Ethyl methyl ketone (2-Butanone )
| Formula | C4H8O |
| Chemical formula | CH3COCH2H5 |
| Density | 0.805 g/cm3 (20°C) |
| Molar mass | 72.11 g/mol |
| CAS number | 78-93-3 |
| HS Code | 29141200 |
| EC number | 201-159-0 |
| Storage | Store at 15 to 30 °C |
| SDS | available |
| R phrase | R 11-36-66-67 |
| S phrase | S 9-16 |
| Odour | of solvents |
| Form | liquid |
| Color | colorless |
| Explosion limit | 1.8 to 11.5 Vol % |
| Ignitation temprature | 514 °c |
| Solubility in water | 299 g/l (20°C) |
| Solubility in ethanol | soluble (20°C) |
| Flash point | -4 °C |
| Boiling point | 79.6 °C |
| Melting point | -86°C |
| Vapour pressure | 105 hPa |
| Viscosity dynamical | 0.4 mPa *s |
| Purity | ≥ | 99 | % |
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| Color | Conforms | ||
| Density | 0.804 to 0.805 | ||
| Water | ≤ | 0.1 | % |
| Free acid | ≤ | 0.0 | % |
| Evaporation residue | ≤ | 0.001 | % |
| Heavy metals | ≤ | 0.0 | % |
Ethyl Methyl Ketone (MEK) is a colorless, volatile organic solvent widely used in industrial and laboratory applications, known for its excellent solvency power, fast evaporation rate, and effectiveness in various chemical formulations.
🏭⚗️ Production
Ethyl Methyl Ketone (MEK) is produced by the catalytic dehydrogenation of 2-butanol or by the reaction of acetone and ethanol. The solution is typically supplied as a high-purity liquid, ensuring consistency for both industrial and analytical uses, and is stored in airtight containers to prevent contamination and maintain its solvent properties.
🔬 Properties
MEK is a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic sweetish odor. It has a boiling point of 79.6°C and a melting point of -86.5°C. MEK is highly soluble in water, ethanol, and most organic solvents, making it a versatile solvent. It is flammable and should be handled with care, stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place to prevent exposure to heat and open flames.
🧪 Applications
Ethyl Methyl Ketone is commonly used in industrial settings as a solvent in paints, coatings, adhesives, and varnishes due to its fast evaporation rate and strong solvency properties. In laboratories, it is used for extraction processes, chromatography, and preparation of chemical mixtures. It is also widely used as a cleaning agent in the electronics and automotive industries and serves as a key intermediate in the production of chemicals like methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (MEKP).
⚠️ Safety
Ethyl Methyl Ketone is flammable and can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system if exposed to high concentrations. It should be handled in a well-ventilated area, using gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. It is important to store MEK in tightly sealed containers and away from incompatible substances, such as strong oxidizers. Waste disposal should be carried out according to laboratory safety protocols and environmental regulations.
