Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

Description

What is Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)?

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), also known as Butanone, is a highly effective, colorless, and volatile liquid ketone with the chemical formula C₄H₈O. It possesses a sweet, sharp odor similar to acetone and is widely used as an industrial solvent. MEK is soluble in water and many organic solvents, making it a preferred choice in industries such as coatings, adhesives, chemical manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. Due to its excellent solvency, fast evaporation rate, and low viscosity, MEK delivers superior performance in formulation processes.

At Chemex Chemicals, we offer high-purity Methyl Ethyl Ketone, tested to meet stringent quality standards, ensuring consistent performance across applications.

Technical Specifications of Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid

• Molecular Formula: C₄H₈O

• Molar Mass: 72.11 g/mol

• Density: 0.8050 g/cm³

• Melting Point: -86°C

• Boiling Range: 79.0 – 80.5°C

• Flash Point: -6°C

• Viscosity: 43 cP at 20°C

• Water Content: Max 0.1%

• Specific Gravity: 0.806 – 0.808

• Non-volatile Matter: ≤ 2 mg/100 ml

• Color (Hazen): Max 10

• Acidity (as Acetic Acid): Max 0.003%

• Solubility: Soluble in water (27.5 g/100 mL)

Key Applications of Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

• Paints, Coatings & Resins

MEK acts as a powerful solvent in paints, lacquers, and coatings due to its fast-drying nature and excellent thinning properties. It helps reduce viscosity and enhances the flow of coatings.

• Adhesives & Sealants

Used in the formulation of synthetic adhesives for its ability to dissolve resins and polymers, ensuring smooth application and strong bonding performance.

• Chemical Manufacturing

MEK is widely used as an intermediate in chemical synthesis, especially for producing methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (a catalyst for polymerization processes).

• Cleaning Agents & Degreasers

Its fast evaporation and high solvency make it ideal for degreasing metal surfaces, cleaning machinery, and formulating cleaning agents in industrial settings.

• Pharmaceuticals

Used as a solvent and process agent during the formulation and purification stages of pharmaceutical production.

• Printing Inks & Rubber

Valued in the printing industry for its compatibility with various ink systems and its use in rubber manufacturing for surface treatment and cleaning.

Features & Benefits

• High Purity (≥ 99%) for industrial-grade performance

• Excellent Solvency Power for resins, polymers, and coatings

• Fast Evaporation Rate ensuring quicker drying times

• Low Viscosity improving flow and formulation control

• Highly Compatible with water and organic solvents

• Reliable Packaging for safe transportation and storage

• Consistent Quality verified through stringent quality checks

Why Choose Chemex Chemicals?

At Chemex Chemicals, we pride ourselves on delivering superior-quality industrial chemicals that meet international standards. Here’s why MEK buyers choose us:

• Trusted Supplier of Industrial Solvents for over 3 decades

• Stringent QC & Lab Analysis for every batch

• Reliable Logistics Support across India and international markets

• Flexible Packaging Options including 200 kg drums

• End-to-End Client Support from inquiry to delivery

• Strong Industry Network ensuring competitive pricing and availability