Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), also known as Butanone, is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sharp, sweet odor. It is a widely used industrial solvent with several applications due to its ability to dissolve many types of synthetic resins and polymers.
Common Uses of Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK):
1. Industrial Solvent
• Paints and Coatings: MEK is commonly used as a solvent in the production and thinning of paints, varnishes, lacquers, and coatings.
• Adhesives: It is a key solvent in contact cements, glues, and rubber adhesives.
• Printing Inks: Used to formulate inks for flexographic and gravure printing due to its quick-drying nature.
2. Chemical Intermediate
• MEK is used in the manufacture of other chemicals, such as methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (a catalyst in polymerization).