1,3-Dibromobenzene: Product Information, Properties, Structure, and Safety

What Is 1,3-Dibromobenzene?

1,3-Dibromobenzene shows up as a versatile raw material in many chemical labs and manufacturing settings. Its molecular formula, C6H4Br2, speaks to a simple yet powerful modification of the benzene ring, swapping out two hydrogens for bromine atoms at positions one and three. This particular substitution gives it properties that differ quite a bit from ordinary benzene or even its mono-brominated cousins. 1,3-Dibromobenzene looks like white or off-white flakes, powder, or sometimes even crystals, with a characteristic density of about 1.98 g/cm³. On closer inspection, this solid material covers the fingers with a fine powder that gives off a faint, aromatic odor. Most labs keep it stored in tightly closed containers away from light and moisture, knowing well that its volatility and potential hazards demand respect.

Chemical Structure and Molecular Properties

Its structure consists of a benzene ring bearing two bromine atoms at the meta positions, making it a symmetrical compound with interesting steric and electronic characteristics. Its melting point reaches around 86°C, meaning that in most room-temperature applications it holds a solid, crystalline or flaky appearance rather than melting into liquid form. While plenty of chemicals might dissolve in water, 1,3-Dibromobenzene prefers organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform, making it especially handy for organic synthesis and various downstream applications in specialty chemical industries. Chemists appreciate its well-defined molecular weight of about 235.90 g/mol when calculating reaction scales or purity levels.

Industry Specifications and HS Code

On global markets, it typically ships under the Harmonized System (HS) code 29036990, which groups it with other halogenated derivatives of aromatic hydrocarbons. Packing and shipment must comply with local and international safety standards, often requiring solid containers that shield it from moisture, mechanical shock, and accidental spills. Density remains a key part of its specification, as higher purity flake or powdered forms hold steady at just under 2 g/cm³, making precise weighing straightforward for any formulation technician or research chemist. Some batches arrive as loosely pressed pearls, giving a different handling profile where granularity or controlled release into a reaction system matters.

Material Forms: Flakes, Powder, Pearls, Crystal

Manufacturers and distributors provide 1,3-Dibromobenzene in a handful of different forms, all solid at room temperature. Some smaller plants supply coarse particles or flakes, where the large surface area encourages swift dissolution in solvents like acetone or dichloromethane. Other suppliers offer precision-ground powders for rapid mixing with reagents, or pressed pearls that minimize dust during weighing and transfer. Crystalline grades offer enhanced purity and tight particle size distribution, qualities desirable for electronics and more delicate synthesis. In every case, the form matters just as much as the underlying chemistry, catering to the real-world workflow of quality control staff as much as bench chemists.

Physical and Chemical Safety: Hazards, Risks, and Handling

Working with 1,3-Dibromobenzene calls for attention and respect—not just for its flammable aromatic base, but more pointedly for its brominated substituents. Breathing in dust can irritate the respiratory tract; skin contact sometimes causes redness or itching. The compound doesn’t stay inert when mishandled. Once spilled, it can linger, floating unwanted fumes and fine dust particles through the air. Inhalation and repeated exposure risk harmful effects, especially with poor ventilation or inadequate personal protective equipment. Disposal involves thoughtful containment, labeling, and handoff to professional chemical waste handlers who know the local and international regulations covering hazardous substances. Labels and safety data sheets indicate the compound's moderate environmental hazard, particularly for aquatic life, reinforcing the need for containment and prompt cleanup of any spills.

Uses and Importance of 1,3-Dibromobenzene as Raw Material

1,3-Dibromobenzene rarely finds its way straight into commercial products. Its real value shows up in its role as a raw material and intermediate for making more complicated molecules—fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and advanced polymers. Its bromine atoms leave just enough space for selective reactions, helping research teams build new molecular frameworks or modify existing ones. Students in organic chemistry labs, process development groups in specialty materials companies, and engineers in pilot plants all work with this substance, taking advantage of its balance between reactivity and stability. Large pharmaceutical and electronics companies value it for cross-coupling reactions, and its predictable melting, solubility, and form contribute to easier scale-up from bench to pilot to production plant.

Solutions and Best Practices

While 1,3-Dibromobenzene offers practical benefits, handling it right means training everyone from first-year students to seasoned process engineers on its hazards and proper handling. Chemical safety training makes a real difference. Simple things—proper gloves, face shields, a working fume hood—can cut down exposure risks. Good housekeeping keeps dust and flakes from building up where they don’t belong. Spills must never get ignored, and features like SDS reference sheets help create a safer workspace. Facility managers should work with trusted suppliers to receive updated material certifications and lab analysis. Environmental managers organize waste collection and disposal to meet every regulatory requirement. Thoughtful planning through each step, from raw material delivery to end-of-life disposal, not only protects people but keeps research and production safe, legal, and responsible.