4-Bromofluorobenzene: Profile, Properties, and Importance

What is 4-Bromofluorobenzene?

4-Bromofluorobenzene stands out as an aromatic halide. Its chemical structure features a benzene ring with one bromine and one fluorine atom locked at opposite ends. The molecular formula, C6H4BrF, shows a single fluorine and single bromine bonded to the six-carbon core of benzene. This unique arrangement contributes to both reactivity and physical features. Industry relies on this raw material for a variety of chemical syntheses, especially in fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemical intermediates.

Physical Properties and Appearance

This compound usually comes as a colorless to pale-yellow liquid at room temperature, although some batches form crystalline solid. It may take a light flaky or powdery form if cooled. With a molecular weight near 175 grams per mole, it carries a specific gravity around 1.6, heavier than water. Boiling point sits close to 150°C under standard pressure, while melting point travels down to -18°C. Density and phase depend on ambient temperature but typically the liquid remains clear, sometimes picking up mild impurities from packaging or handling. Its sharp, slightly sweet chemical scent reminds me of working with similar halogenated benzene compounds in a university lab, where careful handling reduced occupational exposure and kept the workspace safe.

Structural Characteristics and Specification

The arrangement of substituents in 4-Bromofluorobenzene defines its chemical behavior. The para orientation (meaning the bromine and fluorine rest on positions 1 and 4 of the benzene ring) changes electronic distribution, boosting its value as a building block for complex molecule construction. Chemists appreciate the way both halogens draw electrons differently, which gives this compound unique reactive sites for cross-coupling or substitution reactions. During my experience sourcing specialty raw materials, specifications proved vital: assay frequently stretches to 99% pure or higher, with trace moisture and non-volatile impurities recorded at less than 0.5%. Its structure appears in NMR and IR spectra as well-defined peaks, helping chemists verify lots quickly before scale-up or further reaction.

Common Forms, Packaging, and Storage

Producers often supply this product in sealed glass bottles, metal cans, or plastic drums, depending on order volume. Each container gets filled by volume (liters) or mass (kilograms), with batch-specific safety data sheets included. In some warehouses, flakes or crystalline solid forms might be packed to minimize waste. The liquid state remains most popular because it pours easily and dissolves in organic solvents like ether or dichloromethane. Warehouses where I worked always respected flammability and toxicity warnings by keeping this liquid away from heat, open flames, and incompatible materials – especially strong bases or oxidants. Accurate labeling follows global regulatory codes for hazardous materials.

Safety, Hazards, and Handling

4-Bromofluorobenzene has certain health and environmental risks. Its volatility means inhalation can irritate lungs and eyes, with skin contact potentially causing mild burns or redness. Chemical gloves, goggles, and well-ventilated rooms prevent most accidents. Globally, its transport and storage fall under hazardous chemical guidelines, often using the HS Code 2903.69, which tracks halogenated aromatic hydrocarbon shipments for safety purposes. Emergency response plans treat this compound as both flammable and toxic, so clean-up crews approach spills with absorbent pads and chemical waste bins, not simply tossing used absorbents in regular trash. Personal experience reminded me to never underestimate the hazards of aromatic chemicals, no matter how routine their use might seem.

Role as a Chemical Raw Material

Industries dealing in fine chemicals and advanced material synthesis depend on 4-Bromofluorobenzene as a valuable starting point. Pharmaceutical chemists use it to introduce bromine or fluorine atoms into drug molecules, aiming for improved biological activity or metabolic stability. Agrochemical researchers search for unique molecular motifs to fight plant pests or enhance crop yields, often using this halogenated benzene in their design. Its purity, stability, and straightforward structure encourage production at scale. In my years coordinating chemical imports, demand for high-purity halogenated benzenes stayed steady, mostly due to constant innovation in material science and drug discovery. Tight quality control helps reduce unwanted by-products, keeping pharmaceutical pipelines clean and efficient.

Environmental and Regulatory Issues

Every halogenated aromatic compound faces increased scrutiny for potential persistence and toxicity in the environment. Wastewater from factories needs robust filtration to avoid accidental release. Companies installing activated carbon or advanced oxidation units report reduced residual halides in effluent streams. International rules, through conventions like REACH or the Toxic Substances Control Act, track chemical quantities shipped and stored. Regulators perform periodic checks, especially for materials with recognized hazardous profiles. My background in regulatory compliance showed me that clear documentation and advance planning minimize compliance headaches, letting companies focus resources on innovation rather than worrying about interruptions from inspections or penalties.

Possible Solutions for Improved Safety and Sustainability

Continuous improvement in chemical manufacturing technology can lower risks and lessen waste. Closed-system reactors, more accurate batch monitoring, and digital records all make chemical handling safer. Efforts to recycle or recover spent halogenated solvents keep waste streams short and reduce environmental impact. Greater awareness among workers and regular safety drills ensure emergencies are rare and handled efficiently. Suppliers who offer transparent sourcing and third-party audit trails help downstream users trust the integrity of each shipment. Investments in greener alternatives push research toward less hazardous building blocks, though for now, expertise with materials like 4-Bromofluorobenzene remains an essential part of the global chemistry supply chain.