Poly(ethylene glycol) [MW 3,400], pharmaceutical grade** (see note below), also known as PEG, is a water-soluble, nonionic polymer used in coatings, formulation research, polymer processing, humectant systems, and specialty laboratory workflows. PEG materials are hydroxyl-terminated polyether polymers available as liquids or solids depending on molecular weight.
Synonyms / related names: PEG; poly(ethylene glycol); polyethylene glycol; poly(ethylene oxide); PEO.
With a molecular weight of approximately 3,400, this PEG grade is useful in workflows where water solubility, nonionic polymer behavior, slip, humectancy, and compatibility with aqueous or solvent-based systems are important. Poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(ethylene oxide) refer to chemically similar ethylene oxide-based polymers, with PEG commonly used for lower molecular weight grades and PEO often used for higher molecular weight materials.
**This product is identified as pharmaceutical grade because it was originally manufactured for pharmaceutical and consumer applications. Due to regulatory limitations, it is supplied by Polysciences for research use only. Contact our team with any questions.
Key Properties
- Water-soluble, nonionic polyether polymer
- CAS Number: 25322-68-3
- Product Number: 06102
- Synonym: PEG
- Molecular Weight: ~3,400
- Pharmaceutical grade material supplied for research use only
- Hydroxyl-terminated polymer chains
- Useful for slip, humectancy, and formulation compatibility
- See poly(ethylene oxide) for higher molecular weight grades
Applications
Coatings & Surface Properties
Poly(ethylene glycol) may be used in coating and surface-treatment formulation work where slip, humectant behavior, water compatibility, and nonionic polymer properties are important.
Formulation Research
PEG [MW 3,400] is useful in research and development workflows involving aqueous formulations, polymer compatibility, processing aids, carriers, and specialty formulation systems.
Polymer Processing & Materials Research
This PEG grade may be evaluated in polymer blending, phase behavior, materials development, and laboratory processing workflows where a water-soluble polyether component is required.
Humectant & Binder Systems
PEG materials may be used in humectant, binder, and additive studies where hydroxyl-terminated, nonionic polymers are selected for water interaction and formulation performance.
Solubility & Compatibility Considerations
- Water-soluble, nonionic polymer
- Hydroxyl-terminated at both ends
- PEG and PEO are chemically similar ethylene oxide-based polymer families
- At all except the lowest molecular weights, PEG materials may have broad molecular weight distributions
- Compatibility depends on solvent system, temperature, concentration, additives, and formulation conditions
- Evaluate compatibility with resins, surfactants, salts, binders, actives, and other formulation components before scale-up
Final performance should be confirmed under the user’s specific application conditions, including concentration, solvent system, temperature, processing method, additive package, and intended research 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 distribution when designing experiments or comparing PEG grades
- Run small-scale compatibility trials before production or process transfer
Handling & Storage
- Store according to the Safety Data Sheet and product documentation
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use
- Use good ventilation and standard laboratory safety practices
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses when appropriate
- Use for research purposes only
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet before handling
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FAQ
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1. What is Poly(ethylene glycol) [MW 3,400], pharmaceutical grade used for?
Poly(ethylene glycol) [MW 3,400] is used in coatings, formulation research, polymer processing, humectant systems, binder studies, and specialty laboratory workflows.
2. What is the molecular weight of this PEG product?
The molecular weight is approximately 3,400.
3. Is Poly(ethylene glycol) [MW 3,400] water-soluble?
Yes. PEG materials in this molecular weight range are water-soluble, nonionic polyether polymers.
4. Are PEG and PEO the same polymer family?
Yes. Poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(ethylene oxide) refer to chemically similar ethylene oxide-based polymers. PEG is commonly used for lower molecular weight materials, while PEO is often used for higher molecular weight grades.
5. Why is this product described as pharmaceutical grade?
This material was originally manufactured for pharmaceutical and consumer applications. Due to regulatory limitations, this product is supplied by Polysciences for research use only.
Safety & Documentation
Poly(ethylene glycol) [MW 3,400], pharmaceutical grade should be handled using standard laboratory safety practices. This product is supplied for research use only and is not intended for regulated pharmaceutical or consumer use through Polysciences. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and product documentation for complete handling, storage, hazard, and technical information.
