1-Bromo-5-Chloropentane: Product Overview, Properties, and Uses

What is 1-Bromo-5-Chloropentane?

1-Bromo-5-chloropentane is an organic chemical with the molecular formula C5H10BrCl. This compound features a five-carbon straight-chain alkane backbone, where a chlorine atom attaches to carbon number five and a bromine atom sits on carbon number one. Identifying the structure in day-to-day laboratory settings is pretty straightforward for experienced chemists—clear liquid, faint but sharp smell, and not something you’d confuse with typical consumer-grade chemicals. The IUPAC name highlights its origins in halogenation chemistry and gives a hint about its use in organic synthesis. Many in research and industry rely on its reactivity and dual halogen groups to build larger, more complex molecules with specific reactive ends.

Structure and Molecular Details

The structure of 1-bromo-5-chloropentane looks simple on paper, but its combination of polar and nonpolar regions lets it serve as a reliable intermediate for further chemical modification. The compound contains both a bromine and a chlorine atom. Each brings a different level of reactivity to the compound, making it valuable for stepwise chemical reactions. The linear five-carbon chain acts as a stable scaffold. That gives manufacturers flexibility when they want to create new specialty chemicals or pharmaceutical intermediates. In personal experience, handling it always requires careful labeling and separation from nucleophilic substances due to the bromine and chlorine, which are eager to swap places in the right reactions.

Physical Properties

1-Bromo-5-chloropentane appears as a dense, colorless to pale yellow liquid at standard conditions. It doesn’t tend to form flakes, powders, or crystals under normal storage, but cooling can sometimes cause crystallization. Density averages around 1.37 g/mL at 25°C—this significant heft tells you there’s more than just carbon and hydrogen in the mix. It’s non-miscible with water and floats in heavier organic solvents like dichloromethane. Boiling point falls in the range of 180–185°C, which means standard glassware handles it fine, though proper ventilation remains necessary at higher temperatures. Most labs store it away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition because of halogen content and potential degradation.

Specifications and HS Code

On the paperwork side, 1-bromo-5-chloropentane typically ships under HS Code 2903.39—halogenated derivatives of acyclic hydrocarbons. Commercial samples arrive with purity levels stated up to 98%, along with GC or NMR analyses verifying identity. Bulk orders usually demand tighter controls on moisture, neutralization number, and absence of secondary impurities like dibromopentanes or dichloropentanes. Containers use either amber glass or HDPE drums to avoid light and airborne moisture exposure, since halides don’t always play nicely with steel or reactive plastic.

Applications and Raw Material Use

This compound acts as an essential starting material in both research and full-scale manufacturing. It serves as an alkylating agent for synthesizing pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, or specialty polymers. From first-hand runs in the lab, alkyl halides like this let you attach functional groups or protective groups where you want them, specifically at the alpha and omega ends of a carbon chain. The dual-halogen nature helps chemists introduce sequential substitutions, making it a staple in building complex molecules with controlled stepwise reactivity. Its role isn’t glamorous but proves essential for industries chasing high-value chemical products.

Handling, Safety, and Regulatory Status

Chemists take extra care around 1-bromo-5-chloropentane. Although it looks unassuming, this liquid packs significant hazards. Inhalation or skin contact causes irritation, and overexposure threatens more serious systemic effects due to both brominated and chlorinated content. Proper handling involves gloves resistant to halogenated solvents, goggles, and working within well-ventilated fume hoods. Spills require immediate cleanup with absorbent materials, keeping the area away from sources of ignition to reduce risk of hazardous byproducts. In case of storage, workers avoid mixing containers with acids or strong bases. MSDS sheets urge long-term health monitoring for those regularly exposed. In my experience, small splashes could cause rapid skin stinging, highlighting the need for diligent safety routines.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Disposal of any halogenated organic comes with environmental risks, and 1-bromo-5-chloropentane is no exception. Release into groundwater or soil causes harm to aquatic life and persists in the environment due to its resistant structure. Waste handling involves high-temperature incineration with scrubbing, never regular landfill. Chemical laboratories register waste streams and treatment methods to local regulatory authorities to ensure public and ecological health protection. Routine air and water monitoring in industrial settings keeps everyone honest about potential leaks or emissions. Careful stewardship protects workers today and local populations tomorrow from complex health effects tied to halogenated compounds.

Final Thoughts on 1-Bromo-5-Chloropentane

In the world of raw materials, 1-bromo-5-chloropentane sits in a unique place, bridging the gap between commodity chemicals and specialty molecules. Its value comes from a straightforward molecular structure that delivers chemical versatility and reactivity. Facilities using it need solid protocols, not just to meet regulatory standards, but to keep people and communities safe. As regulations evolve with advances in chemical knowledge, the future of using and handling halogenated alkyl compounds will call for even greater diligence, from better engineering controls in production to smarter waste management. Practically, anyone working with 1-bromo-5-chloropentane needs good habits—labeling, proper storage, effective PPE, and routine checks on facility safety—to maintain smooth and responsible operations.