Potassium Bromide (KBr): Properties, Uses, and Safety Guidelines

Potassium Bromide (KBr) is an inorganic salt widely used in various industries, from pharmaceuticals and photography to chemical synthesis and analytical laboratories. Known for its ability to form stable bromide salts, potassium bromide has a broad range of applications due to its versatile chemical properties.

In this blog, we’ll explore Potassium Bromide’s chemical properties, key applications, and health and safety considerations to ensure safe handling and effective use across different sectors.

What is Potassium Bromide?

Chemical Formula: KBr
IUPAC Name: Potassium bromide
CAS Number: 7758-02-3
Molar Mass: 119.00 g/mol

Potassium bromide is a white, crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is typically produced by reacting potassium hydroxide (KOH) with hydrobromic acid (HBr). KBr is also produced in large quantities in the chemical industry as a precursor to other bromide salts or as a brominating agent in organic synthesis.

Key Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Value
Appearance	White crystalline powder or solid
Molecular Weight	119.00 g/mol
Boiling Point	1435°C (2615°F)
Melting Point	734°C (1353°F)
Density	2.75 g/cm³
Solubility	Soluble in water (50g/100mL at 20°C)
pH	Neutral (7) in aqueous solution
Flash Point	Non-flammable

Applications of Potassium Bromide

1. Pharmaceuticals (Sedative and Anticonvulsant)

Historically, Potassium Bromide was used as a sedative and anticonvulsant in the treatment of epilepsy and anxiety disorders, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Although it has largely been replaced by more effective medications, it is still utilized in some countries as a last-resort treatment for severe epilepsy. Its ability to calm the central nervous system made it a valuable therapeutic agent.

2. Photography and Imaging

Potassium Bromide plays a critical role in the photographic industry:

It is used as a part of photographic chemicals for developing film. KBr helps control the activity of silver halides during the film development process, influencing the contrast and sharpness of the final image.
It is also used in X-ray imaging and radiography for similar purposes in medical imaging.

3. Chemical Synthesis and Laboratory Applications

Potassium Bromide is frequently used as a source of bromine in various chemical reactions and is involved in the bromination of organic compounds. It serves as an important reagent in:

Electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions.
Synthesis of organic bromides for use in other organic compounds.
Bromine extraction from seawater or natural brine deposits.

It is also used in quantitative analysis for measuring bromine content in solutions and spectroscopic analysis due to its wide transparency in infrared (IR) spectroscopy.

4. Flame Retardants

Potassium Bromide is sometimes used as a flame retardant in certain applications, including the production of plastics and textiles. It works by inhibiting combustion and reducing the spread of fire when applied to materials like fabrics or polymers.

5. Water Treatment and Disinfection

In some cases, Potassium Bromide is used in water treatment processes, particularly in swimming pools and cooling towers, where it helps in bromine generation to disinfect water and prevent the growth of bacteria and algae.

6. Animal Feed Additive

In the agricultural industry, Potassium Bromide is used in trace amounts as an additive in animal feed to promote growth, although it is regulated to ensure safety and avoid toxicity in livestock.

Health and Safety Considerations

WARNING: Potassium Bromide is generally considered safe when handled properly, but it can pose health risks if mishandled.

Health Effects:

Inhalation: Breathing in Potassium Bromide dust or vapors may cause respiratory irritation, coughing, or shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can lead to more severe respiratory effects.
Skin Contact: Direct contact with KBr may cause mild irritation or dryness to the skin, especially with prolonged exposure. Avoid prolonged contact.
Eye Contact: Potassium Bromide can cause mild irritation to the eyes. Flush immediately with water if contact occurs.
Ingestion: Swallowing large amounts can lead to nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort. If large amounts are ingested, seek medical attention immediately.

Note: Potassium Bromide is usually considered low toxicity, but chronic exposure (such as long-term contact in large quantities) can cause bromide toxicity (known as bromism) resulting in symptoms like skin rash, fatigue, and central nervous system disorders. Always use appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

Fire and Explosion Hazards:

Non-flammable: Potassium Bromide is not flammable and does not present a significant fire hazard in normal conditions.
However, reacting with strong oxidizers or heat could result in the production of toxic gases such as bromine vapors.

Environmental Concerns:

Potassium Bromide is toxic to aquatic life and should be disposed of properly to avoid contamination of water systems.
Ensure that large amounts do not enter drains or natural waterways, and follow local regulatory guidelines for safe disposal.

Storage and Handling Guidelines

Storage:

Store Potassium Bromide in airtight containers made of stainless steel or plastic in a cool, dry area.
Label containers properly with appropriate hazard warnings for toxicological and environmental concerns.
Avoid storing it near strong acids or oxidizing agents, as these could result in dangerous reactions.

Handling:

When handling Potassium Bromide, always wear appropriate PPE such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats.
Use fume hoods or ensure adequate ventilation when handling the chemical in large quantities or when creating dust.
Avoid generating dust or exposing KBr to heat or strong oxidizers.

First Aid Measures:

Skin Contact: Wash the affected area with soap and water immediately. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.
Eye Contact: Rinse the eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, holding eyelids open. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Inhalation: Remove the person to fresh air immediately. If symptoms continue, get medical attention.
Ingestion: If large amounts are ingested, do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.

Market Outlook and Demand for Potassium Bromide

Potassium Bromide continues to be in demand due to its critical applications in industries like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, photography, and water treatment. The growth of global pharmaceutical production, especially in developing regions like Asia and South America, will continue to drive demand for KBr as a key intermediate and sedative agent.

Additionally, the use of brominated compounds in flame retardants and photographic imaging ensures the ongoing market need for Potassium Bromide.

Conclusion

Potassium Bromide is a vital inorganic salt with broad applications across several industries, including pharmaceuticals, photography, chemical synthesis, and water treatment. It plays an important role in chemical reactions, medication formulations, and photographic development, while also being an essential reagent in analytical laboratories.

As a relatively low-toxicity compound, it is important to handle Potassium Bromide with care, following proper safety protocols to minimize any health risks or environmental hazards.

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