FRCD

Bromomethane (or methyl bromide) is an organobromide compound that may be produced both synthetically and by naturally marine organisms and certain terrestrial plants. It was used extensively as a pesticide and as a fire extinguisher component until being phased out by most countries in the early 2000s, as it is considered an ozone-depleting substance. The primary use of methyl bromide is/was as a fumigant in soil to control fungi, nematodes, and weeds; in space fumigation of food commodities (e.g., grains); and in storage facilities (such as mills, warehouses, vaults, ships, and freight cars) to control insects and rodents. Its popularity as a fumigant is largely attributable to its high toxicity to many pests, the variety of settings in which it can be applied, its ability to penetrate the fumigated substances, and its rapid dissipation following application. Trace amounts of methyl bromide have been detected in drinking water. There are many reports of humans who have died following acute inhalation exposure to bromomethane. Most cases have involved accidental exposures associated with manufacturing or packaging operations, use of fire extinguishers containing bromomethane, or fumigation activities. Death is not immediate, but usually occurs within l-2 days of exposure. The cause of death is not certain, but is probably due to neurological and lung injury.

bromomethane

GZUXJHMPEANEGY-UHFFFAOYSA-N

InChI=1S/CH3Br/c1-2/h1H3

CBr

CBr

        
            Bromomethane
        
            Monobromomethane
        
            METHYL BROMIDE
        
            74-83-9
        
            Methane, bromo-
        
            Embafume
        
            Terabol
        
            CH3Br
        
            Methylbromid
        
            Pestmaster
        

                

                  
                    Pollutant
                  
                    Pesticide
                  

                
        

• Hydrocarbon derivatives
• Organobromides
• Alkyl bromides