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What is Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)?

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a polyether compound and refers to a polymer of ethylene oxide. Depending on the molecular weight of the substance, polyethylene glycol can be known as either polyglycol,  polyoxyethylene (POE) or polyethylene oxide (PEO).

While this substance is insoluble in solvents like diethyl ether or hexane, it is soluble in solvents like benzene, methanol and water.

Key properties include:

  • Chemical name: Polyethylene Glycol
  • Synonyms: PEG, Polyoxyethylene (POE), Polyglycol, Polyethylene Oxide (PEO)
  • Chemical formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)_nOH
  • CAS number: 25322-68-3
  • Appearance: Colourless, viscous liquid or waxy solid (depending on molecular weight)
  • Odour: Odourless
  • Concentration / Grade: Available as PEG 300, PEG 400, PEG 4000 (General Use, Laboratory, and Industrial Grades)
  • Density: ~1.12 g/cm³ (PEG 400 at 20°C)
  • Melting point: Ranges from –10°C (low MW) to 60°C (high MW)

What is PEG Used For?

PEG has uses in a variety of industries. It is used in the medical field, in industrial applications, in the commercial industry and in laboratory applications. Some examples of its applications include:

  • Pharmaceutical & Medical Applications:
    • Used as a base ingredient in laxative formulations and medicinal ointments
    • Serves as a solvent, binder, or stabiliser in drug delivery systems
    • Assists in antibody and antigen detection in clinical diagnostics
  • Cosmetic & Personal Care:
    • Commonly used as a dispersant and humectant in toothpaste, creams, and shampoos
    • Improves spreadability and texture in skincare formulations
  • Industrial & Laboratory Applications:
    • Functions as a binder in the manufacture of ceramics
    • Used as a component in inkjet printer cartridges for flow control and drying 
    • Can act as a reactant in chemical solutions, synthesis or experimental membranes applying osmotic pressure
  • Specialised Uses:
    • When bound with nitrate esters, PEG forms energetic propellants used in rocketry
    • Employed in some coating and lubricant systems due to its water retention properties

Safe Handling and Storage

The following guidance is based on general chemical safety best practices for Polyethylene Glycol compounds:

  • Store in tightly closed containers at ambient temperature (10–30°C)
  • Keep away from strong oxidising agents and incompatible materials
  • Prevent contamination with water or reactive chemicals
  • Avoid freezing for liquid PEG grades.
  • Use clean, dry HDPE or stainless-steel containers for bulk storage

For detailed safety data, consult the product’s MSDS before use. 

Why Choose ReAgent?

At ReAgent, we’ve been supplying high-quality chemical products for over 50 years, and our expertise extends to a wide range of polyethylene glycol (PEG) grades and molecular weights. As an ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 accredited manufacturer, we’re committed to delivering consistent quality and adhering to rigorous environmental and quality management standards.

Full traceability and detailed quality documentation are supplied with every order, giving you complete confidence in the reliability and compliance of our products.

Our nationwide ADR-compliant delivery service ensures your order arrives safely and on time, wherever you are in the UK. We also offer competitive bulk pricing, with additional discounts available when ordering online. When you choose ReAgent, you’re choosing a flexible, dependable partner dedicated to quality, service, and value.

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Polyethylene Glycol 400 (PEG 400) FAQs

  • What grades of polyethylene glycol (PEG) do you sell?

    We supply PEG in various molecular weights including PEG 300, PEG 400, and PEG 4000, available in both pharmaceutical and technical grades to suit different uses.

  • Can I buy polyethylene glycol in bulk quantities?

    Yes, we accommodate bulk purchases of polyethylene glycol. Please call us on 0800 9555 798 to discuss your volume requirements and learn about bulk pricing options and discounts.

  • How do I store and handle polyethylene glycol safely?

    For safe storage and handling of polyethylene glycol, please refer to the MSDS, which outlines all necessary precautions and guidelines.

  • Are there any certifications or quality tests that your PEG products undergo?

    Our PEG products undergo rigorous quality testing to ensure they meet high standards. We adhere to relevant industry certifications to guarantee product integrity and compliance. We also offer a 100% quality guarantee.

  • Is it possible to request a sample of polyethylene glycol for trial purposes?

    Yes, we're happy to provide small samples for trial purposes to ensure our PEG meets your specific requirements. Please contact us to request a sample.

  • What is the environmental impact of using polyethylene glycol?

    Polyethylene glycol is considered to have a low environmental impact under normal use conditions due to its biodegradability. However, as with any chemical, it's important to use it responsibly and in accordance with regulatory guidelines to minimise environmental effects.

Related resources

What is Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)?

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a polyether compound and refers to a polymer of ethylene oxide. Depending on the molecular weight of the substance, polyethylene glycol can be known as either polyglycol,  polyoxyethylene (POE) or polyethylene oxide (PEO).

While this substance is insoluble in solvents like diethyl ether or hexane, it is soluble in solvents like benzene, methanol and water.

Key properties include:

  • Chemical name: Polyethylene Glycol
  • Synonyms: PEG, Polyoxyethylene (POE), Polyglycol, Polyethylene Oxide (PEO)
  • Chemical formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)_nOH
  • CAS number: 25322-68-3
  • Appearance: Colourless, viscous liquid or waxy solid (depending on molecular weight)
  • Odour: Odourless
  • Concentration / Grade: Available as PEG 300, PEG 400, PEG 4000 (General Use, Laboratory, and Industrial Grades)
  • Density: ~1.12 g/cm³ (PEG 400 at 20°C)
  • Melting point: Ranges from –10°C (low MW) to 60°C (high MW)

What is PEG Used For?

PEG has uses in a variety of industries. It is used in the medical field, in industrial applications, in the commercial industry and in laboratory applications. Some examples of its applications include:

  • Pharmaceutical & Medical Applications:
    • Used as a base ingredient in laxative formulations and medicinal ointments
    • Serves as a solvent, binder, or stabiliser in drug delivery systems
    • Assists in antibody and antigen detection in clinical diagnostics
  • Cosmetic & Personal Care:
    • Commonly used as a dispersant and humectant in toothpaste, creams, and shampoos
    • Improves spreadability and texture in skincare formulations
  • Industrial & Laboratory Applications:
    • Functions as a binder in the manufacture of ceramics
    • Used as a component in inkjet printer cartridges for flow control and drying 
    • Can act as a reactant in chemical solutions, synthesis or experimental membranes applying osmotic pressure
  • Specialised Uses:
    • When bound with nitrate esters, PEG forms energetic propellants used in rocketry
    • Employed in some coating and lubricant systems due to its water retention properties

Safe Handling and Storage

The following guidance is based on general chemical safety best practices for Polyethylene Glycol compounds:

  • Store in tightly closed containers at ambient temperature (10–30°C)
  • Keep away from strong oxidising agents and incompatible materials
  • Prevent contamination with water or reactive chemicals
  • Avoid freezing for liquid PEG grades.
  • Use clean, dry HDPE or stainless-steel containers for bulk storage

For detailed safety data, consult the product’s MSDS before use. 

Why Choose ReAgent?

At ReAgent, we’ve been supplying high-quality chemical products for over 50 years, and our expertise extends to a wide range of polyethylene glycol (PEG) grades and molecular weights. As an ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 accredited manufacturer, we’re committed to delivering consistent quality and adhering to rigorous environmental and quality management standards.

Full traceability and detailed quality documentation are supplied with every order, giving you complete confidence in the reliability and compliance of our products.

Our nationwide ADR-compliant delivery service ensures your order arrives safely and on time, wherever you are in the UK. We also offer competitive bulk pricing, with additional discounts available when ordering online. When you choose ReAgent, you’re choosing a flexible, dependable partner dedicated to quality, service, and value.

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