Ethyl Pyrrolidone (NEP)
NEP, N-Ethylpyrrolidone, 1-Ethyl-2-pyrrolidinone.
- CAS
- 2687-91-4
- EC
- 220-250-6
- Sectors
- Electronics & Solar PV, Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomers, Agriculture
Ethyl Pyrrolidone (NEP, CAS 2687-91-4) is a Technical Grade polar solvent of 99.8% purity, supplied as a clear, colorless liquid that is miscible with water and most organic solvents, and it serves as a high-solvency carrier and cleaning medium in electronics, coatings and agrochemical formulations. Featuring 99.8% purity, it offers excellent thermal stability and high solvency for resins.
This clear, colorless liquid is used extensively in the electronics industry for microcircuit cleaning and photoresist stripping. Its high boiling point and low volatility make it ideal for high-temperature industrial processes where worker safety is a priority.
In the coatings industry, NEP is used to improve the viscosity and flow of polyurethanes and epoxy resins. It is miscible with most organic solvents and water, allowing for versatile formulation in both aqueous and non-aqueous systems.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | C6H11NO |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 113.16 g/mol |
| Appearance | clear liquid |
| Form | Liquid |
| Color | Clear |
| Melting point | 86-88 °C |
| Boiling point | 222 °C |
| Density | 0.992 g/mL at 25 °C |
| Water solubility | 1000g/L at 23°C |
| Flash point | 169 °F |
| pH | 8-9 (100g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful, Health hazard |
| HS code | 29337900 |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Ethyl Pyrrolidone (NEP)
Applications
- Electronic Cleaning: Used for stripping photoresists and cleaning semiconductor wafers in microelectronics.
- Coating Formulations: Functions as a process solvent for the production of high-solids wire enamels and automotive coatings.
- Agrochemical Solvent: Utilized as a high-solvency carrier for specialized herbicides and pesticide formulations.
Safety & Risks
Classified as Eye Dam 1 and Repr 1B. Reproductive hazard. Handle with strict adherence to PPE Guidelines, including Face Shields and Chemical Gloves.
Packaging
200 kg Steel Drums or 25 kg Pails.