Methyl Ethyl Ketone, known across industry as MEK or 2-butanone, is one of the most widely used ketone solvents in Indian manufacturing. Its balance of strong solvency and fast evaporation makes it a default choice wherever a clean, quick-drying solvent is needed.
Supreme Petro Chemicals supplies MEK from Chennai to paint and coating manufacturers, adhesive producers, printing-ink formulators, and resin plants across South India. As with any solvent, the right purchase decision depends on grade, documentation, packaging, and a reliable delivery schedule — not just availability.
What Is MEK?
Methyl Ethyl Ketone has CAS number 78-93-3 and molecular formula C4H8O. It is a clear, colourless, flammable liquid with a sharp, sweet odour and a boiling point of approximately 79.6°C. MEK is partially miscible with water and fully miscible with most common organic solvents, which makes it versatile in both solvent blends and resin systems.
Its evaporation rate is faster than toluene but slower than acetone, placing it in a useful middle band for coatings and inks where flow, levelling, and drying must be balanced.
Industrial Uses of MEK in India
- Paints and coatings: A primary solvent and viscosity reducer for nitrocellulose lacquers, acrylics, vinyls, and PU systems.
- Adhesives: Used in contact adhesives, PVC cement, and solvent-based bonding systems for its strong, quick-drying solvency.
- Printing inks: Common in flexographic and gravure inks where fast release and clean drying are essential.
- Resins and synthetic leather: Used in PU coating of synthetic leather, magnetic tape, and resin dissolving.
- Dewaxing and process solvent: Used in lube-oil dewaxing and as a general-purpose industrial solvent.
Grade and Specification
MEK is generally supplied as a single high-purity industrial grade (typically ≥99.5%). When ordering, confirm the assay, water content, and colour (APHA) if your process is sensitive — for example, light-coloured coatings or precision inks. Request the MSDS/SDS and a Certificate of Analysis where internal QA records require them.
Packaging and Minimum Order
MEK is supplied in 200-litre mild-steel drums, 1000-litre IBC tanks, and bulk tanker loads for larger requirements. MOQ depends on packaging, stock position, and delivery location. For steady production, share your monthly consumption so stock and dispatch can be planned in advance.
Safety and Handling
MEK is highly flammable, with a flash point of approximately -9°C. Store away from heat, sparks, open flames, and oxidising agents in a cool, well-ventilated area. Use earthing and bonding during bulk transfer to control static, and ensure adequate ventilation during use. Always follow the product SDS and your site EHS procedure.
Get an MEK Quote from SPC
Supreme Petro Chemicals supplies MEK in drums, IBC tanks, and tanker loads to manufacturers across South India. Contact us for current pricing and stock, or browse our ketones catalog.