Considered a volatile organic compound (VOC) which contributes to photochemical smog in the presence with other VOCs. In the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 methyl isobutyl ketone was added to the list of hazardous air pollutants because it is created in urban settings by photochemical reactions. This compound is a colorless flammable liquid, primarily used as a solvent for protective surface coating such as for acrylic enamels and lacquers. It is also used in solvent extractions in the dry-cleaning industry and is regulated by the occupational safety and health administration since exposure can experience nausea, burning eyes, weakness, headaches, and more significantly, damage to the liver and the kidneys.