Question

How to use polyethylene glycol PEG-2000?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 聚乙二醇PEG-2000

The usage of polyethylene glycol PEG-2000 varies by application field. The core operations include melting and heating (melt at 45–55°C before use) or directly dissolving in water to prepare a solution. The specific method depends on the final application.

Detailed Description

Polyethylene glycol PEG-2000 (CAS No.: 25322-68-3) is a white waxy solid or flake at room temperature, with a melting range of approximately 45–55°C. Due to its good thermal reversibility, it can become a transparent viscous liquid when heated and melted, and return to a solid state after cooling. There are usually two basic methods for use: direct melting (applicable for situations requiring solid forming, such as suppository bases, drop pills, ointments, etc.) and aqueous solution preparation (applicable for situations requiring liquid operations, such as textiles, papermaking, coatings, daily chemicals, etc.). The effective content of this product from Guoli Chemical is ≥99%, the pH of a 1% aqueous solution is 4.5~7.5, it is easily soluble in water, non-ionic, and has good compatibility with anionic, cationic, and other non-ionic substances.

When preparing an aqueous solution, slowly add the solid or flake PEG-2000 to warm water (recommended water temperature 40–60°C), stirring continuously until completely dissolved. Due to its hygroscopicity, the product should be sealed promptly after opening to avoid moisture absorption and clumping, which may affect its performance. During melting operations, the operating temperature should be controlled between room temperature and 70°C to avoid local overheating and thermal decomposition; when handling the molten product, wear insulating gloves and protective equipment to prevent burns from high temperatures.

Technical Parameters

Parameter ItemValue (Guoli Chemical PEG-2000)
Appearance (room temperature)White to off-white solid/flake
Melting range45–55°C
Molecular weight range1800–2200
Effective content≥99%
pH of 1% aqueous solution4.5–7.5
Hydroxyl value51–62 mgKOH/g
Moisture≤0.5%
HLB valueApproximately 20
Density1.21 g/cm³
Kinematic viscosity at 100°C50–65 mm²/s
Flash point>240°C (closed cup method)
Cloud point (1% aqueous solution)>100°C
Surface tension (1% aqueous solution, 25°C)Approximately 63 mN/m
Ion typeNon-ionic

Application Suggestions

Pharmaceutical preparations:

  • Suppository base: Mix PEG-2000 with polyethylene glycols of different molecular weights (such as PEG-400, PEG-6000) according to the formula ratio, heat and melt in a water bath at 50–60°C, add the drug and stir well, then pour into molds and cool to solidify. Its suitable melting range (45–55°C) and good water solubility enable drug release.
  • Ointment base: Melt and mix PEG-2000 and PEG-400 in a ratio of approximately 1:1 to 2:1, cool to obtain a water-soluble ointment base of suitable consistency, and the drug can be directly dispersed in it.
  • Tablet binder: PEG-2000 can be pre-melted and sprayed onto the material, or added as a 5%–20% aqueous solution during wet granulation, providing both binding and lubricating effects.

Cosmetics and personal care products:

  • Cream/lotion moisturizer: Recommended addition amount 1%–5%, dissolve in the water phase by heating before emulsification, then mix with other components for emulsification.
  • Shampoo/body wash thickener: Addition amount 0.5%–3%, used in combination with surfactant systems to synergistically thicken and improve the moisturizing skin feel after rinsing.

Textile industry: As an antistatic agent and soft finishing agent, prepare a 5–20 g/L aqueous solution, treat the fabric by padding or dipping, and dry to impart a smooth and soft hand feel to the fibers.

Metalworking fluids: In water-based cutting fluid formulations, the recommended addition amount is 2%–8%, directly dissolve in the water phase and compound with other additives to provide lubrication and anti-friction effects, along with some rust prevention ability.

Coatings and inks: As a pigment dispersing aid, the recommended addition amount is 2%–10% of the pigment amount, either dissolved in water first or added during the grinding stage to help disperse the pigment evenly and prevent settling.

Precautions

  • This product is hygroscopic. After opening, it should be used as soon as possible and stored sealed. Recommended storage temperature 5–30°C, avoid moisture absorption and clumping.
  • The melting operation temperature should not exceed 70°C to avoid thermal decomposition due to local overheating.
  • Wear insulating gloves when handling the molten product to prevent burns.
  • In areas where dust may be generated, it is recommended to wear a dust mask and maintain good ventilation.
  • Avoid contact with incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases.
  • The product is a non-hazardous chemical and is non-irritating to skin and eyes, but it is still recommended to rinse with water after contact.