Question

What safety precautions should be taken when using polyethylene glycol PEG-2000?

Answer
2026-06-06 官方文档 聚乙二醇PEG-2000

Polyethylene glycol PEG-2000 is a low-toxicity, non-hazardous chemical. Under normal conditions of use, it is non-irritating to the skin and eyes. However, when handling the molten product, precautions should be taken to prevent burns from high temperatures, and inhalation of dust should be avoided.

Detailed Description

Polyethylene glycol PEG-2000 (CAS No.: 25322-68-3) is not classified as a hazardous chemical according to the EU CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 and the Chinese national standard GB 30000 series, and has no hazard or precautionary statements. Its acute toxicity is extremely low, with an oral LD₅₀ in rats > 2000 mg/kg (actual values are typically >5000 mg/kg). It has been confirmed by OECD standard test methods to have no skin irritation, no eye irritation, and no skin sensitization. At room temperature, its vapor pressure is extremely low, making inhalation exposure risks negligible under normal operating conditions.

In daily operations, personnel should wear appropriate work clothing to avoid direct skin contact. In areas where dust is generated, it is recommended to wear a dust mask. The work area should be well-ventilated. After work and before breaks, wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with water and soap. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited during work.

Technical Parameters

Safety ParameterValue/Description
Melting PointApprox. 50–55°C
Flash Point (Closed Cup)>220°C (Non-flammable solid or liquid)
Explosive PropertiesNone
Oxidizing PropertiesNone
Acute Toxicity (Rat Oral LD₅₀)>2000 mg/kg (typically >5000 mg/kg)
Skin Irritation (OECD 404)Non-irritating
Eye Irritation (OECD 405)Non-irritating
Skin Sensitization (OECD 406)Non-sensitizing
Recommended Operating TemperatureRoom temperature to 70°C
Recommended Storage Temperature5–30°C

Application Recommendations

The operating temperature should be controlled between room temperature and 70°C to avoid localized overheating that may cause thermal decomposition. Since PEG-2000 is a white waxy solid at room temperature, if melting is required, special care should be taken to prevent burns from high temperatures when handling the molten product. It is essential to wear insulated gloves and protective equipment. The product is thermally reversible; it becomes a transparent viscous liquid when melted and returns to a solid state upon cooling, facilitating processing operations.

When used in applications such as textiles, papermaking, and metalworking fluids, it is recommended to operate in a well-ventilated environment. When used as a pharmaceutical excipient, compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements is necessary. In cosmetic formulations, ensure the product meets relevant hygiene standards.

Storage Precautions

  • Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse, away from heat sources and ignition sources.
  • Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption and contamination.
  • Avoid storage in the same area as strong oxidizing agents, strong acids, and strong bases or other incompatible materials.
  • Use stainless steel, aluminum, or plastic-lined carbon steel containers for storage, avoid prolonged contact with iron containers.
  • Keep away from food, feed, and drinking water sources.

Emergency Measures

  • Skin Contact: Immediately flush the affected area with plenty of water and soap for at least 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical assistance.
  • Eye Contact: Immediately hold eyelids open and rinse with flowing water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation or pain persists, seek medical attention promptly.
  • Inhalation of Dust: Move the person to fresh air and keep breathing comfortable. If discomfort persists, seek medical attention promptly.
  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately and show the container label.
  • Spill Handling: Collect spills using inert absorbent materials (such as vermiculite, dry sand, diatomaceous earth, etc.), place in a closed container, and dispose of according to local regulations. Note that spill areas may become slippery.
  • Fire Fighting: Suitable extinguishing media include water fog, dry powder, carbon dioxide, and foam. Combustion may produce carbon monoxide and irritating smoke. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus.

Transportation and Disposal

This product is not classified as dangerous goods under the UN Model Regulations for the Transport of Dangerous Goods (ADR/RID, IMDG, IATA). During transportation, prevent packaging damage, moisture, and exposure to direct sunlight. Waste and used containers should be disposed of in accordance with national and local environmental regulations, such as incineration or landfill, and avoid direct discharge into water bodies or the environment.