Methyl Ethyl Ketone

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Methyl Ethyl Ketone, also known as Butanone, is a clear, colorless liquid with a sharp, sweet odor. It is a highly effective solvent widely used in industrial processes due to its excellent solvency, fast evaporation rate, and compatibility with a wide range of substances. MEK is commonly used in coatings, adhesives, printing inks, and cleaning formulations.

Description

Methyl Ethyl Ketone

Primary Uses

  1. Coatings and Paints
    • Solvent in lacquers, varnishes, and paints to improve application and drying.
    • Enhances film formation and gloss.
  2. Adhesives and Sealants
    • Used as a solvent in adhesives, particularly for bonding plastics and rubber.
  3. Printing Inks
    • Serves as a solvent to improve ink flow and drying characteristics.
  4. Cleaning and Degreasing
    • Effective solvent for cleaning metal surfaces and removing grease and oil.

Secondary Uses

  1. Chemical Intermediate
    • Used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and other chemicals.
  2. Laboratory Reagent
    • Applied as a solvent in analytical and synthetic laboratory procedures.
  3. Plastics and Rubber Processing
    • Utilized as a solvent in polymer coatings and rubber cements.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

Key Attributes

Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Butan-2-one
  • Common/Trade Name: Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
  • CAS Number: 78-93-3
  • HS Code: 2914.12.00
  • Synonyms: Butanone; MEK; Ethyl methyl ketone

Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Liquid
  • Color & Odor: Colorless; sharp, sweet, ketone-like odor
  • Boiling Point: 79.6°C
  • Melting Point: -86°C
  • Flash Point: -4°C (closed cup)
  • Density: 0.805 g/cm³ at 20°C
  • Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents

Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • GHS Classification: Flammable liquid, Category 2; Serious eye irritation, Category 2
  • Toxicity: Moderate toxicity; avoid ingestion and prolonged exposure
  • Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL - 200 ppm; ACGIH TLV - 200 ppm

Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources
  • Container Type: Supplied in metal drums, plastic containers, or bulk tanks designed for flammable liquids
  • Shelf Life: Stable under proper storage conditions for several years
  • Handling Precautions: Use explosion-proof equipment; avoid inhalation and skin contact; wear appropriate PPE

 

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Complies with international chemical safety standards and regulations (e.g., REACH, OSHA)
  • Listed on major chemical inventories worldwide

 

Environmental & Health Impact

  • Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
  • Ecotoxicity: Low to moderate environmental impact
  • Bioaccumulation: Low potential for bioaccumulation
  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE Required: Chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and flame-resistant clothing recommended
  • Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; prevent vapor accumulation; ground and bond containers during transfer
  • Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and away from incompatible substances

 

First Aid Measures

  1. Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur
  2. Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash skin thoroughly with soap and water
  3. Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
  4. Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical assistance

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Highly flammable liquid and vapor
  • Extinguishing Media: Use alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers
  • Special Precautions: Evacuate area; wear full protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other toxic gases under fire conditions