Methylpyrrolidone (N methylpyrrolidone)

Methylpyrrolidone (N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone) or NMP is an organic compound consisting of a 5-membered lactam. It is a colorless liquid, although impure samples may appear yellow. It mixes with water and with most common organic solvents. It also belongs to the class of dipole aprotic solvents such as dimethylformamide and dimethyl sulfoxide. It is used in the petrochemical industry, the production of polymers and batteries as a solvent, due to its volatility and ability to dissolve various materials (including polyvinylidene difluoride, PVDF). Low toxicity is also the reason for using this solvent.

NMP is used to extract certain hydrocarbons produced during the processing of petrochemical products, such as the extraction of 1,3-butadiene and acetylene. It is used to absorb hydrogen sulfide from high-sulfur gas and hydrodesulfurization plants. Its good dissolution properties have led to the use of NMP to dissolve a wide range of polymers. In particular, it is used as a solvent for the surface treatment of textiles, resins and plastics with metal coating or as a paint remover. It is also used as a solvent in the commercial production of polyphenylene sulfide. NMP is used in the production of Twaron aramid fibers and Kevlar. In the pharmaceutical industry, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone is used in drug formulations by both oral and transdermal delivery routes. It is also widely used in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries as a solvent for electrode preparation, as NMP has the unique ability to dissolve a polyvinylidene fluoride binder.