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Poly(ethylene glycol) is a polymer which is hydrolyzed by ethylene oxide.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has no toxicity and irritation.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is widely used in various pharmaceutical preparations.
CAS Number: 25322-68-3
Molecular Formula: (C2H4O)nH2O
EINECS Number: 500-038-2
Synonyms: ETHYLENE GLYCOL, Ethane-1,2-diol, 1,2-ethanediol, 107-21-1, glycol, monoethylene glycol, 1,2-Dihydroxyethane, 2-hydroxyethanol, Glycol alcohol, Ethylene alcohol, Macrogol, Fridex, Tescol, Ethylene dihydrate, Norkool, Macrogol 400 BPC, Dowtherm SR 1, Zerex, Ucar 17, Lutrol-9, ethanediol, ethyleneglycol, Aethylenglykol, Glycol, ethylene-, 1,2-Ethandiol, 1,2-ethylene glycol, Caswell No. 441, 146AR, MFCD00002885, NSC 93876, Athylenglykol, CCRIS 3744, ethylen glycol, DTXSID8020597, HSDB 5012, M.e.g., NCI-C00920, UNII-FC72KVT52F, EINECS 203-473-3, FC72KVT52F, Lutrol 9, EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 042203, NANOSILVER+EG, PEG, CHEBI:30742, AI3-03050, HOCH2CH2OH, NSC-93876, LOWENOL T-163A, DTXCID40597, EC 203-473-3, 1,2-Ethylene Glycol (Ethylene Glycol), Kollisolv PEG 300, ETHYLENE GLYCOL (II), ETHYLENE GLYCOL [II], Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~200, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~400, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~600, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~1000, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~2000, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~4000, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~6000, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~9000, ETHYLENE GLYCOL (MART.), ETHYLENE GLYCOL [MART.], Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~20000, Ethylenglycol, Aethylenglykol [German], ethylene-glycol, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~30,000, Poly(ethylene Glycol) ~40,000, 2 Hydroxyethanol, Glycol, Ethylene, PEG 1000, CAS-107-21-1, GLYCEROL IMPURITY B (EP IMPURITY), GLYCEROL IMPURITY B [EP IMPURITY], Macrogol 400, Glycol, Monoethylene, Dowtherm 4000, 1,2-dihydroxy ethane, WLN: Q2Q, ethyleneglycole, ehtylene glycol, etylene glycol, 2-ethanediol, Ilexan E, MEG 100, Solbanon (TN), 1,2-ethane diol, 1,2-ethane-diol, ethane-1.2-diol, GXT, Hydroxyethyl Salicylate Imp. B (EP), Ethylene Glycol, Propan-1,2-diol, Glycerol Impurity B, Hydroxyethyl Salicylate Impurity B, 1,2-ethyleneglycol, ethan-1,2-diol, mono-ethylene glycol, Ethane-1,2-diol (Ethylene Glycol), Mono Ethylene Glycol, 1,2-ethylene-glycol, Lutrol E (TN), Ethylene glycol,98%, DuPont Zonyl FSO Fluorinated Surfactants, Ethylene glycol, aerosol, Macrogol 400 (TN), Ethylene glycol 1000 microg/mL in Methanol, Macrogol 1500 (TN), Macrogol 4000 (TN), Macrogol ointment (JP17), HO-CH2-CH2-OH, HO(CH2)2OH, NCIOpen2_001979, NCIOpen2_002019, NCIOpen2_002100, Macrogol 400 (JP17), ETHYLENE GLYCOL [MI], MLS002454404, BIDD:ER0283, Macrogol 1500 (JP17), Macrogol 4000 (JP17), ETHYLENE GLYCOL [HSDB], CHEMBL457299, Ethylene glycol, AR, >=99%, Ethylene glycol, LR, >=99%, Macrogol 20000 (JP17), CHEBI:46793, ETHYLENE GLYCOL [USP-RS], ETHYLENE GLYCOL [WHO-DD], PEG1000, HMS2267F07, Ethylene glycol, p.a., 99.5%, Poly(ethylene Glycol) (~2000), 1,2-ETHANEDIOL (GLYCOL), Ethylene Glycol Blank Standard in Multi-grade Diesel Engine Oil, HY-Y0338, NSC32853, NSC32854, NSC57859, NSC93876, PEG 3600, PEG-1000, STR01171, Ethylene glycol, analytical standard, Tox21_202038, Tox21_300637, Ethylene glycol, anhydrous, 99.8%, NSC-32853, NSC-32854, NSC-57859, NSC152324, NSC152325, NSC155081, STL264188, 100 microg/g Ethylene Glycol Standard in Multi-grade Diesel Engine Oil, 1000 microg/g Ethylene Glycol Standard in Multi-grade Diesel Engine Oil, 2000 microg/g Ethylene Glycol Standard in Multi-grade Diesel Engine Oil, 500 microg/g Ethylene Glycol Standard in Multi-grade Diesel Engine Oil, AKOS000119039, NSC-152324, NSC-152325, NSC-155081, USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 042203, NCGC00091510-01, NCGC00091510-02, NCGC00091510-03, NCGC00254292-01, NCGC00259587-01, BP-13454, BP-31056, SMR001262244, Ethylene glycol, ReagentPlus(R), >=99%, 1ST000065, DuPont Zonyl FSE Fluorinated Surfactants, Residual Solvent Class 2 - Ethylene Glycol, E0105, Ethylene glycol, puriss., >=99.5% (GC), NS00003552, 1,2-Ethane-1,1,2,2-d4-diol-d2(9ci), EN300-19312, Ethylene glycol, BioUltra, >=99.5% (GC), Ethylene glycol, SAJ first grade, >=99.0%, C01380, D03370, D06418, D06419, D06420, D06421, D06423, Ethylene glycol, JIS special grade, >=99.5%, Ethylene glycol, anhydrous, ZerO2(TM), 99.8%, Ethylene glycol, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 98%, A851234, Ethylene glycol, spectrophotometric grade, >=99%, Q194207, InChI=1/C2H6O2/c3-1-2-4/h3-4H,1-2H, J-001731, F0001-0142, Poly(ethylene glycol)Average Mn 600, Moist waxy solid, 004143F9-240E-472F-9D5A-B1B13BBA2A18, Poly(ethylene glycol) Average Mv ~ 3350, Granular powder, Poly(ethylene glycol)Average MV ~ 8,000, Crystalline powder, Ethylene glycol, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard, 600 microg/g Ethylene Glycol QC Check Standard in Multi-grade Diesel Engine Oil, Ethylene glycol, Pharmaceutical Secondary Standard; Certified Reference Material, ethylene glycol;1,2-ethanediol;ethane-1,2-diol;glycolethylene glycol;ethanediol;ethylene glycol 1,2-ethanediol ethane-1,2-diol glycolethylene glycol ethanediol, Residual Solvent Class 2 - Ethylene Glycol, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard 1,2-ethanediol,homopolymer;2-ethanediyl),.alpha.-hydro-.omega.-hydroxy-Poly(oxy-1;Alcox E 160;Alcox E 30;alcoxe30;Poly(ethylene oxide),approx. M.W. 600,000;Poly(ethylene oxide),approx. M.W. 200,000;Poly(ethylene oxide),approx. M.W.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s are a family of linear polymers formed by a base-catalyzed condensation reaction with repeating ethylene oxide units being added to ethylene.
The molecular formula is (C2H4O)multH2O where mult denotes the average number of oxyethylene groups.
The molecular weight can range from 200 to several million corresponding to the number of oxyethylene groups.
The toxicity of low molecular weight polyethylene glycol is relatively large.
In general, the toxicity of diols is very low.
Topical application of Poly(ethylene glycol), especially mucosal drug, can cause irritant pain.
In topical lotion, this product can increase the flexibility of the skin, and has a similar moisturizing effect with glycerin.
Poly(ethylene glycol) can occur in large doses of oral administration.
In injection, the maximum Poly(ethylene glycol) concentration is about 30% (V/V). Hemolysis could occur when the concentration is more than 40% (V/V).
The higher-molecular-weight materials (100 000 to 5 000 000) are also referred to as polyethylene oxides.
The average molecular weight of any specific Poly(ethylene glycol) product falls within quite narrow limits (°5%).
The number of ethylene oxide units or their approximate molecular weight (e.g., PEG-4 or PEG-200) commonly designates the nomenclature of specific polyethylene glycols.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s with amolecular weight less than 600 are liquid, whereas those of molecular weight 1000 and above are solid.
These materials are nonvolatile, water-soluble, tasteless, and odorless.
They are miscible with water, alcohols, esters, ketones, aromatic solvents, and chlorinated hydrocarbons, but immiscible with alkanes, paraffins, waxes, and ethers.
The USP32–NF27 describes Poly(ethylene glycol) as being an addition polymer of ethylene oxide and water.
Poly(ethylene glycol) grades 200–600 are liquids; grades 1000 and above are solids at ambient temperatures.
Liquid grades (PEG 200–600) occur as clear, colorless or slightly yellow-colored, viscous liquids.
They have a slight but characteristic odor and a bitter, slightly burning taste.
Poly(ethylene glycol) can occur as a solid at ambient temperatures.
Solid grades Poly(ethylene glycol) are white or off-white in color, and range in consistency from pastes to waxy flakes.
They have a faint, sweet odor. Grades of PEG 6000 and above are available as freeflowing milled powders.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a polyether compound derived from petroleum with many applications, from industrial manufacturing to medicine.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is also known as polyethylene oxide (PEO) or polyoxyethylene (POE), depending on its molecular weight.
The structure of Poly(ethylene glycol) is commonly expressed as H−(O−CH2−CH2)n−OH.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a synthetic polymer composed of repeating ethylene glycol (–CH₂CH₂O–) units.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a versatile compound available in various molecular weights, which significantly influence its physical properties, solubility, and applications.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is highly soluble in water and many organic solvents, making it widely used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, biotechnology, and materials science.
In the pharmaceutical industry, Poly(ethylene glycol) is commonly used as a solvent, binder, and drug carrier in medications.
Poly(ethylene glycol) plays a crucial role in drug formulations by improving solubility and bioavailability.
Poly(ethylene glycol), a process where PEG is attached to proteins or drugs, helps enhance stability, prolong circulation time, and reduce immunogenicity in therapeutic applications.
In cosmetics and personal care products, Poly(ethylene glycol) functions as an emulsifier, humectant, and moisturizer, contributing to the texture and consistency of creams, lotions, and shampoos.
Due to its ability to attract and retain moisture, it is commonly included in skincare formulations to enhance hydration.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is also widely utilized in laboratory and industrial settings.
Poly(ethylene glycol) serves as a lubricant, antifreeze component, and surfactant in various formulations.
Additionally, Poly(ethylene glycol) is used in biochemistry for protein precipitation, DNA purification, and cell fusion applications.
Despite its widespread use, Poly(ethylene glycol) is generally considered non-toxic and biocompatible.
However, its safety depends on molecular weight, concentration, and the presence of impurities.
Higher molecular weight PEGs are less likely to be absorbed by the body, while lower molecular weight variants can be excreted through urine.
In some cases, Poly(ethylene glycol) may cause mild skin irritation or hypersensitivity reactions in sensitive individuals.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a highly adaptable and essential polymer with broad applications in medicine, cosmetics, industry, and scientific research, making it an indispensable compound in modern technology and healthcare.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a synthetic polymer that consists of repeated units of ethylene oxide, a small molecule that is typically represented as -CH₂CH₂O-.
The polymerization of ethylene oxide forms the backbone of Poly(ethylene glycol), resulting in a compound that can vary greatly in molecular weight, from a few hundred to several million Daltons.
This variation in molecular weight allows Poly(ethylene glycol) to exhibit a wide range of physical properties, such as viscosity, solubility, and melting point, making it adaptable for different applications.
The primary appeal of Poly(ethylene glycol) in both industrial and biomedical fields is its ability to dissolve in both water and a variety of organic solvents.
This solubility, combined with its non-toxic and biocompatible nature, enables PEG to be incorporated into a wide array of formulations.
In addition to its uses as a solvent and emulsifier, Poly(ethylene glycol) is often employed as a thickener, lubricant, and surfactant.
In medicine, Poly(ethylene glycol) is frequently used in drug delivery systems, particularly in the modification of therapeutic proteins and monoclonal antibodies.
Poly(ethylene glycol), the process of covalently attaching PEG molecules to drug molecules, can greatly improve the pharmacokinetics of a drug by increasing its half-life in the bloodstream and reducing its immune recognition.
This modification is crucial for improving the efficacy and reducing the side effects of biopharmaceuticals, particularly in cancer therapies and enzyme replacement treatments.
Moreover, Poly(ethylene glycol) is a key ingredient in formulations for laxatives, where it serves to draw water into the colon and promote bowel movements.
Poly(ethylene glycol)-based laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol 3350, are commonly used to treat constipation due to their ability to create an osmotic effect without irritating the gastrointestinal tract.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is also essential in biotechnology, particularly in protein crystallization, cell culture, and as a stabilizing agent for vaccines and other biologics.
It helps prevent the aggregation of proteins, which is a significant issue in the production of biopharmaceuticals.
Poly(ethylene glycol) also finds use as a cryoprotectant in the freezing and storage of cells and tissues by reducing ice formation and maintaining cellular integrity at low temperatures.
In the personal care industry, Poly(ethylene glycol) is used in a variety of products, including shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, and sunscreens.
It serves as a base for formulations and contributes to the smooth application and spreadability of these products.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is known for its ability to bind moisture to the skin, enhancing hydration and improving skin texture.
Melting point: 64-66 °C
Boiling point: >250°C
Tg: -67
Bulk density: 400-500 kg/m³
Density: 1.27 g/mL at 25 °C
Vapor density: >1 (vs air)
Vapor pressure: <0.01 mm Hg (20 °C)
Refractive index: n20/D 1.469
Flash point: 270 °C
Storage temp.: 2-8°C
Solubility: H2O: 50 mg/mL, clear, colorless
Form: Waxy solid
Color: White to very pale yellow
Specific Gravity: 1.128
pH: 5.5-7.0 (25℃, 50 mg/mL in H2O)
Biological source: Synthetic (organic)
Viscosity: 1,650-3,850 cp (1% solution @ 25°C)
Viscosity: 11 cs (99°C)
Viscosity: 4.5 cs (99°C)
Viscosity: 5,500-8,000 cp (1% solution @ 25°C)
Viscosity: 6 cs (99°C)
Viscosity: 7.4 cs (99°C)
Viscosity: 750 cp (5% solution @ 25°C)
Viscosity: 75 cp (5% solution @ 25°C)
Viscosity: 8,000 cs (99°C)
Viscosity: 8,800-17,600 cp (5% solution @ 25°C)
Viscosity: 93 cs (99°C)
Water Solubility: Soluble in water.
λmax: λ: 260 nm Amax: 0.6
λmax: λ: 280 nm Amax: 0.3
Sensitive: Hygroscopic
Merck: 14,7568
α-end: Hydroxyl
Ω-end: Hydroxyl
Stability: Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.
LogP: -0.698 at 25℃
Poly(ethylene glycol) was obtained by polymerization of ethylene oxide in an autoclave at 80-100°C using as a catalyst dipotassium alcogolate of polyethylene glycol 400.
Dipotassium alcogolate of polyethylene glycol 400 was synthesized by a heating of the dry mixture of polyethylene glycol 400 and potassium hydroxide.
The molecular weight of polymer was regulated by the ratio of monomer:catalyst.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is heat-stable and inert to many chemical agents; Poly(ethylene glycol) will not hydrolyze or deteriorate under normal conditions.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has a solvent action on some plastics.
Despite its many benefits, Poly(ethylene glycol) is not without its controversies.
The potential for impurities in Poly(ethylene glycol), especially in its lower molecular weight forms, has raised concerns over its safety.
Poly(ethylene glycol) impurities can sometimes lead to allergic reactions, skin irritations, or more severe adverse effects in sensitive individuals.
Additionally, the environmental impact of PEG disposal, particularly in large quantities, is an ongoing area of research, as its persistence in the environment has raised concerns about its biodegradability.
The chemical reactivity of polyethylene glycols is mainly confined to the two terminal hydroxyl groups, which can be either esterified or etherified.
However, all grades can exhibit some oxidizing activity owing to the presence of peroxide impurities and secondary products formed by autoxidation.
Liquid and solid polyethylene glycol grades may be incompatible with some coloring agents.
The antibacterial activity of certain antibiotics is reduced in polyethylene glycol bases, particularly that of penicillin and bacitracin.
The preservative efficacy of the parabens may also be impaired owing to binding with Poly(ethylene glycol).
Physical effects caused by polyethylene glycol bases include softening and liquefaction in mixtures with phenol, tannic acid, and salicylic acid.
Discoloration of sulfonamides and dithranol can also occur, and sorbitol may be precipitated from mixtures.
Plastics, such as polyethylene, phenolformaldehyde, polyvinyl chloride, and cellulose-ester membranes (in filters) may be softened or dissolved by polyethylene glycols.
Migration of polyethylene glycol can occur from tablet film coatings, leading to interaction with core components.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a synthetic, hydrophilic, biocompatible polymer with widespread use in biomedical and other applications.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s are synthesized using a ring-opening polymerization of ethylene oxide to produce a broad range of molecular weights and molecular weight distributions (polydispersity); however, discrete PEGs (dPEG reagents) are synthesized with a single, specific molecular weight.
Poly(ethylene glycol) can be synthesized in linear, branched, Y-shaped, or multi-arm geometries.
Poly(ethylene glycol) can be activated by the replacement of the terminal hydroxyl end group with a variety of reactive functional end groups enabling crosslinking and conjugation chemistries.
Poly(ethylene glycol), synthetic chemical compound derived from petroleum that is widely used as a laxative for the treatment of constipation and that has various other uses, including as a moisture carrier, solvent, and thickener.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a hydrophilic (“water-loving”) polymer that is made by reacting ethylene oxide with ethylene glycol (the simplest member of the glycol family) or with ethylene glycol oligomers (molecules that contain repeating units) or water.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s formula is H(OCH2CH2)nOH, in which n denotes the number of individual ethylene oxide units.
While varying the molecular weight of PEG can have slight effects on its characteristics, mostly on its shape and physical appearance, many characteristics define PEG.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is non-toxic, colorless, inert, odorless, and non-volatile.
Also, it is incredibly soluble in water, and organic solvents such as benzene, carbon tetrachloride, and chloroform.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a highly adaptable polymer with broad applications across numerous industries, ranging from healthcare and pharmaceuticals to cosmetics and industrial processes.
Its ability to modify the solubility, stability, and bioavailability of drugs has made it a cornerstone in modern medicine, while its versatility in other industries continues to open new opportunities for innovation.
Uses:
Poly(ethylene glycol) is also known as polyoxirane (PEO).
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a linear polyether obtained by ring opening polymerization of ethylene oxide.
The main uses in the field of biomedicine are as follows.
The viscosity of polyethylene glycol solution is sensitive to the shear rate and it is not easy for bacteria to grow on polyethylene glycol.
The condensation polymer of ethylene oxide and water.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a cream matrix for preparing water-soluble drugs.
Poly(ethylene glycol) can also be used as a solvent for acetylsalicylic acid and caffeine, which is difficult to dissolve in water.
Drug sustained-release and immobilized enzyme carrier.
Poly(ethylene glycol) solution is applied to the outer layer of the pill to control the diffusion of drugs in the pill so as to improve the efficacy.
Surface modification of medical polymer materials.
The biocompatibility of medical polymer materials in contact with blood can be improved by adsorption, interception and grafting of two amphiphilic copolymers containing polyethylene glycol on the surface of medical polymers.
Poly(ethylene glycol) can make the membrane of the alkanol contraceptive pill.
Poly(ethylene glycol) can make hydrophilic anticoagulant polyurethane.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is an osmotic laxative. It can increase osmotic pressure and absorb moisture in the intestinal cavity, which makes the stool soften and increase in volume, resulting in bowel movement and defecation.
Denture fixing agent. Peg nontoxic and gelatinous nature can be used as a component of denture fixer.
Poly(ethylene glycol) are commonly used to promote cell fusion or protoplast fusion and help organisms (such as yeasts) to take DNA in transformation.
Poly(ethylene glycol) absorbs water from the solution, so it is also used to concentrate the solution.
Poly(ethylene Glycol) molecules of approximately 2000 monomers.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is used in various applications from industrial chemistry to biological chemistry.
Recent research has shown PEG m aintains the ability to aid the spinal cord injury recovery process, helping the nerve impulse conduction process in animals.
In rats, it has been shown to aid in the repair of severed sciatic axons, helping with nerve damage recovery.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is industrially produced as a lubricating substance for various surfaces to reduce friction.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is also used in the preparation of vesicle transport systems in with application towards diagnostic procedures or drug delivery methods.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a binder, coating agent, dispersing agent, flavoring adjuvant, and plasticizing agent that is a clear, colorless, viscous, hygroscopic liquid resembling paraffin (white, waxy, or flakes), with a ph of 4.0–7.5 in 1:20 concentration. it is soluble in water (mw 1,000) and many organic solvents.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a binder, solvent, plasticizing agent, and softener widely used for cosmetic cream bases and pharmaceutical ointments.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s are quite humectant up to a molecular weight of 500.
Beyond this weight, their water uptake diminishes.
Used in conjunction with carbon black to form a conductive composite.
Polymer nanospheres of poly(ethylene glycol) were used for drug delivery.
Poly(ethylene glycol) are widely used in a variety of pharmaceutical formulations, including parenteral, topical, ophthalmic, oral, and rectal preparations.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has been used experimentally in biodegradable polymeric matrices used in controlled-release systems.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s are stable, hydrophilic substances that are essentially nonirritant to the skin;They do not readily penetrate the skin, although the polyethylene glycols are water-soluble and are easily removed from the skin by washing, making them useful as ointment bases.
Solid grades are generally employed in topical ointments, with the consistency of the base being adjusted by the addition of liquid grades of polyethylene glycol.
Mixtures of Poly(ethylene glycol)s can be used as suppository bases,for which they have many advantages over fats.
For example, the melting point of the suppository can be made higher to withstand exposure to warmer climates; release of the drug is not dependent upon melting point; the physical stability on storage is better; and suppositories are readily miscible with rectal fluids.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s have the following disadvantages: they are chemically more reactive than fats; greater care is needed in processing to avoid inelegant contraction holes in the suppositories; the rate of release of water-soluble medications decreases with the increasing molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol; and polyethylene glycols tend to be more irritating to mucous membranes than fats.
Aqueous Poly(ethylene glycol) solutions can be used either as suspending agents or to adjust the viscosity and consistency of other suspending vehicles.
When used in conjunction with other emulsifiers, polyethylene glycols can act as emulsion stabilizers.
Liquid polyethylene glycols are used as water-miscible solvents for the contents of soft gelatin capsules.
However, they may cause hardening of the capsule shell by preferential absorption of moisture from gelatin in the shell.
In concentrations up to approximately 30% v/v, Poly(ethylene glycol) and PEG 400 have been used as the vehicle for parenteral dosage forms.
In solid-dosage formulations, higher-molecular-weight polyethylene glycols can enhance the effectiveness of tablet binders and impart plasticity to granules.
However, they have only limited binding action when used alone, and can prolong disintegration if present in concentrations greater than 5% w/w.
When used for thermoplastic granulations,a mixture of the powdered constituents with 10–15% w/w Poly(ethylene glycol) is heated to 70–75°C.
The mass becomes pastelike and forms granules if stirred while cooling.
This technique is useful for the preparation of dosage forms such as lozenges when prolonged disintegration is required.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s can also be used to enhance the aqueous solubility or dissolution characteristics of poorly soluble compounds by making solid dispersions with an appropriate polyethylene glycol.
Animal studies have also been performed using Poly(ethylene glycol)s as solvents for steroids in osmotic pumps.
In film coatings, solid grades of Poly(ethylene glycol) can be used alone for the film-coating of tablets or can be useful as hydrophilic polishing materials.
Solid grades are also widely used as plasticizers in conjunction with film-forming polymers.
The presence of polyethylene glycols in film coats, especially of liquid grades, tends to increase their water permeability and may reduce protection against low pH in enteric-coating films.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s are useful as plasticizers in microencapsulated products to avoid rupture of the coating film when the microcapsules are compressed into tablets.
Poly(ethylene glycol) grades with molecular weights of 6000 and above can be used as lubricants, particularly for soluble tablets.
The lubricant action is not as good as that of magnesium stearate, and stickiness may develop if the material becomes too warm during compression.
An antiadherent effect is also exerted, again subject to the avoidance of overheating.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s have been used in the preparation of urethane hydrogels, which are used as controlled-release agents.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has also been used in insulin-loaded microparticles for the oral delivery of insulin;it has been used in inhalation preparations to improve aerosolization;polyethylene glycol nanoparticles have been used to improve the oral bioavailability of cyclosporine;it has been used in self-assembled polymeric nanoparticles as a drug carrier;and copolymer networks of polyethylene glycol grafted with poly(methacrylic acid) have been used as bioadhesive controlled drug delivery formulations.
Pharmaceutical-grade Poly(ethylene glycol) is used as an excipient in many pharmaceutical products, in oral, topical, and parenteral dosage forms.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is the basis of a number of laxatives (as MiraLax, RestoraLAX, MoviPrep, etc.).
Whole bowel irrigation with polyethylene glycol and added electrolytes is used for bowel preparation before surgery or colonoscopy or for children with constipation.
Macrogol (with brand names such as Laxido, Movicol and Miralax) is the generic name for polyethylene glycol used as a laxative.
The name may be followed by a number that represents the average molecular weight (e.g. macrogol 3350, macrogol 4000, or macrogol 6000).
The possibility that Poly(ethylene glycol) could be used to fuse axons is being explored by researchers studying peripheral nerve and spinal cord injury.
An example of Poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels (see Biological uses section) in a therapeutic has been theorized by Ma et al.
They propose using the hydrogel to address periodontitis (gum disease) by encapsulating stem cells in the gel that promote healing in the gums.
The gel with encapsulated stem cells was to be injected into the site of disease and crosslinked to create the microenvironment required for the stem cells to function.
Poly(ethylene glycol)ylation of adenoviruses for gene therapy can help prevent adverse reactions due to pre-existing adenovirus immunity.
A PEGylated lipid is used as an excipient in both the Moderna and Pfizer–BioNTech vaccines for SARS-CoV-2.
Both RNA vaccines consist of messenger RNA, or mRNA, encased in a bubble of oily molecules called lipids.
Proprietary lipid technology is used for each. In both vaccines, the bubbles are coated with a stabilizing molecule of polyethylene glycol.
Poly(ethylene glycol) could trigger allergic reaction,[10] and allergic reactions are the driver for both the United Kingdom and Canadian regulators to issue an advisory, noting that: two "individuals in the U.K.
The US CDC stated that in their jurisdiction six cases of "severe allergic reaction" had been recorded from more than 250,000 vaccinations, and of those six only one person had a "history of vaccination reactions".
Poly(ethylene glycol) is also commonly used as a polar stationary phase for gas chromatography, as well as a heat transfer fluid in electronic testers.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is frequently used to preserve waterlogged wood and other organic artifacts that have been salvaged from underwater archaeological contexts, as was the case with the warship Vasa in Stockholm, and similar cases.
Poly(ethylene glycol) replaces water in wooden objects, making the wood dimensionally stable and preventing the warping or shrinking of the wood when it dries.
In addition, Poly(ethylene glycol) is used when working with green wood as a stabilizer, and to prevent shrinkage.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has been used to preserve the painted colors on Terracotta Warriors unearthed at a UNESCO World Heritage site in China.
These painted artifacts were created during the Qin Shi Huang (first emperor of China) era.
Within 15 seconds of the terra-cotta pieces being unearthed during excavations, the lacquer beneath the paint begins to curl after being exposed to the dry Xi'an air.
The paint would subsequently flake off in about four minutes.
The German Bavarian State Conservation Office developed a Poly(ethylene glycol) preservative that when immediately applied to unearthed artifacts has aided in preserving the colors painted on the pieces of clay soldiers.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is often used (as an internal calibration compound) in mass spectrometry experiments, with its characteristic fragmentation pattern allowing accurate and reproducible tuning.
Poly(ethylene glycol) derivatives, such as narrow range ethoxylates, are used as surfactants.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has been used as the hydrophilic block of amphiphilic block copolymers used to create some polymersomes.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a component of the propellent used in UGM-133M Trident II Missiles, in service with the United States Navy.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has been used as a solvent for aryl thioether synthesis.
An example study was done using PEG-diacrylate hydrogels to recreate vascular environments with the encapsulation of endothelial cells and macrophages.
This model furthered vascular disease modeling and isolated macrophage phenotype's effect on blood vessels.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is commonly used as a crowding agent in in vitro assays to mimic highly crowded cellular conditions.
Although polyethylene glycol is considered biologically inert, it can form non-covalent complexes with monovalent cations such as Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+, affecting equilibrium constants of biochemical reactions.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is commonly used as a precipitant for plasmid DNA isolation and protein crystallization. X-ray diffraction of protein crystals can reveal the atomic structure of the proteins.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is used to fuse two different types of cells, most often B-cells and myelomas to create hybridomas.
Poly(ethylene glycol), which they used for antibody production, winning a Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1984.
In microbiology, Poly(ethylene glycol) precipitation is used to concentrate viruses.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is also used to induce complete fusion (mixing of both inner and outer leaflets) in liposomes reconstituted in vitro.
Gene therapy vectors (such as viruses) can be Poly(ethylene glycol)-coated to shield them from inactivation by the immune system and to de-target them from organs where they may build up and have a toxic effect.
The size of the Poly(ethylene glycol) polymer is important, with larger polymers achieving the best immune protection.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is a component of stable nucleic acid lipid particles (SNALPs) used to package siRNA for use in vivo.
In blood banking, Poly(ethylene glycol) is used as a potentiator to enhance detection of antigens and antibodies.
When working with phenol in a laboratory situation, Poly(ethylene glycol) can be used on phenol skin burns to deactivate any residual phenol.
In biophysics, polyethylene glycols are the molecules of choice for the functioning ion channel diameter studies, because in aqueous solutions they have a spherical shape and can block ion channel conductance.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is the basis of many skin creams (as cetomacrogol) and personal lubricants.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is used in a number of toothpastes[5] as a dispersant. In this application, it binds water and helps keep xanthan gum uniformly distributed throughout the toothpaste.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is under investigation for use in liquid body armor, and in tattoos to monitor diabetes.
Polymer segments derived from PEG polyols impart flexibility to polyurethanes for applications such as elastomeric fibers (spandex) and foam cushions.
In low-molecular-weight formulations (e.g. PEG 400), it is used in Hewlett-Packard designjet printers as an ink solvent and lubricant for the print heads.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is used as an anti-foaming agent in food and drinks – its INS number is 1521 or E1521 in the EU.
A nitrate ester-plasticized Poly(ethylene glycol) is used in Trident II submarine-launched ballistic missile solid rocket fuel.
Dimethyl ethers of Poly(ethylene glycol) are the key ingredient of Selexol, a solvent used by coal-burning, integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plants to remove carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide from the syngas stream.
Poly(ethylene glycol) has been used as the gate insulator in an electric double-layer transistor to induce superconductivity in an insulator.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is used as a polymer host for solid polymer electrolytes.
Although not yet in commercial production, many groups around the globe are engaged in research on solid polymer electrolytes involving PEG, to improve their properties, and in permitting their use in batteries, electro-chromic display systems, and other products in the future.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is injected into industrial processes to reduce foaming in separation equipment.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is used as a binder in the preparation of technical ceramics.
Poly(ethylene glycol) was used as an additive to silver halide photographic emulsions.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is used to extend the size and durability of very large soap bubbles.
Poly(ethylene glycol) is an ingredient in some personal lubricants.[citation needed] (Not to be confused with propylene glycol.)
Poly(ethylene glycol) is the main ingredient in the paint (known as "fill") in paintballs.
Preparation:
The ring-opening polymerization of ethylene oxide is readily effected by a variety of ionic reagents and several types of polymer have been prepared.
For commercial purposes, poly(ethylene oxide)s of low molecular weight and of very high molecular weight are of interest.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s of low molecular weight, i.e. below about 3000, are generally prepared by passing ethylene oxide into ethylene glycol at 120-150??C and about 0.3 MPa (3 atmospheres) pressure, using an alkaline initiator such as sodium hydroxide.
The polymers produced by these methods are thus terminated mainly by hydroxy groups (a few unsaturated end-groups are also formed) and are often referred to as poly(ethylene glycol)s.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s with molecular weights in the range 200-600 are viscous liquids which find use as surfactants in inks and paints and as humectants.
At molecular weights above about 600, poly(ethylene glycol)s are low-melting waxy solids, uses of which include pharmaceutical and cosmetic bases, lubricants and mould release agents.
Poly(ethylene glycol) may be noted that homogeneous cationic polymerization of ethylene oxide also generally leads to low molecular weight products; typical initiators include aluminium chloride, boron trifluoride and titanium tetrachloride.
Systems of this type are not utilized on a commercial scale.
Poly(ethylene oxide)s of molecular weight ranging from about 100000 to 5 x 106 and above are available.
Details of the techniques used to manufacture these polymers have not been disclosed, but the essential feature is the use of (generally) heterogeneous initiator systems.
Effective initiators are mainly of two types, namely alkaline earth compounds (e.g. carbonates and oxides of calcium, barium and strontium) and organometallic compounds (e.g. aluminium and zinc alkyls and alkoxides, commonly with added coinitiators).
The precise modes of action of these initiators have not, as yet, been fully resolved
Unlike the low molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide)s, the high molecular weight polymers are tough and extensible.
They are highly crystalline, with a melting point of 66??C.
Unlike most water-soluble polymers, the high molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide)s may be melt processed; they may be injection moulded, extruded and calendered without difficulty.
Poly(ethylene oxide)s are soluble in an unusually broad range of solvents, which includes water; chlorinated hydrocarbons such as carbon tetrachloride and methylene dichloride; aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene and toluene; ketones such as acetone and methyl ethyl ketone; and alcohols such as methanol and isopropanol.
There is an upper temperature limit of solubility in water for the high molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide)s; this varies with concentration and molecular weight but is usually between 90 and 100??C. Water-solubility is due to the ability of the polyether to form hydrogen bonds with water; these bonds are broken when the temperature is raised, restoring the anhydrous polymer which is precipated from the solution.
High molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide)s find use as water-soluble packaging films and capsules for such products as laundry powders, colour concentrates, tablets and seeds.
In solution, the polymers are used as thickeners in pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparations, textile sizes and latex stabilizers.
Storage
Polyethylene glycols are chemically stable in air and in solution, although grades with a molecular weight less than 2000 are hygroscopic.
Polyethylene glycols do not support microbial growth, and they do not become rancid.
Polyethylene glycols and aqueous polyethylene glycol solutions can be sterilized by autoclaving, filtration, or gamma irradiation.
Sterilization of solid grades by dry heat at 150℃ for 1 hour may induce oxidation, darkening, and the formation of acidic degradation products.
Ideally, sterilization should be carried out in an inert atmosphere. Oxidation of polyethylene glycols may also be inhibited by the inclusion of a suitable antioxidant.
If heated tanks are used to maintain normally solid polyethylene glycols in a molten state, care must be taken to avoid contamination with iron, which can lead to discoloration.
The temperature must be kept to the minimum necessary to ensure fluidity; oxidation may occur if polyethylene glycols are exposed for long periods to temperatures exceeding 50℃.
However, storage under nitrogen reduces the possibility of oxidation.
Poly(ethylene glycol)s should be stored in well-closed containers in a cool, dry place.
Stainless steel, aluminum, glass, or lined steel containers are preferred for the storage of liquid grades.
Safety Profile:
Poly(ethylene glycol)s are widely used in a variety of pharmaceutical formulations.
Generally, they are regarded as nontoxic and nonirritant materials.
Adverse reactions to polyethylene glycols have been reported, the greatest toxicity being with glycols of low molecular weight.
However, the toxicity of glycols is relatively low.
Polyethylene glycols administered topically may cause stinging, especially when applied to mucous membranes.
Hypersensitivity reactions to polyethylene glycols applied topically have also been reported, including urticaria and delayed allergic reactions.
The most serious adverse effects associated with polyethylene glycols are hyperosmolarity, metabolic acidosis, and renal failure following the topical use of polyethylene glycols in burn patients.
Topical preparations containing polyethylene glycols should therefore be used cautiously in patients with renal failure, extensive burns, or open wounds.
Oral administration of large quantities of polyethylene glycols can have a laxative effect.
Therapeutically, up to 4 L of an aqueous mixture of electrolytes and high-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol is consumed by patients undergoing bowel cleansing.
Liquid polyethylene glycols may be absorbed when taken orally, but the higher-molecular-weight polyethylene glycols are not significantly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Absorbed polyethylene glycol is excreted largely unchanged in the urine, although polyethylene glycols of low molecular weight may be partially metabolized.
The WHO has set an estimated acceptable daily intake of Poly(ethylene glycol)s at up to 10 mg/kg body-weight.
In parenteral products, the maximum recommended concentration of PEG 300 is approximately 30% v/v as hemolytic effects have been observed at concentrations greater than about 40% v/v
