Methyl Bromide Physicochemical Properties

Methyl Bromide (CAS: 74-83-9), alternatively known as bromomethane or, due to its structural features, monobromomethane, is categorized within the family of organic compounds. Its chemical formula is CH₃Br, with a molecular weight of 94.94. It has a melting/freezing point of -94°C and a boiling point of 3.6°C.

At standard temperature and pressure, Methyl Bromide exists as a colorless gas. It is almost odorless at low concentrations but develops a distinct chloroform-like aroma at higher concentrations. Although Methyl Bromide has limited solubility in water, it readily dissolves in various organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform, demonstrating good solvent properties.

Furthermore, Methyl Bromide possesses strong dissolving capabilities for natural rubber, making it a valuable asset in the rubber industry. In its pure form, it is non-corrosive to metals, ensuring safer and more reliable interactions with metallic materials. However, when in its liquid state, it can react with reactive metals like aluminum and magnesium, reminding us to be cautious of the risks associated with state changes when using it.

Methyl Bromide Primary Applications

Methyl Bromide consists of a reactive methyl (CH₃-) group and a stable bromine (Br-) atom. As a key participant in methylation, methylenation, and bromination reactions, it greatly enriches the toolkit of organic synthesis.

Plant Protection

Methyl Bromide is highly effective for controlling insects, bacteria, and rodents, and is frequently utilized as a fumigant for plant protection. However, it's important to note that methyl Bromide is categorized as an ozone-depleting substance (ODS), necessitating stringent regulatory oversight on its use. In China, the agricultural application of methyl Bromide is strictly limited to specific inspection and quarantine fumigation procedures aimed at ensuring the safety and compliance of imported and exported agricultural products. Conversely, its use in soil fumigation, which could potentially have a more significant environmental impact, has been banned outright.

Quarantine Fumigation

Whenever goods from foreign lands arrive at ports, quarantine fumigation serves as a necessary line of defense to prevent these goods from becoming vectors for harmful biological invasions. As the "star" of this defense, methyl Bromide is usually released into a closed treatment area, where it thoroughly penetrates every corner of the goods within a set timeframe, effectively killing pests and their eggs. Its key advantage is its rapid penetration of wood and other goods' surfaces, providing effective prevention and control.

Chemical Raw Materials

Methyl Bromide is commonly used for synthesizing organic compounds such as pharmaceutical intermediates, pesticide intermediates, fragrances, and flavors.

The Safety Protection of Methyl Bromide

Methyl Bromide is a highly volatile gas, and human exposure should not continuously exceed a concentration of 20ppm. This is the recommended threshold limit value (TLV) for an 8-hour exposure per day, according to the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. For higher concentrations, the maximum allowable exposure times, not to be exceeded more than once per week, are as follows:

· 7 hours at 100ppm

· 1 hour at 400ppm

· 5 minutes at 1000ppm

For any job tasks that may involve exposure to concentrations exceeding 20ppm, workers must wear respiratory protection, chemical protective clothing, and gloves specifically designed to safeguard against methyl Bromide. In workplaces and storage areas, it is essential to have instruments or alarms for detecting methyl Bromide concentrations, spray equipment, and necessary ventilation facilities.

Furthermore, to ensure a safe working environment, workplaces and storage areas where methyl Bromide is handled and stored should be equipped with advanced concentration detection instruments or alarms to monitor real-time changes in the air's methyl Bromide concentration. Additionally, installing spray systems and maintaining effective ventilation facilities are crucial, as they can quickly reduce the air's methyl Bromide concentration during emergencies, thereby protecting the life and health of personnel.

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