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Health Effects of Methyl Ethyl Ketone

Methyl ethyl ketone, also known at butanone, is an organic compound used as a liquid solvent in countless commercial products. Exposure to methyl ethyl ketone, however, does pose some potentially serious health risks.

  1. Uses

    • Methyl ethyl ketone can be found in surface coatings such as polymers, adhesives and printing inks. It also plays an important role in processing fats, oils, resins and waxes.

    Inhalation

    • Even brief exposure to methyl ethyl ketone vapors has shown to irritate the eyes, nose and throat. Prolonged exposure can lead to nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, drowsiness and confusion. Extremely high concentrations can lead to unconsciousness and death.

    Contact

    • If methyl ethyl ketone comes in contact with the eyes, it can be a moderate to severe irritant, possibly leading to permanent eye damage. Contact with skin can produce redness, itching and pain.

    Ingestion

    • Ingesting small amounts of methyl ethyl ketone will cause abdominal pain and nausea, with larger amounts leading to headache, dizziness, unconsciousness and possible death. If any methyl ethyl ketone is aspirated into the lungs, it can cause respiratory failure, cardiac arrest and possible death.

    Considerations

    • No studies have been able to link methyl ethyl ketone to cancer or problems with the reproductive system.

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