This specification covers two types of methyl ethyl ketone (or 2-butanone), namely: Type I (regular grade) and Type II (urethane grade), that are used primarily as solvents in lacquers and industrial coatings, but also in adhesives, printing inks, lube oil dewaxing, and as chemical intermediates. The physical and chemical properties of methyl ethyl ketone shall conform to the requirements specified for the following: (1) acidity, (2) weight percentage of alcohol, (3) color (Pt-Co scale), (4) distillation range defined by the initial boiling point and dry point, (5) nonvolatile matter content, (6) purity, (7) apparent specific gravity, and (8) weight percentage of water. The sampling and test methods for determining conformance to the specified physical and chemical properties are given.

1.1 This specification covers two types of methyl ethyl ketone that are used primarily as solvents in lacquers and industrial coatings, but also in adhesives, printing inks, lube oil dewaxing, and as chemical intermediates.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 The following applies to all specified limits in this standard: for purposes of determining conformance with this standard, an observed value or a calculated value shall be rounded off “to the nearest unit” in the last right-hand digit used in expressing the specification limit, in accordance with the rounding-off method of Practice E29.

1.4 For specific hazard information and guidance, see the supplier's Material Safety Data Sheet for materials listed in this specification.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.