Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), identified by CAS No. 25322-68-3, is a versatile polyether compound synthesized through the polymerization of ethylene oxide. Physically, PEG exhibits a range of forms depending on its molecular weight, transitioning from a colorless, viscous liquid to a waxy, white solid. It is characterized by high water solubility, low volatility, and exceptional thermal stability. Industrially, PEG serves as a critical lubricant, binder, and chemical intermediate. It is extensively utilized in the pharmaceutical sector as a drug delivery vehicle and osmotic laxative, and in the cosmetic industry as a humectant and stabilizer. Furthermore, it plays a vital role in wood preservation and textile processing. From a safety perspective, PEG is categorized as biocompatible and Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by regulatory bodies due to its low systemic toxicity. However, industrial handling should minimize the inhalation of vapors or dust, and appropriate personal protective equipment is recommended to prevent potential skin or eye irritation during bulk processing.
* Offers broad compatibility, being water-soluble and miscible with many organic solvents.
* Functions effectively as a lubricant, reducing friction in diverse systems.
* Acts as a reliable humectant, aiding in moisture retention and preventing drying.
* Ensures safety and low irritation, suitable for sensitive applications like cosmetics.
* Provides stable performance due to low volatility and good thermal stability.
* Is an environmentally responsible choice, being readily biodegradable.
* Serves multiple roles including thickener, binder, plasticizer, and dispersing agent.
* Applicable across numerous industries, from pharmaceuticals to textiles.
– Appearance (25°C): Colorless viscous liquid or white solid
– Odour: Mild, characteristic
– pH (5% aq. solution): 4.5 – 7.5
– Specific Gravity (25°C): 1.12 – 1.13
– Refractive Index (25°C): 1.465 – 1.470
– Moisture (% w/w): Max 0.5
– Sulphated Ash (% w/w): Max 0.1
– Hydroxyl Value (PEG 400, mg KOH/g): 260 – 300
– Viscosity (25°C) (PEG 400, cP): 70 – 90
– Melting Point (PEG 3350, °C): 54 – 58
* **Pharmaceuticals:** Acts as a versatile excipient, serving as a solvent, vehicle, and base for various drug formulations, including ointments, tablet coatings, and oral solutions.
* **Cosmetics & Personal Care:** Functions as a humectant, emulsifier, and thickener in creams, lotions, shampoos, and bath products to enhance texture and hydration.
* **Food Processing:** Utilized as a plasticizer, binding, and coating agent, and humectant in food processing and packaging to improve product quality and stability.
* **Industrial Lubrication:** Employed in metalworking fluids, textile processing, and rubber manufacturing as a lubricant, softener, and antistatic agent.
* **Ceramics & Adhesives:** Serves as a plasticizer and binder in ceramics and adhesives, improving workability and material cohesion.
* **Paints & Coatings:** Used as a solvent and flow improver in paint and coating formulations, enhancing application and finish quality.
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