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Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as an antistatic agent and lubricant in the textile industry.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as an osmotic laxative.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a lubricant and coolant in the metalworking industry, and as a dispersant and emulsifier in pesticide and pigment production.
CAS Number: 25322-68-3
EC (EINECS) Number: 500-038-2
Molecular Formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)nOH
Average Molecular Weight: ~5000–7000 g/mol
SYNONYMS:
Polyethylene Glycol 6000, Carbowax 6000, Peg-120, Peg-135, RefChem:8788, Unipeg 6000x, 30IQX730WE, Peg 6000, PEG, Poly(ethylene glycol), Polyethyleneglycol, Macrogols, PEG 6000, Poly(ethylene glycol), Polyethylene glycol 6000, Polyglycol, Polyethylene oxide, Polyoxy ethylene, PEG 6000, PEG
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a polymer belonging to the polyethylene glycol (PEG) family.
With the chemical formula (C2H4O)nH2O, Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a white or slightly yellow powder and is readily soluble in water.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a versatile material used in many industrial sectors.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a polymer of ethylene oxide, a type of polyethylene glycol (PEG) with an average molecular weight of 6000 g/mol.
PEGs are available in various molecular weights, with Polyethylene glycol 6000 being one of the higher molecular weight varieties.
Polyethylene Glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) is a synthetic polyether polymer produced by the polymerization of ethylene oxide.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 belongs to the polyethylene glycol (PEG) family and consists of repeating ethylene oxide units terminated with hydroxyl groups.
The number 6000 refers to the approximate average molecular weight (~5000–7000 g/mol) of the polymer chain.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a hydrophilic, non-ionic polymer widely used in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, food processing, and industrial formulations because of its high solubility in water, low toxicity, chemical stability, and excellent lubricating and dispersing properties.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 typically appears as a white waxy solid or flakes and forms clear, colorless solutions in water.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a high molecular weight, water-soluble, inert polyether compound (CAS 25322-68-3) that typically appears as white, solid flakes or powder.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a polyethylene glycol polymer with an average molecular weight of approximately 6,000 Daltons.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 belongs to the PEG family, which consists of linear polymers formed by repeating ethylene oxide units.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a high molecular weight polymer formed by the condensation of ethylene oxide and water, with the chemical formula HO(C2H4O)Nh.
6000 means its average molecular weight is 6000.
As the degree of polymerization increases, the physical appearance and properties of polyethylene glycol gradually change.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is in powder form and is white in color.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is very soluble in water and methylene chloride.
In practice, Polyethylene glycol 6000 is insoluble in alcohol, ether, liquid oils containing solid fats, and mineral oils.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a mildly toxic chemical.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 has good compatibility with many organic components.
USES and APPLICATIONS of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is particularly widely preferred in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and chemical industries.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a stabilizer, humectant, and viscosity regulator in the formulation of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is also important as a component used during the electrophoresis of proteins.
Due to its good miscibility with water and biocompatibility, Polyethylene glycol 6000 is also used in various medical applications.
In the pharmaceutical industry, Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a matrix to regulate viscosity and melting point, and to modify proteins in drug molecules to protect them and extend their half-lives.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a finishing agent to increase the gloss and smoothness of the paper.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as an antistatic agent and lubricant in the textile industry.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as an osmotic laxative.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a lubricant and coolant in the metalworking industry, and as a dispersant and emulsifier in pesticide and pigment production.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a food additive in the coating of sugar and chocolate products.
As an additive in the rubber industry, Polyethylene glycol 6000 increases the lubricity and plasticity of rubber products, reduces power consumption during processing, and extends the service life of rubber products.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a raw material for ester surfactants.
Solid detergent concentrates are used in crayons and watercolors.
Industrial/Lab Uses: Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used in the rubber industry as a mold release agent, in paints as a dispersant, in the textile industry as an antistatic agent, and for producing polyethylene glycol surfactants.
Molecular Biology: Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used in protein science, crystal screening, and PEGylation to stabilize medicines.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is extensively used as a pharmaceutical excipient (binder, lubricant, filler), industrial lubricant, dispersant, and in chemical synthesis due to its low toxicity, high stability, and hydrophilicity.
Applications of Polyethylene glycol 6000: Crystallization grade Polyethylene glycol 6,000 for formulating screens or for optimization.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is a widely used, water-soluble polymer in molecular biology, protein science, and pharmaceutical research.
Owing to its excellent biocompatibility, chemical stability, and predictable molecular behavior, Polyethylene glycol 6000 has become a standard reagent in laboratories worldwide.
-Pharmaceutical Uses of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 acts as a binder and lubricant in tablet production, a matrix for drug release, and a solubilizer in various creams and ointments.
Examples of drugs using Polyethylene glycol 6000 include metformin, atorvastatin, and amoxicillin.
-Pharmaceuticals uses of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
*Tablet Coating and Binding:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is often used in solid dosage forms like tablets and capsules.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 acts as a binder, helping to hold the tablet components together, and as a coating agent to improve the appearance and control the release of the active ingredient.
*Drug Solubility and Stability:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 can enhance the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs and stabilize formulations by preventing the crystallization of drug substances.
*Suppositories:
Due to its solid state at room temperature and ability to melt at body temperature, Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used in the production of suppositories, ensuring proper release of the active ingredients.
-Cosmetics uses of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
*Moisturizers and Lotions:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin and enhancing hydration.
Polyethylene glycol 6000’s also used as a thickening agent in lotions, creams, and other skincare products to improve texture and consistency.
*Hair Care Products:
In shampoos and conditioners, Polyethylene glycol 6000 helps in thickening the product, providing a smoother application, and acting as a conditioning agent.
-Industrial Uses of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
*Plastic Production:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a plasticizer in the production of plastics and resins, improving flexibility and workability.
*Lubricants:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 serves as a lubricant in various mechanical and industrial applications, reducing friction between surfaces and improving the lifespan of machinery parts.
*Paints and Coatings:
In the manufacturing of paints and varnishes, Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used to control viscosity and improve the spreadability of the product.
-Biotechnology uses of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
*Protein Purification:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is employed in the purification of proteins through a process called “PEG precipitation,” where it helps in selectively precipitating proteins from solution.
*Cryopreservation:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a cryoprotectant to protect biological tissues and cells during freezing, preventing ice crystal formation that can damage cell structure.
-Pharmaceutical Applications of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
Excipient in tablet and capsule formulations
Suppository base material
Binder and lubricant in pharmaceutical processing
Component in drug delivery and controlled-release systems
Stabilizer for suspensions and emulsions
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used in protein precipitation and purification processes in biotechnology.
-Biotechnology and Laboratory Applications of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
Precipitation of proteins, nucleic acids, and viruses
Stabilizer in enzyme formulations
Polymer component in hydrogels and biomedical materials
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used in PEGylation and surface modification technologies.
-Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
Humectant and moisturizing ingredient in creams and lotions
Thickener in cosmetic formulations
Emulsion stabilizer
Lubricating agent in skin-care products
Surfactant and viscosity-control agent.
-Industrial Applications of Polyethylene glycol 6000:
Plasticizer in polymer and resin formulations
Binder in ceramic and construction materials
Lubricant and mold-release agent
Dispersant in paints, inks, and coatings
Additive in adhesives and sealants
Carrier or wetting agent in agricultural formulations.
KEY CHARACTERISTICS AND APPLICATIONS of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
*Properties:
Average molecular weight of , non-toxic, and non-flammable.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is highly soluble in water.
*Pharmaceutical Uses:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 acts as a binder and lubricant in tablet production, a matrix for drug release, and a solubilizer in various creams and ointments.
Examples of drugs using Polyethylene glycol 6000 include metformin, atorvastatin, and amoxicillin.
*Industrial/Lab Uses:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used in the rubber industry as a mold release agent, in paints as a dispersant, in the textile industry as an antistatic agent, and for producing polyethylene glycol surfactants.
*Molecular Biology:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is used in protein science, crystal screening, and PEGylation to stabilize medicines.
BENEFITS AND ADVANTAGES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
High water solubility and dispersibility
Low toxicity and high safety profile
Polyethylene glycol 6000 improves lubricity and processability in formulations
Polyethylene glycol 6000 enhances stability of emulsions and suspensions
Polyethylene glycol 6000 provides moisture retention and humectant properties
Polyethylene glycol 6000 improves drug solubility and bioavailability in pharmaceutical formulations
Compatible with a wide variety of chemicals and polymers
Stable with long shelf life under proper storage conditions.
GENERAL PROPERTIES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
*Non-ionic polymer
*Highly hydrophilic
*Chemically inert under most conditions
*Capable of forming hydrogen bonds with water
*Excellent compatibility with many pharmaceutical excipients and industrial additives
*Low volatility due to high molecular weight
*Stable polyether backbone structure.
CHARACTERISTICS of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
*Excellent moisture-retention capacity
*Good film-forming ability
*Effective binder and plasticizer
*Good lubrication properties
*Polyethylene glycol 6000 improves solubility of poorly soluble substances
*Polyethylene glycol 6000 provides steric stabilization in suspensions and emulsions
*Polyethylene glycol 6000 enhances dispersion of pigments and solid particles
*Compatible with both ionic and non-ionic formulation components.
HOW DOES POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000 WORK IN BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS?
The primary mechanism of Polyethylene glycol 6000 is based on the volume-exclusion (macromolecular crowding) effect.
When Polyethylene glycol 6000 is added to a solution, it reduces the available solvent volume, effectively increasing the local concentration of biomolecules.
This physical effect allows Polyethylene glycol 6000 to promote molecular interactions without covalent modification or chemical disruption.
FEATURES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
Sterile filtered solution
Formulated in Type 1+ ultrapure water: 18.2 megaohm-cm resistivity at 25°C, < 5 ppb Total Organic Carbon, bacteria free (<1 Bacteria (CFU/ml)), pyrogen free (<0.03 Endotoxin (EU/ml)), RNase-free (< 0.01 ng/mL) and DNase-free (< 4 pg/µL)
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND KEY PROPERTIES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 consists of repeating ethylene oxide units: –(CH₂CH₂O)–ₙ.
This simple but highly effective structure gives Polyethylene glycol 6000 its unique physicochemical properties.
*Hydration & Solubility
Strong water-binding capacity ensures excellent solubility and predictable solution behavior.
*Chemical Inertness
Does not interfere with enzyme activity, protein charge, or nucleic acid integrity.
SAFETY GUIDELINES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
*General Safety:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is generally considered non-toxic and safe for use in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food products.
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is non-irritating and non-sensitizing in most cases, though high concentrations or prolonged exposure can lead to skin irritation, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
*Handling and Storage:
Store Polyethylene glycol 6000 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain its stability and prevent degradation.
Use personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles) when handling large quantities to avoid prolonged skin or eye contact.
*Environmental Impact:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is biodegradable, and its environmental impact is relatively low.
However, proper disposal according to local regulations should be followed to minimize any potential environmental harm.
*Regulatory Considerations:
Polyethylene glycol 6000 is approved for use by various regulatory bodies, including the FDA, for specific applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
It is important to adhere to the concentration limits set by these regulatory authorities to ensure safety and efficacy in its intended use.
WHAT IS IT?
Polyethylene glycol, referred to as PEG, is used as an inactive ingredient in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent, plasticizer, surfactant, ointments and suppository base, and tablet and capsule lubricant.
PEG has low toxicity with systemic absorption less than 0.5%.
PEGylation occurs when PEGs are attached to various protein medications, allowing for greater solubility for certain drugs.
Examples of PEGylated medications include PEG-interferon alpha (Pegintron) and PEG-filgrastim (Neulasta).
PEG is also available as a bowel prep for colonoscopy procedures and as a laxative.
PEG 400 indicates the average molecular weight of the specific PEG at 400.
PEG 3350 is a laxative available over-the-counter by the name of Miralax.
In this case, PEG is considered an "active" ingredient, even though systemic absorption is less than 0.5%.
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
Chemical Name: Polyethylene Glycol 6000 (PEG 6000)
CAS Number: 25322‑68‑3
EC (EINECS) Number: 500‑038‑2
Molecular Formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)nOH
Average Molecular Weight: 5000–7000 g/mol
Chemical Class: Polyether polymer (polyethylene glycol family)
Structure: Linear polymer composed of repeating ethylene oxide units terminated by hydroxyl groups
Appearance: White to pale yellow waxy solid, flakes, or powder
Odor: Odorless
Physical State: Solid at room temperature
Melting Point: 55–66 °C
Boiling Point: >250 °C
Flash Point: ~270 °C
Autoignition Temperature: ~420 °C
Density: ~1.2–1.27 g/cm³ (20–25 °C)
Bulk Density: 400–500 kg/m³
Refractive Index: n20/D ≈ 1.469
Vapor Pressure: <0.01 mmHg at 20 °C
Glass Transition Temperature: ~−67 °C
pH (100 g/L aqueous solution): 5–7
Viscosity (50% aqueous solution): approx. 200–270 mPa·s
Water Solubility: Highly soluble in water (~550 g/L)
Solubility in Organic Solvents: Soluble in alcohols and some aromatic solvents; insoluble in diethyl ether and aliphatic hydrocarbons
Hygroscopicity: Slightly hygroscopic
Chemical Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; incompatible with strong oxidizing agents
Storage Temperature: Room temperature; store in a cool, dark place (<15 °C)
HS Code: 3404 20 00
Quality Level: MQ200
Reaxys Registry Number: 8402446
PubChem Substance ID: 87575025
Chemical Name: Polyethylene Glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) – Biotechnology Grade
Linear Formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)nOH
CAS Number: 25322‑68‑3
EC (EINECS) Number: 500‑038‑2
Average Molecular Weight: 5000–7000 g/mol
Molecular Formula (Representative): HOCH₂CH₂(OCH₂CH₂)nOH
Chemical Class: Polyether polymer / polyethylene glycol derivative
Purity: 99%
DNase/RNase: None detected
Charge: Non-ionic and chemically inert
Appearance: White to off-white flakes or powder
Color: White
Odor: Odorless or not determined
Physical State: Solid at room temperature
Melting / Freezing Point: 60–63 °C
Boiling Point: 205–250 °C (partial decomposition at atmospheric pressure)
Flash Point: 138.6 °C (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: 360 °C
Density: 1.116 g/cm³ at 20 °C
Bulk Density: 400–500 kg/m³
Vapor Pressure: <0.1 hPa at 20 °C
Refractive Index: n20/D ≈ 1.469
Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): ~−67 °C
pH (5% aqueous solution): 4.5–7.5
Viscosity (25% aqueous solution at 20 °C): ~20 cS
Solubility:
Highly soluble in water (~256 g/L at 25 °C, OECD 105)
Soluble in ethanol, methanol, and acetone
Slightly soluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons
Insoluble in diethyl ether
Partition Coefficient (log Pow, n-octanol/water): −0.698 at 30 °C (bioaccumulation not expected)
Stability: Stable under normal storage and handling conditions; chemically inert
Storage Conditions: Room temperature in a cool, dark, dry place (<15 °C recommended)
Molecular Formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)nOH
Molecular Weight: Approximately 6000 g/mol
Appearance: White, waxy solid or flakes
Solubility: Soluble in water and various organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, acetone)
FIRST AID MEASURES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.
HANDLING and STORAGE of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 6000:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
