What Is Methyl Vinyl Ketone?
Methyl vinyl ketone (MVK) is a colorless to yellowish-brown liquid organic compound, known for its peculiar odor and tearing properties. It has a chemical structure consisting of a methyl group, a vinyl group, and a carbonyl group. The compound is highly reactive, soluble in water, and miscible in ethanol, diethyl ether, and acetone. MVK has a chemical formula of C4H6O, structural formula CH3COCH=CH2, molecular weight of 70.09, and CAS number 78-94-4. Its melting point is 19.4°F (-7°C), boiling point 178°F (81°C), and flash point 19.4°F (-7°C) in a closed system.
Uses of Methyl Vinyl Ketone
Methyl vinyl ketone is a versatile chemical intermediate used in the manufacture of resins, paints, and adhesives. It is also used as a starting material for synthesizing various organic compounds. It is particularly used in the production of acrylic and vinyl resins for paints and coatings, offering high adhesion, chemical resistance, and weather resistance. In the production of epoxy adhesives, MVK acts as a reactive diluent, enhancing flexibility and adhesive properties.
Properties of Methyl Vinyl Ketone
MVK is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong pungent odor. Its molecular formula is CH3COCH=CH2 and it has a molecular weight of 70.09 g/mol. It is highly reactive, soluble in water, alcohols, ethers, and most organic solvents, and undergoes addition reactions with nucleophiles such as alcohols and amines. It can also polymerize with other monomers like styrene, acrylonitrile, and butadiene. MVK is toxic and irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, and long-term exposure can cause liver and kidney damage.
Structure of Methyl Vinyl Ketone
The structure of MVK consists of a methyl group (-CH3), a vinyl group (-CH=CH2), and a carbonyl group (-C=O). The vinyl group’s double bond and the polar carbonyl group make the molecule highly reactive and soluble in polar solvents.
Other Information on Methyl Vinyl Ketone
Methyl Vinyl Ketone Production Process
MVK can be synthesized through various methods, including oxidation of isobutylene, dehydration of tertiary butyl alcohol, and dehydrogenation of 3-pentanone. The most common industrial method is the dehydrogenation of isopropyl alcohol using a copper or silver catalyst. This process occurs in the gas phase, where isopropyl alcohol is vaporized and fed into a reactor with a catalyst at 482-752°F (250-400°C). The resulting product is MVK, along with hydrogen gas as a byproduct. Post-reaction, MVK is separated from byproducts and unreacted isopropyl alcohol through distillation or other separation techniques.