8-Bromooctanoic Acid stands out as a versatile chemical compound, classified under organobromine derivatives. Its molecular formula, C8H15BrO2, and molecular weight near 223.11 g/mol, place it among the longer-chain fatty acids with a bromine atom on the eighth carbon. With its IUPAC name, 8-bromooctanoic acid, this substance finds its structure as a straight-chain carboxylic acid eight carbons long, where a bromine atom attaches at the terminal position furthest from the acid group. This combination of alkyl chain and reactive halogen opens up countless possibilities in laboratory synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemical manufacturing.
Examining this molecule reveals a carboxylic acid with a linear, unbranched core, capped on one side by a bromine substituent. The solid form appears as white or off-white crystalline flakes or powder, displaying good stability at room temperature. The density averages around 1.404 g/cm³. It melts between 29°C and 33°C, which means it transitions easily from solid to liquid during standard handling processes. For solubility, it dissolves readily in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform—less so in water. Its pKa measures near 4.8, so it presents as a weak acid in solution. The octanol-water partition coefficient (logP) values give insight into its lipid affinity, often guiding chemists aiming to balance hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions in synthesized molecules. The raw material offers flexibility using different forms—crystal, flakes, powder, sometimes pearls or even as a prepared liquid solution, depending on downstream requirements.
For import, trade, or regulatory tracking, 8-Bromooctanoic Acid routes under the HS Code 291590 (Carboxylic Acid Group Compounds, Chlorine, Bromine, or Iodine Set). This code matches compounds where halogen functionalization alters typical carboxylate properties. Industrially, purity levels above 97% are common, with low moisture content essential to prevent hydrolysis during storage. Each batch comes with a specific assay, tested for bromine content, acidity, and trace metal impurities. Suppliers list density, melting point, MSDS data, and safety metrics directly, so handlers can quickly understand any hazardous material implications during transport, warehousing, and use. Consistent form—whether solid or solution—streamlines measurement and mixing. Standard packaging includes tightly sealed bottles or drums, designed to block moisture and keep the material stable throughout its shelf life.
Chemists choose 8-Bromooctanoic Acid as a raw material for synthesizing advanced pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and surfactants. The long hydrophobic tail combined with a reactive bromine atom makes it useful for modifying molecules where increased chain length brings unique properties. Chemical engineers use it in creating specialty esters, amides, and building blocks for further functionalization. Given its balance between a fatty acid and a halogen, the acid often finds its way into materials research as well, especially where selective reactivity or controlled hydrophobicity matters. Academic labs prize it for its reliable reactivity in nucleophilic substitution reactions and as a precursor for synthesizing broader classes of organobromine compounds. This particularity shows the importance of understanding physical and chemical properties when selecting a raw material, as the success of an experiment or industrial process might depend on the form and purity of 8-Bromooctanoic Acid used.
Safety takes front seat with organobromine compounds, and 8-Bromooctanoic Acid is no different. Its solid form irritates eyes, skin, and respiratory passages, so gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation become part of any handling routine. The acid, if mishandled or inhaled in powdered forms, can cause respiratory distress and burning sensations, while direct skin contact can lead to rashes or irritation. Under many conditions, this compound classifies as harmful or hazardous, warranting storage away from heat or incompatible substances, like strong bases or oxidizers. Personal experience shows that clean workspaces, double sealing in labeled containers, and careful weighing avoid exposure events and cross-contamination risks. Anyone storing the material needs to consult the supplied hazardous material sheets, which break down specifics, such as what happens if a spill occurs, or how to handle waste. Emergency procedures stress washing with water for skin exposure and getting outside assistance for inhalation. Consistent review of safety data ensures everyone using 8-Bromooctanoic Acid knows both the hazards and how to minimize them.
Every lab or factory using 8-Bromooctanoic Acid faces challenges balancing effectiveness with safety. Stocking only the needed amount, rotating inventory, and choosing the right form for the job help reduce accidents and wasted material. Upstream, manufacturers invest in refining purity and form, lowering the presence of harmful byproducts. Downstream, waste treatment strategies must keep halogenated acids out of water streams through neutralization, carbon adsorption, or incineration in controlled facilities. Sustainable sourcing of raw materials also matters, as global demand for specialty brominated acids pushes for greener production methods using less toxic reagents. Regular training and updates on regulations such as GHS classifications reduce workplace incidents. Teams that adopt a culture of vigilance and communication, paired with technical knowledge of material properties, consistently get better outcomes—safer experiments, fewer lost batches, higher quality final products. These steps build on the foundation of understanding both the chemical structure and practical behavior of the acid, tightening control from the warehouse to the benchtop.
