Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) also known as butanone is a clear, colourless organic liquid compound. MEK is highly volatile with a flashpoint of - 4ºC and a boiling point 78ºC. Sydney Solvents is a methyl ethyl ketone supplier. The solvent has quite a strong distinct smell, a little bit like acetone. MEK is soluble in polar and non-polar organic materials, being soluble in alcohol and hydrocarbons. MEK has fast evaporating properties.

MEK Uses

Methyl Ethel Ketone (MEK) is ideal for automotive parts, marine and paint sundry departments. MEK is a liquid solvent used in surface coatings, adhesives, printing inks, chemical intermediates, magnetic tapes, and lube oil dewaxing agents. It is often used by professional paint shops and painters to thin acrylics and lacquers and other projects where epoxies are used.

MEK can also be used as an adhesive remover and just like acetone, can soften the plastics in order to remove easily. Letting the MEK settle onto the thick glue area, it will slowly break down the glue as the strong properties in MEK are designed to do so. MEK is often known as a “safer” alternative to acetone, hence why it is more expensive. Use caution when handling and storing MEK because it is a flammable solvent.