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MEK price index
This post is a summary of the MEK price developments. The price developments of MEK are expressed in US$ prices converted FX rates applicable at the time when the price was valid. MEK price index developments are calculated from multiple separate sources of data to ensure statistical accuracy.
The outlook for MEK prices, on the second tab, is generated from different inputs including:
- Very recent price developments of immediate cost drivers of MEK prices
- Recent price developments of underlying feedstocks which drive the price of MEK
- Market futures for both cost drives and feedstocks of MEK prices
- Adjustment of current supply/demand imbalances in the MEK market
- Longer term trends in likely demand conditions
Further information on the MEK price c
What is MEK
MEKe, also known as methyl ethyl ketone, is an organic compound that is a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet, fruity aroma. It is a member of the ketone family and is used as a solvent in a variety of applications, including the production of paints, adhesives, and coatings. MEK is also used as a solvent in the production of plastics, resins, and rubber, and as a chemical intermediate in the production of other chemicals. It is toxic if ingested or inhaled and can cause skin irritation. It is important to use caution when handling MEK and to follow proper safety guidelines.
How is MEK produced
MEK, or methyl ethyl ketone, is produced through the acetylation of 2-butanol, which is an alcohol. The acetylation process involves the addition of an acetyl group to the 2-butanol molecule to form MEK The reaction is typically carried out using an acid catalyst, such as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid.
MEK can also be produced through the oxidation of 2-butanol, which is an alcohol. This process involves the addition of oxygen to the 2-butanol molecule to form MEK and water.
The production of MEK can produce a variety of by-products and waste materials, and it is important to properly manage these materials to minimize environmental impacts.
What drives the cost of MEK
The cost of MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) can be influenced by several factors, including:
Feedstock prices
The cost of MEK can be significantly influenced by the cost of its primary feedstock, which is usually n-butane or n-butene. The cost of these feedstocks can be impacted by various factors, including supply and demand, global oil prices, and regional production levels.
Production costs
The cost of producing MEK can be influenced by various factors such as energy costs, labor costs, and transportation costs. These factors can vary based on the location of production and the technology used.
Government policies
Government policies such as import and export regulations, subsidies, and taxes can also impact the cost of MEK. These policies can impact the availability and cost of feedstocks, production costs, and market demand.
Overall, the cost of MEK is influenced by a complex set of factors that can vary over time and across different regions of the world.
What is MEK used for
MEK, or methyl ethyl ketone, is a versatile solvent that is used in a variety of applications, including:
Paints and coatings
MEK is used as a solvent in the production of paints, coatings, and other products that require a thin, liquid medium to dissolve or disperse other ingredients.
Adhesives
MEK is used as a solvent in the production of adhesives, including contact cements, rubber cements, and other types of adhesives that require a solvent to dissolve or disperse other ingredients.
Plastics and resins
MEK is used as a solvent in the production of plastics and resins, including polycarbonate and other types of plastic resins.
Rubber
MEK is used as a solvent in the production of rubber, including synthetic rubber and other types of rubber products.
Chemical intermediate
MEK is also used as a chemical intermediate in the production of other chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and other industrial chemicals.
How big is the MEK market
The MEK market is a significant global industry, with demand driven by a variety of end-use applications. According to a report from MarketsandMarkets, the global MEK market was valued at $5.9 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $8.6 billion by 2025, at a compound annual growth rate of 7.3% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing demand for MEK in the production of paints, adhesives, and coatings, as well as in the production of plastics and resins. The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for MEK, followed by North America and Europe. The market is expected to witness significant growth in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by the increasing demand for MEK in various applications.
According to https://oec.world/ :
MEK are the world’s 2330th most traded product.
In 2020, the top exporters of MEK were China ($180M), Japan ($120M), Netherlands ($82M), United Kingdom ($80.7M), and South Africa ($67M).
In 2020, the top importers of MEK were South Korea ($108M), United States ($96.3M), Belgium ($56.9M), Vietnam ($42.2M), and Germany ($37.6M).
Further reading
- Wikipedia for general, history, production and usage information
- PubChem for chemistry and property information