Is 4-Methyl-2-pentanone a carcinogen?

4-Methyl-2-pentanone (methyl isobutyl ketone, MIBK) is a colorless, transparent, medium-boiling-point organic solvent with a ketone-like odor. It is widely used in coatings, inks, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, mineral processing, and organic synthesis. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies it as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning it is probably carcinogenic to humans, based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in animal studies, but insufficient epidemiological evidence in humans. This substance is flammable and can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. High-concentration exposure can affect the central nervous system; strict protective measures and controlled exposure levels are required for industrial and laboratory use.

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