PRODUCTION, USE, AND TRENDS

A. Production

Almost 75 percent of the global MEK capacity is concentrated in the three major regions which is United States, Western Europe and Japan. However capacity in the Asia Pacific region has increased in the past three years especially in China. Over half production of MEK is focusing in Asia region, which is also largest consumer of MET in this decade.

B. Use

Methyl ethyl ketone is used in a number of industrial applications. The primary use of methyl ethyl ketone, accounting for approximately 58 percent of all use, is as a solvent in protective coatings. It is also used as a solvent in adhesives; printing inks; paint removers; in the production of magnetic tapes; and in dewaxing lubricating oil. Methyl ethyl ketone is used as a chemical intermediate in several reactions, including condensation; halogenation; ammonolysis; and oxidation. Small amounts of methyl ethyl ketone are also used as a sterilizer for surgical instruments, hypodermic needles, syringes, and dental instruments; as an extraction solvent for hardwood pulping and vegetable oil; and as a solvent in

pharmaceutical and cosmetic production. Dissolving substances is MEKs primary task, specifically resins such as polyurethane, polyester, acrylic, and cellulose. Once a particular resin is fully dissolved, the MEK typically evaporates off, leaving behind the desired formulation. There is inevitably a minuscule amount of MEK that doesnt evaporate off, but is usually disregarded.

C. Trends

Demand for methyl ethyl ketone is expected to decrease gradually until alternative, low volatile organic carbon (VOC) coating technologies are readily available. Once such alternatives are available, demand is expected to decrease more rapidly.

D. Manufacture of Product Capacity In 2005, publicly available sources reported global production for MEK reached 1,141 thousand metric tons (2.5 billion pounds). Global demand for MEK was 1,100 thousand metric tons (2.4 billion pounds). Process Publicly available sources report more than 85% of the U.S. MEK is produced from sec-butanol. The alcohol is obtained in a two-step process starting from butenes. Although MEK is not a hazardous air pollutant, it is a volatile organic compound (VOC), considerable measures are taken to prevent its release to the atmosphere. Processes and equipment for manufacture, transfer and storage are continuous and enclosed E. Market Since MEK is just one of many key solvents used in todays ever-changing market, it is constantly striving to remain competitive and be a solvent of choice. Although MEK has many unique chemical properties that qualify it as an excellent solvent, it still faces threats from several angles. For example, water-based solvents are gaining popularity and momentum. Water-based solvents are now becoming known as low cost, environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional carbon-based solvents such as MEK. Instead of originating from petroleum or other fossil fuels, like that of MEK, water-based solvents are produced

from water. Historically, water-based solvents have been viewed as under-developed and impractical, but are overcoming these challenges as technology improves. MEK consumption trends are very much dependent on which country or region is being discussed. For example, Asian countries such as China are consuming more MEK than ever before as many industries are relocating to this part of world. Asia is becoming known for its successful industrial model and has the foundation to support essentially an unlimited amount of applications. With an increase in industrial movement, an increase in solvent consumption is sure to follow. On the other hand, economically developed regions such as the United States or Europe are observing little to no growth in solvent consumption. A variety of factors influences this, but can mostly be credited to new technology and regulatory constraints. However, MEK has a stable market overall in current applications and will most likely continue to be present for many years to come, although it will admittedly face obstacles in the long-term future.