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Methyl Isobutyl Ketone

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    Specialty Chemicals

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Product Profile

1. Chemical Structure and Properties

Molecular Formula: C₆H₁₂O
Structural Formula: CH₃CH₂C(CH₃)C(=O)CH₃ — A ketone with a branched carbon chain, featuring a carbonyl group (C=O) at the third carbon.

Physical Properties:

  • Appearance: Colorless liquid with characteristic solvent odor

  • Boiling Point: 117–118°C

  • Density: 0.802 g/cm³ at 20°C

  • Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents (alcohols, ethers, esters)

Chemical Properties:

  • Moderate polarity due to the carbonyl group

  • Stable under normal conditions, but can form peroxides under prolonged air exposure

  • Combustible; flash point: 23°C (closed cup)




2. Industrial Applications

Solvent in Coatings and Paints:

  • Widely used in varnishes, lacquers, and nitrocellulose coatings for enhanced drying and smooth finish

Chemical Intermediate:

  • Key raw material in the production of adhesives, synthetic rubber, and rubber chemicals

Cleaning and Extraction:

  • Applied as an industrial solvent for degreasing and extraction processes

Electronics and Pharmaceuticals:

  • Used in formulations for resins, coatings, and some pharmaceutical syntheses




3. Safety and Toxicology

Health Hazards:

  • Inhalation: Can irritate respiratory tract; prolonged exposure may affect the central nervous system

  • Skin/Eye Contact: Causes irritation

  • Ingestion: Harmful; may cause nausea and dizziness

Fire & Explosion:

  • Highly flammable liquid and vapor

  • Keep away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources

Protective Measures:

  • Use PPE: gloves, goggles, and appropriate ventilation

  • Avoid inhalation; in case of contact, wash thoroughly and seek medical attention if necessary




4. Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

Environmental Impact:

  • Volatile; may contribute to air pollution if not properly contained

  • Avoid release into waterways to prevent aquatic toxicity

Regulatory Compliance:

  • Registered under EU REACH and US TSCA

  • Transport: UN 1245, Class 3 (flammable liquid), Packing Group II

     



5. Case Studies and Application Insights

Coatings Industry:

  • Improves leveling and drying time in high-performance paints

Adhesive Manufacturing:

  • Acts as a solvent for resin formulations, enhancing tack and adhesion properties

Comparison with Alternatives:

  • Offers lower evaporation rate than acetone but higher flash point than some ketone solvents

  • Balances performance, handling safety, and cost for industrial applications