What is 1,5-Dibromopentane?

1,5-Dibromopentane stands out as an organic raw material widely handled in laboratories and chemical plants. Its molecular structure features a five-carbon alkane backbone capped on each end with bromine atoms. The chemical formula, C5H10Br2, shows two bromine atoms attached at the terminal positions of the pentane chain. The compound carries a distinct molecular weight of roughly 229.94 g/mol, which matters when calculating reagent quantities for synthesis. Among additive chemicals, 1,5-Dibromopentane stays notable for its intermediate use in the production of pharmaceuticals, agricultural chemicals, flame retardants, and specialty polymers. On chemical invoices, the substance usually arrives listed under its HS Code 290369.

Properties and Physical Characteristics

Commonly encountered in liquid form at room temperature, 1,5-Dibromopentane presents itself as a colorless to pale yellow substance. Odor can be faintly sweet or ethereal. At normal pressure, this compound melts just below room temperature, with its melting point ranging from about 26-28°C. Its boiling point lands around 240-245°C, a feature that influences operational safety in heated reactors. Density measures close to 1.64 g/cm³ at 25°C, meaning it sinks if accidentally spilled in water. Though mostly handled as a dense, oily liquid, under different temperature conditions, it may appear as flakes, powders, or even crystalline pearls in cold storage. Solubility in water stays low; most chemists reach for organic solvents like ether or chloroform for dissolution. Shelf life depends on storage conditions—cool, dry locations protect the compound from moisture and decomposition.

Chemical Use and Practical Attention

This compound holds a specific place in organic synthesis. It serves as a bifunctional alkylating agent, meaning both bromine atoms can participate in reactions, linking together other molecules at the ends. In my experience, 1,5-Dibromopentane comes up most often for building specialty polymers or when trying to add functional groups at precise places along carbon chains. In drug research, its chain length and the position of its functional groups help chemists reach for more complex molecular targets. Agrochemical work often turns to it as a base ingredient for compounds that need bromine or pentane chains. Relationships with analogous compounds like 1,3-dibromopropane or 1,6-dibromohexane highlight how subtle changes in the carbon chain matter in chemical design.

Hazards and Safe Handling

Safety deserves real mention here. 1,5-Dibromopentane qualifies as a hazardous material under international shipping guidelines. It acts as an irritant upon skin contact and can cause severe eye irritation. Inhalation or ingestion raises acute health hazards, including possible central nervous system depression and respiratory irritation. Standard laboratory experience emphasizes gloves, protective eyewear, and working in well-ventilated spaces or a functional fume hood at the very least. Storage containers need proper labeling and tight seals since vapor buildup can cause headaches or other symptoms. Cleanup after spills means quick action using absorbent materials like vermiculite rather than flushing with water. Emergency procedures—eye wash, showers, air evacuation—should never stay out of reach for anyone who works with this compound.

Industry Applications and Solutions for Safer Processes

I have seen 1,5-Dibromopentane gain importance in production workflows where chain-extension or halogenation tasks come up. In the plastics industry, this compound features in the creation of specialty nylons and other synthetic fibers, where precise spacing between functional groups impacts material strength and flexibility. Custom pharmaceutical synthesis benefits from its predictable reactivity and dual-functionality. Across these applications, compliance with REACH and OSHA chemical safety standards protects workers and the environment. Methods for minimizing environmental and workplace risks include closed-system transfers, solvent recycling, and air scrubbing at release points. Adopting these solutions cuts down harmful exposure and accidental releases. In supply chain management, proper documentation—CAS number, batch analysis, certificates of analysis—keeps processes traceable and transparent, meeting E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) expectations that regulate the safe flow of raw chemicals across borders.