In the intricate world of chemical synthesis, understanding the properties and applications of key intermediates is fundamental for driving innovation and efficient production. 2,4-Dibromothiophene (CAS: 3140-92-9) is one such compound that has garnered significant attention due to its versatile chemical nature and broad utility across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, material science, and agrochemicals. This article provides an in-depth look at its chemical characteristics and explores its multifaceted applications, highlighting why it's a sought-after intermediate for manufacturers and researchers alike.

Chemical Profile of 2,4-Dibromothiophene

2,4-Dibromothiophene is an organobromine compound featuring a five-membered heterocyclic ring containing a sulfur atom (thiophene) substituted with two bromine atoms at the 2 and 4 positions. Its molecular formula is C4H2Br2S, and its molecular weight is approximately 241.93 g/mol. Key physical and chemical properties include:

  • Appearance: It typically presents as a clear liquid, often described as colorless to light yellow or pale orange.
  • Boiling Point: Reports indicate a boiling point around 215°C at atmospheric pressure, though specific values may vary slightly depending on purity and measurement conditions (e.g., 97°C at 10 mmHg).
  • Melting Point: The melting point is reported as -26.3°C, confirming its liquid state at room temperature.
  • Density: Its density is around 2.14 g/mL, making it denser than water.
  • Solubility: 2,4-Dibromothiophene is generally soluble in common organic solvents such as chloroform, methanol, and ethyl acetate but is practically insoluble in water.
  • Reactivity: The electron-withdrawing nature of the bromine atoms influences the electron distribution within the thiophene ring, enhancing its reactivity in electrophilic substitution reactions and making the bromine atoms amenable to displacement via various metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions. This dual reactivity is key to its utility as a synthetic intermediate.

Broad Spectrum of Applications

The chemical versatility of 2,4-Dibromothiophene translates into a wide array of applications, making it an indispensable compound for many industrial and research purposes:

  • Pharmaceutical Intermediates: It is a crucial building block for synthesizing Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and other medicinal compounds. Its thiophene core is prevalent in many drugs, and the bromine substituents allow for precise functionalization to achieve desired biological activities. Buyers often seek high-purity grades for pharmaceutical synthesis.
  • Material Science: In the field of advanced materials, 2,4-Dibromothiophene is used in the synthesis of conjugated polymers and small molecules for organic electronics. These materials are vital for the development of organic semiconductors, OLEDs, and organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices, contributing to flexibility, lightweight designs, and cost-effective manufacturing.
  • Agrochemicals: The compound serves as an intermediate in the production of pesticides, including herbicides and fungicides. Its structure can be modified to create compounds that effectively protect crops from weeds and fungal diseases, thus improving agricultural productivity.
  • Organic Synthesis Research: As a reactive building block, it is widely used in academic and industrial research laboratories for exploring new chemical reactions, synthesizing novel organic compounds, and developing advanced synthetic methodologies.

Sourcing 2,4-Dibromothiophene

For professionals seeking to buy 2,4-Dibromothiophene, whether for R&D or bulk manufacturing, identifying a reliable manufacturer or supplier is essential. Companies looking for high-quality intermediates can find competitive pricing and dependable supply from manufacturers in China. When inquiring, always specify your purity requirements and intended application to ensure you receive the most suitable product and accurate pricing. A thorough understanding of its chemical properties will enable you to leverage its full potential in your innovative projects.