Abstract: A process for the perbromination of phenol and diphenyl ether by brominating the corresponding compound in bromine as the sole reaction medium using metal and metal-containing catalysts at an elevated initial reaction temperature of at least about 35.degree. C., preferably at least about 45.degree. C., substantially enhances reaction productivity without adversely affecting product yield or quality.

Abstract: Crude halogenated organic products, especially products consisting of partially halogenated diphenyl ethers alone or in admixture with other materials may be purified by contacting the crude brominated product with a finely divided basic solid such as a carbonate or bicarbonate of an alkali metal or ammonia for a time and at a temperature sufficient to enhance the purity thereof. The purification step may be performed in the presence of an organic solvent or by adding the basic solid directly to molten crude products in the presence of a small amount of water.