Butanone (MEK): Versatile Ketone Solvent for Industrial and Laboratory Use
Butanone, commonly known as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), is a low-molecular-weight aliphatic ketone widely used as an industrial solvent. It offers excellent solvating power for a range of resins, coatings, and adhesives while evaporating faster than many comparable solvents. MEK is miscible with most organic solvents and has limited water miscibility, making it practical for extraction and partition processes.
Product Profile
| CAS Number | 78-93-3 |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colorless liquid with a sweet, sharp odor |
| Function | Organic solvent / extraction solvent / degreaser |
| Typical Use Level | Application dependent — used as primary or co-solvent |
| Compendial Grade | ACS reagent / technical / pharmaceutical grade available |
Formulation Applications
MEK is a preferred solvent in coatings, lacquers, and varnish formulations due to its fast evaporation rate and strong dissolving power for nitrocellulose, acrylic, vinyl, and polyester resins. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a processing solvent during API synthesis and as an extraction solvent in natural product isolation. The adhesive industry uses MEK extensively in contact cement and PVC pipe cement formulations. In laboratory settings, it serves as a common chromatography and extraction solvent. MEK is also used as a dewaxing agent in lubricating oil refining.
Why Source from TCS
TCS supplies butanone (MEK) in pharmaceutical and technical grades to formulators across Europe. Available in standard packaging with flexible quantities for R&D through production scale. Contact us with your application and volume requirements.
FAQ
What information should be included in an inquiry for Butanone (MEK) -78-93-3?
A useful inquiry normally includes the product name, target application, estimated quantity, destination market, and any specific documentation or packaging requests.
How is Butanone (MEK) -78-93-3 usually evaluated for sourcing?
This product is positioned for excipient sourcing where formulation fit, dosage form, handling, and repeat purchasing requirements need to be reviewed together with commercial supply conditions.
What documentation and commercial points are commonly reviewed before buying Butanone (MEK) -78-93-3?
For excipient sourcing, teams usually discuss the intended dosage form, formulation role, packaging format, order volume, and the routine documentation needed for qualification and purchasing.
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If your team already has a target application, estimated quantity, destination market, or documentation requirements, send those details so the commercial response can be prepared more efficiently.