Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
| Formula: | C₄H₈O |
| CAS Number: | 78-93-3 |
| EC Number (EINECS): | 201-159-0 |
| HS Code: | 29141200 |
| UN Number: | 1193 |
| IUPAC Name: | Butan-2-one |
| Also Known As: | 2-Butanone; Ethyl Methyl Ketone; MEK |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | 72.11 |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Odor: | Sweet, sharp, acetone-like |
| Melting Point, °C: | -86 |
| Boiling Point, °C: | 79.6 |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 0.805 |
| Flash Point, °C: | -9 (closed cup) |
| Refractive Index (20°C): | 1.378 |
| Solubility: | Miscible with most organic solvents; soluble in water (29 g/100 mL at 25°C) |
| Purity, %: | ≥99.5 |
| Grades Available: | Industrial, Technical, ACS, Electronic |
| Packaging: | 165kg steel drums, 20kg cans, bulk ISO tanks |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Solvent for resins, coatings, adhesives, inks, and paints
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Used in production of plastics, textiles, and leather finishing
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Cleaning agent in electronics and industrial processes
Secondary Applications
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Intermediate in chemical synthesis (methyl isobutyl ketone, peroxides)
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Extraction solvent in pharmaceutical industry
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Degreasing and surface preparation in metal finishing
End Industries Served: Coatings, Adhesives, Printing, Plastics, Leather, Electronics, Pharmaceuticals, Automotive
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Flammable liquid (Category 2), Eye Irritant (Category 2A), STOT SE (Category 3)
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H225: Highly flammable liquid and vapor
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H319: Causes serious eye irritation
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H336: May cause drowsiness or dizziness
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P210: Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection
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P261: Avoid breathing vapors
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P303 + P361 + P353: IF ON SKIN – remove contaminated clothing, rinse with water
Storage Conditions
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Store in a cool, well-ventilated place
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Keep container tightly closed when not in use
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Ground/bond containers to prevent static discharge
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Class 3, UN1193, PG II
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IMDG: Class 3, UN1193, PG II, EMS F-E, S-D
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IATA: Class 3, UN1193, PG II