Poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA 200) is a bifunctional methacrylate monomer used as a hydrophilic crosslinker in hydrogel formation, photopolymer systems, coatings, and polymer network synthesis.
Synonyms: PEGDMA 200, Polyethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate, Poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate.
PEGDMA 200 contains methacrylate functional groups attached to a polyethylene glycol backbone, enabling polymerization and crosslinking in aqueous and solvent-based systems. The material is commonly used where flexibility, hydrophilicity, and tunable polymer properties are important.
The PEG segment molecular weight is approximately 200 (n≈4), making PEGDMA 200 suitable for formulations requiring lower molecular weight PEG dimethacrylate crosslinkers.
Researchers and formulators use PEGDMA materials in hydrogel development, photopolymerizable resins, coatings, adhesives, and specialty polymer applications.
Key Properties
- Bifunctional methacrylate crosslinker
- Hydrophilic polyethylene glycol backbone
- Approximate PEG molecular weight: 200
- Polymerizable methacrylate end groups
- Useful in hydrogel and photopolymer systems
- Supports tunable mechanical and swelling properties
Applications
Hydrogel Formation
PEGDMA 200 is commonly used as a crosslinking monomer for hydrogel preparation and polymer network formation.
Photopolymer & Resin Systems
The material may be incorporated into UV-curable and photopolymerizable resin formulations used in research and specialty manufacturing.
Coatings & Adhesives
PEGDMA can be used in hydrophilic coating and adhesive formulations where flexibility and polymer crosslinking are required.
Polymer & Biomaterials Research
Researchers use PEGDMA crosslinkers in polymer chemistry, materials science, and laboratory development involving controlled polymer architectures.
Compatibility & Formulation Considerations
- Compatible with free-radical polymerization systems
- Often used with photoinitiators or thermal initiators
- Hydrophilic behavior depends on formulation composition
- Crosslink density varies with concentration and curing conditions
Final polymer properties depend on initiator selection, curing conditions, formulation ratios, and environmental exposure.
Preparation Tips
- Store under recommended conditions to minimize premature polymerization
- Mix thoroughly before formulation use
- Protect from excessive heat and light exposure
- Validate curing conditions for each application
Handling & Storage
- Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry environment
- Protect from heat, moisture, and direct light
- Use appropriate laboratory PPE during handling
- Follow standard chemical handling procedures
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FAQ
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1. What is PEGDMA 200 used for?
PEGDMA 200 is used as a hydrophilic methacrylate crosslinker in hydrogels, photopolymer systems, coatings, and polymer research applications.
2. What does PEGDMA stand for?
PEGDMA stands for Poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate.
3. What is the approximate PEG molecular weight?
The PEG segment molecular weight is approximately 200 (n≈4).
4. Is PEGDMA 200 suitable for hydrogel research?
PEGDMA 200 is commonly used in hydrogel and polymer network formation workflows due to its bifunctional methacrylate structure.
5. How should PEGDMA 200 be stored?
Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry environment away from excessive heat and light to minimize premature polymerization.
Safety & Documentation
Use PEGDMA 200 with appropriate laboratory safety precautions. Refer to the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete handling, storage, and safety guidance.
