The usage method of Polyethylene Glycol PEG-4000/6000 varies by application field; it is usually melted or dissolved before being added to the formulation system. There is no unified standard for the addition amount; it needs to be determined through experiments based on the specific process.
Detailed Description
Polyethylene Glycol PEG-4000/6000 is a white waxy solid or granular at room temperature, with a melting point between 50~63°C, and is easily soluble in water. Two common treatment methods before use are: Direct Melting Method – heat the solid to 60~80°C to melt it into a transparent liquid before adding to the formulation; Aqueous Solution Method – dissolve it in a quantitative amount of hot water to prepare a solution of the desired concentration before adding. Both methods require thorough stirring to ensure uniform dispersion in the system.
This product is a non-ionic high-molecular polymer with an HLB value of approximately 18.9~19.0, stable chemical properties, and maintains good performance over a wide pH range. It has excellent compatibility with anionic, cationic, and non-ionic surfactants. Due to its high molecular weight (PEG-4000 approximately 3400~4400, PEG-6000 approximately 5400~6600), it is recommended to use hot water above 60°C and continuous stirring to accelerate the dissolution process.
Technical Parameters
| Parameter Name | Specification Index |
|---|
| Appearance | White waxy solid or granular |
| Active Content | ≥99% |
| Melting Point Range | 50~63°C |
| HLB Value | 18.9~19.0 |
| Hydroxyl Value | 8~16 mgKOH/g |
| pH (1% Aqueous Solution) | 5.0~7.0 |
| Moisture Content | ≤1.0% |
| Acid Value | ≤0.1 mgKOH/g |
| Density | 1.20~1.21 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point (Open Cup) | ＞240°C |
| Solubility | Easily soluble in water |
| Ion Type | Non-ionic |
Application Suggestions
Usage methods for various application fields and industry experience reference dosages:
- Pharmaceutical Industry (Ointment Base/Suppository/Pills): Usually, PEG-4000 and PEG-6000 are mixed in a certain proportion and melted to be used as a water-soluble base. In ointment bases, the total PEG dosage typically accounts for 40%~90% of the total formulation, and the specific proportion needs to be adjusted according to drug release requirements and preparation hardness; in pill bases, PEG dosage is usually 1~5 times the drug amount.
- Toothpaste Humectant: Recommended addition amount is 3%~8% of the total formulation, can be used in combination with glycerin to effectively prevent paste drying and cracking, maintaining a fine and glossy texture.
- Shampoo/Shower Gel Conditioning Agent: Recommended addition amount is 0.5%~3%, added when the system cools below 60°C, providing a smooth feel and reducing the irritation of surfactants.
- Textile Antistatic Agent/Lubricant: Prepare an aqueous solution with a concentration of 0.5%~5%, apply to the fiber surface through padding or spraying, and after drying, impart good smoothness and antistatic properties to the fiber.
- Rubber Mold Release Agent: Prepare an aqueous solution of 2%~10%, spray or brush onto the mold surface, utilizing its high temperature resistance and lubricating properties to achieve efficient demolding.
- Paper Coating Lubricant: Based on the solid content of the coating, recommended addition amount is 0.5%~2%, effectively improving the fluidity of the coating, preventing roll sticking, and enhancing paper surface smoothness.
- Metalworking Quenching Fluid: As a component of water-based quenching medium, recommended addition amount is 5%~20% of the total quenching fluid, adjusting concentration to control cooling rate, reducing quenching deformation and cracking of workpieces.
- Pesticide Wettable Powder/Water Dispersible Granules: As a dispersing and binding carrier, recommended addition amount is 2%~10% of the total preparation, helping the active ingredient to be uniformly distributed and improving suspension rate.
- Skincare Products (Creams/Lotions): Recommended addition amount is 2%~10%, utilizing its moisturizing and film-forming properties to increase skin hydration and improve skin feel.
Note: The above addition amounts are industry common reference values; Guoli Chemical product database does not have specific dosage parameters. The actual optimal dosage needs to be determined through experiments based on the specific formulation system and process conditions.
Precautions
- Dissolution Operation: PEG-4000/6000 is a solid product; it is recommended to dissolve it in hot water at 60~80°C with continuous stirring to avoid lumping and slow dissolution when directly added to cold water.
- Moisture-proof Storage: This product is hygroscopic; the packaging container must be immediately sealed after use and stored in a cool, dry place (recommended 10~30°C).
- Dust Protection: If dust is generated during operation, wear a dust mask and operate in a well-ventilated area; fine dust mixed with air to a certain concentration poses an explosion risk; keep the operation area away from open flames and high-temperature sources, and equipment must be grounded to prevent static electricity.
- Compatibility Test: Before large-scale production, it is recommended to conduct small-scale tests to confirm the compatibility of PEG-4000/6000 with other components in the formulation and the optimal addition amount.
- Heating Safety: During melting operation, the heating temperature should not be too high (recommended not to exceed 100°C) to avoid color deepening or performance changes due to prolonged high-temperature heating.
