Bromine (from Latin Bromum) Br

It occurs in admixtures of halite (Italy, France, Portugal, in Poland in the "Wieliczka" salt mine and in Bochnia).

A non-metal, at room temperature it is a dark brown volatile liquid, very chemically active. It has a characteristic unpleasant odor and dissolves in organic solvents. As a gas, it is toxic and may cause respiratory irritation. Its properties are similar to chlorine, but the atomic radius of bromine is larger than the atomic radius of chlorine.

HBr, NaBr, KBr, CaBr2, HBrO, FeBr3, HBrO3, AgBr

This element is obtained by treating sea water with chlorine. Bromides are oxidized to free bromine. The next stage of obtaining bromine is blowing it out with an air stream, its vapors are absorbed by a solution of sodium carbonate (Na2CO3). Acidification causes the release of bromine, which is separated by distillation.

Bromine, especially in the form of bromo-derivative compounds, is used in organic chemistry, especially in organic synthesis processes, and is also used in electronics, especially in the production of printed circuit boards, as an electroplating agent. Brominated compounds are used in the production of fire-resistant plastics that are used in the construction, automotive and electronics industries. It is used as a disinfectant in swimming pools, spas and hot tubs, similar to chlorine. Bromine also has uses in agricultural chemicals, insecticides, dyes, pharmaceuticals, flame retardants, furniture foam, gasoline, plastic housings for electronics and film photography.

The United States is the leader in bromine production in the world. Other important producers of this element are: Azerbaijan, China, India, Israel and Japan.

Bromine salts inhibit the production of testosterone, which affects the sex drive in men, formerly preparations containing bromine were used in the military to quiet the sex drive. Potassium bromide was the first commonly used drug for epilepsy, it had sedative properties and relieved seizures, however, this preparation was withdrawn due to its toxicity. The name bromine comes from the Greek word "bromos" meaning stink. The reddish-brown liquid evaporates easily, forming a red vapor with a strong chlorine-like odor. Bromine is dangerous; in its liquid state it is corrosive to human tissue, irritates the eyes and throat, and is highly toxic when inhaled as a vapor. Bromine damages many major organs, including the liver, kidneys, lungs and stomach, and in some cases can cause cancer. Bromine is also used to reduce mercury emissions by up to 90 percent from coal-fired power plants. Bromine added to the process oxidizes mercury, facilitating its recovery with emission control equipment.