Methyl ethyl ketone

Methyl ethyl ketone (CAS 78-93-3), commonly known as MEK, is a fast-evaporating industrial solvent. FEMA 2170.

Where is Methyl ethyl ketone used?

• Coatings and adhesives: dissolves nitrocellulose, vinyl and acrylic resins
• Printing and packaging: solvent in gravure and flexographic inks for high-speed press performance
• Electronics: precision cleaning and degreasing of circuit boards and metal components
• Plastics processing: solvent cement for bonding PVC and ABS substrates
• Textiles and leather: carrier in polymer coatings for durable industrial finishes
• It dissolves a broad range of resins, waxes and polymers.
• Extraction of oils and fats from natural resins.
• Formulation of polychloroprene adhesives, including as a replacement for toluene.
• Manufacture of paraffin wax.
• Denaturant for alcohol.

Good to know: Residue-free evaporation is critical for maintaining the integrity of sensitive parts.

Formulation notes

• Potentiates n-hexane neurotoxicity; combined risk calculation is recommended when both are used in a workplace.
• Similar solvent properties to acetone but a higher boiling temperature and a significantly slower evaporation rate.

Typical specification

• Water solubility 29 g/100 ml at 20°C.
• Vapour pressure 10.5 kPa at 20°C.

Regulatory status

• For transport, classified as UN Class 3 with packing group II.
• May cause drowsiness or dizziness under CLP.
• Classified under UN GHS as causing serious eye irritation.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Explosive limits 1.8-11.5 vol% in air.
• Prolonged exposure (12 months) to air and heat, or short-term storage, can form explosive peroxides.
• Store in an area without drains or sewer access.
• Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from combustible and flammable materials, incompatible materials, direct sunlight, heat, and ignition sources.

Frequently asked questions about Methyl ethyl ketone

What occupational exposure limits apply to methyl ethyl ketone?

Occupational exposure limits are TLV-TWA 200 ppm and TLV-STEL 300 ppm with a BEI; MAK 600 mg/m³ (200 ppm), peak limitation category I(1), skin absorption (H), pregnancy risk group C; EU-OEL 600 mg/m³ (200 ppm) TWA and 900 mg/m³ (300 ppm) STEL.

What is the relative density of methyl ethyl ketone?

The relative density is 0.8 (water = 1).

How is methyl ethyl ketone classified for flammability under CLP?

It is classified as a highly flammable liquid and vapor under CLP.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.