg3ODFhYmVmZjg0NmU2NDdjZDJlOGRkNGJkNTNiYmM3MGE1MWNiNTFlYWU3OTA
[13] https://www.inchem.org/documents/cicads/cicads/cicad42.htm
[14] http://www.weizmann.ac.il/sci-tea/Brombook/pdf/chapter5.pdf
[15] https://www.agilent.com/cs/library/msds/RHH-024_NAEnglish.pdf
[16] https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSp/ToxFAQs/ToxFAQsDetails.aspx?faqid=821&toxid=160
[17] https://fscimage.fishersci.com/msds/69668.htm
[18] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/bromoethane
[19] https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics1378.htm
[20] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bromomethane