1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane, also known as ethyl bromofluoroacetate, is a versatile chemical compound that finds various applications in everyday life. It is commonly used as a building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other specialty chemicals. Additionally, it is utilized in the formulation of polymers, solvents, and other industrial products. Despite its niche role in specific industries, 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane contributes to the functionality and advancement of several consumer products and materials that impact daily routines and activities.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane, also known as bromofluoroethane, finds various commercial and industrial applications due to its chemical properties. It is commonly used as a refrigerant and as a solvent in organic synthesis processes. Additionally, it is utilized in the production of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals, where its chemical structure plays a crucial role.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is not commonly used due to its toxicological properties. However, it is sometimes employed in research and development of new pharmaceutical compounds as a building block or precursor. Its specific chemical reactivity offers potential for creating novel drug molecules with desirable properties, although rigorous testing is required to ensure safety and efficacy in medicinal applications.
Overall, while 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane may not have direct drug and medication applications, its versatility in various industrial processes makes it a valuable chemical compound in the field of chemistry and chemical engineering. Its role as a precursor in pharmaceutical synthesis highlights its importance in drug development, contributing to the advancement of the pharmaceutical industry.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is a colorless liquid with a slightly sweet, fruity odor.
With a molar mass of approximately 131.95 g/mol and a density of around 1.64 g/cm³, 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is significantly heavier than common food items such as water and fruits in terms of molar mass and density.
The melting point of 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is approximately -100°C, while its boiling point is around 46°C. These values are much lower than the melting and boiling points of common food items such as sugar and oils.
1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is only slightly soluble in water, and it exhibits low viscosity. This contrasts with common food items like salt and honey, which are highly soluble in water and have higher viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is commonly produced by the reaction of ethylene with bromine and hydrogen fluoride. This reaction typically occurs under controlled conditions in the presence of a catalyst to facilitate the formation of the desired product. The resulting 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane can be isolated and purified through distillation and other separation techniques.
The procurement of 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane primarily involves contacting chemical suppliers or manufacturers who produce and distribute the compound. Once a source has been identified, the compound can be obtained in various quantities depending on the specific requirements. 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is typically stored in well-sealed containers to prevent contamination and ensure its purity during transportation.
Transportation of 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is usually carried out in compliance with regulatory guidelines that govern the handling and shipping of hazardous chemicals. The compound may be transported via road, rail, air, or sea depending on the distance and urgency of delivery. Proper labeling, packaging, and documentation are required to ensure the safe and secure transport of 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane to its intended destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane include its flammability and potential for causing skin and eye irritation. This compound should be handled with care in a well-ventilated area to minimize the risk of inhalation. It is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and safety goggles, when working with this chemical to prevent skin contact and eye exposure.
Hazard statements for 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane include “H225: Highly flammable liquid and vapor” and “H315: Causes skin irritation.” These statements indicate that this compound poses a risk of fire or explosion and can irritate the skin upon contact. It is important to take appropriate precautions to minimize these hazards when working with 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane.
Precautionary statements for 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane include “P210: Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces” and “P264: Wash hands thoroughly after handling.” These statements advise on measures to prevent ignition of the compound and emphasize the importance of good hygiene practices to avoid skin contact. It is crucial to follow these recommendations to ensure safe handling of 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane in the laboratory or workplace.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is its use as a building block in organic synthesis. Researchers may investigate its reactivity with various nucleophiles and electrophiles to develop new compounds with potential applications in pharmaceuticals or materials science.
Another potential area of study could be the environmental impact of 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane. Research may focus on its persistence in the environment, potential for bioaccumulation, and toxicity to different organisms. This information could inform regulations on its use and disposal.
Furthermore, researchers may explore the use of 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane as a solvent or reagent in chemical reactions. Studies could investigate its efficiency, selectivity, and compatibility with different reaction conditions. This could lead to the development of new synthetic methodologies or optimization of existing processes.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is 1-Chloro-2-fluoroethane. This compound has a molecular structure where a chlorine atom replaces the bromine atom in 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane. The presence of both a fluorine and a chlorine atom in the molecule makes it a halogenated alkane, similar to 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane.
Another similar compound is 1-Bromo-2-chloroethane. In this compound, the fluorine atom in 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane is replaced by a chlorine atom. This change in halogen substitution results in a different compound with similar chemical properties due to the sharing of the same structural backbone.
Lastly, 2-Bromo-1-fluoroethane is another compound similar to 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane. In this compound, the positions of the bromine and fluorine atoms are switched in comparison to 1-Bromo-2-fluoroethane. Despite this difference in atom placement, the overall structural similarity between the two compounds remains, with both sharing a halogenated alkane backbone.
