Bromoacetyl bromide is widely used in the synthesis of fine chemicals, agrochemicals, dyes and pharmaceuticals. As an acylating agent, it reacts with 10H-phenothiazine to give 10-bromoacetyl-10H-phenothiazine. Similarly, it is also involved in the preparation of bromoactylated starch which is a biodegradable thermoplastic copolymer.
A water-white liquid with a pungent odor. Denser than water. Irritates skin, eyes and mucous membranes. May be toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. Used to make other chemicals.
Fumes in air. Reacts violently with water to form hydrobromic acid (HBr) (USCG 1991).
Bromoacetyl bromide is incompatible with water, with bases (including amines), with strong oxidizing agents, with alcohols. May react vigorously or explosively if mixed with diisopropyl ether or other ethers in the presence of trace amounts of metal salts [J. Haz. Mat., 1981, 4, 291]. Decomposes when heated with evolution of highly toxic and irritating hydrogen bromide and bromophosgene vapors.
Inhalation causes severe irritation of upper respiratory system. External contact causes severe irritation of eyes and skin. Ingestion causes severe irritation of mouth and stomach.
