Bromohexane: A Look at Its Fundamentals and Uses

What is Bromohexane?

Bromohexane shows up in the world of chemicals as a straightforward compound, telling its story through both structure and utility. Sporting a molecular formula of C6H13Br, Bromohexane features a straight six-carbon chain capped off with a bromine atom. This simple addition of bromine to hexane tweaks the properties in notable ways compared to hexane itself. Looking beyond the surface, it sits in the family of alkyl halides, where an alkane backbone meets one or more halogens. That makes it more reactive than plain hexane, giving it roles in organic synthesis and industrial raw material supply. Its chemical properties open doors for creating more complex molecules, and this ability to serve as a building block keeps it relevant across markets.

Physical Properties and Specifications

Bromohexane usually arrives as a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a faint, somewhat sweet odor. It holds a density of about 1.18 grams per cubic centimeter at 20°C, which puts it heavier than water but in line with many brominated compounds. Its boiling point sits around 155°C, and the melting point hovers near -79°C, so it stays liquid in typical working environments. Solubility sticks low when mixed with water, but organic solvents like ether, ethanol, and chloroform handle it just fine. Those working with Bromohexane notice how it feels a bit oily, doesn’t mix well with water, and feels denser in the hand compared to similar molecular weight liquids.

Chemical Structure

Every molecule carries a hexyl group with a bromine atom swapping places with one hydrogen at the terminal carbon. Removing that single hydrogen and dropping in bromine might not sound dramatic, but it steers the whole character of the molecule. The result is a linear structure—no rings, no funny business—just a straight chain. The formula lays out cleanly: C6H13Br, molecular weight 165.07 g/mol. The reactivity tied to the bromine presence is really what shapes its role in synthesis. The carbon-bromine bond, less robust than carbon-carbon or carbon-hydrogen, breaks relatively easily under the right conditions, giving chemists room to swap out the bromine for whatever new atom or group they need.

Variation in Form and Handling

Bromohexane almost always appears as a liquid in the lab or warehouse. Solid or crystalline forms rarely turn up unless deep freezing occurs—well below ambient storage. Nobody scoops it as a powder or holds it as flakes; those forms simply don’t materialize under normal conditions. Packaged by the liter, stored in glass or compatible plastic, it doesn’t corrode containers but keeps its chemical bite. Bulky industrial shipments move in drums, while laboratory stocks come in smaller brown bottles, reflecting sensitivity to light and the risk of slow decomposition. Labels include hazard statements and safe handling instructions, since even in liquid form, skin contact and inhalation create health concerns.

Safe Use and Risks

Work around Bromohexane easily turns hazardous without planning and care. It’s classed as harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Short-term exposure can irritate eyes, nose, and skin, while repeated or high-dose exposure brings up risks for liver, kidney, and nervous system issues. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) usually recommend gloves, goggles, lab coat, and good ventilation or extraction. Fire risk stays modest, but brominated organics generally deserve respect for their potential to form toxic fumes when burned. Spills need prompt attention—a mix of absorbent, bagging, and controlled disposal, never down the drain.

HS Code and Regulatory Details

Bromohexane enters trade under the Harmonized System (HS) code 2903399090, which covers halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons. Customs and border control look for this on paperwork, tracking not only volume but destination, reflecting the dual-use potential and some countries’ tighter chemical controls. Most regions see it as a restricted substance, mainly because of its raw material status in pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals, which places it in regulatory spotlights for both safety and security reasons. Shelf life extends if shielded from light and air, as exposure can prompt breakdown and decrease purity.

Roles in Synthesis and Industry

The chemistry of Bromohexane opens possibilities in the world of organic transformation. It acts as an alkylating agent, meaning that the six-carbon chain can hop onto other structures by kicking off the bromine and linking to new partners. Pharmaceutical labs use it for stepwise building of active molecules, especially where precise carbon backbone length matters. Agrochemical makers rely on similar chemistry for fine-tuned synthesis. The raw material role stretches into surfactant intermediate production, where modifying the hydrophobic chain type shifts product function. As an intermediate, Bromohexane’s job is mostly unseen in the end product, but it makes the process possible.

Environmental Concerns and Sustainability

Bromohexane doesn’t persist in the environment the way some halogenated organics do, but spills and improper disposal bring their own headaches. Organobromine compounds can cause harm to aquatic life and may bioaccumulate in some food chains. Responsible disposal goes beyond routine chemical waste—licensed handlers must treat the waste, and incineration needs careful temperature and emission control to keep air quality safe. Tight control over every step in handling helps prevent both personal harm and broader environmental impact. Alternatives exist, but substitutions often involve weighing process changes and structural chemistry needs.

Improving Safety and Transparency

The future of Bromohexane work involves not just sticking to old procedures but pushing for better transparency on sourcing and full tracking along supply chains. Any chemical that lands on government lists or carries health warnings needs sortable paperwork and batch records—down to purity, impurities, and proper labeling. Safety culture goes beyond ticking boxes; it means workers get ongoing training and that emergency planning doesn’t sit idle. For those developing greener chemistry, there is room to swap in less hazardous alkylating agents where molecule design allows. Regulatory agencies look at safer process routes, user education, and global trade controls.