1,2-Dibromoethane

Historically, the primary use of 1,2-dibromoethane has been as a lead scavenger in antiknock mixtures added to gasolines (IPCS 1996). Lead scavenging agents transform the combustion products of tetraalkyl lead additives to forms that are more likely to be vaporized from engine surfaces. In 1978, 90% of the 1,2-dibromoethane produced was used for this purpose (ATSDR 1992). Annual consumption of 1,2-dibromoethane in the United States has decreased since the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency banned the use of lead in gasoline.Another major past use of 1,2-dibromoethane was as a pesticide and an ingredient of soil and grain fumigants and for post-harvest application to various vegetable, fruit, and grain crops (NTP 1982). It also was used to kill fruit flies on citrus fruits, mangoes, and papayas after harvest and in the soil to protect grasses in environments such as golf courses (ATSDR 1992). By 1984, EPA regulations had eliminated most of the uses of 1,2-dibromoethane as a pesticide in the United States. 1,2-Dibromoethane has been used as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of resins, gums, waxes, dyes, and pharmaceuticals and as a high-density, nonflammable solvent in a number of applications. Small amounts of 1,2-dibromoethane have been used in the manufacture of vinyl bromide, which is used as a flame retardant (ATSDR 1992, HSDB 2009).
A clear colorless liquid with a sweetish odor. Density 18.1 lb /gal. Slightly soluble in water. Soluble in most organic solvents and thinners. Noncombustible. Very toxic by inhalation, skin absorption or ingestion. Used as a solvent, scavenger for lead in gasoline, grain fumigant and in the manufacture of other chemicals.