P.E.G. 4000 & P.E.G. 6000 (Polyethylene Glycol)
P.E.G. 4000 & P.E.G. 6000 (Polyethylene Glycol) – High Molecular Weight Polymer Grades
Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) grades 4000 and 6000 are solid, waxy powders representing higher molecular weight polymers of ethylene oxide. These grades are widely used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications as lubricants, binders, and moisture-retaining agents.
Both PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 offer excellent biocompatibility, water solubility, and stability, making them ideal for formulations requiring controlled viscosity and sustained release.
Chemical Properties:
- Chemical Name: Polyethylene Glycol
- Chemical Formula: H–(O–CH₂–CH₂)ₙ–OH (where n ≈ 90 for PEG 4000 and ≈135 for PEG 6000)
- Molecular Weight: Approximately 4000 g/mol and 6000 g/mol respectively
- Appearance: White, odorless, crystalline or waxy powder
- Solubility: Soluble in water and many organic solvents
- Melting Point:
- PEG 4000: 53–58°C
- PEG 6000: 58–63°C
Applications:
- Pharmaceuticals: Used as tablet binders, suppository bases, and controlled-release agents
- Cosmetics: Acts as emulsifiers, humectants, and skin-conditioning agents
- Industrial: Utilized as lubricants, plasticizers, and dispersing agents
- Food Industry: Occasionally used as additives or carriers
Key Benefits:
- High Molecular Weight: Provides thickening and binding properties
- Biocompatible & Safe: Suitable for medical and cosmetic formulations
- Moisture Retention: Helps maintain hydration in topical applications
- Thermally Stable: Suitable for processing at elevated temperatures
Safety Considerations:
- Handling: Use gloves and masks to avoid dust inhalation
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from moisture
- Toxicity: Low toxicity and generally regarded as safe
- Disposal: Dispose per local environmental regulations