Uses of bromine
Several important flame retardants, such as tetrabromobisphenol A, are derived from bromine and bromine compounds although there are concerns about the effectiveness of some of them. The flame retardants are, for example, either bonded (chemically) or incorporated physically, into plastics. This is particularly important when plastics are used where there are fire hazards.
Bromine is also used in the manufacture of biocides, such as biobrom (2,2-dibromo-3-nitrilopropionamide). This is used extensively in treating water
Concentrated solutions of calcium bromide and magnesium bromide (collectively known as 'clear brines') are used in oil drilling. They are very dense solutions (ca 1.8 kg m-3) and when poured into the drilling hole, sink through the water to the bottom. They help to lubricate the drill, increasing its capacity to drill deeper. They also help to disperse the solids being drilled out.