Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), also known as butanone, is a solvent commonly used in various industrial processes such as painting, coating, and printing. This solvent is a colorless liquid and has a distinct pungent sweet odor. It can be found in nature, but it is typically produced industrially.
Its properties make it useful as an industrial solvent, but its improper disposal can pose environmental and health risks. MEK is classified as toxic by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Improper MEK disposal not only presents potential risks but also wastes valuable resources. Recognizing the need for a more sustainable solution, Maratek Environmental offers solvent recycling services that allow for the recovery and reuse of MEK.
MEK Recycling Process
Recycling MEK involves the recovery and purification of the solvent from waste streams, transforming it into a high-quality solvent that can be reused in industrial processes. The process begins with rigorous testing to determine the composition of your waste and assess if it is suitable for recycling.
If the sample is acceptable, the MEK waste will then be collected from your facility. This can include facilities like manufacturing plants, printing presses, automotive workshops, and more. Maratek Environmental’s service vehicles are ministry approved and paired with our very experienced technicians to assure safe transport and handling. We are a registered carrier of waste products and are fully certified with all the necessary Government of Ontario waste transport documentation. The waste will then be transported to Maratek Environmental’s state of the art recycling facility in Bolton, Ontario.
At our facility, the waste will undergo distillation to separate the MEK from other contaminants present in the waste. Maratek Environmental uses high quality distillation equipment suited to achieve high-purity MEK recovery.
Maratek Environmental is committed to continuous improvement and sustainability, exploring modern technologies and methodologies to enhance the recycling processes. Every aspect of Maratek Environmental’s operations is optimized for maximum resource efficiency and environmental protection.
One of the key advantages of Maratek Environmental’s MEK recycling services is our ability to offer customized solutions tailored to the specific needs of each client. Whether it is a small-scale operation or a large industrial facility, Maratek Environmental works closely with its customers to develop cost-effective and sustainable recycling programs that minimize waste and maximize resource recovery.
Moreover, by recycling MEK, companies can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also realize significant cost savings. By recovering and reusing valuable solvents like MEK, companies can reduce their reliance on virgin materials, decrease disposal costs, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. When using Maratek Environmental’s MaraSolve program your waste will be run as an isolated batch and recovered at a reusable purity, which will then be available for purchase by you at a fraction of the price of virgin solvent.
To increase sustainability, any residual waste that cannot be recovered economically will then be processed into liquid fuel by our team, which can be used in place of fossil fuels for kilns. Maratek’s solvent acquisition service allows recovered solvents to return to the market and be reused, contributing to the circular economy.
In addition to its environmental and economic benefits, solvent recycling also helps companies follow regulatory requirements and improve their corporate image from an environmental standpoint. With increasing pressure from regulators, customers, and the public to adopt more sustainable practices. Businesses that engage in recycling and waste reduction initiatives gain a competitive edge in the market while positioning themselves as responsible stewards of the environment.
Maratek Environmental’s solvent recycling services represent a significant step forward in the quest for sustainability. By harnessing the power of advanced technologies and expertise, Maratek Environmental is not only reducing environmental pollution but also creating value for clients and benefiting society as a whole. As industries continue to evolve and adapt to the challenges of this era, companies like Maratek Environmental will play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come.
For over 50 years Maratek has processed and manufactured award-winning environmentally friendly solvent recovery and recycling equipment. We provide our customers with reliable and comprehensive services tailored to their individual needs. Whether is it isopropyl alcohol, acetone, blanket wash, varsol, thinners and much more, Maratek Environmental can recycle it. Contact us today to learn more about how Maratek Environmental can help you with your MEK or other solvent waste.
Resources:
Safety Guide for Butanone (Methyl Ethyl Ketone) – Online Safety Trainer