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4-Bromophenol: Product Description, Structure, and Key Characteristics

What is 4-Bromophenol?

4-Bromophenol stands out as a versatile aromatic compound derived from the phenol family, carrying a single bromine atom substituted in the para position. For those who handle chemicals, its structure appears as a six-membered benzene ring attached directly to a hydroxyl group and a bromine atom, positioned across from each other. The molecular formula for 4-Bromophenol reads C6H5BrO, with a molar mass of 173.01 g/mol. In laboratories and production facilities, users most often encounter 4-Bromophenol as a white to pale beige crystalline solid, though variations exist, sometimes showing flakes, powder, or even fine pearls. Its pointed aroma and tightly compact crystal form make 4-Bromophenol recognizable, signaling purity to experienced chemists.

Physical Properties and Specifications

This compound melts at 63–67 °C, and holds a boiling point close to 236 °C, revealing both thermal stability and strong intermolecular forces. Density sits at about 1.72 grams per cubic centimeter in solid state. Solubility matters for those planning reactions: 4-Bromophenol readily dissolves in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, or acetone, but shows only limited solubility in water, leading chemists to account for its partial hydrophobic behavior. Depending on the process, it can be supplied in high-purity flakes for analytical use or as fine powder for rapid dissolution and blending with other raw materials. The crystalline structure remains robust, and technicians notice no noticeable color change apart from a faint yellowing under prolonged exposure to light.

Structure and Molecular Details

Looking at the detailed structure, 4-Bromophenol features a benzene ring where the para-bromine and hydroxy substituents sit at carbons one and four, creating a symmetric layout favored in synthetic pathways. The electronegative bromine imparts moderate electron-withdrawing effects that slightly reduce the electron density across the ring, influencing both reactivity and solubility. Chemists appreciate this aspect, especially when applying the material in fine chemical synthesis, dye intermediates, or advanced pharmaceuticals.

Chemical Properties and Reactivity

As a phenolic compound, 4-Bromophenol resists mild oxidants but reacts with strong bases, forming phenoxide ions, which prove useful in certain coupling reactions. The presence of the bromine allows for quick entry into nucleophilic substitution, Suzuki or Buchwald-Hartwig couplings, and cross-coupling scenarios where building complex aromatic systems is key. Those working in laboratories count on its predictable behavior, its resistance to slow decomposition, and its ability to serve as a strong intermediate in multi-step synthetic processes.

Appearance and Supplied Forms

Purchasers find 4-Bromophenol supplied in different particle sizes. Most commonly, it appears as odoriferous flakes, a slightly granular powder, or as crystalline pearls depending on the manufacturer and intended use. Some suppliers offer the product as a suspension in organic solvents for ready mixing or solution-phase synthesis. Each physical presentation ensures convenient measurement and handling, especially when larger-scale reactions demand reproducibility. When scaling from milligrams to kilogram batches, the density and compact character of the crystals reduce airborne dust, supporting safe weighing and transfer.

HS Code and Regulatory Information

For import and export, 4-Bromophenol typically carries the Harmonized System (HS) Code 2908.99.90, categorized among halogenated derivatives of phenol. Regulatory oversight surrounds its production and use due to its role as both a valuable intermediate and a potentially hazardous substance. Each shipment should document purity, origin, and safety data, as required by both local and international standards. Buyers in the European Union, the United States, and Asia-Pacific regions recognize common material safety data sheet (MSDS) formats and seek GHS pictograms indicating necessary precautions.

Hazards, Safety, and Handling Precautions

Safe use of 4-Bromophenol matters from first contact through disposal. Direct skin exposure leads to irritation, and inhaling dust can provoke respiratory discomfort. Anyone handling it wears gloves, protective goggles, and works in well-ventilated areas or beneath fume hoods. Disposal follows chemical waste protocols prescribed for halogenated phenols. Facilities handling large quantities monitor airborne concentrations to avoid exceeding occupational exposure limits. Although not classed as acutely toxic, regular contact, accidental ingestion, or improper disposal harm human health and damage aquatic life.

Applications and Use as Raw Material

4-Bromophenol continues to show strong value as a building block in specialty chemical synthesis. Research chemists use it in pharmaceutical intermediates, agrochemical discovery, dyes, pigments, and advanced materials that depend on halogenated aromatics. Its predictable melting and boiling points, along with reliable purity profiles, foster consistent results whether in analytical chemistry, scale-up, or bulk manufacturing. By using 4-Bromophenol as a raw material, industries secure better yields for products demanding para-substituted aromatic rings, especially those needing precise positional selectivity. Each lot links back to a documented batch record, making quality assurance and traceability a reality, not just a checkbox.

Possible Solutions to Hazards and Improving Safety

Workers who routinely engage with 4-Bromophenol benefit when companies invest in localized ventilation, automated weighing, and enclosed transfer lines. Training on chemical hygiene, emergency response, and regular audits of storage practices improve workplace safety. By labeling containers and controlling access, facilities avoid unintended mixing or accidental release. Wastewater treatment systems equipped for halogenated organics help reduce environmental impact. When facilities partner directly with raw material suppliers, they can request custom batch sizes, tamper-resistant packaging, and enhanced documentation for all supply chain steps, promoting responsibility from source to end use.