Tribromoisocyanuric Acid: A Green and Versatile Reagent

The present review summarizes the synthetic application of tribromoisocyanuric acid [1,3,5-tribromo-1,3,5- triazine-2,4,6-(1H,3H,5H)-trione] in organic synthesis and focuses on its green aspects. It is a safe, stable and easily prepared solid. Electrophilic bromination reactions involving alkenes, arenes, dicarbonyl compounds and the bromodecarboxylation of cinnamic acids (Hunsdiecker reaction), as well as benzylic bromination and some oxidations involving tribromoisocyanuric acid are presented and discussed. In accordance with green chemistry principles, the use of tribromoisocyanuric acid enables bromination without bromine or other harmful or dangerous reagents.