Is methyl ethyl ketone banned in the US?

The answer is no. MEK, while it can be hazardous when not used properly, is not considered to present a considerable enough threat to the user or the environment for the EPA to ban the use of this chemical.

Is methyl ethyl ketone harmful to humans?

* Breathing Methyl Ethyl Ketone can irritate the nose and throat causing coughing and wheezing. * Exposure can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, nausea, blurred vision, and may cause you to pass out. * Repeated high exposure can damage the nervous system and may affect the brain.

Does MEK cause cancer?

There are no long-term studies with animals breathing or drinking MEK. MEK has not been named as a cancer-causing agent.

Is MEK regulated as as VOC?

MEK is still regulated as a VOC. Methyl acetate has a lower chemical reactivity in the air environment and is considered VOC-exempt.

Can MEK be stored in a plastic container?

When in use, it must be in a five-gallon (18.9 l) plastic can with an opening large enough to get the spray pump and nozzle into it. The paint/MEK mixture is pumped back into a five-gallon (18.9 l) can and removed from the jobsite into a 55-gallon (208.2 l) drum for disposal later.

Is MEK available in California?

The short answer is yes, MEK was banned in southern California in 2011. California is one of the stricter states in terms of laws placed on the use of VOCs. In particular, southern Califorina has completely banned MEK, as they must be compliant with SCAQMD (South Coast Air Quality Management District).

What is the proper shipping name for methyl ethyl ketone?

SHIPPING NAME: Flammable Liquids, N.O.S. (Toluene, Methyl ethyl ketone) UN/NA NUMBER: UN1993 PRIMARY HAZARD CLASS/DIVISION: 3 PACKING GROUP: II NOTE: Domestic shipments only.

What is MEK VOC?

MEK is still regulated as a VOC. Methyl acetate has a lower chemical reactivity in the air environment and is considered VOC-exempt. When disposed of, MEK must be treated as a hazardous waste and is also a TRI listed chemical. Methyl acetate is not regulated as a hazardous waste.