Bromoform, a chemical compound commonly found in disinfectants and flame retardants, plays a significant role in everyday life. Its presence in household products contributes to maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of germs in homes and public spaces. Additionally, bromoform’s use in flame retardants helps enhance fire safety measures in various consumer goods, such as furniture and electronic devices. Overall, bromoform serves as a key component in everyday products that promote health and safety in modern society.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Bromoform, a colorless liquid with a sweet smell, has several commercial and industrial applications. It is commonly used as a solvent in various industrial processes and as an intermediate in the production of dyes and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Bromoform is utilized in the manufacture of fire extinguishing agents and as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of organic compounds.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, Bromoform has historically been used as a sedative and antitussive agent in cough syrups and expectorants. However, due to the compound’s toxic and carcinogenic properties, its use in pharmaceuticals has significantly decreased over the years. In recent times, Bromoform has seen very limited use in the pharmaceutical industry, primarily for research purposes rather than commercial production.
In summary, Bromoform has primarily found its niche in industrial processes as a solvent, intermediate, and chemical reagent. Its role in drug and medication applications has diminished due to safety concerns, but the compound still holds value in specific research settings. Despite its limited uses in the pharmaceutical industry, Bromoform continues to play a crucial role in various industrial applications.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Bromoform is a colorless to yellowish liquid with a sweet, fruity odor, similar to that of chloroform. It is commonly used in laboratory settings as a solvent and a reagent in various chemical reactions.
With a molar mass of 253.73 g/mol and a density of 2.89 g/cm³, bromoform is heavier than water and many common household items. For comparison, water has a molar mass of 18.02 g/mol and a density of 1.00 g/cm³, making it lighter than bromoform.
Bromoform has a melting point of 8.9°C and a boiling point of 150.5°C. These values are higher than those of water (melting point of 0°C, boiling point of 100°C) and many common household items, making bromoform a more stable compound at room temperature.
Bromoform is sparingly soluble in water, with a solubility of 0.231 g/100 mL at 20°C. It also has a high viscosity, making it thicker than water and many common household liquids. This low solubility and high viscosity make bromoform less miscible and more difficult to handle in aqueous solutions compared to other substances.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Bromoform is produced through the reaction of acetone with sodium hypobromite in the presence of hydrochloric acid. This chemical process results in the formation of Bromoform as a liquid with a high specific gravity.
Bromoform can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in the distribution of laboratory reagents and industrial chemicals. It is typically transported in sealed containers to prevent evaporation and potential exposure to individuals handling the substance.
To ensure safe transportation of Bromoform, it is important to comply with relevant regulations regarding hazardous materials. Proper labeling and packaging of the containers are essential to prevent leaks and spills during transit. Additionally, appropriate safety equipment should be provided to individuals handling the substance.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Bromoform involve its highly toxic nature when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Exposure to this chemical may result in irritation to the respiratory system, skin, and eyes. Prolonged or repeated contact can lead to skin sensitization or dermatitis. It is imperative to handle Bromoform with caution and use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, goggles, and a lab coat, when working with this substance.
Bromoform is a clear, colorless liquid with a sweet odor. It is primarily used as a solvent, a sedative-hypnotic in medicine, and as a flame retardant in various industrial applications. When ingested or inhaled, Bromoform is metabolized in the liver to form harmful byproducts that may cause liver damage. Furthermore, Bromoform has been shown to have carcinogenic effects in animal studies, making it a substance of special concern in terms of human health.
Hazard statements for Bromoform include “Harmful if swallowed,” “Causes skin irritation,” and “Causes serious eye irritation.” Additionally, it is classified as a Category 3 carcinogen, meaning it has the potential to cause cancer with prolonged exposure. It is essential to store Bromoform in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources and incompatible substances to prevent accidents or chemical reactions that may lead to harmful outcomes.
Precautionary statements for Bromoform include “Do not breathe vapor,” “Wear protective gloves/eye protection/face protection,” and “IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.” It is recommended to work with Bromoform in a fume hood or a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to its vapors. In case of accidental ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, seek medical attention immediately and have the product label or Safety Data Sheet on hand for healthcare professionals to reference.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for bromoform is to investigate its impact on the environment, particularly in terms of its role in ocean ecosystems and the global carbon cycle. Studies could focus on understanding its sources, distribution, and fate in marine environments, as well as its potential effects on marine organisms.
Another area of research interest could be the assessment of bromoform’s toxicity and health effects on humans and other organisms. This could involve studies on its potential carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, and neurotoxicity, as well as its effects on reproductive and developmental health.
Furthermore, research could explore potential ways to mitigate or reduce bromoform emissions and exposure, such as developing alternative techniques for its production or finding ways to remove it from industrial processes. This could help inform regulatory decisions and strategies for managing bromoform contamination in the environment.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Bromoform, based on its molecular structure, is Chloroform. Chloroform has the chemical formula CHCl3 and is also a halomethane compound, like Bromoform. Chloroform is used as a solvent, a reagent in various chemical reactions, and as an anesthetic in the past. Similar to Bromoform, Chloroform is known for its sedative properties and potential toxicity.
Another compound similar to Bromoform is Trichloromethane, also known as Carbon tetrachloride. Carbon tetrachloride has the chemical formula CCl4 and is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor. Like Bromoform, carbon tetrachloride was commonly used as a solvent and in fire extinguishers. However, due to its high toxicity and environmental concerns, its use has been significantly reduced in recent years.
A third similar compound to Bromoform is Iodoform, which has the chemical formula CHI3. Iodoform is a yellow crystalline solid with a characteristic odor and is commonly used in organic synthesis reactions. Like Bromoform, Iodoform is a halomethane compound and is known for its antiseptic properties. Iodoform has been used historically as an antiseptic, though its use has declined due to potential toxic effects when used in large quantities.
