12dibromoethane

1,2-Dibromoethane, also known as ethylene dibromide (EDB), is an organobromine compound with the formula C2H4Br2. It is a vicinal dibromide derived from ethylene, with bromine atoms attached to adjacent carbons of the ethylene core. At room temperature it is typically a colorless to pale yellow liquid, with a sharp odor, and it is soluble in many organic solvents while only sparingly soluble in water. It can be prepared by the direct bromination of ethylene, adding bromine across the carbon–carbon double bond.

Ethylene dibromide is discussed primarily for its historical uses and safety profile. It has been used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of brominated compounds and, in the past, as a gasoline additive to scavenge lead tetraethyl for tetraethyl leaded gasoline. It has also been employed as a soil fumigant and pesticide, though such applications are now highly restricted or banned in many jurisdictions due to health and environmental concerns. The compound readily undergoes hydrolysis and can be converted to ethylene glycol under suitable conditions; it also reacts with bases to release bromide ions.

Safety and regulation are central to considerations of ethylene dibromide. It is highly toxic and irritant to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, and there is substantial concern about its potential carcinogenic and teratogenic effects with prolonged or high-level exposure. Because of these hazards, its production, use, handling, and disposal are subject to stringent regulatory controls and occupational safety measures. In many places, its use as a fumigant or gasoline additive has been eliminated or strictly prohibited, with waste managed as hazardous material.