4-Methyl-2-pentanone
4-Methyl-2-pentanone (CAS: 108-10-1), also known as Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK), is an organic compound with the linear formula (CH₃)₂CHCH₂COCH₃ and a molecular weight of 100.16 g/mol. This colourless liquid is a versatile solvent with a characteristic sweet odour. It finds significant application as a solvent for paints, lacquers, and varnishes, and as an extraction solvent in various chemical processes. MIBK is also employed in the synthesis of other chemical compounds.
- IUPAC
- Isobutyl methyl ketone,Isopropylacetone,Methyl isobutyl ketone
- Synonyms
- Methyl isobutyl ketoneIsobutyl methyl ketoneIsopropylacetoneHexoneMIBK

Solvent for Coatings
4-Methyl-2-pentanone is widely used as a solvent in the formulation of paints, lacquers, varnishes, and other surface coatings due to its excellent solvency power for resins and polymers.
Extraction Solvent
Its properties make it an effective extraction solvent in pharmaceutical manufacturing and the purification of metals, particularly for separating valuable elements from aqueous solutions.
Chemical Synthesis Intermediate
MIBK serves as a crucial building block in organic synthesis, enabling the production of various downstream chemical products and intermediates.
Adhesives and Sealants
It functions as a solvent component in the production of certain adhesives and sealants, contributing to their application properties and drying times.
| Molecular weight | 100.16 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (CH3)2CHCH2COCH3 |
| Assay | ≥99.5% |
| Boiling point | 117-118 °C |
| Density | 0.801 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.395(lit.) |
| Vapour density | 3.5 (vs air) |
| Melting point | −80 °C(lit.) |
| Autoignition temp | 840 °F |


Hazard statements
- H225Highly flammable liquid and vapour
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H332Harmful if inhaled
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P210Keep away from heat, sparks and open flames. No smoking
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 14 °C / 57.2 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 1245 3 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F,Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 11-20-36/37-66 |
| Safety statements (S) | 9-16-29 |
| Supplemental hazards | Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking. |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Expl Lim | 1.2-8 %, 93 °F |
|---|---|
| Availability | available only in Japan |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 4-Methyl-2-pentanone used for?
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4-Methyl-2-pentanone is primarily used as a solvent for paints, lacquers, and varnishes, as an extraction solvent in chemical processes, and as an intermediate in chemical synthesis.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula for 4-Methyl-2-pentanone?
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The CAS number is 108-10-1, and the linear formula is (CH₃)₂CHCH₂COCH₃.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for 4-Methyl-2-pentanone?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies 4-Methyl-2-pentanone with an assay of ≥99.5%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade unless explicitly stated in the product documentation.
What are the main safety hazards associated with 4-Methyl-2-pentanone?
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4-Methyl-2-pentanone is highly flammable (H225) and can cause serious eye irritation (H319), be harmful if inhaled (H332), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking.
How is 4-Methyl-2-pentanone packed, shipped, and exported by TSS?
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4-Methyl-2-pentanone is packed according to international shipping regulations for hazardous materials. As a global supplier, Tech Serve Solutions exports this chemical worldwide. Please contact us for specific shipping and export details relevant to your region.
How can I request a sample or quote for 4-Methyl-2-pentanone?
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To request a sample or a quotation for 4-Methyl-2-pentanone, please use the contact form on our website or reach out to our sales department directly.
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