Bronopol

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Bronopol (2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol) is a water-soluble, white crystalline powder or granules with a slight odor. It is a synthetic antimicrobial agent widely used as a preservative in personal care products, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial applications. Bronopol exhibits broad-spectrum bactericidal and fungicidal activity, making it effective against a wide range of microorganisms. It works by releasing active formaldehyde slowly, which disrupts microbial metabolism and reproduction.

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Categories: Disinfectants and Biocides, Preservatives Tags: Bronopol, Cosmetic preservative, Industrial biocide, Personal care product additive, Pharmaceutical preservative, Water treatment preservative, White crystalline powder

Description

Table of Contents

Bronopol

Primary Uses

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Used as a preservative in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, creams, and other cosmetic formulations to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth.
Helps extend shelf life and maintain product integrity by preventing microbial contamination.

Pharmaceuticals

Employed as a preservative in topical pharmaceutical formulations such as ointments and eye drops.

Industrial Applications

Used as a biocide in paper mills, cooling water systems, and other industrial water treatment to control microbial growth and biofilm formation.
Applied in leather tanning and textile processing to prevent microbial degradation.

Secondary Uses

Household Products

Incorporated in cleaning agents and detergents as a preservative and antimicrobial agent.

Agriculture

Occasionally used in seed treatment formulations to control fungal contamination.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): 2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol
Common/Trade Name: Bronopol
CAS Number: 52-51-7
HS Code: 2924.99.90
Molecular Formula: C3H6BrNO4
Synonyms:
- Bronopol
- 2-Bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol
- BNPD

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: White; slight characteristic odor
Melting Point: 130–132°C (decomposes)
Boiling Point: Not applicable (decomposes)
Density: Approx. 1.8 g/cm³
Solubility: Soluble in water; insoluble in most organic solvents
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral in aqueous solution
Stability: Stable under recommended storage; decomposes under alkaline conditions or heat

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Skin irritant; may cause serious eye irritation; harmful if swallowed
NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 1
Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA limits; avoid inhalation and skin contact
Toxicity: Moderate toxicity; can cause skin sensitization and allergic reactions in some individuals
Reactivity: Reactive with strong acids, bases, and oxidizing agents

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances
Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers, corrosion-resistant
Shelf Life: Typically 2–3 years if stored properly
Special Handling: Avoid dust formation; use PPE; handle in well-ventilated areas

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Approved for limited use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as a preservative
REACH Registration: Registered under EU regulations
Transportation: Not classified as hazardous for transport under normal conditions
Waste Disposal: Dispose of as chemical waste in accordance with local regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Moderately toxic to aquatic organisms; avoid release into waterways
Persistence: Degrades slowly in the environment
Bioaccumulation: Low potential for bioaccumulation
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic; some concern for mutagenicity at high concentrations
Biodegradability: Partial biodegradability under aerobic conditions

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Gloves
Protective goggles
Dust mask or respirator if dust exposure is likely
Protective clothing

Handling Measures:

Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and skin or eye contact
Use local exhaust ventilation to minimize dust
Work in well-ventilated areas

Storage Measures:

Keep containers tightly closed
Protect from moisture, heat, and incompatible materials

Hygiene Practices:

Wash hands thoroughly after handling
Do not eat, drink, or smoke in work areas

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur
Skin Contact: Wash immediately with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical attention
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek medical attention immediately

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible; emits toxic gases on decomposition
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ as appropriate
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and SCBA
Decomposition Products: May produce bromine, nitrogen oxides, and other toxic fumes when heated