1,2-Dibromoethane, also known as ethylene dibromide, is a chemical compound that has relevance to everyday life due to its use as a pesticide, fumigant, and lead scavenger in gasoline. It has historically been used in agriculture to control pests and as a soil fumigant. Additionally, it has been utilized in the past as an anti-knock agent in leaded gasoline. However, due to its toxicity and environmental concerns, its use has been significantly restricted in recent years. Despite its current limited use, 1,2-Dibromoethane remains relevant in the context of environmental regulations and public health considerations.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
1,2-Dibromoethane, also known as ethylene dibromide, is commonly utilized in several commercial and industrial applications. It is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of flame retardants, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, it is employed as a fumigant to control pests in stored grains and soil.
In terms of drug and medication applications, 1,2-Dibromoethane is not commonly used due to its toxic and carcinogenic nature. However, it has been investigated as a potential treatment for cancer in certain research studies. Despite these potential therapeutic benefits, the high toxicity of this compound has limited its practical use in the pharmaceutical industry.
In conclusion, while 1,2-Dibromoethane has various commercial and industrial applications, its potential use in drug and medication development is limited due to its harmful effects on human health. Researchers continue to explore the compound for its potential medical benefits, but caution is advised when handling and working with this substance.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
1,2-Dibromoethane is a colorless liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. This chemical compound is highly volatile and easily evaporates at room temperature, releasing a distinctive smell.
With a molar mass of 187.88 g/mol and a density of 2.18 g/cm³, 1,2-Dibromoethane is denser than most common household items. For comparison, water has a molar mass of 18.02 g/mol and a density of 1.00 g/cm³.
1,2-Dibromoethane has a melting point of -52 °C and a boiling point of 131 °C. In comparison to common household items, it has a much lower melting point than substances like salt (melting point 801 °C) and a lower boiling point than substances like water (boiling point 100 °C).
1,2-Dibromoethane is sparingly soluble in water, and exhibits high viscosity at room temperature. This compound’s solubility in water is much lower than most common household items such as sugar or salt, and its viscosity is higher than substances like vinegar or olive oil.
🏭 Production & Procurement
1,2-Dibromoethane, also known as ethylene dibromide, is primarily produced through the reaction of ethylene with liquid bromine in the presence of a catalyst such as aluminum bromide. This process typically occurs in a reactor vessel at elevated temperatures and pressures to facilitate the formation of the desired product.
Once produced, 1,2-Dibromoethane can be procured from chemical manufacturers that specialize in the production of halogenated hydrocarbons. It is commonly transported in bulk quantities via tanker trucks or railcars, with proper hazardous material handling protocols in place to ensure safe transport and storage.
End-users looking to acquire 1,2-Dibromoethane for specific chemical applications can also source the compound from chemical distributors or through direct purchase from manufacturers. Due to its status as a regulated substance due to its toxicity, proper licensing and compliance with safety regulations may be required for procurement and handling.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety Considerations for 1,2-Dibromoethane:
1,2-Dibromoethane, also known as ethylene dibromide, is a highly toxic chemical compound that poses significant health risks to humans and the environment. This compound is classified as a potential human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and is known to be a respiratory and skin irritant. Exposure to 1,2-Dibromoethane can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, and appropriate precautions must be taken to minimize the risks associated with its use.
Pharmacology of 1,2-Dibromoethane:
1,2-Dibromoethane is primarily used as a pesticide and as a lead scavenger in gasoline. It works by disrupting the function of enzymes in the human body, resulting in cellular damage and potential carcinogenic effects. When absorbed into the bloodstream, 1,2-Dibromoethane can interfere with DNA replication and repair processes, leading to mutations and ultimately contributing to the development of cancer. This compound has a slow metabolism rate in the body, allowing it to accumulate over time and cause cumulative toxic effects.
Hazard Statements for 1,2-Dibromoethane:
The hazard statements associated with 1,2-Dibromoethane include “Fatal if swallowed,” “Causes skin irritation,” “May cause respiratory irritation,” and “Suspected of causing cancer.” It is also important to note that 1,2-Dibromoethane is harmful if inhaled, causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure, and is toxic to aquatic organisms. Proper ventilation, personal protective equipment, and spill containment measures should be implemented when handling this chemical to mitigate the risks of exposure and contamination.
Precautionary Statements for 1,2-Dibromoethane:
Precautionary measures to take when working with 1,2-Dibromoethane include wearing protective gloves, clothing, eye protection, and respiratory equipment to prevent skin contact, eye irritation, and inhalation of vapors. Avoid release to the environment, and dispose of the chemical according to local regulations. In case of exposure, seek medical attention immediately and provide relevant information about the chemical to healthcare professionals. It is crucial to follow proper handling and storage procedures to minimize the potential hazards associated with 1,2-Dibromoethane and protect human health and the environment.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 1,2-Dibromoethane is its environmental impact, particularly on groundwater and soil pollution. Studies may investigate its persistence, mobility, and potential for bioaccumulation in ecosystems.
Another potential area of research involves the development of efficient and sustainable methods for the remediation of sites contaminated with 1,2-Dibromoethane. This could include exploring bioremediation techniques or the use of advanced oxidation processes to degrade the compound.
Furthermore, research could focus on the health effects of 1,2-Dibromoethane exposure on both humans and wildlife. This may entail investigating its toxicity, carcinogenicity, and potential for mutagenicity through in vitro and in vivo studies.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 1,2-Dibromoethane is 1,2-Dichloroethane. This compound has the same molecular structure as 1,2-Dibromoethane, with two halogen atoms attached to adjacent carbon atoms. However, in 1,2-Dichloroethane, chlorine atoms replace the bromine atoms found in 1,2-Dibromoethane.
Another compound with a similar molecular structure to 1,2-Dibromoethane is 1,2-Diiodoethane. Like 1,2-Dibromoethane, 1,2-Diiodoethane contains two halogen atoms attached to adjacent carbon atoms. In this case, iodine atoms replace the bromine atoms found in 1,2-Dibromoethane, resulting in a compound with similar chemical properties but different reactivity due to the larger size of the iodine atoms.
1,2-Dibromopropane is another compound that shares a similar molecular structure with 1,2-Dibromoethane. In this compound, two bromine atoms are attached to adjacent carbon atoms, similar to the structure of 1,2-Dibromoethane. However, in 1,2-Dibromopropane, the ethyl group in 1,2-Dibromoethane is replaced with a propyl group, resulting in a slightly larger molecule with different physical and chemical properties.
