1. Pharmaceuticals

• Intermediate in Drug Synthesis: Propionyl bromide is used to introduce propionyl groups into amines, alcohols, or phenols, producing propionamides or propionate esters, which are key building blocks in API synthesis (e.g., anti-inflammatory drugs, anesthetics).
• Precursor for Heterocyclic Compounds: It is used to prepare α-bromo carbonyl intermediates that undergo further transformations to oxazoles, thiazoles, and quinolines, essential in many drug discovery programs.

2. Agrochemicals

• Synthesis of Herbicides and Insecticides: Propionyl bromide is utilized to create halogenated intermediates or propionylated structures in pesticide and herbicide development, especially in modifying molecules for better lipophilicity and field stability.
• Enhancing Biological Activity of Agrochemicals: The propionyl group can significantly influence bioavailability and transport in plant and insect systems, making the compound more effective.

3. Performance Chemicals

• Acylation Reagent for Fine Chemical Synthesis: Used to acylate a wide range of substrates (e.g., aromatic compounds, amines, alcohols) to form propionate esters and propionamides, valuable in the production of perfumes, flavors, and plastic additives.
• Intermediate for Brominated Carbonyl Compounds: Propionyl bromide provides a source of α-bromo ketones, which are versatile intermediates in the synthesis of specialty chemicals and photo-reactive compounds.
• Reactive Reagent for Advanced Synthesis: Employed in labs for the development of novel ligands, catalysts, and model compounds in asymmetric synthesis, radical chemistry, and mechanism studies.
• Synthesis of Specialized Molecules: Used to generate molecules for SAR (Structure–Activity Relationship) studies or to prepare intermediates for photochemistry, bioorthogonal labeling, or material science research.

4. Polymers & Resins

• Functional Monomer Preparation: Propionyl bromide is used to synthesize functionalized monomers containing brominated or acyl side groups. These are useful in producing photoresists, UV-curable coatings, or high-performance adhesives.
• Surface Modification: Its reactive nature allows it to graft acyl groups onto polymer surfaces, enhancing adhesion, crosslinking, or compatibility with other materials.