1-Bromo-3-Chloro-5,5-Dimethylhydantoin, commonly called BCDMH, belongs to the family of halogenated hydantoins. Chemists use this material in a range of disinfection processes, water treatment, and sanitization. The molecular formula stands as C5H6BrClN2O2. Each molecule brings together a core hydantoin ring substituted with both a bromine and a chlorine atom, as well as a pair of methyl groups locked on the five-position. The chemical structure offers a unique balance of reactivity and stability, making it a top choice where reliable microbial control is important.
BCDMH comes in a variety of physical forms suited to different situations. Industries most frequently encounter flakes, solid powder, granular pearls, or even pressed tablets, each designed to deliver measured dosages. The color ranges from white to off-white, though subtle yellowing might appear as the product ages or absorbs moisture. Solid forms of BCDMH remain stable under cool, dry storage, with only low to moderate solubility in water—typically measured at around 0.2g per 100mL at room temperature. The density sits around 1.8 to 2.0 g/cm³, so it can settle quickly through municipal water tanks or swimming pool reservoirs. As it dissolves, BCDMH releases both hypobromous and hypochlorous acid, two powerful agents against bacteria, viruses, algae, and fungi.
BCDMH’s chemical structure holds the secret to its effectiveness. The parent hydantoin ring stabilizes high-energy halogen atoms, so the compound remains shelf-stable in storage but activates rapidly during use. On closer look, the molecule’s bromo and chloro substituents work in tandem, giving it a wide antimicrobial spectrum that beats many older single-halogen chemicals. The molecular weight comes in at 241.48 g/mol. Each batch usually meets strict purity specifications—most industrial sources quote a minimum assay of 98%. In pool and spa cleaner manufacturing or cooling tower water treatment, formulators select BCDMH precisely because its dual halogen sources mean fewer required additives for complete disinfection.
On a typical certificate of analysis, you’ll see purity percentages, particle size distribution (for powders or granules), volatile content, and melting point, which commonly falls in the 158 to 163°C range. Moisture content rarely exceeds 0.5%, as water uptake can trigger premature decomposition or clumping. Most BCDMH leaves the warehouse in moisture-resistant packaging—think airtight drums, pails, or sealed foil sacks. The chemical’s HS Code is 2933.59, used for tracking, duties, and compliance in international shipping.
The strength of BCDMH also points to potential hazard—too much exposure, or improper handling, creates serious risks. The compound irritates skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, sometimes even at low concentrations. While it doesn’t ignite easily, mixing with acids or reducing agents releases toxic gases, especially chlorine and bromine. Keeping it clear of organic material matters a lot; accidental contact with grease, sawdust, or even spilled drinks can spark rapid oxidation or fire. Most suppliers insist on the use of chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and a mask during transfer and mixing. Good training plus proper protective gear turn industrial safety guidelines into everyday practice for anyone moving, measuring, or dissolving BCDMH. In storage, ventilation and humidity controls protect both product stability and worker health.
Production of BCDMH depends on hydantoin as a backbone, which itself starts from ammonia, urea, or glyoxal. Bromination and chlorination—both tightly controlled, hazardous steps—introduce the halogen atoms, typically by passing gaseous chlorine or bromine through a cooled, solvent-extracted hydantoin solution. The end product gets filtered, washed, and dried to remove by-products, then milled and classified by particle size. Each shipment leaves with a batch number and analysis certificate; traceability links every drum back to source raw materials. Only suppliers with experience in advanced oxidation and synthesis handle this level of chemical precision.
BCDMH keeps gaining ground because the combination of efficiency, manageable handling risks, and broad-spectrum disinfection works for a variety of sectors. Swimming pool operators rely on it for crystal-clear, germ-free water. Industrial clients use it in cooling towers and food processing plants to limit biofilm and contamination. Reliable sanitizers like BCDMH save downtime, keep maintenance predictable, and protect public health. Yet, growing concern about chemical residuals pushes manufacturers and end users to seek out cleaner process technologies, tighter dosing control, and systems that measure leftover halogen compounds in real time. Environmental regulators in Europe, North America, and Asia all push for better stewardship; so manufacturers develop improved packaging, spend on worker education, and update data about both hazards and benefits.
BCDMH brings strong chemical action, but society keeps asking more from every compound in use. Wastewater managers and environmental agencies continue to debate allowable concentrations of halogenated by-products in treated discharges. In my own experience talking with pool technicians and wastewater engineers, many urge a combination of strict personal protection, onsite neutralization systems, and prompt cleanup of accidental releases. Software-driven feeder pumps and regular testing now keep chemical levels safe and steady, letting users harness BCDMH’s strengths without risking people or waterways. Material science research heads into bio-based disinfectants or low-halogen replacements—yet, for challenging microbial threats, few alternatives currently match what BCDMH delivers in stability and action. Ongoing collaboration between researchers, regulators, and industry experts will shape the next chapter in disinfection technology, anchored in evidence, transparency, and real-world safety.
