Polyethylene glycol PEG-2000 is generally pre-melted and then added to the system. The specific dosage varies greatly depending on the application field. It is recommended to conduct gradient experiments in the range of 1% to 30% of the total formula weight to determine the optimal dosage.
Detailed Description
Polyethylene glycol PEG-2000 is a white waxy solid (melting point approximately 45–55°C) at room temperature. It usually needs to be pre-heated and melted before use to turn into a transparent viscous liquid before mixing with other components. When melting, it is recommended to use a water bath or jacket heating method, controlling the operating temperature between 50–70°C to avoid local overheating leading to thermal decomposition. After melting, it can be directly added to the stirring formula system, or pre-mixed with part of the liquid components to form a mother liquor before addition to improve dispersion uniformity.
Due to its excellent chemical stability and compatibility, it can be added at different stages of the formula: when preparing an emulsification system, it is usually melted and mixed with the oil phase components during the oil phase heating stage; when preparing aqueous solutions or wash-off care products, the molten PEG-2000 can be directly added to the water phase with stirring to dissolve. Its HLB value is approximately 20, with strong hydrophilicity, dissolving quickly and dispersing evenly in aqueous systems, making operation convenient.
This product is a non-ionic polymer that can well cooperate with anionic, cationic, and other non-ionic surfactants, and will not fail due to ionic interference in complex formulas. However, it should be noted that it is hygroscopic, so the container should be kept sealed during storage, and it should be used as soon as possible after opening.
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Value/Description |
|---|
| Appearance (room temperature) | White to slightly yellow waxy solid or flakes |
| Melting point range | 45–55°C |
| HLB value | Approximately 20 |
| Active content | ≥99% |
| Hydroxyl value | 51–62 mgKOH/g |
| pH of 1% aqueous solution | 4.5–7.5 |
| Solubility | Easily soluble in water |
| Ionic type | Non-ionic |
| Cloud point (1% aqueous solution) | >100°C |
| Density | 1.21 g/cm³ |
| Flash point | >240°C |
Note: The above parameters are from the Guo Li Chemical product database.
Application Recommendations
There are no officially recommended dosages for various fields in the Guo Li Chemical database. The following is a recommended dosage range based on general industry practices, for reference in formula development. The actual optimal dosage needs to be determined through sample verification:
- Pharmaceutical suppositories/ointment bases: Used as the main base, the dosage can reach 20%~90%, and the blending ratio of PEG-2000 with higher or lower molecular weight PEG needs to be adjusted according to drug release requirements.
- Pharmaceutical tablet binder: The recommended dosage is 2%~5% of the total tablet weight, added in aqueous solution or molten form during the granulation stage.
- Skin care creams/lotions: Used as a humectant and emulsion stabilizer, the recommended dosage is 1%~8%, added by dissolving in the water phase.
- Shampoo/body wash: Used as a thickening and moisturizing aid, the recommended dosage is 1%~5%, working synergistically with surfactants.
- Textile softener/antistatic agent: The recommended working solution concentration is 5~30g/L, depending on the fabric type and processing technique.
- Paper sizing agent component: Add 5%~15% based on the dry weight of the sizing agent to improve sizing uniformity and paper flexibility.
- Paints/inks dispersant: Add 2%~10% based on the weight of pigments or fillers to aid wetting and dispersion.
- Water-based cutting fluid/grinding fluid: The recommended dosage is 5%~15% of the total formula weight as a lubricating enhancement component.
- Release agent component: Recommended to account for 3%~10% of the total release agent formula, utilizing its film-forming smoothness and low pyrolysis residue characteristics.
Note: The above dosage ranges are industry empirical values. Please refer to the actual formula sample test results.
Precautions
- When handling molten product, wear insulating gloves and protective equipment to prevent high-temperature burns.
- The operating temperature should be controlled within 70°C to avoid local overheating causing thermal decomposition.
- This product is hygroscopic. After opening, it should be promptly sealed and stored in a cool, dry place (5–30°C).
- Avoid storage in the same area as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases.
- In areas where dust is generated, it is recommended to wear a dust mask and maintain good ventilation.
- This product is not a hazardous chemical and does not belong to dangerous goods in the United Nations Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. During transportation, prevent packaging damage and moisture ingress.
