The history of bromine from discovery to commodity

The discovery of bromine represents one of the first experimental evidences that elements could be grouped in families of similar properties. Transformation of the new element and its derivatives into a commercial reality had to wait until automobiles begun to be mass-produced. The pattern end use of bromine has reflected the changes in social appreciation of environmental protection and safety. From a strong initial use as gasoline additive and agricultural chemical, the end uses are changing drastically into flame-retardants and sanitary uses. From a strictly initial European industrial activity it has turned into an important chemical activity for the United States, Jordan, and Israel.