Chemical Properties
Colorless or light yellow transparent liquid
Definition
ChEBI: 3-Methyl-3-buten-2-one is an olefinic compound. It is functionally related to an acrylic acid.
Production Methods
3-Methyl-3-buten-2-one is produced by acid-catalyzed condensation of 2-butanone with formaldehyde in the liquid phase.
A further possibility is the methylolization of 2-
butanone under alkaline conditions followed by
elimination of water:
General Description
A clear colorless liquid. Flash point of 52°F. Denser than water and insoluble in water. Hence sinks in water. Vapors heavier than air.
Air & Water Reactions
Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
3-Methyl-3-buten-2-one tends to polymerize; this reaction is mostly suppressed by the inhibitor. Can polymerize if heated or contaminated. If confined in a container when polymerization is initiated, the container may violently rupture [USCG, 1999].
Hazard
Flammable, dangerous fire risk, explosivelimits in air 1.8–9.0%.
Health Hazard
Inhalation causes irritation of nose and throat. Liquid may cause severe damage to eyes, resulting possibly in some permanent impairment of vision; vapor produces tears. If not removed promptly from skin, liquid may cause delayed pain and blistering. Ingestion causes irritation of mouth and stomach.
Fire Hazard
Behavior in Fire: May polymerize and explode.
Chemical Reactivity
Reactivity with Water: No reaction; Reactivity with Common Materials: No reaction; Stability During Transport: Stable; Neutralizing Agents for Acids and Caustics: Not pertinent; Polymerization: Will polymerize in the absence of inhibitor, especially when heated; Inhibitor of Polymerization: Up to 1% hydroquinone.
Safety Profile
Poison by ingestion and
skin contact. Moderately toxic by inhalation
and intraperitoneal routes. A skin and severe
eye irritant. A dangerous fire hazard when
exposed to heat or flame. Explosive in the
form of vapor when exposed to heat or
flame. When heated to decomposition it
emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.
