2-Acetyl-5-Bromothiophene, also known as 1-(5-Bromothiophen-2-yl)ethanone, shows up across chemical catalogs with the formula C6H5BrOS. You’ll find its CAS number listed as 17073-98-0. As someone who has spent time in lab environments, I immediately notice the distinctive scent and physical form that sets this compound apart from your run-of-the-mill aromatic ketones. Trade professionals recognize its value as a building block for pharmaceutical intermediates and advanced organic synthesis, a fact that gives it a constant presence on order logs among research teams. The chemical belongs to thienyl ketones, its profile shaped by the acetyl group at position 2 and a bromine atom at position 5 on the thiophene ring.
In-hand, 2-Acetyl-5-Bromothiophene usually presents as a pale yellow to light brown crystalline solid; you might also see descriptions likening it to flakes or a fine powder depending on processing and storage. Crystalline samples are common, and, for the sake of accuracy, measuring density sets expectations around 1.7 g/cm3—figures may vary with product grade or sample purity. The solid dissolves quite smoothly in organic solvents like dichloromethane and ethyl acetate, standard practice for many bench chemists preparing solutions for reactions or analysis. Melting points come in at roughly 57–62°C, providing a reasonable benchmark for quick quality checks in a typical setup. You won’t find the material in pearl, liquid, or solution state at shipping, though it behaves well when dissolved freshly at the bench, yielding clear solutions suitable for synthetic or analytical work.
Looking at its molecular structure, the combination of a bromine atom and an acetyl group fused to the thiophene ring gives the compound unique electronic properties. That matters more than it first seems: the electron-rich thiophene ring can participate in coupling reactions, while the carbonyl loads the molecule with just enough reactivity for functionalization but lets it resist uncontrolled side reactions. Industrial researchers know these combinations allow downstream formation of advanced heterocycles. As a raw material, the compound features prominently in medicinal chemistry toolkits, making it popular with both academic labs and commercial groups involved in the search for new drug candidates. Its formula—C6H5BrOS—reflects these characteristics succinctly, and the specific arrangement reflected by the five-membered ring makes this material a favorite when synthesizing heteroaromatic scaffolds.
On paper, 2-Acetyl-5-Bromothiophene gets assigned an HS Code near 2934999099, fitting into the broader category for organic compounds used in industry. In practice, traders and sourcing specialists look at the purity (98% is a common minimum), appearance (solid, powder, or flakes), and packaging (glass bottles for small-scale work or HDPE drums for bulk). Lab users keep an eye on color and melting point to gauge quality, often measuring values with NMR or HPLC to confirm batch consistency from supplier to supplier. Typical lot sheets indicate contamination levels, as trace solvents or residual metal ions impact both performance and regulatory compliance.
From a safety perspective, I’ve learned to respect this material for what it is—an organobromine compound with hazards not far removed from many specialty chemicals. Strong odors can irritate, prolonged exposure on skin leads to dryness or redness, and dust will aggravate those with sensitive respiratory systems. Chemicals like this call for gloves and goggles, plus proper ventilation with every use. MSDS sheets warn about environmental persistence, so spill management plans include containment and removal with care for soil and drain systems. Safe disposal involves licensed chemical waste handlers, a rule enforced for protect workers and neighborhoods near manufacturing plants. Over the years, I found potential for allergic reactions to be rare, but not impossible—the only way to move forward with confidence is by practicing basic chemical hygiene every single step.
The core uses of 2-Acetyl-5-Bromothiophene stretch beyond laboratory curiosity. In medicinal chemistry, it forms the starting point for antifungal or antibacterial compounds, often turning up in the recipe book for programs exploring new active ingredients. Material science teams use it to tailor molecules designed for electronics, while fragrance chemists sometimes experiment with similar thiophenes for new olfactory profiles. Batch production lines rely on reliable supply, hinting at the broader role logistics play in the global chemical trade. Its performance as a raw intermediate lets contract manufacturers pivot fast, shifting from small-scale R&D to pilot batches and market-ready campaigns with only moderate changes to infrastructure.
Recognizing the possible impact of organobromine chemicals on environment and health, some research groups have looked to greener alternatives or process tweaks. This can mean switching to less hazardous catalysts, using solvents with lower environmental footprint, or refining purification steps to limit waste types. Implementing closed systems for transfers keeps both material and emissions in check, reducing potential hazards to workers on factory floors. Training plays a pivotal role: from my time onboarding lab techs, it’s clear that giving people tools and teaching them correct methods stays the most effective way to minimize risks without throttling productivity.
It’s easy to forget that behind each bottle, somebody has mapped out regulatory pathways, forecast raw material needs, and worked to streamline both making and moving the product safely. Lessons from accidents and near-misses have informed modern safety practices, and this product stands as a classic example of why detail-oriented handling stays important in industrial chemistry. End users rely on accurate data sheets and consistent product profiles not just to keep work flowing, but to prevent harm and satisfy increasingly strict global regulations on hazardous materials. This attention to detail translates to confidence in every synth run, whether the goal is pushing the boundaries of chemistry or meeting pressing timelines for a scale-up campaign.
