Chemical laboratory

Methyl N Propyl Ketone

High-Purity Industrial Solvent for Coatings Applications

  • CAS 107-87-9
  • Formula C₅H₁₀O
  • Flash Pt 13 °C
  • Density 0.809 g/cm³

Physical & Chemical Properties

Property Value Unit
Boiling point 102 °C °C
Flash point 13 °C °C
Density 0.809 g/cm³ g/cm³
Solubility 38 g/L at 20 °C -
Ph N/A -
Molecular weight 86.13 g/mol g/mol
Melting point -78 °C °C
Vapor pressure 27 mmHg at 20°C mmHg
Autoignition temp 497 °C -
Appearance Clear, colorless liquid -
Odor Acetone-like odor -
Vapor density 3.0 (air = 1) g/cm³

Overview

Methyl N Propyl Ketone (MPK) is a clear, colorless organic solvent with the molecular formula C₅H₁₀O and CAS number 107-87-9. This versatile ketone compound features an acetone-like odor and serves as an effective solvent across multiple industrial applications. With a molecular weight of 86.13 g/mol and a boiling point of 102°C, MPK offers excellent solvency properties while maintaining good volatility characteristics for coating and extraction processes.

Key Applications

MPK excels as a solvent for nitrocellulose formulations, making it essential for manufacturing high-quality lacquers and specialty coatings. Its strong dissolving power and controlled evaporation rate ensure smooth application and optimal film formation. The chemical also serves as an effective solvent for vinyl resins, supporting the production of flexible films, adhesives, and protective coatings used in automotive and construction industries.

In chemical manufacturing, MPK functions as a valuable intermediate in chemical synthesis, enabling the production of various organic compounds and specialty chemicals. Additionally, its controlled solubility (38 g/L in water) makes it useful as an extraction solvent for separating organic compounds from aqueous solutions in pharmaceutical and fine chemical processes.

Safety & Handling

MPK requires careful handling due to its low flash point of 13°C, classifying it as a flammable liquid. All operations must be conducted away from ignition sources, with proper grounding and bonding procedures in place. Personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate respiratory protection is essential when handling this material.

Ensure adequate ventilation in work areas, as MPK has a vapor pressure of 27 mmHg at 20°C and a vapor density 3.0 times that of air. The autoignition temperature of 497°C provides some safety margin, but proper fire prevention measures remain critical.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store MPK in tightly sealed containers made of compatible materials such as steel or aluminum. Maintain storage temperatures below 25°C in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and incompatible materials. The product should be kept away from strong oxidizing agents and acids to prevent unwanted reactions.

Container integrity should be regularly inspected, and proper inventory rotation ensures optimal product quality. When stored under recommended conditions, MPK maintains its specifications for extended periods.

Why Alliance Chemical

Alliance Chemical provides reliable access to high-quality Methyl N Propyl Ketone Mpk with same-day shipping from our Taylor, Texas facility. We offer flexible delivery options including UPS for smaller quantities, LTL for medium orders, and FTL for bulk requirements. Every shipment includes comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Certificates of Analysis (COA) to support your regulatory compliance and quality assurance programs.

Shipping & Availability

Parcel Shipping

UPS Ground supports pints, quarts, and most 1-gallon packages nationwide.

LTL Freight

5-gallon pails, drums, and totes move via LTL carriers such as ABF Freight, SEFL, Saia, and XPO.

Full Truckload

FTL available for palletized bulk orders. Competitive freight rates.

Local Pickup

Same-day pickup at our Taylor, TX warehouse for Texas customers.

SDS, COA, and TDS available for every product • Same-day shipping on orders before 1 PM CT

Available Sizes

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is methyl n‑propyl ketone (MPK) and what is it used for?
Methyl n‑propyl ketone (MPK, CAS 107‑87‑9, formula C5H10O, also known as 2‑pentanone) is a colorless ketone solvent used as a solvent and intermediate. It is commonly used in coatings, inks, adhesives, cleaning formulations and as a reagent in laboratory and industrial processes.
How should MPK be stored and what is its typical shelf life?
Store MPK in tightly closed, labeled containers in a cool, well‑ventilated area away from heat, sparks and direct sunlight, using approved flammable storage cabinets where required. Typical unopened shelf life is 12–24 months under recommended conditions, but always verify storage recommendations and expiry with the supplier and the product COA/SDS.
What are the main safety hazards and handling precautions for MPK?
MPK is a flammable, volatile solvent that can irritate eyes and respiratory tract and may cause skin dryness; avoid ignition sources and use explosion‑proof ventilation. Use appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, respirator as required), grounding/bonding during transfer, and follow the SDS for exposure limits, first aid and emergency measures.
How do different concentrations of MPK affect its performance and hazards?
Higher‑purity MPK has greater solvency and volatility and therefore higher flammability and vapor exposure risk, while diluted formulations alter evaporation rate and solvency power. Always consult the SDS and TDS for the specific concentration or formulation to determine performance characteristics and required controls.
What documentation is available for MPK before purchase or use?
Suppliers typically provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Technical Data Sheet (TDS), and Certificate of Analysis (COA), plus shipping papers and regulatory compliance documents on request. Review the SDS for hazard information and the COA/TDS for guaranteed composition and key property values.
How is MPK shipped and what packaging sizes are common?
MPK is shipped as a flammable liquid under applicable ADR/IMDG/IATA regulations and requires proper labeling and dangerous goods paperwork. Common packaging options include 1 L and 5 L bottles, 20 L pails, 200 L drums and 1000 L IBCs, with special packaging available for small laboratory quantities.
What materials are compatible with MPK and which should be avoided?
MPK is generally compatible with glass, stainless steel and many metals, but can swell or degrade certain plastics, coatings and elastomers (for example polystyrene and some rubbers). Always consult a chemical‑resistance chart or supplier compatibility data for specific container, seal and equipment materials.
What are the key technical specifications I should check for MPK?
Key specifications include CAS 107‑87‑9, formula C5H10O, molecular weight ≈86.13 g/mol, physical state (colorless liquid) and certified values for boiling point, density, refractive index and purity for your grade. Exact numerical values and acceptance limits vary by manufacturer—obtain the product TDS and COA for certified specifications.
Which industries commonly use MPK and what applications is it suited for?
MPK is used across coatings, inks, adhesives, metal cleaning, polymer synthesis and laboratory research as a mid‑boiling solvent and chemical intermediate. It is chosen where moderate evaporation rate and good solvency for resins, oils and greases are required.
How can I buy MPK and what should I expect regarding availability and lead times?
MPK is sold by chemical distributors and manufacturers in laboratory and technical solvent grades, available from small bottles to bulk drums and IBCs; availability depends on regional supply and regulatory controls. Contact suppliers for current pricing, minimum order quantities, lead times and required hazardous materials documentation for shipment.

Documentation & Downloads

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