| Property | Characteristic |
|---|---|
| CAS No. | 108-10-1 |
| Molecular formula | C₆H₁₂O |
| Molecular weight | 100.16 g/mol |
| Appearance | Transparent colorless liquid |
| Odor | Pleasant, sweetish, fruity, ketone-like |
| Melting point | –80°C |
| Boiling point | 116–118°C |
| Flash point | 14°C |
| Density (20°C) | 0.800–0.803 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility (20°C) | 17–19 g/L |
| Explosive limits | 1.2–8% (vol) |
| UN number / Class | UN 1245, Class 3 |
1. Properties:
Appearance and physical form: Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) is a clear, colorless liquid with a pleasant sweet fruity odor. Available in various grades (technical ≥99.6%, analytical standard ≥99.7%, high purity).
Solubility: MIBK is moderately soluble in water (1.9% by mass at 20°C) and completely miscible with most organic solvents, including alcohols, esters and aromatic hydrocarbons. Low miscibility with water and high dilution ratio make it an effective solvent for hydrophobic resins and polymers.
Chemical properties: MIBK is a medium-evaporating, low-density ketone solvent. It has a boiling point of 116–118°C, a flash point of 14°C, and an autoignition temperature of 443–460°C. Its vapors are heavier than air and can form explosive mixtures with air (1.2–8% by volume). MIBK is chemically stable but reacts violently with strong oxidizers and acids. It is readily biodegradable.
2. Applications:
Paints, coatings and printing inks (main): MIBK is a key solvent in automotive coatings (OEM and refinish), architectural and wood coatings, gravure printing inks, and specialty coatings.
Chemical synthesis and intermediates: Key intermediate for the synthesis of rubber antiozonant (6PPD). Used as an extraction solvent in pharmaceuticals, antibiotic production, and rare metal extraction.
Adhesives, sealants, and rubber: Excellent solvent for rubber cements, contact adhesives, and sealants. Used in leather coatings.
Other applications: Denaturant for ethanol, component of electroplating baths and industrial cleaners, solvent in cosmetics.
3. Production method:
Industrial process: MIBK is produced by catalytic hydrogenation of acetone: condensation of acetone to form diacetone alcohol, dehydration to mesityl oxide, hydrogenation to MIBK. The product is purified by rectification to a purity of ≥99.6%.
4. Safety information:
Hazard classification: MIBK is classified as a hazardous substance with hazard statements: H225 (Flammable liquid and vapor), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), H332 (Harmful if inhaled), H336 (May cause drowsiness and dizziness), H351 (Suspected of causing cancer). Signal word: Dangerous. UN number: 1245 (Class 3, Packing Group II). Subject to California Proposition 65.
Health hazards: Harmful if inhaled. Vapors may cause respiratory irritation, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. Causes eye irritation. Prolonged exposure may cause liver and kidney damage.
First aid measures: If in eyes – rinse with water; on skin – wash with water and soap; if inhaled – fresh air; if swallowed – rinse mouth, do NOT induce vomiting, consult a doctor.
Fire and explosion hazards: Flammable liquid (flash point 14°C). Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air (1.2–8% vol). In case of fire, use alcohol-resistant foam, powder, or CO₂.
Storage and stability: Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Shelf life: 24–60 months in sealed original containers.
Regulatory compliance: MIBK (CAS#108-10-1, EC#203-550-1) is listed in EINECS, TSCA, DSL registries. Regulated by OSHA and ACGIH (TLV: 50 ppm). Subject to California Proposition 65. For complete information, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
