Acetone vs Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
Acetone provides significantly greater regulatory safety headroom with an OSHA PEL of 1000 ppm compared to MEK's 200 ppm, and is VOC-exempt under EPA guidelines.
Substitute MEK with Acetone where possible in resin cleaning and degreasing, provided explosion-proof electrical controls are equipped for Acetone's lower flash point.
Regulatory & Toxicological Matrix
| Safety Parameter | Acetone | Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) |
|---|---|---|
| CAS Number | 67-64-1 | 78-93-3 |
| OSHA PEL (8-Hour TWA) | 1000 ppm | 200 ppm |
| NIOSH REL | 250 ppm | 200 ppm (STEL 300 ppm) |
| ACGIH TLV (Recommended) | 250 ppm (STEL 500 ppm) | 200 ppm (STEL 300 ppm) |
| IDLH (Immediately Dangerous) | 2500 ppm (10% LEL) | 3000 ppm |
| Vapor Pressure (Volatilization) | 231 mmHg (25�C) | 78 mmHg (20�C) |
| Closed-Cup Flash Point | -20�C (-4�F) | -9�C (16�F) |
| Primary Health & Organ Hazards | Eye irritation, mild narcotic effect, low systemic chronic toxicity, high flammability | Potentiates neurotoxicity of n-hexane and MBK, mucous membrane irritation |
| Substitution Viability | Preferred Solvent - VOC exempt in most jurisdictions with 1000 ppm PEL | Restricted Use - 5x stricter OSHA PEL than Acetone (200 ppm vs 1000 ppm) |
| Full Chemical Database Profile | View Acetone Profile → | View Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) Profile → |
Recommended PPE for Solvent Handling & Transfer
Whether utilizing Acetone or Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), ensure your staff is equipped with NIOSH-certified respiratory cartridges and permeation-resistant gloves:
Activated carbon bed absorbs solvent vapors up to 10x or 50x PEL depending on facepiece selection.
Dermal Permeation Barrier Ansell Sol-Vex Nitrile Chemical Handling GlovesSuperior puncture and chemical breakthrough resistance against ketones, aromatics, and aliphatic hydrocarbons.
Planning a Chemical Substitution Pilot?
Avoid regrettable substitutions. Certified Industrial Hygienists (CIH) perform pre- and post-substitution baseline air sampling to verify that solvent alternatives truly reduce overall workforce exposure indices.