Dibromomethane

Dibromomethane is an organobromine compound with the chemical formula CH2Br2 and CAS number 74-95-3. This halogenated methane derivative has a molecular weight of 173.83 g/mol and appears as a colorless liquid at room temperature. It belongs to the family of dihalomethanes and is classified as a moderate health hazard under GHS regulations, carrying the warning signal word and GHS07 pictogram for its acute toxicity properties.

Dibromomethane is a dense, colorless liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor at room temperature. It has a high density compared to water and exhibits limited water solubility but dissolves readily in organic solvents such as alcohol, ether, and acetone. The compound is non-flammable under normal conditions and has a relatively high boiling point due to the presence of two bromine atoms, making it stable under standard handling conditions.

Dibromomethane serves primarily as a laboratory reagent and chemical intermediate in organic synthesis reactions. It is commonly used in pharmaceutical manufacturing, agricultural chemical production, and as a solvent for specialized applications. The compound also finds use in analytical chemistry procedures and as a methylenating agent in various chemical processes. Its unique properties make it valuable in research and development applications requiring controlled reactivity.

Dibromomethane handling requires appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing due to its Acute Tox. 4 classification. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to prevent inhalation exposure. Avoid direct skin contact and ensure proper ventilation systems are operational. Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers should be readily accessible when working with this substance.

Dibromomethane storage requires cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Containers should be tightly sealed and stored in secondary containment to prevent environmental release. Keep away from incompatible materials such as strong bases and oxidizing agents. Storage areas must comply with local regulations for hazardous substances and include appropriate spill containment measures to address the compound's aquatic chronic toxicity classification.

Skin contact with dibromomethane requires immediate removal of contaminated clothing and thorough washing with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. For eye contact, flush immediately with clean water for 15-20 minutes while holding eyelids open. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms develop. In case of ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical assistance while providing safety data sheet information to healthcare providers.

Dibromomethane disposal must comply with local and national hazardous waste regulations as it cannot be disposed of through regular waste streams. The substance should be collected in appropriate containers and handed over to licensed hazardous waste disposal companies. Due to its aquatic chronic toxicity classification, prevent any release to water systems or soil. Consult local environmental authorities for specific disposal requirements and approved treatment facilities in your region.

Dibromomethane transport falls under ADR Class 6.1 (toxic substances) Packing Group III regulations for road transport in Europe. Packages must bear appropriate hazard labels and comply with UN packaging requirements for toxic liquids. Transport documentation must include proper shipping names, hazard classes, and emergency response information. Drivers require ADR training certification, and vehicles must carry appropriate emergency equipment as specified in transportation regulations.

Dibromomethane is subject to REACH regulation requirements in Europe, including registration obligations for importers and manufacturers. The substance falls under CLP regulation with mandatory hazard classification as Acute Tox. 4 and Aquatic Chronic 3. While not currently listed as a SVHC substance, users must comply with occupational exposure limits and environmental protection measures. Regular monitoring of regulatory updates is essential as classifications may change based on new scientific data.

Dibromomethane is available through OYSI, a specialized European distributor of technical chemicals serving industrial and research customers across the continent. OYSI provides quality-assured dibromomethane with complete documentation including certificates of analysis, safety data sheets, and regulatory compliance information. As a professional chemical supplier, OYSI ensures proper packaging, labeling, and transport documentation to meet European chemical distribution standards and customer specifications.