Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000], also known as PEO, is a high molecular weight, water-soluble polymer used in viscosity modification, film-forming systems, lubricity enhancement, coatings, dispersions, and specialty aqueous formulation work.
Synonyms / related names: PEO; poly(ethylene oxide); polyethylene oxide; polyoxyethylene; polyethylene glycol polymer.
With a molecular weight of approximately 600,000, this PEO grade is useful in applications where water solubility, rheology control, flow modification, and polymer compatibility are important. Its higher molecular weight can support viscosity build, thickening behavior, and film formation in aqueous and solvent-compatible systems.
Researchers, formulators, and industrial users may use poly(ethylene oxide) in coatings, lubricants, flocculant and dispersant systems, aqueous thickening systems, hydrogel-related materials research, and additive manufacturing formulation studies.
Key Properties
- High molecular weight water-soluble poly(ethylene oxide)
- CAS Number: 25322-68-3
- Product Number: 06106
- Synonym: PEO
- Linear Formula: (-CH2CH2O-)n
- Molecular Weight: ~600,000
- Soluble in water, acetone, alcohol, chloroform, toluene, and dichloromethane
- Useful for viscosity modification, flow control, and film-forming systems
- Research-use polymer for aqueous formulation and materials development
Applications
Rheology & Viscosity Modification
Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] may be used in aqueous formulation research where viscosity control, flow behavior, and thickening performance are important.
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 water-soluble polymers are used to modify particle interactions and process behavior.
Hydrogels & Aqueous Polymer Systems
PEO may be used in hydrogel-related research and water-based polymer systems where hydration behavior, polymer compatibility, and matrix formation are evaluated.
Additive Manufacturing Research
Poly(ethylene oxide) 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
- Soluble in acetone, alcohol, chloroform, toluene, and dichloromethane
- Higher molecular weight PEO can significantly influence viscosity and flow behavior
- 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
- Formulation performance depends on molecular weight, polymer concentration, processing conditions, and intended end use
Final performance should be confirmed under the user’s specific formulation and processing conditions, including polymer concentration, solvent system, mixing order, temperature, and application requirements.
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
- Exercise normal care during handling
- Keep container tightly closed when not in use
- Use good ventilation and standard laboratory or industrial safety practices
- Avoid unnecessary dust generation during powder handling
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses when appropriate
- Refer to the Safety Data Sheet before handling
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FAQ
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1. What is Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] used for?
Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] is used in viscosity modification, coatings, lubricants, dispersions, suspension systems, hydrogel-related materials research, and aqueous formulation development.
2. What is the molecular weight of this PEO product?
The molecular weight is approximately 600,000.
3. Is Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] water-soluble?
Yes. Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] is soluble in water and is also soluble in acetone, alcohol, chloroform, toluene, and dichloromethane.
4. What makes this PEO grade useful for rheology modification?
The high molecular weight supports viscosity build, flow modification, and thickening behavior in compatible aqueous and solvent-based systems.
5. How should Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] be stored?
Store Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] at room temperature. Review the Safety Data Sheet for complete storage, handling, and personal protective equipment guidance.
Safety & Documentation
Poly(ethylene oxide) [MW 600,000] should be handled using normal precautions and standard laboratory or industrial safety practices. This product is classified as an irritant. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and product specification for complete handling, storage, hazard, and technical information.