4-Bromobenzaldehyde comes from the family of aromatic aldehydes, shaped around a benzene ring that carries both a bromine atom in the para position and an aldehyde group. Chemists often use the formula C7H5BrO when they need quick reference. For professionals in the chemical industry, the name itself signals a versatile building block. As a raw material, 4-Bromobenzaldehyde pops up in research and in countless chemical synthesis procedures, especially when developing pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, or agricultural products. The nature of the 4-bromo substituent changes the electronic properties of the molecule, which often proves valuable for chemists designing new compounds. This white crystalline solid appears routinely in organic laboratories and production sites. Each batch comes labeled with the HS Code 29130000 in international shipping and customs documents, placing it under aromatic aldehyde chemicals, which helps ensure smooth cross-border trade and regulatory clarity.
Examining 4-Bromobenzaldehyde in the lab, you see white to off-white crystals or fine flakes, sometimes as a powder, depending on the preparation method or packaging. Solid at room temperature, the compound’s melting point usually falls near 58-61°C. A density of about 1.6 g/cm3 fits within expectations for small, halogenated aromatic compounds. The substance carries a faintly pungent, almond-like scent, reminding those who handle materials like benzaldehyde but with a distinctive halogen note. The molecular structure reveals the benzene ring supporting a bromine atom at the para position (4-position), altering its reactivity in a way that appeals to synthetic organic chemists. The compound does not dissolve well in water, but it freely dissolves in many organic solvents such as alcohol, ether, and chloroform, allowing for easy use in solution-phase reactions and process development. Crystal form and purity often become important for researchers conducting precise work or quality assurance labs that require well-delineated material characteristics. The material stands out as a reliable starting point for brominated aromatic synthesis steps, whether you see it in small vials or bulk packaging.
The bromine substituent directly affects its chemical behavior. The electron-withdrawing nature of bromine and the reactivity of the aldehyde group provide two points of interest for further transformation. This makes 4-Bromobenzaldehyde an essential intermediate for Suzuki couplings, Grignard reactions, or condensation reactions that build up larger, more complex molecules. In pharmaceutical settings, it often emerges as an intermediate when synthesizing drug molecules, fine chemicals, or as a starting material for ligands in catalysts. Agricultural companies sometimes rely on it when developing fungicides and other crop protection agents because the combination of the aromatic structure and bromine content allows for further tailored reaction sequences. Experienced chemists value this compound for its stability — you can store it under normal conditions in tightly sealed containers away from strong oxidizing agents or direct sunlight, which helps maintain purity.
Though you can handle 4-Bromobenzaldehyde with standard laboratory precautions, the compound is not without hazard. Its solid form produces mild irritation to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, echoing the experience of working with related halogenated aromatics. Inhalation of its dust or accidental ingestion should be avoided. Working in a fume hood offers an extra layer of safety against accidental exposure, not only for the practitioner but for anyone present in the laboratory environment. Proper storage in well-marked, appropriate chemical containers limits the risk of accidental misuse. Regulations class this aldehyde as a hazardous material, so logistics and handling teams need safety data sheets and comprehensive labeling during dispatch, storage, and on-site usage. Protective gloves, eyewear, and lab coats form the standard barrier. Spills require careful cleanup using inert materials, followed by collection for disposal as hazardous waste. Chemical manufacturers and suppliers must provide clear hazard identification and emergency response protocols with every shipment, so there are no gaps in safety or compliance from warehouse shelf to laboratory bench.
Commercial lots define batch quality by purity — usually above 98% — and by residual solvent content, melting point range, and appearance. For certain applications, like pharmaceutical intermediates or high-value specialty chemicals, manufacturing processes aim for even higher purity grades. Analytical labs run regular checks using NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and GC/MS to confirm both identity and consistency. Each lot ships with safety sheets, technical datasheets, and HS Code information to meet local and international regulatory requirements. Professional buyers examine these specifications before purchase, seeking evidence of well-controlled process history and supply chain transparency. The physical material ships from production lines as flakes, crystalline powder, or sometimes pressed into pearls for easier handling, depending on downstream processes. Experienced users recognize that maintaining consistent raw material input is essential — one errant shipment can upset a whole production run or encourage unwanted side products. Reliable supply partners and careful warehouse management protect scientific work and finished product quality.
Experience shows that raw materials like 4-Bromobenzaldehyde often form the backbone for progress in small-molecule innovation. True insight comes from recognizing that reliable supply chains for specialty chemicals support entire industries — not just laboratory experiments but also the manufacturing of life-saving medicines or advanced materials that appear in everyday technologies. Lessons from supply disruptions highlight why detailed safety protocols and robust material specifications remain crucial. A single missed hazard label or incomplete data sheet can stall production, raise costs, or, in the worst case, risk worker safety and facility reputation. Teams that value attention to regulatory updates, packaging durability, and logistics details keep research environments and industrial operations moving forward. For everyone handling, transporting, or transforming 4-Bromobenzaldehyde, practical knowledge and consistent documentation keep businesses agile and consumers safe.
