Polyethylene Glycol PEG-300 belongs to the practically non-toxic and non-hazardous category. Under normal use conditions, it has no significant harm to human health and the environment. However, standard chemical handling procedures should still be followed, with emphasis on moisture-proof sealing, avoiding high temperatures, preventing contact with strong oxidizers, and taking basic personal protective measures.
Detailed Description
Polyethylene Glycol PEG-300 (CAS No.: 25322-68-3) has been evaluated according to the GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) and is classified as a non-hazardous substance. Its acute oral toxicity LD50 > 20 g/kg (rat) and acute dermal toxicity LD50 > 20 g/kg (rabbit) are both considered practically non-toxic. It is non-irritating to the skin, non-sensitizing, and non-genotoxic, with a high safety margin. However, this does not mean that operating procedures can be completely ignored; reasonable protective measures ensure occupational health and safety during long-term use.
Three key aspects to focus on during handling: First, PEG-300 is hygroscopic, so the container should be sealed promptly after opening to avoid prolonged exposure to humid air, which could degrade product performance. Second, although it has a relatively high flash point (closed cup 195°C to 234°C) and is not classified as a flammable liquid, the operating temperature should be kept well below the flash point, ideally below 170°C for safety. Above this temperature, it may decompose and produce irritating fumes (carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and trace aldehydes). Third, contact with strong oxidizers such as peroxides, permanganates, and concentrated nitric acid must be avoided to prevent hazardous reactions.
For personal protection, it is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves, as well as appropriate protective clothing, to avoid direct skin and eye contact. The work area should be well-ventilated. After handling, thoroughly wash hands. Work clothes should be washed regularly and not taken out of the workplace. Eating, drinking, and smoking are prohibited during operations. In case of skin contact, immediately flush with plenty of running water and soap for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, hold eyelids open and rinse thoroughly with plenty of water or saline for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Technical Parameters
| Safety Parameter | Value/Rating |
|---|
| Hazard Classification | Non-hazardous |
| Acute Oral Toxicity (Rat LD50) | > 20 g/kg (practically non-toxic) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity (Rabbit LD50) | > 20 g/kg (very low dermal toxicity) |
| Skin Irritation | Non-irritating |
| Eye Irritation | Mild irritant |
| Skin Sensitization | Non-sensitizing |
| Genotoxicity | Negative (multiple tests) |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified as carcinogenic by IARC or other agencies |
| Flash Point (Closed Cup) | 195°C ~ 234°C |
| Autoignition Temperature | Approx. 310°C ~ 350°C |
| Explosiveness | Not explosive |
| Oxidizing Properties | Not oxidizing |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable (meets OECD criteria) |
| Acute Fish Toxicity (LC50, 96h) | > 1000 mg/L (practically non-toxic to fish) |
Application Recommendations
Safety management priorities vary depending on the application scenario:
- Pharmaceutical field (ointment base, suppository base, pill carrier, injection solvent, etc.): Pharmaceutical-grade PEG-300 must be used, with strict control of microbial limits and impurity content. Operations should be conducted in a GMP clean environment to ensure compliance with pharmaceutical excipient standards.
- Cosmetics and personal care (skin care products, shampoos, toothpaste, etc.): Use cosmetic-grade raw materials, follow good manufacturing practices, ensure the final concentration in the formulation meets cosmetic safety standards, and maintain batch traceability records.
- Industrial field (paper, textile, coatings, inks, rubber): Focus on operating temperature control and ventilation. When heating processes are involved, local exhaust ventilation should be provided to prevent vapor accumulation. In rubber mold release applications, be aware of decomposition risks at high temperatures.
- Agrochemical field (emulsifiers, spreaders): Operators need enhanced protection to prevent contact risks from the combined pesticide formulation (containing active ingredients). Do not lower protective standards solely based on the safety profile of PEG-300 alone.
Additional Notes
- Storage conditions: Recommended storage temperature: 5°C to 40°C. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse. Use containers made of stainless steel or polyethylene (HDPE/LDPE) and keep them tightly sealed to prevent moisture. Store separately from strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong bases.
- Spill handling: Small spills: cover with inert absorbent material (sand, vermiculite, etc.), absorb, and collect in a sealed container. Large spills: build dikes, transfer and recover using explosion-proof pumps. Prevent spill from entering sewers and surface waters. Dispose of all waste in compliance with local regulations.
- Firefighting measures: Although not classified as flammable, it may produce irritating fumes at high temperatures. Extinguishing media: water fog, alcohol-resistant foam, dry powder, or carbon dioxide. Do not use direct water streams on spilled material. Firefighters must wear self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus.
- First aid highlights: If ingested, rinse mouth immediately, do not induce vomiting. Drink适量的 water or milk to dilute, and seek medical attention promptly. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
- Static electricity prevention: During large-scale pumping or stirring operations, appropriate grounding measures should be taken to eliminate potential static risks.
