1. Home
  2. Sustainable Chemicals Strategy
  3. MEK Substitutions and Alternatives

MEK Substitutions and Alternatives

Methyl ethyl ketone, commonly known as MEK, is a flammable, colorless solvent used in various industries, including in household products. MEK is typically utilized in the manufacturing of synthetic rubbers, production of paraffin wax, varnishes, paint removers, and adhesives. Generally, MEK is considered to be an effective industrial solvent due to its high evaporation rate and high boiling point. 

Even though this solvent is effective, it’s not always safe. Read on to learn about the downsides of MEK and greener solvent alternatives. 

Are There Any Downsides to Using MEK?   

Though MEK is an effective solvent used in a variety of processes, it’s also known for its hazardous qualities, particularly how it affects workers who use the solvent. Some of these downsides include:  

  • High toxicity 
  • Respiratory irritant 
  • Serious eye and skin irritant 
  • Can potentially react with volatile organic carbon compounds in the air to form photochemical smog  

 More and more industrial companies are beginning to search for MEK substitutes due to these health and potential environmental hazards. These alternative solvents are highly desirable because they provide the assurance of a safer work environment and diminish chances of environmental harm.   

 Are There Any Effective MEK Substitutes?   

 There are several possible substitutes for MEK. Some of the most popular are: 

  • Preptone 
  • Acetone 
  • Dimethyl carbonate  

Both acetone and dimethyl carbonate are VOC exempt, fast-evaporating solvents that exhibit lower toxicity levels than MEK.   

What Is Preptone?  

Preptone is a highly effective fast-evaporating solvent formulated as a replacement for both MEK and TCE. Preptone consists of a blend of extremely high purity d-limonene and is acetone-based. The solvent also includes a proprietary inhibitor to avoid the oxidation of the terpenes, which enables the solvent to perform more effectively than ketone solvents, such as MEK.  

Some benefits of utilizing Preptone over MEK include:  

  • Higher performance 
  • No halogenated compounds or HAPs 
  • Quicker evaporation and dry time 
  • Low VOC 
  • Strong, nonpolar solvency, making it ideal for pre-paint cleaning 
  • Cost-efficient  
  • Can be utilized for similar purposes 

These characteristics enable Preptone to be the perfect eco-friendly replacement for MEK.   

Want to Try a Sample of Preptone and Other MEK Substitutes? 

Here at Ecolink, we provide samples to companies looking for environmentally friendly chemicals. You can view the product page here or contact the specialized staff here to learn how you can get your sample today!    

Search here

Don’t forget to share this post!

Suggested Blog Posts

View all News
By Ecolink Team
Industrial White Oil
Apr 25 2025

Industrial White Oil: Applications and Benefits in Different Sectors

White oil, also known as mineral oil is a colorless mixture of hydrocarbons obtained from petroleum. Manufacturers from multiple industries use liquid petroleum in many...
By Ecolink Team
White Oil Lubricant
Apr 23 2025

White Oil Lubricant: Discover Smooth Operations in Machinery

Machinery plays an enormous role in manufacturing. Without machines, many industries would struggle to meet production demands and would shut down. Businesses ensure...
By Ecolink Team
What Does the Military Use to Clean Weapons?
Apr 21 2025

What Does the Military Use to Clean Weapons? 3 Common Solutions

Just like with machines, it’s important that weapons are cleaned and well-maintained to prevent accidents from occurring.   In this blog post, we’re going to take a...
By Ecolink Team
PFAS MEANING DEFINITIONS
Apr 18 2025

PFAS Meaning & Definition: What You Need to Know About ‘Forever Chemicals’

What are PFAS chemicals? And why are they called “forever chemicals?”  If you find yourself asking these questions, you’re not alone. Research shows that 97% of...
By Ecolink Team
EPA PFAS NEWS
Apr 16 2025

Current State of PFAS Regulations: Chemical Alternatives with Ecolink

As more dangers of PFAS come to light, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to implement new strategies to minimize these toxic chemicals from...
By Ecolink Team
PFAS Regulations
Apr 14 2025

PFAS Regulations & Safer Alternatives: How Ecolink Helps You Make the Switch

Thinking about making the switch to greener chemicals?   You’ve come to the right place.  With new PFAS regulations being implemented to protect people and the...
By Ecolink Team
Hydrofluoroether solvent
Apr 12 2025

Discover the Power of Ecolink 4005: Your Ultimate Hydrofluoroether Cleaner

In today's world, finding effective and environmentally friendly cleaning solutions is more important than ever. At Ecolink, we are committed to providing innovative...
By Ecolink Team
Household Aerosols
Apr 11 2025

What Are Household Aerosols? Discover Their Uses, Risks, and Safer Alternatives

Not sure what household aerosols are? Should you avoid them all together?  In this blog post, we’re going to do a deep dive into aerosols, providing you definitions,...
By Ecolink Team
Electrical Contact Cleaner Spray
Apr 09 2025

Where to Buy Electrical Contact Cleaner Spray: Convenient & Efficient Cleaning

Electrically powered machinery plays a vital role in businesses and product production. For this machinery to operate, electrical contacts are needed. Electrical...
By Ecolink Team
US Tariffs on Chemical Imports
Apr 07 2025

Navigating US Tariffs: Ecolink’s Strategy for Mitigating Cost in Chemical Supply

Dear Ecolink community, We want to keep you informed about the evolving tariffs situation and its potential impact on our industry. As you may be aware, recent tariff...
View all News