Download full text in PDF Opens in a new window. Article suggestions will be shown in a dialog on return to ScienceDirect. ... Please enable JavaScript to use all the features on this page. ... Carboxylic acids are converted into acid bromides on alumina which has been modified with boron tribromide. A different reaction occurs in solution. ... When activated alumina (400°C) is treated with BBr 3 , a reagent is produced (BBr 3 /Al 2 O 3 ) which reacts with carboxylic ...