Hydrogen Bromide

H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P260, P261, P264, P271, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P319, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.2% (1 of 432) of reports.

H280 (32.9%): Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

H314 (99.8%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (40%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H331 (17.8%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H335 (99.3%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P271, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P319, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 432 reports by companies from 31 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1 of 432 reports by companies.

There are 30 notifications provided by 431 of 432 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

H318: Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H280: Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Refer for medical attention.

ON FROSTBITE: rinse with plenty of water, do NOT remove clothes. Refer for medical attention .

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 154 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible)]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Hydrogen bromide:

• IRRIGATE IMMEDIATELY (SOLUTION) - If this chemical in solution contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

• FROSTBITE - If eye tissue is frozen, seek medical attention immediately; if tissue is not frozen, immediately and thoroughly flush the eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the lower and upper eyelids. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, get medical attention as soon as possible.

• WATER FLUSH IMMEDIATELY (SOLUTION) - If this chemical in solution contacts the skin, immediately flush the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water. Get medical attention promptly.

• FROSTBITE - If frostbite has occurred, seek medical attention immediately; do NOT rub the affected areas or flush them with water. In order to prevent further tissue damage, do NOT attempt to remove frozen clothing from frostbitten areas. If frostbite has NOT occurred, immediately and thoroughly wash contaminated skin with soap and water.

Breathing: RESPIRATORY SUPPORT - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY (SOLUTION) - If this chemical in solution has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 2024)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

· In case of contact with liquefied gas, only medical personnel should attempt thawing frosted parts.

· In case of skin contact with hydrogen fluoride, anhydrous (UN1052), if calcium gluconate gel is available, rinse 5 minutes, then apply gel. Otherwise, continue rinsing until medical treatment is available.

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately (solution)/Frostbite

Skin: Water flush immediately (solution)/Frostbite

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately (solution)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 154 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical or CO2.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Do not get water inside containers. Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media. In case of fire: keep cylinder cool by spraying with water. NO direct contact with water.

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

Use water spray to cool unopened containers.

Extinguish fire using agent suitable for surrounding fire. Use flooding quantities of water. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors. /Hydrobromic acid solution/

For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for Hydrogen bromide (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

· Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.).

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.

· Do not direct water at spill or source of leak.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

· Isolate area until gas has dispersed.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 154 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

SPILL: See ERG Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 1048 datasheet.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions.

Small spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 30 m (100 ft)

Large spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 150 m (500 ft)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 0.2 km (0.2 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 1.0 km (0.7 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 3.2 km (2.0 mi)

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: gas-tight chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Ventilation. NEVER direct water jet on liquid. Remove gas with fine water spray.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 154 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Cool. Dry. Ventilation along the floor.

Separated from incompatible materials. ... Cool. Dry. Ventilation along the floor.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from alkalies, oxidizing materials, amines, halogens, and metals. /Hydrobromic acid solution/

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

TIH (Toxic Inhalation Hazard) - Term used to describe gases and volatile liquids that are toxic when inhaled. Some are TIH materials themselves, e.g., chlorine, and some release TIH gases when spilled in water, e.g., chlorosilanes. [ERG 2016].

2.0 [ppm]

AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: ppm)

AEGLs Status: Final

1.0 [ppm]

40 [ppm]

120 [ppm]

3 ppm (10 mg/m³)

C 3 ppm (10 mg/m3)

3.0 [ppm]

TWA 3 ppm (10 mg/m3) See Appendix G

30 ppm [From NPG: Hydrogen bromide] (NIOSH, 2024)

30 ppm (NIOSH, 2024)

30.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Other animal data: Hydrogen bromide (with a rat 1­hour LC50 of 2,858 ppm [Back et al. 1972]) is about as acutely toxic as hydrogen chloride (with a rat 1­hour LC50 of 3,124 ppm [MacEwen and Vernot 1974]). . . . Human data: Volunteers noted nose and throat irritation at 2 to 6 ppm after several minutes [Clayton and Clayton 1981]. It has been reported that 1,300 to 2,000 ppm are lethal in exposures lasting a few minutes [NRC 1981].

See: 10035106

Ceiling Limit: 2 ppm.

2 ppm as STEL.

2 ppm [2001]

6.7 mg/m

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

Large Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

· Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

· Dry chemical or CO2.

· Water spray, fog or regular foam.

· Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

Hydrobromic acid, solution appears as a colorless to yellow aqueous solution with a pungent odor. Fumes irritate the eyes and mucous membranes. Corrosive to metals and tissue.

Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous appears as a colorless gas with a pungent irritating odor. Corrosive. Heavier than air. Prolonged exposure to fire or intense heat may result in the violent rupture and rocketing of the container. Long-term exposure to low concentrations or short-term exposure to high concentrations can result in adverse health effects from inhalation. Used to make other chemicals and as a catalyst in the manufacture of chemicals. Rate of onset: Immediate Persistence: Minutes to hours Odor threshold: 2 ppm Source/use/other hazard: Chemical manufacturing industry; very corrosive.

Liquid; Gas Vapor

Colorless gas with a sharp, irritating odor. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas. Often used in an aqueous solution.]; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS COMPRESSED LIQUEFIED GAS WITH PUNGENT ODOUR.

Colorless gas with a sharp, irritating odor.

Colorless gas with a sharp, irritating odor. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas. Often used in an aqueous solution.]

Colorless gas

Colorless gas [Note: Shipped as a liquified compressed gas]

Sharp, irritating odor

Acrid odor

Fumes have a sour taste

-88.2 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

-66.38 °C

-88.2 °F

-66.5 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-124 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

-86.80 °C

49 % (NIOSH, 2024)

221 g/100 cc water at 0 °C; 130 g/100 cc water at 100 °C

Freely soluble in water; 1 volume of water dissolves 600 volumes of HBr at 0 °C

204.0 g/ 100 g water at 15 °C

Very soluble in water

For more Solubility (Complete) data for Hydrogen bromide (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 193

2.14 at -88.6 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

3.307 g/L

Density: 2.603 g/ cu cm at -84 °C (liquid)

A solution of hydrogen bromide gas in water. Colorless or faintly yellow; slowly darkens on exposure to air and light; miscible with water, alcohol; density: 1.517 (50% HBr solution); 1.38 (40% HBr solution); 1.13 (34% HBr solution); 1.08 (10% HBr solution); miscible with water and alcohol /Hydrobromic acid/

Relative density (water = 1): 1.8

2.14 at -88.6 °F

3.31 g/L

2.81(relative gas density)

2.81 (NIOSH, 2024) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

2.71 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.8

20 atm (NIOSH, 2024)

18,410 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 2445

18410 [mm Hg] @25 °C

Soluble in water with release of heat. Fumes in air.

Acrid odor, fumes in moist air forming clouds containing hydrobromic acid. Heat of solution large, [Merck, 11th ed., 1989].

Acids, Strong Non-oxidizing

Water and Aqueous Solutions

Known Catalytic Activity

CSL00198

Dimethyl sulfoxide + Hydrobromic acid (Hydrogen bromide) + dibromo intermediate compound

"Chemists at Merck & Co. were carrying out a published procedure for preparing 2-bromo-3-methylbutenal (Org. Lett. 2007, 9, 4607). The reaction and workup were successfully carried out twice on a 10-g scale and then scaled up to prepare 600 g in 8 L of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). While large-scale reaction mixture was being heated to 45 °C, however, the temperature unexpectedly and very rapidly rose to well over 100 °C, and material boiled out of the condenser. This exotherm subsequently occurred in a gram-scale run as well. When the Environmental & Process Safety Engineering group at Merck evaluated this procedure, several potential hazards were identified. The reaction mixture has a secondary decomposition with an onset near 100 °C. The isolated dibromo intermediate compound is thermally unstable and rapidly degrades on standing to a red-black tarry substance. The dehydrobromination rate of reaction was found to be a strong function of the amount of time the dibromo intermediate was held before charging to DMSO, with the reaction becoming more rapid as the intermediate ages. Finally, attempts to determine the source of the secondary decomposition, which produces a large amount of gas, showed both the hydrobromic acid and the product haloacrylate produced in the dehydrobromination reaction lowered the stability of DMSO. We wanted to alert the chemical process industry to the risks associated with this particular procedure. Anyone contemplating use of this chemistry should thoroughly evaluate its safety." (reprint of the full-text)

Gas Emitter

Large (>100g)

10.1021/cen-v087n047.p004

Literature Reference

10/15/2022

HYDROBROMIC ACID, SOLUTION reacts exothermically with chemical bases (for example: amines and inorganic hydroxides) to form salts. The reactions can generate dangerously large amounts of heat in small spaces. Dissolution in water or dilution of concentrated solutions with water may generate significant heat. Reacts with sodium hypochlorite to produce toxic gases. Can react with active metals, including iron and aluminum, and also many less active metals, to dissolve the metal and liberate hydrogen and/or toxic gases. Can initiate possibly violent polymerization in certain alkenes such as allyl chloride. Reacts with cyanide salts and compounds to release gaseous hydrogen cyanide. Flammable and/or toxic gases are also often generated by reactions with dithiocarbamates, isocyanates, mercaptans, nitrides, nitriles, sulfides, and weak or strong reducing agents. Additional gas-generating reactions may occur with sulfites, nitrites, thiosulfates (to give H2S and SO3), dithionites (SO2), and carbonates: the carbon dioxide gas from the last is nontoxic but the heat and spattering from the reaction can be troublesome. Can catalyze (increase the rate of) chemical reactions. Incompatible with ozone or fluorine.

HYDROGEN BROMIDE is an anhydrous (no water) strong acid. Reacts rapidly and exothermically with bases of all kinds (including amines and amides). Reacts exothermically with carbonates (including limestone and building materials containing limestone) and hydrogen carbonates to generate carbon dioxide. Reacts with sulfides, carbides, borides, and phosphides to generate toxic or flammable gases. Reacts with many metals (including aluminum, zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, tin and all of the alkali metals) to generate flammable hydrogen gas. Reacts violently with acetic anhydride, 2-aminoethanol, ammonium hydroxide, calcium phosphide, chlorosulfonic acid, 1,1-difluoroethylene, ethylenediamine, ethyleneimine, oleum, perchloric acid, b-propiolactone, propylene oxide, silver perchlorate/carbon tetrachloride mixture, sodium hydroxide, uranium(IV) phosphide, vinyl acetate, calcium carbide, rubidium carbide, cesium acetylide, rubidium acetylide, magnesium boride, mercury(II) sulfate, calcium phosphide, calcium carbide.

Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents, Strong bases, Ammonia, Ozone, Halogens, Amines, Gives off hydrogen by reaction with metals.

The aqueous solution is a strong acid. Violent reaction with strong oxidizers, strong caustics, and many organic compounds causing fire and explosion hazard. Reacts with water forming hydrobromic acid. Incompatible with aliphatic amines, alkanolamines, alkylene oxides, aromatic amines, amides, ammonia, ammonium hydroxide, calcium oxide, epichlorohydrin, fluorine, isocyanates, oleum, organic anhydrides, sulfuric acid, sodium tetrahydroborate, vinyl acetate. Hydrobromic acid is highly corrosive to most metals forming flammable hydrogen.

The reaction of fluorine with gaseous or aqueous hydrobromic acid is accompanied by flame.

Reacts violently with F2, FE2O3, HN3, O3.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for Hydrogen bromide (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Strong oxidizers, strong caustics, moisture, copper, brass, zinc [Note: Hydrobromic acid is highly corrosive to most metals.]

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Hydrogen bromide (HBr) is a colorless gas. It is utilized in the production of inorganic bromides and organic bromides, in reaction with alkynes to form bromoalkenes, opening epoxides and lactones, as a catalyst for oxidations, and in alkylations and condensations in organic chemistry. It is also used in analytical chemistry, and as a solvent for ore minerals. HUMAN STUDIES: Nose and throat irritation occurred in human subjects exposed to HBr for several minutes at concentrations of 3 ppm (1 of 6 subjects) and 4 ppm (3 of 6 subjects) respectively for several minutes. No effects were observed at 2 ppm, but detectable odor was noted at all exposure levels (2 to 6 ppm). No eye irritation was noted. The odor threshold is given as 6.667 mg/cu m and the irritating concentration as 10.00 mg/cu m. Concentrations of 0.13-0.2% are lethal. HBr is also corrosive to skin and mucous membranes and can cause severe burns. Exposure to high concentrations may result in dermatitis. Severe exposures result in pulmonary edema, and often laryngeal spasm. Ingestion causes burns of mouth and stomach. A 60-year-old laboratory technician developed pulmonary infiltrates consistent with chemical pneumonitis following accidental exposure to a mixture of hydrogen bromide and phosphorus tribromide. Two patients developed acute pneumonitis followed by reactive airways dysfunction syndrome after bathing in a hot tub. Bromine and hydrobromic acid generated from a widely used water disinfectant were implicated as the underlying cause. ANIMAL STUDIES: In rats, tissue injury following nose-breathing exposure to HBr was confined to the nasal region. However, mouth-breathing exposure in rats caused higher mortality rates and major tissue disruption in the trachea, including epithelial, submucosal, glandular, and cartilage necrosis, and accumulations of inflammatory cells and exudates. More peripheral lung damage was manifested by lung gravimetric increases and histopathologic changes primarily in the larger conducting airways. HBr causes more severe burns to rat skin than hydrogen chloride or hydrogen iodide.

Bromine is a powerful oxidizing agent and is able to release oxygen free radicals from the water in mucous membranes. These free radicals are also potent oxidizers and produce tissue damage. In additon, the formation of hydrobromic and bromic acids will result in secondary irritation. The bromide ion is also known to affect the central nervous system, causing bromism. This is believed to be a result of bromide ions substituting for chloride ions in the in actions of neurotransmitters and transport systems, thus affecting numerous synaptic processes. (L626, L627, A543)

No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).

Bromine vapour causes irritation and direct damage to the mucous membranes. Elemental bromine also burns the skin. The bromide ion is a central nervous system depressant and chronic exposure produces neuronal effects. This is called bromism and can result in central reactions reaching from somnolence to coma, cachexia, exicosis, loss of reflexes or pathologic reflexes, clonic seizures, tremor, ataxia, loss of neural sensitivity, paresis, papillar edema of the eyes, abnormal speech, cerebral edema, delirium, aggressiveness, and psychoses. (L625, L626, L627)

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

inhalation, ingestion (solution), skin and/or eye contact

Oral (L626) ; inhalation (L626) ; dermal (L626)

Burning sensation. Cough. Sore throat. Laboured breathing. Shortness of breath. Symptoms may be delayed.

ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE. Redness. Pain. Blisters.

Redness. Pain. Severe deep burns.

irritation eyes, skin, nose, throat; solution: eye, skin burns; liquid: frostbite

Bromine vapour causes irritation and direct damage to the mucous membranes. Symptoms include lacrimation, rhinorrhoea, eye irritation with mucous secretions from the oropharyngeal and upper airways, coughing, dyspnoea, choking, wheezing, epistaxis, and headache. The bromide ion is a central nervous system depressant producing ataxia, slurred speech, tremor, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, dizziness, visual disturbances, unsteadiness, headaches, impaired memory and concentration, disorientation and hallucinations. This is called bromism. (L626, L627)

Eyes, skin, respiratory system

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

Fibrogenic - Inducing tissue injury and fibrosis (scarring).

LC50 (rat) = 2,858 ppm/1H

LD50: 76 mg/kg (Intraperitoneal, Rat) (L651)

LC50: 2858 ppm over 1 hour (Inhalation, Rat) (T14)

LD50 Rat ip 76 mg/kg

LC50 Rat inhalation 2858 ppm/1 hr

LC50 Mouse inhalation 814 ppm/1 hr

EYES: irrigate opened eyes for several minutes under running water.

INGESTION: do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth with water (never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person). Seek immediate medical advice.

SKIN: should be treated immediately by rinsing the affected parts in cold running water for at least 15 minutes, followed by thorough washing with soap and water. If necessary, the person should shower and change contaminated clothing and shoes, and then must seek medical attention.

INHALATION: supply fresh air. If required provide artificial respiration.

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Bromine, methyl bromide, and related compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Bromine, methyl bromide, and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Bromine, methyl bromide, and related compounds/

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out as needed. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Choking Agents (Pulmonary/Lung-Damaging Agents)/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for Hydrogen bromide (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Nose and throat irritation occurred in human subjects exposed to HBr for several minutes at concentrations of 3 ppm (1 of 6 subjects) and 4 ppm (3 of 6 subjects) respectively for several minutes. No effects were observed at 2 ppm, but detectable odor was noted at all exposure levels (2 to 6 ppm). No eye irritation was noted at all concentrations exposed. The odor threshold is given as 6.667 mg/cu m and the irritating concentration as 10.00 mg/cu m.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ ... Highly toxic /gas/ ... Being severely irritating to upper resp tract. The ... /acid/ formed neutralizes the alkali of tissues and can cause death as a result of edema or spasm of larynx and inflammation of upper resp system. Concn of 0.13-0.2% are lethal ... In exposures lasting a few min.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ /GAS/ ... Also corrosive to skin and mucous membranes and can cause severe burns. Exposure to high concn may ... Result in dermatitis. Contact with eyes rapidly causes severe irritation of eyes and eyelids.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Inhalation of hydrogen bromide causes irritation of the upper respiratory tract, and a concentration of about 35 ppm causes irritation of the throat after short exposure. More severe exposures result in pulmonary edema, and often in laryngeal spasm.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Hydrogen bromide (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Hydrogen fluoride (HF), hydrogen bromide (HBr), and hydrogen chloride (HCl) gases can be generated during the pyrolysis of a variety of materials and they may be encountered in numerous industrial settings. Although injury to the respiratory tract has been characterized following the inhalation of halide gases via the nasal route, essentially no experimental information is currently available about their injurious effects when they are inhaled during mouth breathing. In this study, we simulated mouth breathing by using a pseudo-mouth-breathing (MB) rat model in order to: (1) characterize the profiles and magnitudes of respiratory tract injury that result from the acute inhalation of relatively high mass concentrations of the above halides when the upper airway is bypassed, and (2) assess the relative toxicities of HF, HBr, and HCl when inhaled by way of either the nasal or the oral pathways. Tracheal tubes connected to mouthpieces were inserted into temporarily anesthetized rats, i.e., mouth breathers. Awake rats were placed into whole body flow plethysmographs for pulmonary ventilation studies while they were exposed either to air or to 1300 ppm of HF, HBr, or HCl for 30 min. Similarly pretreated rats were also exposed but without the mouthpiece, i.e., nose breathers (NB). The animals were euthanized 24 hr after exposure for histopathologic analyses of their upper and lower respiratory tracts and for lung gravimetric measurements. Tissue injury following NB exposure to the halides was confined to the nasal region, e.g., epithelial and submucosal necrosis, accumulations of inflammatory cells, exudates, and the extravasation of erythrocytes. MB exposure caused higher mortality rates and major tissue disruption in the trachea, including epithelial, submucosal, glandular, and cartilage necrosis, and accumulations of inflammatory cells and exudates. More peripheral lung damage was manifested by lung gravimetric increases and histopathologic changes primarily in the larger conducting airways. The results of this study demonstrate that the injurious response profiles to HF, HBr, and HCl markedly differ as a function of the route by which they are inhaled. Furthermore, examinations of the magnitudes of injury caused by exposure to the halides during nose or mouth breathing in conjunction with animal ventilatory data obtained during exposure to the halides suggest that HF, HBr, and HCl are quantitatively similar in their toxic effects in the respiratory tract.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Evaluation and measurement of burns caused by application of hydrogen bromide (HBr), hydrogen iodide (HI) and hydrogen chloride (HCl) to rat skin. HBr causes more severe burns to rat skin than HCl or HI.

Hydrogen bromide is found in gases from volcanoes(1).

Hydrogen bromide's production and use in the manufacture of other bromine compounds, chemical reagent and catalyst(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

Hydrogen bromide was not detected in emissions from combustion of mixed plastics with coal in a bubbling fluidized bed boiler(1). The compound is formed and released as a result of high heating of electronic circuit boards containing brominated flame retardants(2).

Airborne hydrogen bromide concentrations ranged from less than the detection limit (0.01 ppm) to 0.11 ppm in a monitoring study for airborne vapors during structural foam molding of ignition resistant high impact polystyrene. Hydrogen bromide gas is the primary decomposition product of concern from the flame retardant system(1).

According to the 2016 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 4 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed during the manufacturing, processing, or use of hydrogen bromide in the United States may be as low as 10 workers and as high as 1,000 workers per plant; the data may be greatly underestimated due to confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 20,571 workers (5,398 of these are female) were potentially exposed to hydrogen bromide in the US(1).

Hydrogen bromide is found in gases from volcanoes(1).

Hydrogen bromide's production and use in the manufacture of other bromine compounds, chemical reagent and catalyst(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

Hydrogen bromide was not detected in emissions from combustion of mixed plastics with coal in a bubbling fluidized bed boiler(1). The compound is formed and released as a result of high heating of electronic circuit boards containing brominated flame retardants(2).

Airborne hydrogen bromide concentrations ranged from less than the detection limit (0.01 ppm) to 0.11 ppm in a monitoring study for airborne vapors during structural foam molding of ignition resistant high impact polystyrene. Hydrogen bromide gas is the primary decomposition product of concern from the flame retardant system(1).

According to the 2016 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 4 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed during the manufacturing, processing, or use of hydrogen bromide in the United States may be as low as 10 workers and as high as 1,000 workers per plant; the data may be greatly underestimated due to confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 20,571 workers (5,398 of these are female) were potentially exposed to hydrogen bromide in the US(1).

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number D002, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

If ... THERE IS NO FIRE, go directly to the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances /(see table below)/ ... to obtain initial isolation and protective action distances. IF THERE IS A FIRE, or IF A FIRE IS INVOLVED, go directly to the appropriate guide /(see guide(s) below)/ and use the evacuation information shown under PUBLIC SAFETY. /Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous/

Table: Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous ID: 1048 [Table#1652]

/GUIDE 125 GASES - CORROSIVE/ Fire or Explosion: Some may burn but none ignite readily. Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. Some of these materials may react violently with water. Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release toxic and/or corrosive gas through pressure relief devices. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket. . For UN1005: Anhydrous ammonia, at high concentrations in confined spaces, presents a flammability risk if a source of ignition is introduced /Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous/

/GUIDE 125 GASES - CORROSIVE/ Health: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. Vapors are extremely irritating and corrosive. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution. /Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous/

/GUIDE 125 GASES - CORROSIVE/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream. Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for Hydrogen bromide (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1048 125(anhydrous)

1788 154(solution)

UN 1788; Hydrobromic acid, with more than 49% hydrobromic acid; Hydrobromic acid, with not more than 49% hydrobromic acid

UN 1048; Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous

IMO 8; Hydrobromic acid

IMO 2.3; Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous

49 042 60; Hydrogen bromide

49 302 32; Hydrobromic acid, (not more than 49% strength)

49 302 27; Hydrobromic acid, (more than 49% strength)

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials. Hydrobromic acid is included on the dangerous goods list. /Hydrobromic acid/

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials. Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous is included on the dangerous goods list. /Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous/

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article. Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous is included on the dangerous goods list. /Hydrogen bromide, anhydrous/

Corrosive

Poison Gas Corrosive

Symbol: C; R: 35-37; S: (1/2)-7/9-26-45

UN Hazard Class: 2.3; UN Subsidiary Risks: 8