Question

What are the main characteristics of Polyethylene Glycol PEG-400?

Answer
2026-05-17 官方文档 聚乙二醇PEG-400

Polyethylene Glycol PEG-400 is a non-ionic high molecular polymer, with excellent compatibility, solubilization ability, wetting dispersibility and mild safety as its core features, making it a widely used industrial and pharmaceutical excipient.

Detailed Description

Polyethylene Glycol PEG-400 (CAS No.: 25322-68-3) is a high molecular polymer formed by stepwise addition polymerization of ethylene oxide with water or ethylene glycol, belonging to non-ionic surfactants. It appears as a colorless transparent viscous liquid, possesses excellent compatibility and chemical stability, can be stably compounded with anionic, cationic and non-ionic systems, and is compatible with various complex formulations.

As an efficient solubilizing medium, PEG-400 has outstanding solubilizing capacity for many poorly soluble organic substances and active ingredients, effectively enhancing formulation clarity and bioavailability. Meanwhile, in the fields of coatings, textiles and metal processing, it can significantly reduce surface tension, efficiently disperse solid particles, and prevent system sedimentation and agglomeration. In terms of safety, PEG-400 combines low irritation, low toxicity and non-sensitization, fully meeting the stringent safety requirements for pharmaceutical and cosmetic raw materials.

This product is a non-hazardous chemical, without GHS hazard pictogram labeling. It is chemically stable at room temperature, with a closed-cup flash point of approximately 238°C, non-flammable and non-explosive, and is a safe and reliable industrial raw material.

Technical Parameters

Parameter ItemDetails
Chemical NamePolyethylene Glycol 400 / Polyoxyethylene Glycol 400
CAS No.25322-68-3
Product TypeNon-ionic Surfactant
AppearanceColorless transparent viscous liquid
Ionic CharacterNon-ionic
Closed-cup Flash PointApprox. 238°C
Hazard ClassificationNon-hazardous chemical (No GHS pictogram)
Water Hazard Class (WGK)1 (Slightly hazardous to water)
Safety PhrasesS24/25 (Avoid contact with skin and eyes)
SolubilityExcellent compatibility, can be compounded with various systems

Application Suggestions

With its multifunctional characteristics, PEG-400 is widely used in the following fields:

  • Pharmaceutical Preparations: As a water-soluble base for ointments and suppositories, carrier for drop pills, and injection solubilizer, significantly improving drug release and absorption.
  • Daily Care: As a high-performance humectant and lubricant, applied in creams, shampoos and shaving products, imparting a moisturized and smooth skin feel.
  • Textiles and Leather: As a component of synthetic fiber spinning finishes, antistatic agents and softening finishing agents, effectively giving fabrics smooth and soft hand feel.
  • Industrial Processing: Provides excellent lubricity in metal cutting fluids and quenching fluids; as a pigment dispersion stabilizer in coatings and paints; as a high-efficiency environmentally friendly emulsifier in pesticide formulations.
  • Rubber and Plastics: As a release agent and dispersant, improving processing flowability and product surface finish.

Precautions

  • Storage temperature is recommended to be controlled between 5°C and 30°C. Keep container tightly sealed, store in a cool, dry and well-ventilated warehouse.
  • Avoid contact or co-storage with incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to air to prevent quality degradation due to moisture absorption.
  • During operation, it is recommended to wear chemical safety goggles and protective gloves (nitrile rubber or neoprene material).
  • In case of accidental eye contact, flush continuously with running water or physiological saline for at least 15 minutes, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
  • Strictly prevent the product from entering sewers or water bodies.