Bronopol (2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, CAS 52-51-7) is one of the most widely used broad-spectrum biocides in industrial water treatment and product preservation. This guide covers what it does, the specification values worth checking on a Certificate of Analysis, and what to look for when sourcing it from India.
What Bronopol is
Bronopol is a white to off-white crystalline powder, freely soluble in water, with the molecular formula C₃H₆BrNO₄ and a molecular weight of about 200 g/mol. It is effective against a broad range of bacteria — including Gram-negative species such as Pseudomonas, which are common in water systems — and has useful activity against yeasts and fungi. Its fast kill rate and high water solubility make it easy to dose as a solid or as a prepared solution.
Where it is used
- Cooling towers and process water — as a non-oxidising biocide, dosed as a slug or continuously to control bacterial growth and biofilm.
- Oilfield and produced water — in injection and produced-water systems, where bacterial contamination contributes to souring and microbially influenced corrosion.
- Metalworking fluids — as a preservative in water-mix cutting and grinding fluids.
- Paints, coatings and adhesives — as an in-can preservative for water-based products.
- Leather and textile processing — to control microbial spoilage in process baths.
- Personal care — as a preservative in rinse-off and other formulations, within the limits set by local cosmetics regulations.
Specifications buyers should check
For technical-grade Bronopol, these are the values most buyers check against a batch Certificate of Analysis:
| Parameter | Kranti Chemicals specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Assay (purity) | 99.7 – 99.8% (99.0% minimum) |
| Melting point | 128 – 130 °C |
| pH (aqueous solution) | 6.0 – 6.5 |
| Water content (KF) | < 0.05% |
| Sulphated ash | < 0.02% |
| HSN code | 2905.39.90 |
A melting point within range and low water content are good quick indicators of a clean, well-dried product. Always match the COA to the batch number printed on the drums you receive.
Stability and handling notes
Bronopol is most stable in neutral-to-acidic conditions and at ambient temperature. It breaks down faster in alkaline solutions and at elevated temperatures, so formulators usually account for system pH and temperature when setting dose rates. Store drums closed, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and away from strong bases, reducing agents and metals such as aluminium. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for handling, PPE and transport classification before use.
Sourcing Bronopol from India
India is a major production base for bromine and bromine derivatives, much of it centred in Gujarat. When comparing Indian suppliers, ask for:
- A recent batch COA and a current SDS before you place an order.
- Confirmation of packing format — Kranti Chemicals supplies Bronopol in 25 kg net HDPE drums with a double poly-liner, with 50 kg and custom export packing on request.
- The minimum order quantity (1,000 kg indicative for Kranti Chemicals) and lead time to your port.
- Export documentation support: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin and bill of lading.
Kranti Chemicals is an ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturer, distributor and exporter based in Gujarat, supplying Bronopol alongside a full bromine derivatives range to buyers in 25+ countries. See the Bronopol product page for the full specification sheet, or send an enquiry for pricing.
