2,4,6-Tribromophenol, a chemical compound commonly used as a flame retardant, holds significant relevance in everyday life due to its ability to reduce the flammability of various materials. This compound is often utilized in household items such as furniture, electronics, and textiles to inhibit the spread of fires and enhance overall safety. Its presence in these consumer products contributes to fire prevention measures and safeguards individuals and property from potential fire hazards. Consequently, the use of 2,4,6-Tribromophenol plays a crucial role in maintaining fire safety standards and protecting the well-being of individuals in their daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
2,4,6-Tribromophenol, also known as TBP, finds various commercial and industrial applications due to its flame retardant properties. It is commonly used in the production of electronic products, textiles, and construction materials to enhance their fire resistance capabilities.
In the pharmaceutical industry, 2,4,6-Tribromophenol has been studied for its potential as an antimicrobial agent. Some research suggests that it may have applications in the development of new drugs and medications to combat bacterial infections. However, further studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety for human use.
Overall, 2,4,6-Tribromophenol plays a significant role in both commercial and industrial settings, particularly in fire safety applications. In the future, continued research may reveal additional potential uses for this compound in various industries.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
2,4,6-Tribromophenol is a white crystalline solid that may have a slight phenolic odor. It is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. The compound may have a bitter taste.
The molar mass of 2,4,6-Tribromophenol is approximately 329.8 g/mol, and it has a density of around 2.63 g/cm³. In comparison to common food items such as sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol, density of 1.59 g/cm³) and salt (molar mass of 58.44 g/mol, density of 2.16 g/cm³), 2,4,6-Tribromophenol has a higher molar mass and density.
2,4,6-Tribromophenol has a melting point of around 105-106°C and a boiling point of approximately 324-325°C. In contrast, common food items like sugar have a melting point of 186°C and a boiling point of 460°C, while salt has a melting point of 801°C and a boiling point of 1465°C. Thus, 2,4,6-Tribromophenol has lower melting and boiling points compared to these common food items.
The compound is sparingly soluble in water and has a relatively high viscosity due to its molecular structure and interactions. In comparison, common food items like sugar and salt are highly soluble in water and have much lower viscosity. Therefore, 2,4,6-Tribromophenol differs significantly from these common food items in terms of solubility in water and viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
2,4,6-Tribromophenol is typically produced through the bromination of phenol using elemental bromine in the presence of a catalyst. This chemical synthesis process results in the substitution of bromine atoms at the 2, 4, and 6 positions of the phenol molecule, leading to the formation of 2,4,6-Tribromophenol. The reaction conditions and choice of catalyst can impact the yield and purity of the final product.
2,4,6-Tribromophenol can be procured from chemical suppliers that specialize in the production and distribution of specialty chemicals. The compound is typically available in various purities and quantities depending on the needs of the purchaser. Once procured, 2,4,6-Tribromophenol can be transported in sealed containers to prevent contamination or degradation during transit.
Transportation of 2,4,6-Tribromophenol is typically done in compliance with established regulations for the handling and transportation of hazardous chemicals. The compound may be classified as a hazardous material due to its potential toxicity and flammability, requiring special precautions during packaging, labeling, and shipping. Proper documentation and safety measures are essential to ensure the safe and secure transport of 2,4,6-Tribromophenol to its intended destination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 2,4,6-Tribromophenol include its classification as a hazardous substance due to its toxic effects on aquatic life and potential for causing skin irritation. It is important to handle this compound with caution, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat to prevent accidental exposure. In addition, it should be stored in a secure location away from heat sources and incompatible materials to minimize the risk of fire or chemical reactions.
Hazard statements for 2,4,6-Tribromophenol include “Causes skin irritation,” “Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements indicate the potential health hazards associated with exposure to this compound, emphasizing the need for proper handling and storage procedures to protect both human health and the environment. It is important to follow safety guidelines and regulations when working with 2,4,6-Tribromophenol to mitigate the risks outlined in these hazard statements.
Precautionary statements for 2,4,6-Tribromophenol include “Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray,” “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” and “Keep container tightly closed.” These statements provide specific guidance on how to safely handle and use this compound to minimize the risk of exposure and potential harm. By following these precautionary measures, individuals can reduce the likelihood of adverse health effects and environmental damage associated with 2,4,6-Tribromophenol.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 2,4,6-Tribromophenol is investigating its potential as a flame retardant in various materials such as plastics, textiles, and electronics due to its high bromine content and ability to inhibit combustion.
Furthermore, studies could focus on the environmental impact of 2,4,6-Tribromophenol, particularly its persistence in the environment, potential bioaccumulation in organisms, and toxicity to aquatic and terrestrial organisms.
Additionally, research could explore the synthesis and modification of 2,4,6-Tribromophenol derivatives with enhanced properties for applications in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and materials science, thereby expanding the potential uses of this compound in various industries.
🧪 Related Compounds
One compound that is structurally similar to 2,4,6-Tribromophenol is 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol. In this compound, the three hydrogen atoms in the phenol ring are replaced by chlorine atoms, resulting in a similar molecular structure with three halogen substituents. 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol is often used in chemical synthesis and as a disinfectant due to its antimicrobial properties.
Another compound with a comparable structure to 2,4,6-Tribromophenol is 2,4,6-Trifluorophenol. In this compound, the three hydrogen atoms in the phenol ring are substituted with fluorine atoms, leading to a similar trisubstituted phenol structure. 2,4,6-Trifluorophenol is employed in organic synthesis as a catalyst and as a reagent in various chemical reactions due to the unique properties of fluorine.
One additional compound that shares a structural resemblance to 2,4,6-Tribromophenol is 2,4,6-Trimethylphenol. In this compound, the three hydrogen atoms in the phenol ring are replaced with methyl groups, resulting in a similar trisubstituted phenol structure. 2,4,6-Trimethylphenol is utilized as a fragrance ingredient and as an intermediate in the production of other chemicals due to its aromatic properties.
