Iron(II) bromide

Alternate Names: ferrous bromide. Physical Data: d 4.63g mL−1 at 25 ◦C; bp 934 ◦C; mp 684 ◦C; yellow-brown solid. Solubility: soluble in water, methanol, ethanol, and tetrahydrofuran. Form Supplied in: commercially available either as 99.999% anhydrous solid material or with a 98% purity grade. Preparative Methods: the reaction of iron powder (10.0 g) with hydrogen bromide (45.0ml) in methanol (100.0ml) under N2 followed by the solvent evaporation yields dimethanol solvate salt, which can be converted into anhydrous FeBr2 if heated at 160 ◦C for 4 h under reduced pressure (40% yield). Note that iron(II) bromide cannot be formed by reacting metallic iron with either hydrobromidic acid or bromine due to the preferred formation of iron(III) bromide. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: handle the title compound under a laboratory fume hood while wearing personal protective equipment such as a dust mask, eye shields, gloves, and a laboratory coat. Hygroscopic. Keep the container firmly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Incompatible with alkali metals, such as potassium, sodium, strong oxidant agents, and strong acids. Iron(II) bromide can cause severe skin and eye damage and may cause respiratory irritation. In case of exposure to skin, immediately flush with plenty of water for at least 15 min; in case of exposure to eyes, irrigate well with water for at least 30min. Get medical assistance immediately.