Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether [MW 550], also known as mPEG or PEG-MME, is a nonionic, water-soluble PEG derivative with one methyl-terminated end group and one hydroxyl end group. It is used in polymer modification, hydrophilic formulation work, coatings, dispersions, and specialty materials research.
Synonyms / related names: mPEG; PEG-MME; methoxy poly(ethylene glycol); poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether.
With a molecular weight of 550 and water solubility, this mPEG grade is useful in formulation workflows where PEG chemistry, polymer compatibility, and surface-property modification are important. The hydrophilic PEG backbone and terminal hydroxyl functionality support use in PEG-containing materials and functional polymer systems.
Researchers, formulators, and industrial users may use poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether in coatings, polymer modification, dispersions, hydrophilic materials research, and the preparation of functional PEG-containing materials.
Key Properties
- Nonionic poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether
- CAS Number: 9004-74-4
- Product Number: 04457
- Synonym: mPEG
- Linear Formula: CH3(OCH2CH2)nOH
- Molecular Weight: 550
- Intrinsic Viscosity: 7.5 cps @ 100°C
- Viscosity: 7.5 cps @ 100°C
- Soluble in water
- Refractive Index: 1.455
- Melting Point: 20°C
- Density: 1.106
Applications
Polymer Modification
Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether may be used in polymer modification workflows where a hydrophilic PEG segment and terminal hydroxyl functionality support material design or further functionalization.
Hydrophilic Coatings & Surface Treatments
mPEG may be evaluated in coating and surface treatment research where water compatibility, hydrophilicity, and polymeric surface behavior are important formulation considerations.
Dispersions & Colloidal Systems
This PEG derivative may be used in dispersion and colloidal formulation work where nonionic, water-soluble polymers are selected for compatibility, stabilization, and formulation performance.
Personal Care & Specialty Formulations
PEG-based materials are commonly evaluated in personal care and specialty formulations where water solubility, humectancy, texture, and polymer compatibility are relevant.
Materials Research
Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether may be used in hydrophilic materials research, including PEG-containing polymer systems where formulation compatibility is important.
Solubility & Compatibility Considerations
- Soluble in water
- Contains a methyl-terminated end group and a hydroxyl end group
- Compatibility depends on solvent system, pH, additives, polymer matrix, and processing conditions
- Hydroxyl functionality and molecular weight should be considered when calculating formulation ratios or functionalization targets
- Evaluate compatibility with binders, surfactants, active components, fillers, and other additives before scale-up
Final performance should be confirmed under the user’s specific application conditions, including concentration, solvent system, temperature, substrate, and intended end use.
Preparation Tips
- Add gradually to water or a compatible formulation system with adequate mixing
- Allow sufficient time for complete dissolution or incorporation
- Use clean equipment to reduce contamination during formulation
- Consider molecular weight and hydroxyl functionality when using this material for further reaction or modification
- Run small-scale compatibility trials before production or process transfer
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature
- Exercise normal care during handling
- Use good ventilation and standard laboratory or industrial safety practices
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses when appropriate
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet before handling
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FAQ
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1. What is Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether [MW 550] used for?
Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether [MW 550] is used in polymer modification, hydrophilic coating research, dispersions, specialty formulations, and PEG-containing materials development.
2. What is the molecular weight of this mPEG product?
The molecular weight is 550.
3. Is Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether [MW 550] water-soluble?
Yes. This mPEG grade is soluble in water.
4. What is the viscosity of this mPEG product?
The viscosity is 7.5 cps at 100°C.
5. How should Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether [MW 550] be stored?
Store the product at room temperature. Review the Safety Data Sheet for complete storage, handling, and personal protective equipment guidance.
Safety & Documentation
Poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether [MW 550] should be handled using normal precautions and standard laboratory or industrial safety practices. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and product specification for complete handling, storage, hazard, and technical information.
