21739-92-4 (5-Bromo-2-Chlorobenzoic Acid): Chemical Properties, Uses, and Safety Overview

Introduction

5-Bromo-2-chlorobenzoic acid (CAS No. 21739-92-4) is a halogen-substituted aromatic carboxylic acid widely used as a key intermediate in pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and specialty chemical synthesis. The presence of both bromine and chlorine substituents on the benzene ring enhances its chemical reactivity, making it valuable for advanced organic transformations.

This article provides a detailed overview of 21739-92-4 (5-Bromo-2-chlorobenzoic acid), including its chemical properties, industrial applications, and essential safety considerations.


Chemical Identity and Structure

  • Chemical Name: 5-Bromo-2-chlorobenzoic acid

  • CAS Number: 21739-92-4

  • Molecular Formula: C₇H₄BrClO₂

  • Molecular Weight: ~235.46 g/mol

  • IUPAC Name: 5-Bromo-2-chlorobenzoic acid

  • Chemical Class: Halogenated aromatic carboxylic acid

Structural Features

  • Benzene ring substituted with:

    • Carboxylic acid (-COOH) functional group

    • Bromine (Br) at the 5-position

    • Chlorine (Cl) at the 2-position

This substitution pattern makes the compound highly suitable for cross-coupling reactions and functional group modifications.


Physical and Chemical Properties

Property
Description
Appearance
White to off-white crystalline powder
Odor
Odorless or faint
Solubility
Slightly soluble in water; soluble in organic solvents
Melting Point
Moderate to high
Stability
Stable under recommended storage conditions

Chemical Characteristics

  • Weak organic acid behavior

  • Excellent reactivity in Suzuki, Heck, and nucleophilic substitution reactions

  • Suitable for halogen exchange and derivatization


Applications of 21739-92-4 (5-Bromo-2-Chlorobenzoic Acid)

1. Pharmaceutical Industry

  • Intermediate in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)

  • Used in the development of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and oncology-related compounds

  • Valuable building block in medicinal chemistry research


2. Agrochemical Manufacturing

  • Used in the synthesis of herbicides, fungicides, and pesticide intermediates

  • Supports development of high-efficiency crop protection products


3. Fine and Specialty Chemicals

  • Precursor for custom organic synthesis

  • Used in dye, pigment, and specialty material manufacturing

  • Suitable for scale-up chemical production


4. Research and Development

  • Commonly used in organic synthesis laboratories

  • Ideal for reaction pathway optimization and chemical innovation


Manufacturing and Synthesis Overview

5-Bromo-2-chlorobenzoic acid is typically produced through:

  • Halogenation of benzoic acid derivatives

  • Controlled aromatic substitution reactions

  • Purification using crystallization or filtration methods

High-purity grades are supplied to meet industrial and research-grade requirements.


Safety and Handling Information

Potential Hazards

  • May cause skin and eye irritation

  • Harmful if swallowed or inhaled in large quantities

  • Dust may cause respiratory discomfort

Handling Precautions

  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

  • Handle in well-ventilated areas

  • Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes

Storage Guidelines

  • Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place

  • Keep container tightly sealed

  • Protect from moisture and direct sunlight


Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

  • Dispose according to local environmental regulations

  • Avoid release into soil and water systems

  • Review Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use

The compound is generally supplied in compliance with international chemical transport and safety standards.


Quality Standards and Packaging

  • Typical purity: ≥98%

  • Supplied with Certificate of Analysis (COA)

  • Secure packaging to ensure stability during transportation


Conclusion

21739-92-4 (5-Bromo-2-chlorobenzoic acid) is an essential halogenated aromatic intermediate used across pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and specialty chemical industries. Its well-defined chemical properties and broad applicability make it a reliable choice for manufacturers and researchers.