Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 4,000,000], also known as PEO, is a high molecular weight, water-soluble polymer used in viscosity modification, hydrogel formation, film-forming systems, lubricity enhancement, and specialty aqueous formulation work.
Synonyms / related names: PEO; polyethylene oxide; polyoxyethylene; polyethylene glycol polymer.
This product has a listed molecular weight of approximately 4,000,000 and is supplied as a white powder for laboratory reagent use and manufacture of substances. Its high molecular weight allows it to build viscosity in aqueous systems at relatively low concentrations, making it useful in thickening, binding, suspension, coating, and hydrogel-related research.
Researchers, formulators, and industrial users may use poly(ethylene oxide) in coatings, lubricants, flocculant and dispersant systems, hydrogel-based materials, additive manufacturing research, and other applications where water solubility and rheology control are important.
Key Properties
- High molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide)
- CAS Number: 25322-68-3
- Product Number: 04030
- Synonym: PEO
- Linear Formula: (-CH2CH2O-)n
- Molecular Weight: ~4,000,000
- Appearance: White powder
- Viscosity, 0.5% w/w aqueous solution at 25°C: 150-170 cPs
- Ash Content: 0.0-1.5%
- Soluble in water, acetone, alcohol, chloroform, toluene, and dichloromethane
- Recommended for laboratory reagent use and manufacture of substances
Applications
Rheology & Viscosity Modification
Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 4,000,000] is useful in aqueous formulation research where viscosity build, flow behavior, and thickening performance are important.
Hydrogels & Aqueous Gel Systems
High molecular weight PEO may be used in hydrogel-related research and water-based polymer systems where chain entanglement, hydration behavior, and gel structure are evaluated.
Coatings & Lubricants
PEO may be used in coating and lubricant formulation work where water solubility, lubricity, and film-forming behavior are relevant performance considerations.
Flocculants, Dispersants & Suspension Systems
This polymer may be evaluated in dispersion, suspension stabilization, and flocculation workflows where high molecular weight water-soluble polymers are used to modify particle interactions and process behavior.
Additive Manufacturing Research
PEO may be used in hydrogel-based printing and additive manufacturing research where aqueous rheology, viscosity, and polymer compatibility must be controlled.
Solubility & Compatibility Considerations
- Soluble in water and selected organic solvents
- Listed as soluble in acetone, alcohol, chloroform, toluene, and dichloromethane
- High molecular weight PEO can significantly increase viscosity even at low concentrations
- Hydration and final viscosity depend on concentration, mixing method, temperature, shear, and rest time
- Compatibility should be evaluated with salts, additives, pigments, fillers, solvents, and other formulation components before scale-up
Final performance should be confirmed under the user’s specific formulation and processing conditions, including polymer concentration, solvent system, mixing order, temperature, and intended end use.
Preparation Tips
- Add gradually to the liquid phase with adequate mixing to reduce clumping
- Allow sufficient time for full hydration and viscosity development
- Avoid excessive dust generation during powder transfer
- Use clean equipment to reduce contamination during solution preparation
- Run small-scale compatibility and viscosity trials before production or process transfer
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature
- Store in a well-ventilated place and keep cool
- Exercise normal care during handling
- Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
- Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas, mist, vapors, or spray
- Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet before handling
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FAQ
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1. What is Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 4,000,000] used for?
Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 4,000,000] is used in viscosity modification, hydrogel research, coatings, lubricants, flocculants, dispersants, suspension systems, and aqueous formulation development.
2. What is the molecular weight of this PEO product?
The listed molecular weight is approximately 4,000,000.
3. What is the viscosity specification?
The product specification lists viscosity at 150-170 cPs for a 0.5% w/w aqueous solution at 25°C.
4. Is Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 4,000,000] water-soluble?
Yes. The product page lists poly(ethylene oxide) as soluble in water, as well as acetone, alcohol, chloroform, toluene, and dichloromethane.
5. How should Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 4,000,000] be stored?
Store the product at room temperature in a well-ventilated place and keep cool. Review the Safety Data Sheet for complete storage, handling, and personal protective equipment guidance.
Safety & Documentation
Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 4,000,000] should be handled with good ventilation, protective gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The current SDS classifies the product as harmful if inhaled and as causing serious eye irritation. Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas, mist, vapors, or spray. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and product specification for complete handling, storage, hazard, and technical information.
