2butanoni
2-Butanone, commonly called sec-butanone or methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), is an organic compound with the formula CH3-CO-CH2-CH3. It is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet, fruity odor. As a ketone, it is a medium-polar solvent and is miscible with many organic solvents; it is soluble in water to a limited extent and evaporates readily. Its boiling point is about 79.6 °C and it is flammable.
Industrial production of 2-butanone is mainly by oxidation of 2-butanol (sec-butanol) over suitable catalysts, yielding 2-butanone
Uses of MEK are broad and commercial. It is a major solvent for coatings, paints, inks, and
Safety and handling considerations are important. MEK is highly flammable, and its vapors can form explosive
Environmental impact includes its classification as a volatile organic compound; releases should be managed to minimize