Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), also known as 2-butanone solvent, continues to gain attention across global industrial markets as a highly effective cleaning solvent. It is widely used for surface preparation, degreasing, and removal of oils, adhesives, and coating residues in manufacturing environments.
Chemical Properties of Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
- CAS Number: 78-93-3
- Molecular Formula: C4H8O
- Boiling Point: 79.6°C
- Density: 0.805 g/cm³ at 20°C
- Flash Point: -3°C (Closed Cup)
Physical Characteristics
- Odor: MEK has a characteristic sweet odor, similar to acetone but milder.
- Appearance: A clear, colorless liquid.
- Viscosity: Relatively low, allowing it to flow easily in various applications.
- Evaporation Rate: Fast, making it suitable for applications requiring quick drying.
- Material Compatibility: Highly compatible with a wide range of materials, making it ideal for dissolving and mixing with many chemicals.
- Surface Tension: Low, contributing to excellent wetting and penetration of surfaces.
MEK for cleaning
Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) is indeed commonly used for cleaning applications, primarily due to its excellent solvent power and moderate volatility.
- As an industrial cleaner: MEK is a potent solvent capable of effectively dissolving grease, oil, resin, and various organic compounds. Consequently, it is widely employed for cleaning industrial equipment, metal components, and electronic parts. For instance, in the electronics industry, it serves as a developer and degreasing agent after integrated circuit photolithography to remove residual photoresist and contaminants.
- Cleaning Specific Materials: In 3D printing post-processing, MEK solvent is recommended for cleaning and polishing components made from engineering plastics like nylon (PA) and polypropylene (PP). It effectively improves surface roughness, yielding smoother finishes.
- Tool Cleaning: In the coatings and paint industry, MEK solvent is commonly used to clean application tools like spray guns and brushes, removing residues of uncured epoxy resins, acrylic resins, and similar materials.
Gneebio: A Trusted Bulk Supplier & Distributor
As a leading manufacturer and exporter of fine chemicals, Henan Gneebio supplies Methyl ethyl ketone MEK (CAS 78-93-3) that meets both industrial- and laboratory-grade standards. We serve customers across the rubber, adhesives, and coatings industries, ensuring consistent quality, reliable logistics, and professional technical support.
Our Advantages:
- ISO9001 / ISO14001 / GMP certification available
- Own manufacturing facility with full hazardous chemical production permits
- Support for COA / MSDS / TDS / SGS testing
- Compliant with EU REACH requirements
- Stable exports to Southeast Asia, South America, Middle East, and Africa markets
- Single batch supply ≥20-200 MT, annual contracts supported
