Bronopol / 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol

Chemical Name: 2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol
Synonyms: Bronopol, BNPD
CAS Number: 52-51-7
Molecular Formula: C₃H₆BrNO₄

Description:

Bronopol (2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol) is a white crystalline solid widely used as an antimicrobial agent in a variety of industries. It is highly effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts. Bronopol is most commonly used in personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and industrial water treatment. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties make it a popular choice in products requiring protection against microbial contamination.

Applications:

1. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products:
   • Preservative: Widely used as a preservative in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and other personal care formulations to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
   • Concentration: Typically used at concentrations of 0.01% to 0.1%, depending on the product formulation.
2. Pharmaceuticals:
   • Topical Medications: Included as a preservative in some pharmaceutical creams, ointments, and solutions to ensure product stability and shelf life.
   • Ophthalmic Solutions: Used in eye drops and other ophthalmic products for microbial control.
3. Industrial Water Treatment:
   • Employed in cooling water systems, paper mills, and oil fields to control microbial growth and biofilm formation.
   • Works well in preventing bacteria and mold proliferation in these environments.
4. Household and Cleaning Products:
   • Utilized in detergents, cleaners, and disinfectants as a preservative to prolong shelf life and maintain product effectiveness by preventing microbial contamination.
5. Paints, Adhesives, and Polymer Emulsions:
   • Functions as a preservative in paints, coatings, and adhesives to prevent microbial degradation and spoilage during storage and use.

Advantages:

• Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial: Effective against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts.
• Low Use Levels: Only small concentrations are needed to preserve products.
• Water Solubility: Easily dissolves in water, making it ideal for aqueous formulations.
• Compatibility: Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients and formulations without affecting product performance.

Handling and Storage:

• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and light. Keep containers tightly sealed to avoid moisture exposure.
• Shelf Life: Stable under normal storage conditions; moisture can cause degradation over time.
• Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation, ingestion, or skin and eye contact. Wear protective clothing, gloves, and safety glasses when handling in bulk. Use proper ventilation.

Safety and Regulatory Information:

• Toxicity: Generally regarded as safe in low concentrations for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use; however, higher concentrations may be irritating to the skin and eyes.
• Regulations: Approved for use as a preservative in cosmetics by several regulatory agencies, including the EU and FDA, with maximum concentration limits.