Methyl n-Propyl Ketone (MPK)

Product Overview

Methyl n-Propyl Ketone (MPK) is a colorless, flammable liquid with a characteristic sweet, ketone-like odor. This high-purity solvent (C₅H₁₀O, molecular weight 86.13 g/mol) offers robust solvency for paints, coatings, adhesives, and pharmaceutical extraction processes. MPK features a moderate evaporation rate and a boiling range of 102–104°C, enabling controlled drying in formulations while facilitating efficient removal during processing. The product is manufactured to ACS Reagent Grade standards and USP-NF monographs, underscoring stringent quality controls and traceable testing, including GC-based assay with internal standard for precise composition and GC methods for residuals and impurities. Its physical properties, such as a low surface tension and favorable partition coefficient (logP ≈ 0.5), support consistent formulation performance across industrial applications. MPK is stored and handled under established safety practices to maintain purity and minimize exposure risks in laboratory and manufacturing environments.

This MPK grade is suitable for a wide range of solvent formulations, including paints and coatings, cleaning agents for industrial equipment, and as an intermediate in organic synthesis. Its relatively low viscosity (0.44–0.46 cP at 20–25°C) and good solubility in water and most organic solvents provide formulation flexibility, while its low heavy metals specification (typical metals in the ppm range) makes it appropriate for pharmaceutical extraction and other sensitive applications. Proper storage in compatible containers (HDPE or glass) and adherence to handling guidelines ensure product integrity and worker safety across the supply chain.

Key Properties

• CAS: 107-87-9
• Property appearance: Colorless liquid
• Odor: Sweet, ketone-like odor
• Boiling Point: 102–104°C
• Freezing Point: -80°C
• Solubility: Soluble in water and most organic solvents
• Flash Point: 11°C
• Specific Gravity: 0.805–0.810 at 20°C (typical 0.807)
• Density: 0.805 g/mL at 25°C
• Molecular Weight: 86.13 g/mol
• Vapor Pressure: 30 mmHg at 20°C
• Viscosity: 0.45 cP at 25°C
• Refractive Index: 1.394 at 20°C

Common Applications

• Solvent for Paints: Used as a solvent in the formulation of paints and coatings due to its excellent solvency properties.
• Cleaning Agent: Serves as a cleaning agent for industrial equipment and surfaces, effectively removing oils and greases.
• Intermediate in Organic Synthesis: Acts as an intermediate in the synthesis of various organic compounds and pharmaceuticals.
• Extraction Solvent: Utilized in the extraction of active pharmaceutical ingredients from plant materials.
• Adhesive Formulation: Incorporated into adhesive formulations to enhance bonding properties.

Safety Precautions

Handle MPK in a well-ventilated area with adequate local exhaust. Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and open flames, using containers compatible with ketones (HDPE or glass). Wear appropriate PPE, including chemical-resistant gloves and splash goggles, and implement proper spill response procedures to prevent exposure and environmental release. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to minimize evaporation and contamination.

In addition to standard handling practices, avoid contact with strong oxidizers and acids. Follow exposure controls according to applicable regulations and consult the SDS prior to use for specific recommendations on storage, ventilation, and emergency procedures. Familiarize personnel with first aid measures in case of contact, inhalation, or ingestion, and ensure access to eyewash and safety showers in the work area.

Benefits

✔ High Purity and Consistency – Meets ACS Reagent Grade specifications with tight assay and impurity controls to support reproducible formulations.
✔ Broad Solvency – Excellent solvency for paints, coatings, cleaners, and pharmaceutical extraction, enabling flexible formulation design.