(1-Bromoethyl)benzene
(1-Bromoethyl)benzene (CAS 585-71-7), with the molecular formula C6H5CH(CH3)Br and a molar mass of 185.06 g/mol, is a halogenated hydrocarbon. This aryl compound serves as a valuable building block in organic synthesis. Its applications include roles as an initiator in controlled radical polymerization and in asymmetric esterification reactions, making it a useful reagent for specialised chemical synthesis.
- IUPAC
- α-Methylbenzyl bromide
- Synonyms
- α-Methylbenzyl bromide

Controlled Radical Polymerization
(1-Bromoethyl)benzene has been employed as an initiator in controlled radical polymerization of styrene. It is also used in the synthesis of bromine-terminated polymers such as poly(p-methoxystyrene) and polystyrene via atom transfer radical polymerization.
Asymmetric Esterification
This compound has found application in asymmetric esterification reactions. Specifically, it has been used in the esterification of benzoic acid in the presence of a chiral cyclic guanidine catalyst.
Organic Synthesis Building Block
As an aryl halide, (1-Bromoethyl)benzene functions as a versatile building block in various organic synthesis pathways. It is particularly useful in reactions requiring the introduction of a phenylethyl moiety with a reactive bromine atom.
| Molecular weight | 185.06 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C6H5CH(CH3)Br |
| Assay | 97% |
| Boiling point | 94 °C/16 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 1.356 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.56(lit.) |
| Application | (1-Bromoethyl)benzene has been employed:• in controlled radical polymerization of styrene1• in asymmetric esterification of benzoic acid in the presence of a chiral cyclic guanidine2• as initiator in the synthesis of bromine terminated polyp-methoxystyrene and polystyrene via atom transfer radical polymerization3 |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 82 °C / 179.6 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3334 |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is (1-Bromoethyl)benzene used for?
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(1-Bromoethyl)benzene is used in controlled radical polymerization, such as atom transfer radical polymerization, and in asymmetric esterification reactions. It also serves as a general building block in organic synthesis.
What are the CAS number and formula for (1-Bromoethyl)benzene?
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The CAS number for (1-Bromoethyl)benzene is 585-71-7, and its linear formula is C6H5CH(CH3)Br.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies (1-Bromoethyl)benzene with an assay of 97%. This is a technical grade for research and synthesis; TSS does not represent it as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the safety considerations for handling (1-Bromoethyl)benzene?
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(1-Bromoethyl)benzene is a Warning substance that causes skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Always use appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields and gloves, and ensure adequate ventilation. Handle in accordance with safety statements P261 and P305 + P351 + P338.
Is (1-Bromoethyl)benzene suitable for export?
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Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals, including (1-Bromoethyl)benzene. We handle international shipping and export procedures.
How can I request a quote or sample for (1-Bromoethyl)benzene?
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To request a quote or sample for (1-Bromoethyl)benzene, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone. Provide your specific requirements, including quantity and destination.
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