CAS: 78-93-3
Methyl Ethyl Ketone also known as butanone-2 or simply as MEK. This solvent is special for you evaporation rate and solvency power. MEK is very effective, as the solvent spans multiple industries. A side from the other ketones, MEK stands out for superior material compatibility and fast-drying and dissolution of solutes which is why it is often used for dissolving with others substances. MEK is often used when high efficiency and precise results are crucial in industrial processes.
Chemical Properties of Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
● CAS Number: 78-93-3
● Molecular Formula: C4H8O
● Boiling Point: 79.6°C
● Density: 0.805 g/cm³ at 20°C
● Flash Point: -3°C (Closed Cup)
Physical Characteristics
● Odor: MEK has a characteristic sweet odor, similar to acetone but milder.
● Appearance: A clear, colorless liquid.
● Viscosity: Relatively low, allowing it to flow easily in various applications.
● Evaporation Rate: Fast, making it suitable for applications requiring quick drying.
● Material Compatibility: Highly compatible with a wide range of materials, making it ideal for dissolving and mixing with many chemicals.
● Surface Tension: Low, contributing to excellent wetting and penetration of surfaces.
Applications in the Plastic & Rubber Industry
MEK constitutes an important ingredient for the formulation & processing in the family of polymers of Plastic & Rubber industry. Widely employed as an adhesive or coating and resin solvent. It aids in better adhesive and surface finish of plastic bonding and rubber applications. It dries very rapidly, which makes manufacturing outcomes more productive. MEK also acts as an adhesive of choice for rubber products, so from the chemical standpoint requires constant use in this Industry.
Other Industries Where MEK is Applied
● Oil & Gas: Used as a cleaning agent for pipelines and equipment, as well as a solvent in certain chemical processes.
● Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, and Elastomers (CASE): MEK is critical in coatings due to its excellent thinning properties and ability to enhance adhesion and finish quality in adhesives.
● Construction: Utilized in waterproofing agents, sealants, and coating systems for concrete and other building materials.
● Pharma: Acts as an extraction solvent in pharmaceutical processes and formulation.
● HI&I (Household, Industrial, and Institutional Cleaning): Its strong dissolving capabilities make it an ideal solvent for cleaning and degreasing.