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Methyl Ethyl Ketone

  • Other solvents
  • CAS 78-93-3
  • IUPAC: Butan-2-one

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (CAS 78-93-3) appears in 1 of the 1,828 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026). It is classified as a VOC.

H336 (narcotic effects/dizziness) is the primary hazard classification at normal exposure levels. OSHA PEL 200 ppm TWA. No Prop 65 listing, not classified as carcinogen or reproductive toxin. H335 respiratory irritation possible at high vapor concentrations. May potentiate neurotoxicity of n-hexane (synergistic — avoid combined exposure). LD50 oral rat ~2737 mg/kg.

Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) is a fast-evaporating ketone solvent used throughout the coatings, adhesives, and printing ink industries. In automotive touch-up paint formulations, MEK contributes to rapid initial drying due to its low boiling point (79.6°C). Its solvency for acrylic and cellulose nitrate resins makes it effective as a carrier in lacquer systems. MEK has a relatively clean toxicological profile compared to aromatic solvents like toluene — no Prop 65 listing, no carcinogen classification, and low aquatic toxicity. The main concern at elevated vapor concentrations is CNS narcosis (H336).

Health & environment profile

VOC
yes
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
4/5
Purpose: Fast-evaporating ketone co-solvent in lacquers, touch-up paints, and adhesives; high solvency for resins and plastics

Common questions about Methyl Ethyl Ketone

What is Methyl Ethyl Ketone used for in car care?
Fast-evaporating ketone co-solvent in lacquers, touch-up paints, and adhesives; high solvency for resins and plastics
Is Methyl Ethyl Ketone a VOC?
Yes. Methyl Ethyl Ketone is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Methyl Ethyl Ketone on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Methyl Ethyl Ketone is not on California's Proposition 65 list.
Is Methyl Ethyl Ketone biodegradable?
Yes. Methyl Ethyl Ketone has a confirmed biodegradable profile.

1 product contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.