Overview

2-Butanone, also known as Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), is an important industrial solvent widely used in coatings, adhesives, printing inks, chemical synthesis, and cleaning applications. Due to its excellent solvency, fast evaporation rate, and good compatibility with many resins, 2-Butanone has become one of the most commonly used ketone solvents in the chemical industry.

With stable supply and broad applications, MEK plays an important role in industries such as paints and coatings, electronics, plastics, and pharmaceuticals.

Basic Information

Product Name: 2-Butanone
Other Name: Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
CAS No.: 78-93-3
Molecular Formula: C₄H₈O
Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol
Appearance: Colorless transparent liquid
Odor: Mild ketone odor
Boiling Point: Approximately 79.6°C
Melting Point: Approximately -86°C
Density: About 0.805 g/cm³ (20°C)
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in most organic solvents

Chemical Properties

2-Butanone is a medium-strength ketone solvent with excellent dissolving ability for various natural and synthetic resins, including:

• Acrylic resins
• Alkyd resins
• Vinyl resins
• Epoxy resins
• Cellulose derivatives

It has a relatively fast evaporation rate, making it suitable for applications requiring quick drying performance. Compared with acetone, MEK has lower volatility and stronger solvency for many coating materials.

Main Applications

1. Paints and Coatings

2-Butanone is widely used as a solvent in industrial coatings, automotive paints, and protective coatings. It helps improve coating uniformity, drying speed, and surface quality.

2. Adhesives

MEK is an important solvent for adhesive production, especially in rubber adhesives, plastic bonding, and pressure-sensitive adhesive systems.

3. Printing Inks

Due to its good solvency and fast evaporation characteristics, 2-Butanone is commonly used in gravure printing inks, flexographic inks, and packaging printing.

4. Chemical Manufacturing

2-Butanone is used as an intermediate in chemical synthesis and can be applied in the production of various chemical products.

5. Cleaning Applications

MEK is also used for industrial cleaning and degreasing because it can effectively remove oils, grease, and adhesive residues.

Storage and Handling

2-Butanone is a flammable liquid and should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames.

Recommended storage conditions:

• Keep containers tightly closed
• Avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures
• Use appropriate protective equipment during handling
• Store separately from strong oxidizing agents

Market Outlook

As a key solvent, 2-Butanone maintains stable demand from downstream industries such as coatings, adhesives, and printing. With continued growth in manufacturing and chemical processing sectors, MEK remains an important product in the global solvent market.

China is one of the major producers and exporters of 2-Butanone, providing stable supply and competitive solutions for international buyers.