Poly(ethylene oxide) (MW ~1,000,000)

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is a high-molecular-weight, water-soluble polymer known for its exceptional lubricity, biocompatibility, and ability to form viscoelastic solutions. With a molecular weight of approximately 1,000,000, PEO exhibits strong chain entanglement, leading to excellent thickening and gel-forming capabilities. It is widely used in biomedical, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications due to its non-ionic nature and ability to modulate solution rheology.

Applications:

Biomedical Applications: Used in drug delivery systems, tissue engineering scaffolds, and biocompatible coatings for medical devices.
Personal Care & Cosmetics: Functions as a film-former, stabilizer, and thickener in formulations such as lotions, creams, and shampoos.
Industrial & Lubrication: Enhances lubrication in mechanical systems, printing inks, and coatings where reduced friction is required.
Water Treatment: Employed as a flocculant and stabilizer in filtration and wastewater treatment processes.