Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

Product Overview

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), also known as Butanone, is a highly volatile, colorless liquid organic compound. As a Technical Grade solvent with the formula C₄H₈O, it is valued in industrial settings for its exceptional solvency power and fast evaporation rate. It effectively dissolves a wide range of gums, resins, cellulose acetate, and nitrocellulose coatings. MEK is a standard component in the formulation of high-solids coatings, adhesives, and printing inks, and serves as a heavy-duty degreaser for machinery and metal parts.

This technical grade material is specifically manufactured for industrial processing, manufacturing, and general purpose solvent applications. It provides consistent performance for thinning applications and surface preparation. MEK is miscible with oil and water, making it versatile for various chemical processing requirements.

Key Properties

• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Characteristic, sharp, sweet odor
• Grade: Technical
• CAS Number: 78-93-3
• Formula: C₄H₈O
• Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol
• Boiling Point: 79.6°C (175.3°F)
• Density: 0.805 g/mL at 25°C
• Flash Point: -9°C (16°F)
• Solubility: Soluble in water; miscible with ethanol and ether

Common Applications

• Surface Coatings: Used as a primary solvent in nitrocellulose, acrylic, and vinyl surface coatings due to its low viscosity and high evaporation rate.
• Adhesives & Sealants: Acts as a solvent for rubber-based industrial cements and adhesives, ensuring proper viscosity and curing times.
• Equipment Cleaning: A potent degreaser for cleaning industrial equipment, removing heavy oils, tars, and residues from metal surfaces.
• Printing Inks: Utilized in the formulation of printing inks, particularly for rotogravure and flexographic printing.
• Chemical Intermediate: Serves as a precursor and reaction medium in the synthesis of plastics and various industrial chemicals.

Safety Precautions

Methyl Ethyl Ketone is a highly flammable liquid and vapor. It must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. Proper grounding and bonding are required during transfer to prevent static discharge.

Handling: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Avoid breathing vapors or mist. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. In case of contact with eyes or skin, rinse immediately with plenty of water. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive safety and emergency information.

Benefits

• High Solvency: Quickly dissolves resins, adhesives, and tough industrial residues.
• Fast Evaporation: Allows for rapid drying times in coating and cleaning applications.
• Versatile Packaging: Available in sizes from 1 Quart up to 55 Gallon Drums to suit small workshops or large-scale manufacturing.

Related Products

• Cyclohexanone ACS Grade
• Cyclohexanone Technical Grade
• Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) ACS Grade