About Bromates

Bromates are chemical compound that contains the bromine oxoanion, BrO−3. They often form in the environment as a result of a reaction between bromine anions and ozone, or of electrochemical processes carried out in bromine-containing brines, but in the lab they are typically synthesized by dissolving bromine in a concentrated solution of potassium hydroxide. For large scale production, bromates can also be intentionally produced through electrolytic processes. Bromates are oxidizing agents sometimes used in industrial chemistry. The strong oxidant properties of bromates make them irritating to the skin and respiratory tract, and toxic if ingested. Potassium bromate and calcium bromate have been used as flour additives to improve rising, but concerns about their possible carcinogenicity have led to reduction of this practice.