Polyethylene Glycol PEG-4000/6000 should be stored sealed in a cool, dry place, away from strong oxidizing agents; under compliant storage conditions, the shelf life is typically up to 2 years, subject to the product packaging label.
Detailed Explanation
Polyethylene Glycol PEG-4000/6000 is a non-ionic high molecular polymer and is not classified as a hazardous chemical (CAS No.: 25322-68-3). This product is highly hygroscopic, easily absorbing moisture in humid environments leading to caking or degradation. Therefore, sealing and moisture prevention are key points in storage management. Additionally, when product particle dust reaches a certain concentration in the air, it may pose a dust explosion risk; storage areas should be kept away from ignition sources and well ventilated.
The product itself is chemically stable and not prone to deterioration under long-term storage at room temperature in dry conditions. However, due to its specific melting point range (approximately 50~63°C), excessively high temperatures may cause the waxy solid to soften, deform, or even melt, damaging the product form; excessively low temperatures may cause the packaging material to become brittle and crack. Therefore, controlling the temperature within the recommended range is crucial for ensuring product quality and packaging integrity.
Technical Parameters
| Parameter Item |
Specification Value |
Description |
| Appearance |
White waxy solid or granules |
Normal storage state |
| Hygroscopicity |
Strong hygroscopicity |
Requires strict sealing |
| Melting point |
50~63°C |
Storage temperature must be below this value |
| Recommended storage temperature |
Room temperature 10~30°C |
Cool and dry environment |
| Flash point (open cup) |
>240°C |
Safety data |
| Dust explosion class |
St1 |
Minimum ignition temperature (MIT) of dust cloud >400°C |
| Chemical stability |
Stable under normal temperature and dry conditions |
Source: Guoli Chemical database |
| Solid content |
≥99% |
Source: Guoli Chemical database |
| Moisture content |
≤1.0% |
Source: Guoli Chemical database |
| Shelf life |
No explicit data in database |
Refer to product packaging label or COA |
Application Recommendations
Polyethylene Glycol PEG-4000/6000 is widely used in multiple industries such as pharmaceuticals, daily chemicals, textiles, rubber, and papermaking. Different application scenarios have varying sensitivity to product moisture content and purity:
- Pharmaceutical industry (ointment bases, suppositories, drop pill carriers, etc.): Should be used as soon as possible after opening to avoid moisture absorption affecting preparation quality; it is recommended to test moisture content before use to confirm conformity to standards.
- Daily chemical industry (toothpaste humectants, skin care products, etc.): If caking or color darkening is observed after opening, perform a small-scale test to evaluate the impact before deciding whether to continue use.
- Textile and industrial applications (antistatic agents, mold release agents, etc.): Tolerance to moisture absorption is relatively broad, but sealing is still recommended; slight moisture absorption causing caking can be crushed and continue to be used.
Precautions
- Do not store with strong oxidizing agents: Keep away from peroxides, potassium permanganate, concentrated nitric acid, and other strong oxidizing substances to prevent violent reactions.
- Prevent dust explosion: Storage and use areas should be equipped with explosion-proof ventilation facilities to avoid dust accumulation; open flames, sparks, and high-temperature surfaces are strictly prohibited; all equipment must be grounded to prevent static electricity.
- Packaging management: Seal the container immediately after use to avoid prolonged exposure to air; stacking must be stable to prevent tipping and damaging the packaging.
- Shelf life determination: The database does not yet include specific shelf life data for this product; it is recommended to refer to the expiration date on the product's COA or outer packaging. Generally, the shelf life of industrial-grade PEG products under original sealed and compliant storage conditions is about 2 years. If the product shows obvious color darkening, severe caking, or unusual odor, stop use and contact Guoli Chemical's technical department for confirmation.
