Interhalogens and Halogen Mixtures

The interhalogen compounds are the bromine- and iodine-base materials. It is the larger, more positive halogen that is the reactive portion of the interhalogen molecule during the disinfection process. Although only used on a limited basis at present, there are members of this class that show great promise as environmentally safe disinfectants. 

The toxic action of bromine is similar to that of chlorine and can cause physiological damage to humans through inhalation and oral routes. It is an irritant to the mucous membranes of the eyes and upper respiratory tract. Severe exposures may result in pulmonary edema. Chronic exposure is similar to therapeutic ingestion of excessive bromides. 

Bromine is considered a moderate fire hazard. As liquid or vapor, it can enter spontaneous chemical reactions with reducing materials. It is a very powerful oxidizer. Bromine is considered a highly dangerous material. Upon being heated, it emits highly toxic fumes. It will react with water or steam to produce toxic and corrosive fumes. 

BrCl is prepared by the addition of equivalent amounts of chlorine to bromine until the solution has increased in weight by 44.3 percent The reaction is as follows  

BrCl can be prepared by the reaction in the gas phase or in aqueous hydrochloric acid solution. In the laboratory, BrCl is prepared by oxidizing bromide salt in a solution containing hydrochloric acid. 

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