Methyl ethyl ketone, or MEK, has long been utilized by multiple industries as a cleaning agent, in the manufacturing of various materials, and in many household products.  

Though an effective solvent and widely relied on for these applications, companies are beginning to find that the chemical presents multiple several serious hazards, especially to workers with long-term exposure.  

With companies realizing the dangers of MEK, many are looking for MEK alternatives. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at eco-friendly substitutes for MEK that are not only safer for workers but also for the environment. 

Dangers of MEK 

Even though MEK gets the job done, it poses several health risks. Here are only some of the negative effects associated with exposure to this chemical: 

• Can cause serious eye irritation and permanent damage 
• Can cause serious respiratory irritation 
• Can damage the central nervous system in high concentrations 
• Can cause negative effects if inhaled, such as dizziness, coughing, wheezing, blurred vision, or even unconsciousness 
• Repeated exposure can damage the brain  

Are there any MEK Alternatives? 

Those interested in or looking for low-toxicity solvents may not know where they can find MEK alternatives, but you are in the perfect place! 

 There are multiple options available that are just as effective if not more, such as: 

• Acetone 
• Preptone 
• Dimethyl carbonate 

These products provide the effectiveness of MEK without compromising workers’ health and safety. Those looking for a specifically formulated replacement may be more interested in a product like Preptone.  

What Is Preptone? 

In terms of MEK replacements, Preptone is the ideal option as a cleaning agent. Preptone is a quick-evaporating wipe solvent that incorporates high purity terpenes combined with acetone, creating a solvent with an even stronger performance than ketone solvents like TCE and MEK.  

The list of benefits of Preptone is as follows: 

• Strong non-polar solvency, ideal for stubborn soils and sealants 
• Clean evaporation 
• Broad spectrum solvency due to the polar solvency of acetone being synergistic with the terpene component 
• Ideal for pre-paint cleaning and preparation 
• No halogenated or ozone-depleting substances  
• The acetone component is VOC exempt, while the non-exempt component has a very low VOC content.  
• Compatible with all metals and some plastics 

Interested in Preptone and Other Eco-friendly MEK Alternatives? 

If you are interested in Preptone or chemicals with low toxicity to replace hazardous solvents like MEK, you are in the right place! You can reach out to our staff at Ecolink and see if you are eligible to try a sample of Preptone for your industrial/business needs by clicking here.  

Toluene is a hydrocarbon solvent utilized by various industries for different applications, mostly in paint thinners, permanent markers, various glues, oil refining, and the production of paints.  

Though toluene has been occasionally recommended as an eco-friendlier and safer replacement for benzene, it is linked to multiple health and environmental risks, such as: 

• Serious respiratory irritant 
• May cause thyroid cancer 
• Skin and eye irritants 
• Can damage nerves, kidneys, and liver 
• Can damage the female reproductive system or cause pregnancy loss 
• Toxic to aquatic life  
• Associated with smog production (evidence shows it may be a significant contribution to smog)  
• Can cause membrane damage in plants 

Are There Any Eco-friendly Substitutes for Toluene?  

Thankfully, there are various options available that can effectively replace toluene and ensure a safer workspace and less harm to the environment.  

Here are some of the greener alternatives on the market: 

• Ethyl lactate 
• TMO (2,2,5,5-tetramethyloxolane) 
• Safe Strip 

What Is Ethyl Lactate? 

Ethyl lactate is a green solvent derived from lactic acid that has effectively replaced hazardous solvents like toluene and xylene. Due to its effectiveness in cleaning, it is mostly used as a cleaner and degreaser for various metals to remove greases and oils.  

The chemical is also utilized in the polyurethane industry and can dissolve various polyurethane resins. The solvent also possesses many desirable qualities, making it a greener and safer option for companies: 

• Biodegradable 
• Noncarcinogenic 
• Noncorrosive 
• Contains no ozone-depleting substances 

What Is TMO? 

TMO is an ether solvent that effectively replaces most hydrocarbon solvents, namely toluene. TMO is becoming an increasingly popular option for those searching for a substitute for toluene due to its highly desirable properties as a solvent: 

• Non-polar 
• Low boiling point 
• Performance comparable to hydrocarbon solvents 
• Relatively inexpensive  
• Can be used in adhesive production  
• Better solubility than toluene 

What Is Safe Strip? 

Safe Strip is an eco-friendly paint and resin solvent that also effectively replaces hazardous solvents like toluene, benzene, and methylene chloride. The solvent also possessed very desirable properties for those searching for an eco-friendly paint stripper: 

• Biodegradable 
• Recyclable 
• Low VOC emissions 
• Strong performance, comparable to methylene chloride 
• No ozone-depleting components 

With these highly effective options available, companies must no longer depend on a solvent that harms the environment and endangers workers using them.  

Looking for Safer Substitutes for Toluene? 

At Ecolink, we offer many environmentally preferred options for various industrial applications. Please reach out to our expert staff to find the best product for your business needs or with any questions regarding our products.