9-Bromophenanthrene: properties, applications and safety

General Description

9-Bromophenanthrene is a solid compound with a high melting point and is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents. It possesses a bromine atom attached to the ninth carbon position of the phenanthrene structure, which affects its reactivity. The compound exhibits fluorescence properties under UV light. Applications of 9-Bromophenanthrene include its use in room temperature phosphorescence analysis, detection at low concentrations, and as a fluorescence probe for coordination reactions. However, it is important to handle it with caution as it can cause skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory discomfort. Proper protective measures should be taken to avoid potential health hazards.

Figure 1. 9-Bromophenanthrene

Properties

9-Bromophenanthrene is a chemical compound with a molecular formula C14H9Br. It belongs to the family of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and consists of three fused benzene rings. This compound has several notable properties. Firstly, 9-Bromophenanthrene is a solid at room temperature with a high melting point of around 60-64°C. It is sparingly soluble in water but exhibits good solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. Secondly, it possesses a bromine atom attached to the ninth carbon position of the phenanthrene structure. This bromine substitution imparts different reactivity and chemical behavior compared to its parent compound, phenanthrene. For example, it can undergo various substitution reactions, including nucleophilic aromatic substitution and coupling reactions. Thirdly, 9-Bromophenanthrene is known for its fluorescence properties. It exhibits strong blue fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, making it useful in applications such as fluorescence microscopy and organic electronics. In summary, 9-Bromophenanthrene is a solid, sparingly soluble compound with a high melting point. Its bromine substitution confers unique reactivity, and it displays fluorescence properties under UV light. ¹

Applications

9-Bromophenanthrene has various applications, as demonstrated by the study using the Flow Inject Drop Luminescence Sensor (FIDLS) system. The FIDLS system offers advantages such as high precision and simplified operation compared to traditional luminescent spectrometers. In a study, the researchers investigated the room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) of BrP induced by sodium deoxycholate (NaDC). They optimized the injection speed of the FIDLS system at 5.0 mL h(-1) and selected a solvent content of 1.0% or less to prevent RTP quenching. The study found that BrP exhibited RTP with maximum intensity at a concentration of 1.0 × 10(-5) mol L(-1), and the minimum detectable level of BrP was determined to be 8.0 × 10(-10) mol L(-1). Moreover, the researchers identified the optimal clathrate concentration of NaDC to be 4.9 × 10(-3) mol L(-1), which coincided with the critical micelle concentration. Furthermore, the researchers discovered that BrP could function as a fluorescence probe through coordination reactions with Cr(6+) and Fe(3+), as confirmed by fluorescence and absorbance tests. This finding suggests the potential application of BrP in fluorescence-based analytical techniques. Overall, the study highlights the applications of 9-Bromophenanthrene, including its use in RTP analysis with FIDLS, its detection capability at low concentrations, and its potential as a fluorescence probe for coordination reactions. ²

Safety

9-Bromophenanthrene has been found to cause skin irritation, meaning direct contact with the compound can lead to redness, itching, and inflammation of the skin. Therefore, it is essential to wear appropriate protective clothing, such as gloves and long sleeves, when working with this substance. Additionally, 9-Bromophenanthrene has been identified as a potential cause of serious eye irritation. Accidental exposure to the compound can result in redness, tearing, and discomfort in the eyes. In case of contact, immediate rinsing with clean water for several minutes is advised, followed by seeking medical attention. Furthermore, it is worth noting that 9-Bromophenanthrene may also cause respiratory irritation. Inhalation of its fumes or dust particles can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, and respiratory discomfort. Therefore, it is crucial to work in well-ventilated areas and use appropriate respiratory protection, such as masks, to minimize the risk of inhalation. In conclusion, proper precautions should be taken while handling 9-Bromophenanthrene to avoid potential health hazards. ³

Reference

1. PubChem. COMPOUND SUMMARY: 9-Bromophenanthrene. National Library of Medicine, PubChem CID: 11309.

2. Qin J, Li XM, Feng F, Liang WJ, Tian MZ. Room temperature phosphorescence of 9-bromophenanthrene, and the interaction with various metal ions. Spectrochim Acta A Mol Biomol Spectrosc. 2013 Feb;102:425-431.

3. 9-bromophenanthrene. European Chemicals Agency, EC / List no. 209-351-6.