Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide
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Image:Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide.png |
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1-hydroperoxy-2-(hydroperoxymethyl)-2-methylbutane IUPAC name |
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Chemical formula | C4H10O4 |
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 |
UN number | {{{UNNumber}}} |
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.
[edit] See also
- Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)