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

Product Description

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) is a high-molecular-weight, water-soluble polymer known for its lubricity and ability to form viscoelastic aqueous solutions. At an approximate molecular weight of ~1,000,000, PEO exhibits strong chain entanglement, which can drive significant thickening and solution elasticity in water.

PEO is a nonionic polyether (closely related to polyethylene glycol), and is commonly selected for research and industrial workflows that require controlled rheology, aqueous compatibility, and film-forming behavior.

Key Features

• Polymer type: Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), high molecular weight
• Approx. molecular weight: ~1,000,000
• Ionic character: Nonionic
• Solubility: Water-soluble (forms viscous/viscoelastic solutions at suitable concentrations)
• Performance notes: Strong chain entanglement can provide thickening, lubrication, and solution elasticity

Applications

Common research and formulation use-cases for high-MW PEO include:

• Biomedical & Research Applications: Used in drug delivery research, hydrogel/scaffold formulation work, and surface-modifying coatings where aqueous compatibility and lubrication are important.
• Personal Care & Cosmetics: Functions as a film-former, stabilizer, and rheology modifier in formulations such as lotions, creams, shampoos, and gels.
• Industrial & Lubrication: Helps reduce friction and modify flow behavior in coatings, inks, and other aqueous systems that benefit from viscoelasticity.
• Water Treatment & Processing: Often used as a rheology modifier and processing aid; in some systems it may support flocculation/settling performance depending on formulation and conditions.

Product Specifications

FAQs

Common questions about Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), MW ~1,000,000.

• What is the difference between PEG and PEO?

  PEG and PEO refer to the same repeating ethylene oxide chemistry. In many contexts, “PEG” is used more often for lower molecular weights, while “PEO” is commonly used for higher molecular weight grades. Usage can vary by industry and application.

• Why does high molecular weight PEO make solutions so viscous?

  As molecular weight increases, polymer chains entangle more readily in water. This entanglement increases solution elasticity and viscosity, especially as concentration rises.

• Is PEO water soluble?

  Yes. PEO is water soluble. Dissolution behavior and final viscosity depend on concentration, molecular weight, mixing conditions, and temperature.

• What is PEO commonly used for?

  High-MW PEO is widely used as a rheology modifier, film-former, and lubricious polymer in research and formulation work across biomedical materials, personal care, and industrial systems.

• Any handling tips for preparing aqueous solutions?

  Add polymer slowly to water with steady stirring to reduce clumping (“fish-eyes”). Allow sufficient time for full hydration/dissolution. Avoid overly aggressive shear if maintaining maximum viscosity is important.