Methyl Isobutyl Ketone

AbstractMethyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) is an industrially important solvent and chemical intermediate, which after methyl methacrylate and bisphenol A is the third largest tonnage product obtained from acetone. MIBK is produced by four different routes: a three‐step process via diacetone alcohol and mesityl oxide intermediates; a one‐step process from acetone and hydrogen; a one‐step process from isopropyl alcohol; and a single or multistep mixed feed process. MIBK is generally considered to exhibit low mammalian toxicity. However, MIBK must be handled with adequate ventilation. Its vapor is heavier than air and can travel a considerable distance to a source of ignition. The major use of MIBK is as a solvent for surface coatings. It is also used in a variety of nonsurface‐coating applications. As a raw material it is used in the manufacture of rubber antiozonants.