Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide

Additional recommended knowledge What is the Sensitivity of my Balance? Daily Visual Balance Check How to quickly check pipettes? Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide
1-hydroperoxy-2-(hydroperoxymethyl)-2-methylbutane IUPAC name
Chemical formula	C4H16O4
Molar mass	128.169 g/mol
Shock sensitivity	High
Friction sensitivity
Density	1.15 g/cm³
Explosive velocity	Approx. 5200 m/s
RE factor
Melting point	Approx. -8;°C
Autoignition temperature	109°C
Appearance	colourless, high-viscosity liquid
CAS number	1338-23-4
PubChem	24845732
SMILES

Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (MEKP) is an organic peroxide, a high explosive similar to acetone peroxide. MEKP is a colorless, oily liquid whereas acetone peroxide is a white powder at STP; MEKP is slightly less sensitive to shock and temperature, and more stable in storage.

Dilute solutions of 30 to 60% MEKP are used in industry and by hobbyists as the catalyst which initiates the polymerization of polyester resins used in glass-reinforced plastic, and casting. For this application, MEKP is dissolved in dimethyl phthalate, cyclohexane peroxide, or diallyl phthalate to reduce sensitivity to shock. Benzoyl peroxide can be used for the same purpose.

MEKP is a severe skin irritant and can cause progressive corrosive damage or blindness.

MEKP, acetone peroxide and HMTD have all been reported to be the explosives used in the alleged 2006 transatlantic aircraft plot.

See also

• Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)