Methyl Ethyl Ketoxime

Physical Properties

Methyl ethyl ketoxime (MEKO) is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild, characteristic odor. It has a boiling point of approximately 152–153°C at standard atmospheric pressure and a melting point of around -29°C. The compound exhibits a density of 0.92 g/cm³ at 20°C and is miscible with organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers, and ketones, though it has limited solubility in water. Its relatively low vapor pressure (~3 mmHg at 20°C) reflects moderate volatility under ambient conditions.

Chemical Properties

As an oxime (R₁R₂C=N–OH), MEKO demonstrates weak basicity, enabling it to form salts with acids. It undergoes hydrolysis in acidic or alkaline environments to regenerate methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and participates in redox reactions due to the labile N–O bond in its structure. The compound is thermally stable under normal conditions but decomposes at temperatures exceeding 200°C, releasing nitrogen oxides. MEKO also acts as a chelating agent, forming stable complexes with transition metals like copper and iron, which underpins its role in corrosion inhibition and catalyst stabilization. Its dual reactivity—combining coordination chemistry and controlled decomposition—makes it versatile in industrial applications.