Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) – High-Purity Solvent

Description

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) is a highly versatile, fast-evaporating solvent widely used in various industrial, chemical, and laboratory applications. Known for its excellent solvency power, MEK effectively dissolves a wide range of resins, polymers, and other substances, making it a key ingredient in products such as paints, coatings, adhesives, and inks.

Applications of Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

Industrial Solvent

• Paints, Coatings, and Varnishes: Improves drying time and finish quality.
• Adhesives: Enhances bonding for plastics, rubber, and metals.

Pharmaceutical Industry

• Solvent for Drug Formulations: Used in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
• Extraction and Purification: Helps in extracting and purifying compounds.

Chemical Manufacturing

• Chemical Synthesis: Used to produce chemicals like butanone oxime.
• Extraction: Employed in food, fragrance, and flavor extraction.

Laboratory and Research

• Solvent: Used in chemical reactions and extractions in research labs.

Cleaning and Degreasing

• Metal and Machinery Cleaning: Removes oils and residues in industrial settings.
• Electronics: Cleans circuit boards and components.

Printing and Textile

• Ink Manufacturing: Key solvent for printing inks.
• Textile: Used for cleaning and purifying fabrics.

Environmental Testing

• Pollution Control: Detects and removes contaminants from environmental samples.

Storage Guidelines

• Temperature:
  • Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
  • Recommended storage temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
  • Avoid storing MEK in freezing or excessively high-temperature environments.
• Containers:
  • Keep in tightly sealed containers made of compatible materials such as glass or HDPE (high-density polyethylene).
  • Ensure that containers are properly labeled to prevent misuse.
• Environment:
  • Store away from ignition sources such as open flames, sparks, or static electricity.
  • Keep away from strong oxidizing agents, acids, and bases to prevent hazardous reactions.
• Shelf Life:
  • MEK is stable for long periods if stored correctly. Refer to packaging for specific expiration dates.

Handling Guidelines

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Gloves: Wear chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile or neoprene) to prevent skin contact.
  • Eye Protection: Use safety goggles or a face shield to protect eyes from splashes or vapors.
  • Clothing: Wear a lab coat or other protective clothing to prevent skin exposure.
  • Respiratory Protection: Use a respirator or dust mask in poorly ventilated areas or if handling large quantities.
• Work Area:
  • Handle MEK in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood to avoid inhalation of vapors.
  • Keep the work area clean, organized, and free of non-laboratory items to prevent accidental contamination or exposure.
• Precautions:
  • Avoid ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact with MEK.
  • Ensure that all containers are tightly sealed when not in use to minimize evaporation and exposure to the air.
  • Use non-sparking tools and equipment when handling MEK to avoid ignition risks.
• First Aid Measures:
  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
  • Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water immediately. Remove contaminated clothing.
  • Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and seek immediate medical attention.

Spill and Leak Procedures

• Spill Response:
  • Evacuate the area immediately and remove all ignition sources.
  • Use absorbent materials (e.g., sand, vermiculite) to contain and clean up spills.
  • Dispose of the spilled material and waste according to local regulations.

Disposal

• Dispose of MEK according to local, regional, and national regulations.
• Use licensed chemical waste disposal services to properly dispose of containers and residues.