Chemical laboratory

Polyethylene Glycol PEG

Versatile Polymer for Pharmaceutical and Industrial Applications

  • CAS 25322-68-3
  • Formula H(OCH₂CH₂)ₙOH
  • Flash Pt 182-287 °C (open cup)
  • Density 1.125 g/cm³ (20°C, PEG 400)
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Physical & Chemical Properties

Property Value Unit
Boiling point >200 °C (decomposes) °C
Flash point 182-287 °C (open cup) °C
Density 1.125 g/cm³ (20°C, PEG 400) g/cm³
Solubility Miscible with water -
Ph 5.0 - 7.0 (50 g/L in H₂O, 20 °C) -
Molecular weight Varies g/mol
Melting point 4 - 60 °C (depending on molecular weight) °C
Vapor pressure <0.01 mmHg at 20°C (estimated for high molecular weight) mmHg
Autoignition temp 360 - 420 °C (depending on molecular weight) -
Appearance Clear, colorless liquid to white solid (depending on molecular weight) -
Odor Slightly sweet -
Vapor density N/A g/cm³

Overview

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is a versatile synthetic polymer with the chemical formula H(OCH₂CH₂)ₙOH, available in various molecular weights ranging from low-viscosity liquids to waxy solids. This water-soluble compound appears as a clear, colorless liquid to white solid depending on molecular weight, with a slightly sweet odor and excellent compatibility across numerous applications. PEG's unique properties, including its biocompatibility, low toxicity, and ability to dissolve in both water and many organic solvents, make it an essential component in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial formulations.

Key Applications

  • Pharmaceutical Excipient: Used as a tablet binder, coating agent, and drug delivery vehicle in pharmaceutical formulations due to its biocompatibility and controlled release properties
  • Cosmetic Ingredient: Functions as a humectant, emulsifier, and texture enhancer in creams, lotions, and personal care products
  • Industrial Plasticizer: Improves flexibility and workability in polymer systems, adhesives, and coating formulations
  • Cryoprotectant & Solvent: Prevents ice crystal formation in biological samples and serves as a specialized solvent for various chemical processes

Safety & Handling

PEG has a flash point range of 182-287°C (open cup) and autoignition temperature of 360-420°C, making it relatively safe for industrial handling. Standard personal protective equipment including safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing should be worn during handling. Ensure adequate ventilation in work areas, especially when heating the material above 200°C where decomposition may occur. While PEG has low acute toxicity, avoid prolonged skin contact and inhalation of vapors.

Storage & Shelf Life

Store Polyethylene Glycol PEG in tightly sealed containers away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Maintain storage temperatures below 40°C to prevent degradation and maintain product quality. PEG is compatible with most materials but should be kept away from strong oxidizing agents. When properly stored in original packaging, PEG maintains its quality for 2-3 years. Higher molecular weight grades may solidify at room temperature, which is normal and does not affect product quality.

Why Alliance Chemical

Alliance Chemical provides high-quality Polyethylene Glycol PEG with same-day shipping from our Taylor, Texas facility. We offer flexible delivery options including UPS for smaller quantities, LTL for medium orders, and FTL for bulk shipments. Every order includes comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Certificates of Analysis (COA) to ensure compliance with your quality requirements and regulatory standards.

Shipping & Availability

Parcel Shipping

UPS Ground supports pints, quarts, and most 1-gallon packages nationwide.

LTL Freight

5-gallon pails, drums, and totes move via LTL carriers such as ABF Freight, SEFL, Saia, and XPO.

Full Truckload

FTL available for palletized bulk orders. Competitive freight rates.

Local Pickup

Same-day pickup at our Taylor, TX warehouse for Texas customers.

SDS, COA, and TDS available for every product • Same-day shipping on orders before 1 PM CT

Frequently Asked Questions

What is polyethylene glycol (PEG) and what is it used for?
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a polyether with repeating unit H-(O-CH2-CH2)n-OH (formula (C2H4O)n) available in a range of molecular weights and physical forms. It is used industrially and in laboratories as a solvent, binder, dispersant, lubricant, modifier for formulations, and as a raw material for polymer chemistry and surface-active products.
How should I store PEG and what is its typical shelf life?
Store PEG in its original, tightly closed container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong oxidizers, typically at ambient temperatures (15–25°C); lower molecular weight PEGs are hygroscopic so keep sealed. Shelf life depends on grade but is commonly 2–5 years—refer to the supplier's Certificate of Analysis (COA) or SDS for lot-specific expiry guidance.
Is polyethylene glycol safe to handle and what personal protective equipment (PPE) should I use?
PEG is generally of low acute toxicity, but standard industrial precautions apply: avoid skin and eye contact and inhalation of aerosols. Use chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing, and provide adequate ventilation; consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for first-aid and spill-response measures.
What do different PEG grades (e.g., PEG 200, PEG 4000) mean and how do their properties differ?
PEG grades are designated by average molecular weight (e.g., PEG 200, PEG 400, PEG 1000, PEG 4000); lower molecular weights are low-viscosity liquids and more volatile/solvent-like, while higher molecular weights are waxy solids with higher melting points and viscosities. Choice of grade affects solubility, freezing point, viscosity and application suitability, so select by the required physical properties and performance.
What documentation is provided when purchasing PEG?
Suppliers typically provide a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), Technical Data Sheet (TDS), and a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each lot; additional documents may include a Certificate of Conformance, endotoxin/BSE-TSE statements, and custom testing reports upon request. Request the lot-specific COA to verify key parameters such as molecular weight, water content, and acid value.
How is PEG shipped and what packaging options are available?
PEG is usually shipped as a non-regulated material under normal transport conditions, though specific regulations can vary by region and grade; check local transport rules and the SDS before shipping. Common packaging includes drums, pails, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), and small bottles for samples, with heated vehicles or insulation recommended for very viscous/high-melt grades.
Is PEG compatible with metals, plastics and rubber materials?
PEG is typically compatible with stainless steel, glass and many plastics such as HDPE and polypropylene, but it can cause swelling or degradation in some elastomers and natural rubbers. Avoid contact with incompatible materials and strong oxidizers, and run a compatibility test for critical seals, coatings, or elastomers before prolonged use.
What are the typical technical specifications I should check for a PEG product?
Key specifications include average molecular weight (or grade number), appearance, viscosity (for liquids), melting point (for solids), water content, acid value or peroxide content, and hydroxyl number; purity and color may also be specified. Always review the supplier COA for lot-specific values and acceptance limits.
Which industries and applications commonly use PEG?
PEG is used across industries including coatings and inks, textiles, metalworking fluids, adhesives and sealants, plastics and polymer synthesis, agriculture formulations, and laboratory/research applications such as solvents, standards and reaction media. Its versatility stems from controllable molecular weight and solubility profiles.
How can I purchase PEG and what availability or lead times should I expect?
PEG is available in standard commercial grades (common MWs like 200, 400, 1000, 3350, 4000, etc.) in small-sample to bulk quantities; many suppliers also offer custom grades or packaging. Typical lead times are from stock (days) to several weeks for larger or custom orders—confirm minimum order quantities, lead times and sample availability with the supplier.

Documentation & Downloads

Safety Data Sheet
SDS / MSDS
Request COA
Certificate of Analysis
Technical Data Sheet (TDS)
Available for all products

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