Ethyl bromide

Ethyl bromide (CAS 74-96-4), also known as bromic ether, is a low-boiling alkylating and brominating agent used across pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical manufacturing, and specialty chemical production. Its reactivity as an ethylating agent makes it a preferred building block where controlled carbon-chain extension is required at industrial scale. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it functions as a key intermediate.

It is particularly useful where N- or O-ethylation reactions are required. Agrochemical producers use it to prepare herbicide and pesticide intermediates, where precise alkylation chemistry determines efficacy. In plastics and polymer processing, it contributes to flame retardant formulations, helping compounders meet fire-resistance specifications in finished materials. This ensures safety in various industrial applications.

Textile and leather processors have historically employed it as a solvent carrier in specialty treatment baths. This is especially true where controlled evaporation rates are operationally critical for the process. Ethyl bromide is supplied as a liquid in drums and ISO tank containers, with quantities ranging from laboratory to bulk industrial volumes. Technical grade is the standard commercial offering for most users.

High-purity grades are available to meet pharmaceutical intermediate specifications. Buyers should confirm purity thresholds and stabilizer content with suppliers, as these vary by the intended downstream application.