⟡ PEGDA Crosslinkers / Hydrogel Materials / UV-Curable Resins
Poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) is a bifunctional acrylate macromer widely used in hydrogel synthesis, photopolymerization, UV-curable coatings, and crosslinked polymer systems. Its polyethylene glycol backbone provides hydrophilicity, flexibility, and biocompatibility, while terminal acrylate groups enable rapid free-radical polymerization and tunable network formation.
PEGDA materials are commonly selected for hydrogel development, biomaterials research, tissue engineering, 3D printing, and advanced coating applications where controlled swelling behavior, adjustable mechanical properties, and water compatibility are required.
Key Features & Benefits
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Bifunctional acrylate chemistry: supports efficient UV and free-radical crosslinking
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Hydrophilic PEG backbone: enables water compatibility and hydrogel formation
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Tunable polymer properties: allows control over stiffness, swelling, and network density
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Widely used crosslinker: suitable for biomaterials, coatings, and photopolymer systems
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Compatible with UV curing: ideal for photocurable resins and rapid polymerization workflows
Product Details
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Product name: Poly(ethylene glycol) (n) diacrylate
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Abbreviation: PEGDA
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CAS number: 26570-48-9
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PEG block molecular weight: Approx. 200 Da
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Estimated repeat units: n ≈ 4
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Chemistry: Polyethylene glycol terminated with acrylate functional groups
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Applications: Hydrogels, UV-curable coatings, adhesives, biomaterials, and polymer networks
Typical Applications
Hydrogels & biomaterials
PEGDA forms highly hydrated, biocompatible hydrogel matrices used in tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, wound healing research, and cell culture scaffolds.
3D printing & photopolymerization
Commonly incorporated into UV-curable resin systems, photocurable bioinks, and precision additive manufacturing applications.
Coatings & adhesives
Used to improve adhesion, flexibility, and water resistance in crosslinked coatings and polymer formulations.
Optical & electronic materials
Supports formation of transparent crosslinked films and polymer layers used in specialty coatings and advanced materials research.
Functional Properties
The polyethylene glycol backbone contributes hydrophilicity, flexibility, and low protein adsorption characteristics, while the terminal acrylate groups allow rapid crosslinking through UV or radical initiation methods.
PEGDA systems are frequently used to tailor hydrogel mechanics, permeability, swelling behavior, and polymer network density across biomedical and industrial applications.
Why Use PEGDA?
PEGDA is widely used as a versatile hydrogel crosslinker and UV-reactive polymer component because it combines rapid polymerization capability with tunable material performance. Researchers and formulators frequently select PEGDA for applications requiring soft hydrogels, controlled diffusion, water compatibility, and adjustable mechanical properties.
Its compatibility with photopolymerization workflows and broad use across biomaterials science, coatings, adhesives, and polymer engineering make PEGDA an essential material for advanced research and manufacturing applications.
Handling & Storage
- Store in a cool, dry environment away from heat and direct light.
- Keep containers tightly sealed to minimize premature polymerization.
- Avoid prolonged UV exposure and contamination with radical initiators.
- Use appropriate laboratory protective equipment during handling.
- Consult the SDS for complete safety and handling information.
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FAQ
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What is PEGDA used for?
PEGDA is commonly used in hydrogels, biomaterials, UV-curable resins, coatings, adhesives, tissue engineering, and photopolymer systems.
What does PEGDA stand for?
PEGDA stands for poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, a PEG-based macromer containing terminal acrylate groups.
How does PEGDA polymerize?
PEGDA polymerizes through free-radical crosslinking, commonly initiated using UV light and photoinitiators.
Why is PEGDA used in hydrogels?
PEGDA provides hydrophilicity, tunable swelling behavior, and controllable mechanical properties, making it ideal for hydrogel formation.
Where can I buy PEGDA crosslinkers?
Polysciences supplies PEGDA materials for biomaterials research, hydrogel synthesis, UV-curable systems, and advanced polymer applications.
