⟡ Functional Monomers / Hydrophilic Methacrylates / PEG-Based Monomers
Polyethylene glycol monomethacrylate (PEGMA 440) is a hydrophilic, methacrylate-functionalized monomer composed of a polyethylene glycol chain (~440 Da) with a single reactive methacrylate group. The material is commonly used in polymer synthesis, hydrogels, coatings, and surface modification applications where water compatibility and controlled polymer functionality are important.
The PEG segment contributes hydrophilicity, flexibility, and reduced protein adsorption characteristics, while the methacrylate functionality enables incorporation into polymer systems through free-radical polymerization. PEGMA is frequently selected for applications requiring polymer modification without extensive crosslinking.
Key Features & Benefits
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Methacrylate-functional monomer: suitable for free-radical polymerization workflows
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Hydrophilic PEG chain (~440 Da): supports water compatibility and flexibility
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Single reactive functionality: enables polymer modification without extensive crosslinking
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Useful for surface modification: helps reduce protein adsorption and fouling
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Compatible with multiple polymer systems: used in coatings, hydrogels, and copolymers
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Water-miscible material: suitable for aqueous and hydrophilic formulations
Product Details
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Product name: Polyethylene glycol monomethacrylate (PEGMA 440)
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Synonyms: HEMA-10; Poly(ethoxy-10) ethyl methacrylate
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Average molecular weight: ~440 Da
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Functional group: Methacrylate
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Polymerization mechanism: Free-radical polymerization
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Solubility: Water-miscible
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Applications: Hydrogels, coatings, biomaterials, polymer modification, surface treatments, and colloidal systems
Typical Applications
Hydrogel modification
PEGMA is incorporated into hydrogel systems to improve hydration, flexibility, and water compatibility while limiting excessive crosslinking.
Surface coatings & antifouling materials
The PEG chain helps reduce protein adsorption and biofouling in specialty coating and surface treatment applications.
Contact lens & optical materials
Used in polymer systems requiring improved wettability, water retention, and hydrophilic surface characteristics.
Drug delivery & biomaterials research
PEGMA-containing polymers are commonly studied for hydrophilic matrices and controlled surface interaction applications.
Colloidal & emulsion systems
PEG functionality may support steric stabilization in aqueous polymer and colloidal formulations.
Functional Properties
PEGMA functions as a hydrophilic reactive comonomer that introduces polyethylene glycol segments into polymer systems. The methacrylate functionality enables polymer incorporation, while the PEG chain modifies hydration behavior, surface energy, and polymer flexibility.
Because PEGMA contains a single reactive methacrylate group, it is often used to modify polymer properties without creating highly crosslinked network structures.
Why Use PEGMA 440?
PEGMA 440 is commonly selected when hydrophilicity, flexibility, and surface modification are needed in polymer systems while maintaining relatively linear or lightly crosslinked polymer structures.
Its broad compatibility with hydrogels, coatings, biomaterials, and aqueous polymer systems makes it useful for industrial formulations and advanced materials research.
Handling & Storage
- Store in a cool, dry environment away from heat and direct light.
- Keep containers tightly sealed to minimize contamination and premature polymerization.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to UV light and radical initiators.
- Handle using appropriate laboratory protective equipment.
- Consult the SDS for complete handling, storage, and safety guidance.
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FAQ
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What is PEGMA 440 used for?
PEGMA 440 is used in hydrogels, coatings, biomaterials, polymer modification, and hydrophilic polymer formulations.
What does PEGMA stand for?
PEGMA stands for polyethylene glycol monomethacrylate, a PEG-functional methacrylate monomer.
How is PEGMA different from PEGDA?
PEGMA contains one reactive methacrylate group for polymer modification, while PEGDA contains two reactive groups and is typically used for crosslinking.
Is PEGMA 440 water soluble?
PEGMA 440 is water-miscible due to its polyethylene glycol segment.
Why is PEGMA used in surface coatings?
The PEG chain can improve hydrophilicity and help reduce protein adsorption and fouling behavior.
