Methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) is produced on an industrial scale by treating acetone with a strongly acidic, palladium catalyst-doped cation exchange resin under medium pressure of hydrogen. It is a common solvent used in various industries, including paints and coatings, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals. MIBK is a stable and versatile solvent that can dissolve a wide range of substances, including resins, oils, and waxes. In the paint and coatings industry, MIBK is used as a solvent for nitrocellulose, vinyl resins, and acrylic resins. It is also used as a thinner for lacquers, varnishes, and enamels. MIBK is preferred over other solvents because of its low toxicity and high solvency power. In the adhesives industry, MIBK is used as a solvent for rubber and resin-based adhesives. It is also used as a cleaning agent for equipment and surfaces. In the pharmaceutical industry, MIBK is used as a solvent for various drugs and as an extraction solvent for plant materials. It is also used in the production of vitamins and other nutritional supplements.