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Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

  • CAS Number: 78-93-3
  • EINECS Number: 201-159-0
  • Molecular Formula: C4H8O
  • Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol
  • Appearance: Colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet, sharp odor
  • Density: 0.805 g/cm³ (20°C)
  • Melting Point: -86.3°C
  • Boiling Point: 79.6°C
  • Flash Point: -9°C (closed cup)
  • Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, ether, and most organic solvents
  • Water Solubility: 29% (20°C)
  • pH: Neutral
  • Packing: 20kg/drum, 160kg/steel drum, ISO tank
  • 20GP Container Loading: Approx. 13.2 metric tons (around 82 drums)
  • Preparation: Mainly produced by dehydrogenation of 2-butanol

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Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

Grade Information

  • Industrial Grade: 99.5%

  • Electronic Grade: 99.9%, metal impurities < 1ppm

  • Pharmaceutical Grade: USP Grade

Packaging

  • Standard Packaging:

    • 20KG/Drum

    • 160KG/Steel Drum


Applications of MEK

1. Industrial Solvent

MEK is a widely used solvent with excellent dissolving power, applied in the following industries:

  • Pharmaceuticals: Used as a solvent in the production of liquid formulations.

  • Plastics and Fibers: Used as a polymer solvent, particularly in the production of synthetic fibers like rayon.

  • Coatings and Inks: MEK is an effective solvent in paints, varnishes, and inks, aiding in quick evaporation.

  • Electronics: Used to clean electronic components and remove residues from soldering processes.

  • Paints and Coatings: Used as a thinner in paints, allowing for rapid drying without affecting the quality of the final coat.

2. Chemical Synthesis

MEK is an important precursor for the production of various chemicals, including:

  • Methyl Methacrylate (MMA): Used in the production of acrylic glass, coatings, adhesives, etc.

  • Polyester Resins: Widely used in the manufacture of plastics and composite materials.

  • Acrylic Esters: Used in the production of resins and adhesives.

3. Cleaning and Degreasing

  • Degreaser: MEK is used as a degreaser to clean machinery, electronic components, and automotive parts.

  • Surface Cleaning: Used for removing grease, fingerprints, coatings, or other oily substances, especially in industrial manufacturing processes.

4. Pharmaceutical Applications

MEK plays a crucial role as an excipient in the pharmaceutical industry:

  • Solvent in Drug Production: Used as a solvent in the formulation of certain medications, particularly in the preparation of poorly water-soluble compounds.

  • Extraction and Purification: Acts as an extraction solvent for isolating active ingredients from plants or other natural sources.

5. Cosmetics and Personal Care

  • Nail Polish and Remover: MEK is a common ingredient in nail polish removers, effectively dissolving nail polish and allowing for easy removal.

  • Skin Care: Used in chemical exfoliation treatments and some skin care products.

6. Electronics and Aerospace

  • Cleaning Agent: In electronics and aerospace, MEK is used to remove various contaminants, such as oil and dust, from surfaces.

  • Composite Material Manufacturing: MEK is used to clean and prepare surfaces in the production of composite materials, ensuring proper bonding and material integrity.

7. Paints and Coatings

  • Thinner: MEK is commonly used as a thinner in paints, varnishes, and adhesives, where quick evaporation and no impact on color or quality are required.

8. Laboratory and Research

  • Solvent: MEK is used as a solvent in laboratory and research applications, particularly in organic chemistry and analytical chemistry.

  • Cleaning Agent: Used in laboratories to clean glassware and other equipment, ensuring a clean working environment.

9. Textile Industry

  • Solvent Dyeing: In the textile industry, MEK is used to dissolve dyes and aid in the processing of fibers, ensuring uniform dyeing.

10. Explosives and Fireworks Manufacturing

  • Synthesis Precursor: MEK plays a role in the synthesis of certain explosives and fireworks, acting as one of the key raw materials.