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Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) can also enhance the penetration and absorption of drugs through biological membranes.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is a synthetic polymeric ether composed of poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(propylene glycol) chains terminated with a monobutyl ether group.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is created through a controlled reaction of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide with butanol, forming a clear to slightly yellow liquid with a mild odor.
CAS Number: 9038-95-3
Molecular Formula: C9H20O3
Molecular Weight: 176.26
EINECS Number: 231-545-4
Synonyms: TERGITOL XH, TERGITOL XD, TERGITOL(TM) XJ, TERGITOL(TM) XH, TERGITOL(TM) XD, TERGITOL MIN FOAM 1X, POLY(ETHYLENE GLYCOL-CO-PROPYLENE GLYCOL) MONOBUTYL ETHER, UCON(R) HTF 14
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is a block copolymer that consists of a hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) segment and a hydrophobic poly(propylene glycol) (PPO) segment.
One of the significant features of Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is its amphiphilic nature.
This means that it has both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions within its structure.
This property allows Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) to form micelles in aqueous solutions, where the hydrophobic PPO segments aggregate in the core while the hydrophilic PEG segments form the outer shell.
The formation of micelles gives Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) its surfactant properties.
In pharmaceuticals, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is utilized as an excipient in drug formulations to improve solubility, stability, and controlled release of drugs.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) can also be employed as a carrier for drug delivery systems, enhancing the bioavailability and targeting of therapeutic agents.
Furthermore, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) finds applications in cosmetics as an emulsifier and solubilizer for various formulations.
The mechanism of action of Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) relies on its ability to self-assemble into micelles in aqueous solutions.
When added to a system, the hydrophobic PPO segments aggregate together, forming a core, while the hydrophilic Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) segments create a protective shell around the core.
This self-assembly process enables Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) to solubilize hydrophobic substances and stabilize emulsions.
This compound is widely recognized for its chemical stability, low volatility, and compatibility with many industrial systems.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) demonstrates a unique solubility behavior that changes with temperature.
At lower temperatures, it mixes well with water, but as the temperature increases, it becomes insoluble and separates from the water.
This property allows it to remain in boiler water systems without entering the steam phase, making it useful in controlled industrial processes.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is chemically stable under both acidic and basic conditions and resists oxidation even at elevated temperatures.
Its low corrosivity toward metals makes it suitable for use in equipment made from steel, copper, or aluminum.
Because of these characteristics, it is often selected for use in harsh environments that require durability and reliability.
In industrial applications, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) serves as a base fluid or additive in lubricants, hydraulic fluids, and compressor oils.
Its thermal and oxidative stability helps prevent breakdown under mechanical stress and high temperatures.
It is also used to reduce friction and wear in moving components, extending equipment lifespan.
Another important use of Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is as an antifoaming agent.
It helps control foam in boilers, fermentation tanks, and desalination units by breaking down bubbles and preventing overflow.
This property improves process efficiency and prevents contamination of steam or other process fluids.
In food-related applications, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) can be safely used as a boiler additive in systems that produce steam contacting food materials.
Its high molecular weight and low volatility minimize the risk of carry-over into steam or finished products.
When used properly, it meets regulatory and safety standards for indirect food contact processes.
Different grades of Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) are manufactured to provide a range of molecular weights, viscosities, and solubility characteristics.
Higher molecular weight versions are typically more stable and have a higher cloud point temperature.
These variations allow the compound to be tailored for specific industrial needs and environmental conditions.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is valued for its versatility, chemical resistance, and thermal reliability.
It performs effectively as a lubricant, antifoam agent, and process aid across multiple industries.
When handled under recommended conditions, it is both efficient and relatively safe for use in complex manufacturing environments.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is a colorless and transparent liquid.
Can dissolve other substances in itself.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is used for nitrocellulose and synthetic resins.
Applications include paints, enamels and paint stripping.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME), is a block copolymer that showcases a unique combination of the properties inherent to both polyethylene glycol (PEG) and propylene glycol (PPG).
This amphiphilic compound plays a pivotal role in research, especially in the fields of polymer science and materials engineering, due to its ability to modulate hydrophilic and hydrophobic balance, thereby affecting solubility, stability, and the bioavailability of various compounds.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME)s structure, characterized by the alternating arrangement of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units capped with a butyl ether group, confers it with a versatility that is highly valued in the formulation of nanoparticles, hydrogels, and drug delivery systems.
By fine-tuning the molecular weight and the ethylene oxide to propylene oxide ratio, researchers can manipulate its phase behavior, micellization, and encapsulation efficiency, making it an indispensable tool in the development of novel materials and in the study of dynamic biological processes at the molecular level.
Boiling point: >200 °C (lit.)
Density: 1.056 g/mL at 25 °C
Refractive index: n20/D 1.46
Flash point: >230 °F
Storage temperature: Store at room temperature, keep dry and cool
Solubility: H2O: soluble at <40 °C
Form: Viscous liquid
Appearance: Colorless to off-white liquid
Viscosity: 3,600 cSt (20 °C) (lit.)
Water solubility: Soluble in water at <40 °C
Stability: Stable. Incompatible with strong acids, strong bases, strong oxidizing agents.
InChI: InChI=1S/C4H10O.C3H6O.C2H4O/c1-2-3-4-5;1-3-2-4-3;1-2-3-1/h5H,2-4H2,1H3;3H,2H2,1H3;1-2H2
InChIKey: YTJMOZGBQLKJKS-UHFFFAOYSA-N
SMILES: C(CO)CC.C1OC1.CC1OC1
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is a polymeric synthetic additive that has distinct solubility properties.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is generally used to improve the quality of boiler steam.
Which is ultimately used as a conditioner for animal feed pellet production.
Automotive transmission, brake, and hydraulic fluid, heat transfer fluid, and inert solvents for manufacturing operations are the most popular applications for Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME).
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is also used for the manufacture of resins, plasticizers, modifiers, and surfactants; compressor lubricants –as base fluids in compressor lubricant formulations; anti foam agents –in boiler water and fermentation processes; personal-care products –polyalkylene glycol monobutyl ether polymers are inert lubricative functional fluids that may be included in a variety of other applications.
With the increasing manufacturing activity across the globe, the demand for Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is also increasing.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is an organic solvent with a wide variety of industrial and commercial uses.
Similar to other glycol ethers, it is used as a carrier/solvent in printing/writing inks and paints/coatings.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) also finds use as an industrial and commercial paint stripper.
It is used as an antifreeze in diesel engines.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) belongs to a class of non-ionic surfactant-like polymers that combine the characteristics of glycols and ethers.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) molecular structure contains repeating oxyalkylene units that are both hydrophilic and hydrophobic, allowing it to interact with water and organic compounds simultaneously.
This balanced polarity gives Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) exceptional solubility control and surface-active properties useful in industrial and engineering applications.
Physically, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is a viscous liquid that ranges from colorless to pale yellow depending on purity and molecular weight.
It has a low vapor pressure and a relatively high boiling point, which makes it resistant to evaporation and thermal degradation.
Because of these thermal properties, it performs well in systems exposed to high operational temperatures or continuous circulation.
Chemically, the compound is neutral and non-corrosive, showing little reactivity with acids, bases, or salts under normal conditions.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is designed to remain stable during long-term storage, and it does not polymerize or decompose easily in contact with air or moisture.
This predictable behavior makes it particularly suitable for use in closed-loop systems such as hydraulic or heat-transfer equipment.
In lubrication and machinery maintenance, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) serves as a synthetic base oil that provides excellent film strength and oxidation resistance.
It helps reduce mechanical wear and dissipates heat efficiently during continuous operation.
Its low residue formation and minimal volatility make it a preferred alternative to conventional mineral oils in advanced machinery.
In the field of industrial water treatment, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is used to prevent foaming in boilers and evaporators.
Foam formation in these systems can reduce efficiency and cause carryover of impurities, leading to operational problems.
PGME acts by destabilizing bubbles at the water surface, allowing smooth steam release and preventing energy losses.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is also used as a processing aid in metalworking and surface-finishing operations.
It functions as a lubricant and wetting agent, reducing surface tension and improving the uniformity of coatings.
Additionally, it helps control viscosity and enhances the dispersion of additives within chemical formulations.
In the food and beverage industry, specific high-molecular-weight grades of PGME are employed in steam-generation systems that indirectly contact food.
Because these grades have negligible volatility, they remain in the boiler water and do not migrate into the steam or food product.
This makes Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) a safe and effective material for processes that demand clean steam with minimal chemical contamination.
From an environmental perspective, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is considered a relatively low-toxicity substance when used properly.
It does not bioaccumulate significantly in living organisms and can degrade slowly under aerobic conditions.
However, like many industrial chemicals, it should be handled responsibly to prevent environmental release and contamination of water systems.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is valued for its ability to modify rheology and stability in mixtures.
It can act as a solvent, carrier, or coupling agent for hydrophobic and hydrophilic substances.
This makes it an important ingredient in paints, coatings, and cleaning formulations that require precise viscosity control.
Modern developments have expanded Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME)’s use into advanced lubricants and environmentally friendly heat-transfer fluids.
Its balanced molecular design provides both high lubricity and low toxicity, meeting increasing sustainability demands in industrial operations.
As industries shift toward cleaner, non-persistent additives, PGME has become an attractive choice for long-term technological applications.
Uses Of Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME):
Hydraulic fluids, metal working fluids and lubricants, heat transfer fluids, solder assist fluids, quenchants, lubricants, solvents, plasticizers and foam control agents.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is a thermoseparating polymer (TSP) that can be used in aqueous two-phase extraction (ATPE) due to its decreasing solubility in its aqueous solution as the temperature rises.
It is also used in a polymer coating on solid-phase microextraction (SPME) fibers using the sol-gel technique to impart thermal resistance and stability.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is widely used as a high-performance synthetic lubricant and functional fluid.
It serves as a base fluid in hydraulic oils, compressor lubricants, and gear oils due to its excellent thermal and oxidative stability.
Its ability to maintain viscosity and reduce friction under high stress makes it ideal for use in advanced machinery and industrial systems.
In heat transfer applications, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) functions as a stable and efficient cooling medium.
Its high boiling point and low volatility allow it to transfer heat effectively without evaporating or degrading.
This makes it suitable for use in closed-loop systems, refrigeration units, and high-temperature industrial equipment.
The compound is also used as an antifoaming agent in water and steam systems.
In boilers, desalination plants, and fermentation units, foam can cause operational inefficiencies and contamination.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) reduces foam formation by destabilizing bubbles, ensuring smooth steam production and stable process control.
In the chemical and coatings industry, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) acts as a solvent, coupling agent, and viscosity modifier.
It improves the dispersion of pigments and additives in paints, inks, and coatings.
Its balanced polarity allows it to dissolve both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances, ensuring smooth and uniform application.
In metalworking and manufacturing, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) serves as a process lubricant and wetting agent.
It helps cool cutting tools, reduces friction between metal surfaces, and enhances the surface finish of machined parts.
Additionally, it minimizes residue formation and provides corrosion resistance during processing and storage.
In food-related industries, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is employed as a boiler water additive where steam may contact food indirectly.
Because of its low volatility and high molecular weight, it remains in the water phase and does not transfer into the steam.
This makes it safe and compliant with strict regulations governing food-contact processes.
In polymer and plastic manufacturing, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) functions as a stabilizer and process aid.
It assists in controlling polymer viscosity during extrusion and molding operations.
Its chemical stability ensures consistent product quality and prevents degradation of thermally sensitive materials.
PGME also finds applications as a surfactant component in detergents and industrial cleaners.
Its molecular structure allows it to break surface tension and remove oils, greases, and other contaminants efficiently.
It is used in formulations for precision cleaning of mechanical parts, electronic components, and metal surfaces.
In environmental and green chemistry contexts, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is valued as a low-toxicity, biodegradable synthetic fluid.
It replaces mineral-based oils in lubrication systems that demand cleaner and more sustainable materials.
This makes it attractive for use in eco-friendly technologies and modern industrial systems with environmental management standards.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is a multi-functional compound utilized across diverse industries.
Its main applications include lubrication, heat transfer, antifoaming, solvent blending, and surface treatment.
Its combination of chemical stability, low volatility, and versatility ensures reliable performance in demanding industrial environments.
Safety Profile Of Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME):
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is generally considered to have low acute toxicity, but it can still pose several hazards if mishandled.
Prolonged or repeated skin contact may cause dryness, irritation, or mild dermatitis due to its solvent properties.
Direct eye contact with the liquid can result in redness, stinging, and temporary discomfort that requires rinsing with plenty of water.
Inhalation of mist or vapor from heated Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) can irritate the respiratory system.
Although it has a low vapor pressure at normal temperatures, exposure to concentrated vapors in poorly ventilated areas can cause coughing or throat irritation.
Workers are advised to use adequate ventilation or wear protective masks in high-temperature operations.
Ingestion of Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, or vomiting.
Swallowing large amounts may affect the liver or kidneys because glycol-based compounds are metabolized slowly in the body.
Medical attention should be sought immediately in the event of accidental ingestion.
From a chemical standpoint, Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) is stable but can decompose at high temperatures to form irritating or toxic vapors.
Thermal breakdown may release carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other organic compounds.
Therefore, heating above recommended limits or exposing it to open flames should always be avoided.
Polyalkylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether (PGME) should not be mixed with strong oxidizing agents, acids, or alkalis, as these can cause decomposition or exothermic reactions.
Such interactions may produce hazardous fumes or cause pressure build-up in closed containers.
All storage and transfer systems must be kept clean, dry, and properly grounded to prevent chemical incompatibility issues.
