Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), also known as butanone, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3C(O)CH2CH3. It is a colorless, volatile liquid with a sweet, pungent odor reminiscent of acetone. Here are some key points about methyl ethyl ketone:

1. Chemical Structure: Methyl ethyl ketone is a ketone, containing a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two alkyl groups – a methyl group (CH3) and an ethyl group (CH2CH3). Its systematic name is butanone, indicating its four-carbon chain.
2. Production: Methyl ethyl ketone is primarily produced industrially through the catalytic dehydrogenation of 2-butanol or through the oxidation of n-butane. The oxidation process typically involves the use of catalysts such as copper chromite or vanadium pentoxide.
3. Uses:
   • Solvent: Methyl ethyl ketone is widely used as a solvent in various industries, including coatings, adhesives, paints, and printing inks. It has excellent solvency properties for a wide range of organic compounds, making it suitable for dissolving resins, waxes, and polymers.
   • Chemical Intermediate: Methyl ethyl ketone is used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of other organic compounds, including methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), which is produced by the hydrogenation of MEK. MIBK is used as a solvent and in the production of rubber chemicals, lubricants, and pharmaceuticals.
   • Adhesives and Coatings: Methyl ethyl ketone is employed in the formulation of adhesives and coatings, where it serves as a solvent and a carrier for resins, pigments, and other additives. It provides fast drying times, good film formation, and excellent adhesion to various substrates.
   • Extraction: Methyl ethyl ketone is used in the extraction of oils, fats, and flavors from natural sources, such as plant materials and food products. It is often preferred over other solvents due to its low toxicity and mild extraction conditions.
4. Physical Properties: Methyl ethyl ketone is a highly flammable liquid with a boiling point of approximately 79°C and a density of around 0.805 g/cm³. It is miscible with many organic solvents but only sparingly soluble in water. Methyl ethyl ketone has a characteristic sweet, fruity odor, which can be detected even at low concentrations.
5. Safety Considerations: Methyl ethyl ketone is considered a hazardous chemical and should be handled with appropriate safety precautions, including proper ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), and storage in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and open flames. Prolonged or repeated exposure to methyl ethyl ketone vapor or liquid may cause irritation of the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.