MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) Technical Grade

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) – Technical Grade

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), also known as 2-Butanone, is a fast-evaporating, high-purity solvent widely used in industrial manufacturing, chemical processing, coatings, and cleaning applications. This clear, colorless liquid offers strong dissolving power and moderate evaporation rates, making it well-suited for tasks that require rapid drying and efficient surface preparation.

Applications:

Paints and Coatings:
Used as a solvent in the formulation of industrial coatings, lacquers, and stains due to its fast drying time and excellent solvency for resins and polymers.

Adhesive and Resin Manufacturing:
Supports the production of contact cements, solvent-based adhesives, and specialty bonding agents by enabling consistent viscosity and curing control.

Surface Preparation and Degreasing:
Commonly applied in surface wiping, equipment cleaning, and degreasing metal and plastic components prior to finishing or assembly.

Ink Formulation and Printing:
Serves as a key solvent in printing ink systems for commercial and industrial applications, including flexographic and gravure printing.

Fiberglass and Composites:
Enhances workability in resin mixing and fiberglass layup processes within the composite manufacturing industry.

Electronics and Precision Cleaning:
Utilized for cleaning electrical parts and components where non-residue, fast-drying solvents are required.

Coating Removal and Refinishing:
Effective in stripping old paint, varnish, and sealants from tools, metal, and machinery during repair or refinishing operations.

Chemical Characteristics:

• Chemical Formula: C₄H₈O

• Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol

• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid

• Odor: Sweet, sharp odor typical of ketones

• Boiling Point: 79.6°C (175.3°F)

• Melting Point: -86°C (-122.8°F)

• Flash Point: -4°C (24.8°F)

• Specific Gravity @ 20°C: 0.805

• Evaporation Rate: 3.7 (n-Butyl Acetate = 1)

• Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohols, and most organic solvents

• Purity: Minimum 99.9%

• Water Content: <0.1%

Safety Information:

Highly flammable – handle with proper ventilation and avoid ignition sources. Use personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, splash goggles, and organic vapor respirators. Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Ground all containers when transferring to prevent static discharge.

Overall:

Technical Grade MEK is trusted for its high solvency power and clean evaporation profile across coatings, adhesives, and industrial cleaning tasks. Its performance, consistency, and broad compatibility with organic compounds make it a preferred solvent for manufacturers, technicians, and chemical processors requiring reliable results in demanding environments.