α,α′-Dibromo-p-xylene (also known as 1,4-Bis(bromomethyl)benzene, p‑Xylylene dibromide, CAS: 623‑24‑5) is a bifunctional brominated aromatic compound with the molecular formula C₈H₈Br₂ and a molecular weight of 263.96 g/mol. It appears as a white to off‑white crystalline powder with a melting point of 143‑147 °C. The compound features two reactive bromomethyl groups positioned para to each other on a benzene ring, a structural motif that provides two equivalent sites for nucleophilic substitution, cross‑coupling, and polymerization reactions. It is moderately soluble in organic solvents such as toluene and chloroform but has limited solubility in water, reacting slowly upon contact.
As a versatile bifunctional building block, α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene is widely used in organic synthesis, pharmaceutical development, polymer chemistry, and advanced material fabrication. The two benzylic bromine atoms serve as excellent leaving groups for reactions with alcohols, amines, and thiols, enabling the introduction of new functional groups and the construction of complex molecular architectures. Its production typically involves the free‑radical bromination of p‑xylene with N‑bromosuccinimide (NBS) or bromine under controlled conditions. Market demand is closely linked to the global pharmaceutical, polymer, and specialty chemical industries, driven by the increasing need for versatile bifunctional intermediates in drug discovery, advanced polymer synthesis, and material science. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial chain position, this article systematically analyzes international market dynamics of α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene, focusing on core application scenarios, competitive landscape, regional differences, regulatory trends, and future outlook, providing strategic references for industry participants.
Core Application Fields and Demand
Market demand for α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene is concentrated in four major sectors: pharmaceutical synthesis and drug discovery (≈35‑40% of global consumption), polymer chemistry and ATRP initiation (≈25‑30%), crosslinking and membrane fabrication (≈15‑20%), and advanced materials and specialty chemicals (≈10‑15%).
In the pharmaceutical synthesis and drug discovery sector, α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene serves as a valuable building block for the preparation of diverse bioactive molecules. It is used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of phthalazinone derivatives, which are reported as potent inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) — a validated therapeutic target for inflammatory and respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The compound also plays a role in the commercial production of Plerixafor (Mozobil®), a small‑molecule CXCR4 antagonist used for stem cell mobilization in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In the context of generic drug development, α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene is employed as a reference standard for analytical method development (AMD), method validation (AMV), and quality control (QC) in Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs). The compound is also used in the preparation of N‑phenylated polyamines via polycondensation reactions with aniline and other nucleophiles. The global pharmaceutical intermediates market continues to sustain demand for versatile brominated building blocks.
In the polymer chemistry and ATRP initiation sector, α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene is recognized as a classical bifunctional initiator for atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The two benzylic bromine atoms serve as initiation sites for the controlled polymerization of vinyl monomers, enabling the synthesis of well‑defined telechelic polymers and block copolymers with tailored molecular weights and narrow polydispersity. Under atom transfer radical coupling (ATRC) conditions, the compound can be polymerized to yield poly(p‑xylylene) and related polymeric materials. The compound also participates in polycondensation reactions for the synthesis of main‑chain polymers, including specialty polymers for electronic and optical applications.
In the crosslinking and membrane fabrication sector, α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene serves as an effective external crosslinker for polymeric membranes and hypercrosslinked polymers. It has been employed in the post‑crosslinking of triazine‑functionalized ionic hypercrosslinked polymers (IHCPs) to enhance CO₂ adsorption capacity and catalytic conversion. The compound‘s ability to crosslink cellulose chains via etherification has also been documented, forming novel p‑xylyl‑bis‑ether cellulose compositions. These crosslinking applications are critical for developing advanced separation membranes, gas adsorption materials, and high‑performance polymer networks.
In the advanced materials and specialty chemicals sector, α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene is used as a building block for the synthesis of functional materials, including coumarin derivatives, bis(1‑pyrazolyl)methane ligands, and other specialty compounds. It also serves as an effective adsorbent for purifying aromatic hydrocarbons. The compound‘s bifunctional nature enables the construction of complex molecular architectures for applications in materials science, coordination chemistry, and sensor development.
Major Market Participants
The global supply system for α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene follows a pattern of specialized fine chemical and pharmaceutical intermediate manufacturers, with production concentrated in China, Europe, and North America. The compound is generally supplied as a white to off‑white crystalline powder with purity ranging from 97% to ≥98% (verified by HPLC or GC analysis). As a specialized brominated intermediate, the compound is available through dedicated fine chemical suppliers and pharmaceutical intermediate manufacturers.
Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) has established a reliable, quality‑controlled supply chain for high‑purity α,α′-Dibromo-p-xylene (1,4‑Bis(bromomethyl)benzene, CAS 623‑24‑5). Our product is manufactured under strict quality management, achieving consistent purity (≥97‑98%) with low impurity profiles, fully complying with global pharmaceutical, polymer, and research standards. It is available in research grade (for laboratory and R&D applications), industrial grade (for polymer and material synthesis), and high‑purity grade (for pharmaceutical and advanced applications). XinChem offers flexible packaging options ranging from gram quantities for research to bulk custom packaging for industrial applications, with batch‑specific Certificates of Analysis (COA) and structural characterization data ensuring full traceability and compliance.
Regional Market Dynamics
Global demand for α,α′-dibromo-p-xylene shows regional differentiation: “North America and Europe lead in high‑purity pharmaceutical and research applications, Asia‑Pacific is the fastest‑growing region for production and supply, and Japan and South Korea demand ultra‑high‑purity grades for advanced polymer and pharmaceutical development.”
North America (United States and Canada) and Europe (Germany, Switzerland, United Kingdom, France) together account for the largest share of high‑purity pharmaceutical and research consumption (≥98%), driven by the highest concentration of pharmaceutical R&D, polymer science research, and academic institutions. The compound‘s role as a key intermediate in PDE4 inhibitor development and its use as a reference standard for Plerixafor ANDA filings sustain steady demand in regulated markets. Customer requirements in these regions are stringent: purity ≥98%, full traceability, compliance with REACH and TSCA regulations, and comprehensive impurity documentation. The compound is classified as a Dangerous Good for transport and may be subject to additional shipping charges.
Asia‑Pacific, particularly China, is the fastest‑growing region for production and supply of brominated intermediates. Chinese manufacturers, including XinChem, offer competitive pricing at scales ranging from research quantities to industrial batches, serving both domestic demand for pharmaceutical and polymer intermediates and exports to global markets. The region‘s expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing base, coupled with growing investment in polymer science and advanced material research, continues to drive demand for high‑purity bifunctional building blocks.
Japan and South Korea demand ultra‑high‑purity grades for advanced pharmaceutical development and high‑performance polymer applications.
Regulatory and Environmental Considerations
α,α′‑Dibromo‑p‑xylene (CAS 623‑24‑5) is subject to regulatory oversight in major economies, particularly when intended for pharmaceutical, polymer, and research applications. The compound has an InChIKey of YLFYCHSQDOTBIV‑UHFFFAOYSA‑N and is listed in various chemical databases including PubChem.
Recommended storage conditions: store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, protected from light, moisture, and incompatible materials. The compound is light‑sensitive and should be protected from prolonged exposure. Personal protective equipment (PPE) — including chemical‑resistant gloves, safety glasses, and appropriate laboratory attire — is recommended during handling. The compound should be kept away from strong oxidizing agents, strong bases, and strong acids.
In the European Union, α,α′‑dibromo‑p‑xylene is subject to REACH regulations; importers and manufacturers must provide Safety Data Sheets (SDS). In the United States, the compound is regulated under TSCA; for pharmaceutical API use, adherence to cGMP guidelines (21 CFR Parts 210/211) is required. In China, the compound is listed in the Inventory of Existing Chemical Substances (IECSC) and requires safety production licenses for manufacturing facilities. The compound is classified as a Dangerous Good for transport (UN 3077, Class 9) and may be subject to additional shipping charges.
Environmentally, the compound requires responsible handling and disposal in accordance with environmental regulations. Manufacturing processes generate solvent‑containing waste streams and brominated by‑products requiring proper treatment.
Future Outlook
The market outlook for α,α′‑dibromo‑p‑xylene is tied to four core drivers: (1) sustained growth in global demand for bifunctional brominated intermediates in pharmaceutical synthesis, driven by the increasing complexity of drug candidates and the compound‘s role in PDE4 inhibitor development and Plerixafor production; (2) expanding applications in polymer chemistry, particularly as a bifunctional ATRP initiator for the synthesis of well‑defined telechelic polymers and block copolymers; (3) growing interest in crosslinked polymers and hypercrosslinked materials for gas adsorption, separation membranes, and advanced functional materials; and (4) increasing adoption in specialty chemical synthesis for ligands, coumarin derivatives, and other high‑value compounds. The compound‘s unique combination of two reactive benzylic bromine atoms positions it as a versatile building block for next‑generation pharmaceutical, polymer, and material development.
Challenges include: raw material cost volatility for p‑xylene and brominating agents, competition from alternative bifunctional intermediates, and the need for continued investment in high‑purity production and quality control. Enterprises should focus on securing high‑purity (≥98%) production capabilities, maintaining rigorous impurity documentation for global regulatory filings, ensuring compliance with REACH and TSCA requirements, and building long‑term supply partnerships with pharmaceutical manufacturers, polymer researchers, and specialty chemical companies.
Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)
As a world‑leading supplier of brominated intermediates, pharmaceutical building blocks, and specialty chemicals, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) has always focused on the innovative needs of the pharmaceutical, polymer, and specialty chemical industries. Relying on core advantages in bromination chemistry, organic synthesis, quality control, and global logistics, we provide high‑quality α,α′‑Dibromo‑p‑xylene (1,4‑Bis(bromomethyl)benzene, CAS 623‑24‑5) to global customers. Our product is manufactured under strict quality management, achieving consistent specifications for pharmaceutical, polymer, and research grades. Fully compliant with international quality standards, it is an ideal bifunctional brominated building block for pharmaceutical API synthesis, ATRP initiation, crosslinking applications, and advanced material fabrication.
1. Technical Advantages
High Purity & Consistency: Our α,α′‑dibromo‑p‑xylene achieves purity levels of ≥97‑98% (verified by HPLC/GC analysis), supplied as a white to off‑white crystalline powder, molecular weight 263.96 g/mol, molecular formula C₈H₈Br₂, melting point 143‑147 °C.
Low Impurity Profile: Strict control of residual solvents, heavy metals, and related brominated by‑products ensures high performance for pharmaceutical, polymer, and research applications.
Multiple Grades Available: We offer research grade (for laboratory and R&D applications), industrial grade (for polymer and material synthesis), and high‑purity grade (for pharmaceutical and advanced applications).
Batch‑to‑Batch Uniformity: Rigorous analytical testing (HPLC, GC, NMR, melting point) guarantees consistent quality and reproducible performance across all production lots.
2. Product Advantages
Versatile Bifunctional Brominated Building Block: Directly used in pharmaceutical synthesis (PDE4 inhibitors, Plerixafor reference standard, phthalazinone derivatives), polymer chemistry (ATRP initiator, telechelic polymer synthesis, polycondensation reactions), crosslinking applications (polymeric membranes, hypercrosslinked polymers, cellulose crosslinking), and advanced material fabrication (coumarin derivatives, bis(1‑pyrazolyl)methane ligands, functional materials).
Dual Reactive Sites: Two equivalent benzylic bromine atoms enable selective functionalization with alcohols, amines, thiols, and other nucleophiles, providing versatile synthetic utility.
Proven Pharmaceutical Utility: Key intermediate for PDE4 inhibitor development and reference standard for Plerixafor ANDA applications.
Flexible Packaging: 5g, 10g, 25g, 50g, 100g, 500g (R&D); 1kg, 5kg, 10kg, 25kg HDPE drums/fiber drums (industrial); full custom packaging available.
Reliable Supply Chain: Annual capacity in the multi‑ton range, with dedicated temperature‑controlled warehousing (cool, dry, light‑protected, sealed containers) and just‑in‑time delivery capabilities.
3. Application Fields
- Pharmaceutical Synthesis: PDE4 inhibitors (phthalazinone derivatives), Plerixafor reference standard, N‑phenylated polyamines, and other brominated drug intermediates.
- Polymer Chemistry: ATRP bifunctional initiator, telechelic polymer synthesis, block copolymer preparation, poly(p‑xylylene) synthesis, polycondensation reactions.
- Crosslinking & Membrane Fabrication: Polymeric membrane crosslinking, hypercrosslinked polymer (IHCP) fabrication, cellulose crosslinking, gas adsorption materials.
- Advanced Materials & Specialty Chemicals: Coumarin derivatives, bis(1‑pyrazolyl)methane ligands, functional materials, coordination chemistry ligands, sensor development.
- Analytical Reference Standards: Method development and validation for ANDA applications, quality control reference standards.
4. Service Support
Our technical team provides synthetic application guidance, impurity profiling, custom packaging, and regulatory documentation (Certificate of Analysis, Technical Data Sheet, Safety Data Sheet, REACH compliance, TSCA certification). We offer just‑in‑time delivery and custom synthesis of brominated intermediates upon request.
5. Why Choose XinChem
- Professionalism: 20+ years in the pharmaceutical, polymer, and specialty chemical industries.
- Flexibility: Tailored to customer purity specifications, grade requirements, packaging sizes, and regulatory documentation needs.
- Cost‑effectiveness: High quality at competitive industrial pricing.
Contact us now to start cooperation!
Website: www.xinchem.com
Email: sales1@xinchem.com
WhatsApp: +86 18049800532
Post time: Aug-02-2026