Kaliumbromide

Kaliumbromide, or potassium bromide (chemical formula KBr), is an inorganic salt that consists of potassium ions (K+) and bromide ions (Br−). It forms a white, odorless crystalline solid and is highly soluble in water. In solid form it has a relatively high melting point of about 734 °C and a density near 3.1 g/cm³. Its aqueous solution is essentially neutral.

Production and occurrence

Industrial potassium bromide is produced primarily by treating bromine-containing sources with potassium-containing solutions or by neutralizing hydrobromic acid with potassium hydroxide. It can also be obtained from brine processing and subsequent chemical transformations. Potassium bromide is not a common naturally occurring mineral; it occurs in small amounts in saline environments and is typically manufactured for commercial use.

Applications

Historically, potassium bromide has been used as a sedative and anticonvulsant in human medicine, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today it is still used in veterinary medicine as an adjunct treatment for seizures in dogs. In photography, potassium bromide has been used in bromide-based emulsions and as a restrainer in certain historical developers. It also serves as a chemical reagent and starting material in various bromide chemistry applications.

Safety and handling

Potassium bromide is a salt that should be handled with standard laboratory precautions. Crystalline or powdered forms can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Chronic exposure to bromide ions can lead to bromism, a condition affecting the nervous system. It should be stored in a dry place away from strong oxidizers. As with all chemical compounds, proper safety data sheets and local regulations should be consulted before use.