Ketones & Aldehydes
MIBK (Methyl Isobutyl Ketone)
CAS 108-10-1 — Medium-Evaporation Solvent for Coatings & Rubber
MIBK is a medium-evaporation ketone solvent widely used in nitrocellulose lacquers, vinyl coatings, rubber cement, and metal extraction. Texas-Chem supplies industrial-grade MIBK in bulk drums, totes, and tanker.
CAS Number
108-10-1
Boiling Point
116.5 °C
Flash Point
14 °C — Flammable
Pack Sizes
Drums · Totes · Tanker
Structure
C₆H₁₂O — Methyl Isobutyl Ketone — CAS 108-10-1
Safety & Regulatory
- NFPA Health
- 2 — Moderate hazard
- NFPA Flammability
- 3 — Serious hazard
- NFPA Reactivity
- 0 — Stable
- Flash Point
- 14 °C (57 °F) — Flammable
- OSHA PEL
- 100 ppm TWA
- DOT Hazard Class
- 3 — Flammable Liquid — UN 1245
Grades & Packaging
Available Grades
Pack Sizes
Also Known As
Physical & Chemical Properties
| CAS Number | 108-10-1 |
| Molecular Formula | C₆H₁₂O |
| Molecular Weight | 100.16 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear colorless liquid |
| Boiling Point | 116.5 °C (241.7 °F) |
| Flash Point | 14 °C (57 °F) — Flammable |
| Density | 0.802 g/cm³ at 20 °C |
| Vapor Pressure | 15.7 mmHg at 20 °C |
| Water Solubility | 1.9 g/100 mL at 20 °C |
| Viscosity | 0.58 cP at 20 °C |
| Kauri-Butanol Value | ~98 |
| Evaporation Rate | 1.6 (vs n-BuAc = 1.0) — Medium |
Industrial Applications
Coatings & Lacquers
MIBK is a medium-evaporation solvent widely used in nitrocellulose lacquers, vinyl coatings, and industrial finishes. Its balanced evaporation rate reduces blushing and improves flow and leveling in spray-applied coatings.
Rubber Processing
Used as a solvent in rubber cement, contact adhesives, and rubber processing operations. MIBK dissolves natural and synthetic rubber effectively and provides good adhesion in rubber-based adhesives.
Metal Extraction
MIBK is used as an extractant in hydrometallurgical processes for separating metals including uranium, cobalt, and rare earth elements from aqueous solutions.
Pharmaceutical Synthesis
Used as a reaction solvent and extraction solvent in pharmaceutical intermediate synthesis where a medium-boiling, low-water-solubility ketone is required.
Printing Inks
MIBK is used as a solvent in gravure and flexographic printing inks, providing good solvency for resins and controlled evaporation for print quality.
Cleaning & Degreasing
Used as a metal degreaser and cleaning solvent in industrial maintenance operations, particularly for removing oils, greases, and polymer residues.
Why Source MIBK from Texas-Chem
- Industrial-grade MIBK in stock — drums, totes, and tanker
- Consistent quality with CoA on every lot
- Same-week delivery across Texas; nationwide LTL and bulk tanker
- Technical support for coatings, rubber, and extraction applications
- One rep from first call to final delivery
MIBK — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between MIBK and MEK as coatings solvents?▾
MIBK has a higher boiling point (116.5 °C vs 79.6 °C for MEK), slower evaporation rate (1.6 vs 3.8 relative to n-BuAc), and lower water solubility (1.9 vs miscible). MIBK is preferred for coatings requiring slower evaporation for better flow and leveling, and for applications where water sensitivity is a concern. MEK is preferred for quick-drying coatings and water-based systems.
Is MIBK suitable for nitrocellulose lacquer formulation?▾
Yes. MIBK is an excellent solvent for nitrocellulose and is widely used in nitrocellulose lacquer formulations. It provides good solvency, controlled evaporation, and resistance to blushing (moisture-induced cloudiness) compared to faster-evaporating solvents like MEK or acetone.
What metals can be extracted with MIBK?▾
MIBK is used in solvent extraction for uranium (from sulfate leach solutions), cobalt and nickel (from ammonia leach solutions), and various rare earth elements. The extraction is typically performed by contacting the aqueous metal solution with MIBK, followed by stripping with water or dilute acid.
What are the storage requirements for MIBK?▾
MIBK is a flammable liquid (flash point 14 °C) and must be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and ignition sources. Store in tightly closed containers away from oxidizing agents. Shelf life is 2 years in sealed original containers.