Synthesis of Silica Bromide as Heterogeneous Reagent and its Application to Conversion of Alcohols to Alkyl Bromides

Silica bromide as heterogeneous reagent is prepared from the reaction of silica gel with PBr3 as a nonhydroscopic, filterable, cheap, and stable yellowish powder that can be stored for months. The results show that the silica bromide is a suitable and efficient reagent for conversion of alcohols to alkyl bromides under mild conditions at room temperature. The easy availability of this reagent makes this simple procedure attractive and a practical alternative to the existing methods.