MEK, also known as methyl ethyl ketone, is a familiar chemical to many industries, as it is relied on for a wide range of processes, such as  

• Manufacturing of synthetic rubbers, plastics, paraffin wax, and paints 
• Manufacturing of gums, resins, and coatings  
• In household products like varnishes and paint removers 
• As a cleaning agent 
• Dry-erase markers 

Though utilized in so many processes and products, MEK use can be dangerous, mostly for industrial workers and those who may be continuously exposed to the chemical.  

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the dangers of MEK and help you find MEK replacements that are not only safer for the environment but also for your workers’ health. 

Why You Should Look into MEK Replacements 

Some of the concerning hazards associated with exposure to MEK are listed below: 

• Highly flammable 
• Can cause severe eye and respiratory damage 
• Can cause negative health effects if inhaled, such as coughing, wheezing, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision or even unconsciousness 
• Can damage the central nervous system at high concentrations 

Are there any Solvents that Can Successfully Replace MEK? 

A common misconception is that although traditional solvents like MEK are hazardous, they are too effective to replace, but this is far from the reality. There are multiple MEK replacements that are just as effective and considerably less toxic, such as: 

•  Acetone 
• Dimethyl carbonate 
• Preptone  

Acetone and Dimethyl Carbonate  

Acetone is the typical alternative that many industries use as MEK replacements, mostly because the chemicals exhibit very similar properties and behaviors as ketone solvents. Acetone is less toxic and can be utilized in most of the applications that MEK is typically used for, such as in…  

• Paint removers 
• Varnishes 
• Coatings 
• Cleaning agents 

Dimethyl carbonate is also another common example of an eco-friendly MEK replacement that is less toxic and can be used in the manufacturing of coatings, adhesives, and as a cleaning agent. 

What Is Preptone? 

Unlike acetone or dimethyl carbonate, Preptone is a specifically-formulated low VOC wipe solvent that utilizes a combination blend of high purity terpenes in an acetone base. The benefits of Preptone make it the ideal replacement for hazardous solvents like MEK and TCE: 

• Fast evaporation, similar to TCE and MEK 
• Strong non-polar solvency for stubborn soils and coatings 
• Stronger performance than most ketone solvents, due to the utilization of terpenes 
• The acetone component is VOC exempt, while the non-exempt component is low VOC 
• No halogenated or ozone-depleting components 

Want to Try Preptone for Yourself? 

Looking to see if you are eligible to test out a sample of Preptone for industrial needs. Our staff at Ecolink is ready to answer any questions or find the best product for you! Click here to reach out to us today!  

MEK, also known as methyl ethyl ketone, is a controversial chemical that remains in the mainstream of various industries. The ketone industrial solvent is considered effective and is commonly used in the manufacturing of plastics, in paint removers, and as a cleaning agent. 

 Though MEK has been one of the most reliable cleaning solvents for many companies, many are starting to question the health risks associated with the chemical and if there are any safer replacements for it. 

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the hazards associated with exposure to this chemical, and where you can find safer, eco-friendly MEK replacements. 

The Hazards of MEK  

MEK is now considerably infamous for its toxicity, as many studies have exposed its potential to cause damage to workers’ health:  

• Highly flammable 
• Can harm the central nervous system at high concentrations 
• Serious eye and respiratory irritants 
• Can cause serious health effects when inhaled, such as dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, blurred vision, or unconsciousness 
• Studies indicate it can contaminate and potentially damage soil ecosystems 

Is There Any Effective MEK Replacement? 

Luckily, for companies searching to create a safer workplace and ensure the safety of their employees’ health, there are multiple options and several MEK replacements available that are significantly less toxic. Two such options are acetone or Preptone.  

Acetone is a common MEK replacement due to its efficiency, low toxicity, and inexpensiveness. But those searching for a specifically formulated effective cleaning agent may be more interested in a product like Preptone.  

What Is Preptone? 

Preptone is a fast-evaporating wipe solvent consisting of a blend of high-purity d-limonene in an acetone base. The terpene-containing solvent performs much more effectively than ketone solvents like MEK and TCE.  

The list of benefits of using Preptone over MEK is enough to convince many to make the switch: 

• Strong solvency with flawless evaporation 
• Non-polar solvency, making it efficient to remove stubborn soils 
• Ideal for pre-paint cleaning and preparation 
• The acetone component is VOC-exempt, low VOC in the non-exempt component 
• No halogenated or ozone-depleting substances  
• Compatible with all metals and some plastics 

With a product like Preptone available, companies can choose to preserve workers’ health and well-being without compromising quality. 

Interested in Trying Preptone? 

If you are looking to see if you are eligible to try a sample of Preptone or have any questions regarding products for your industrial needs, reach out to our staff at Ecolink today!