What is Bromine?

Definition

Bromine is a chemical element that is one of 118 elements that appear on the periodic table. Bromine’s appearance in liquid form (in an ambient temperature) is a deep-red, oily liquid. As it evaporates from an ambient state into a gas, a similar-coloured gas is produced. Bromine is toxic to humans and hazardous to health. If you experience a spill or accident we strongly recommend you hire a professional bromine cleanup service immediately.

Element 35 (Bromine) is well known for its sharp, chemical smell.

5 Facts about Bromine

Besides its chemical properties seen on the periodic table above, it poses some interesting facts including:

• It was discovered in 1826 by German scientists Antoine Jérôme Balard and Carl Jacob Löwig
• Toxic to humans
• Bromine is the Earth’s 44th most common element
• The name bromine derives from Greek term for “stench”
• Historically bromine was used as a sedative

Bromine Uses

It is used in various sectors including agricultural, manufacturing and medical spaces. Listed below are some of the most common examples of where bromine can found are:

• Seawater
• Pesticides
• Plastics
• Dyes
• Flame retardants (fire safety equipment used to suppress fires)

Further examples of bromines usage can also been seen across various different sectors including the following.

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Swimming Pools / Water Treatments

Used as an alternative to chlorine, bromine is an alternative substance used for various disinfectants to prevent algae and microorganisms in swimming pools.

Pharmaceuticals

It is contained in various over-the-counter prescription drugs to treat a multitude of health issues. Bromide ions have the ability to decrease the sensitivity of the central nervous system which makes them effective for use as sedatives, anti-epileptics, and tranquilisers.

Photography

The most well-known use of bromine is in making photographic films. Silver bromide is light-sensitive and is used to manufacture photography plates. Its microscopic particles when exposed to light, undergo a change as a result of chemical reaction.

Where Is It On The Periodic Table?

Abbreviated on the periodic table as Br, has an atomic number of 35. The element has many other properties including:

Bromine Poisoning

The vapours are harmful in both a liquid state and vapor state; especially if the element has been inhaled or exposed to the skin. The element irritates the skin and tissues that it comes into direct contact with.

You can assess whether bromine poisoning depending on how much bromine the individual has been exposed to and the duration of time they have been exposed for. Certain factors should also be considered for the individual who has been exposed including any existing medical health issues alongside considering their age.

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If you come into contact with bromine, avoid making any touch contact with the substance. Remove any items of clothing contaminated and place these into a double wrapped plastic bag. Avoid touching your clothes with your hands, instead use tongs or similar objects to place the clothes in the plastic bag. Dispose of any other objects that have come into contact with the element.

According to Waste Management guidelines, bromine is categorised as a hazardous substance and should always be disposed off by an accredited hazard waste carrier. Ideal Response have successfully dealt with a range of small and large-scale bromine spill cleaning projects throughout the UK.

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