POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (E1521)

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521), also known as PEG or Macrogol, is a synthetic polyether compound produced by ring-opening polymerization of ethylene oxide, available as a clear viscous liquid or white waxy solid depending on molecular weight.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is authorized in the EU as a food additive in the functional class of carriers, permitted in tabletop sweeteners in powder and tablet form at quantum satis, and in food supplements in capsule and tablet form up to 10,000 mg/kg.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is widely used in pharmaceuticals as a laxative excipient and drug delivery agent, in cosmetics as an emulsifier and humectant, and in industrial applications as a lubricant, surfactant, and antifoaming agent.

CAS Number: 25322-68-3
EC Number: 500-038-2
Molecular Formula: HO(C2H4O)nH
Molecular Weight: Variable (380 to 9,000 g/mol for food-grade; custom ranges available)

Synonyms: Polyethylene Glycol, PEG, E1521, Macrogol, Polyethylene Oxide, Polyoxyethylene, Poly(oxyethylene), Carbowax, PEO, α-Hydro-ω-hydroxypoly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is a water-soluble polymer composed of repeating oxyethylene units -[CH2CH2O]n-, tasteless, odorless, and colorless, with properties that vary significantly depending on its average molecular weight.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is soluble in water, alcohol, toluene, acetone, and dichloromethane, and insoluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons such as cyclohexane and hexane.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is hygroscopic and non-volatile, making it suitable as a plasticizer and humectant, and exhibits proven chemical stability to heat, bases, reducing agents, oxygen, and oxidizing agents.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is the first synthetic polymer granted FDA certification and is recognized as one of the most biocompatible synthetic polymers globally, validated by over 30 years of clinical pharmaceutical practice.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) at room temperature varies in physical state depending on molar mass: liquid grades such as PEG-400 and PEG-600 are clear viscous liquids, while solid grades such as PEG-1000, PEG-2000, PEG-3350, PEG-4000, PEG-6000, and PEG-8000 are white waxy or paraffin-like solids.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) has an acceptable daily intake of 10 mg/kg body weight per day in accordance with European directive requirements.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is suitable for vegetarians and vegans as it is produced from synthetic petrochemical sources containing no animal-derived ingredients.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is declared on food ingredient lists under the names polyethylene glycol, PEG, or its E number E1521.

Uses of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used as a carrier substance, coating agent, humectant, emulsifier, antifoaming agent, thickener, and binder in food products including confectionery, chewing gum, tabletop sweeteners, flavored water-based drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, concentrated drinks, and food supplements.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in surface treatments on fresh fruit, and its properties allow it to slow down or prevent drying out of certain foods, limit crystallization in confectionery, and give products a glossy finish.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in pharmaceuticals as an osmotic laxative (PEG 3350) for treating constipation, in bowel preparation, and in toxicological urgent cases to promote intestinal irrigation.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in PEGylation, where PEG molecules are covalently attached to drugs, peptides, or proteins to increase solubility, reduce immunogenicity, and extend half-life in the bloodstream, with applications in cancer, hepatitis, and autoimmune disease treatments.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in drug delivery systems including nanoparticles, liposomes, and hydrogels for gene therapy and tissue engineering, providing scaffolds for cell growth and delivering cells or bioactive molecules to specific sites in the body.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used as an excipient in tablets, coated tablets, and capsules, functioning as a binder, stabilizer, and coating agent in pharmaceutical formulations.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in cosmetics and personal care products including creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, liquid soaps, deodorants, lipsticks, toothpastes, dental cleaning tablets, personal lubricants, hand sanitizers, and insect repellents as a thickener, emulsifier, humectant, lubricant, and viscosity agent.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in contact lenses to enhance comfort by reducing protein deposits and increasing hydration.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used as an anti-fouling coating on medical devices, implants, and biosensors to reduce protein adsorption and cell adhesion, minimizing immune response and fouling in biological environments.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used as a cryoprotectant in cell and tissue preservation to protect cells, tissues, and organs from damage during freezing and thawing by preventing ice crystal formation.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in industrial applications as a lubricant for metalworking and rubber processing, as an antifoaming agent in industrial processes, and in the formulation of water-based paints and coatings.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used as a solvent in printer inks and for the manufacture of paintball ammunition.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in molecular biology for the precipitation of proteins, as a fusing agent in hybridoma formation, for the separation and purification of biomolecules, and for the induction of cell hybridization.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in biomolecular research to obtain somatic hybrids via cell fusion, to promote protein crystallization, and as a precipitating agent in PEG fractionation.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in wastewater treatment in the formulation of flocculants and coagulants for the aggregation of suspended particles, and in soil stabilization to reduce erosion and improve water retention in agricultural applications.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in microelectronics as a component in photoresists for the photolithography process in the manufacture of semiconductors and printed circuit boards.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used by archaeologists to preserve and restore waterlogged wood, and in the management of hepatitis C where its effect on the bioavailability of interferon is beneficial.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is used in the manufacture of raw materials for the metallurgical, petrochemical, textile, household chemical, paint and varnish, rubber, paper, glass and ceramics, and plastics industries.

Benefits or Advantages of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is recognized as one of the most biocompatible synthetic polymers globally, with the lowest uptake by proteins and cells among synthetic polymers, and is the first synthetic polymer granted FDA certification.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is versatile across multiple industries including food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications, providing carrier, humectant, emulsifier, thickener, lubricant, and antifoaming functions in a single material.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is chemically stable to heat, bases, reducing agents, oxygen, and oxidizing agents, ensuring reliable performance across a wide range of processing and storage conditions.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is non-flammable and non-volatile, posing no risk of fire or explosion under normal conditions of use, making it safer to handle than many alternative solvents and carriers.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is water-soluble and highly biocompatible, allowing it to be used in biomedical applications and enabling renal clearance from the body, supporting its use in pharmaceutical formulations.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) can be tailored to specific molecular weights and end-group functionalities, allowing precise customization for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or industrial applications.

Features of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is tasteless, odorless, and colorless, available as a clear viscous liquid for lower molecular weight grades or as a white waxy solid for higher molecular weight grades.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is hygroscopic and may absorb moisture from the air, requiring containers to be kept tightly closed after each use.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) has viscosity that decreases as temperature rises and melting points that vary with molecular weight, for example approximately 35 to 40 degrees C for PEG-1000 and approximately 44 to 45 degrees C for PEG-2000.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is available in pharmaceutical grade (purity up to 99.5%, USP/EP/BP standard) and food grade, with molecular weight ranges from PEG-400 to PEG-8000 for standard commercial grades and custom ranges available.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is not biodegradable but is readily eliminated by the kidneys due to its water solubility and hydrophilic nature at lower molecular weights.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) may release small amounts of formaldehyde upon thermal decomposition, which should be considered in high-temperature processing applications.

Chemical Properties of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is a linear polyether polymer with the repeating chemical structure -[CH2CH2O]n-, synthesized via ring-opening polymerization of ethylene oxide using alkaline catalysts such as sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, or sodium carbonate.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) has a chemical formula of HO(C2H4O)nH, and the term PEG refers to molecules with a molar mass below 20,000 g/mol, while above this value polymers are called PEO (polyethylene oxide).

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is stable under normal conditions and has low reactivity, but should be kept away from strong oxidizing agents and highly reactive chemicals.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) thermal decomposition or combustion may produce carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is highly biocompatible, not hydrolytically dissociated in vivo, and its hydrophilic functionalities confer enhanced water affinity, contributing to its suitability for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.

Production and Chemical Reactions of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is produced by ring-opening polymerization of ethylene oxide, a petrochemical derivative, using either alkaline catalysis (stopped by addition of an acid such as lactic acid) or basic catalysis (stopped by addition of slightly alkaline water).
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) ethylene oxide monomer is itself derived from ethylene, produced from petroleum or natural gas, via catalytic oxidation.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) molecular weight is controlled by the polymerization conditions, with in-process monitoring to stop the reaction at the desired chain length.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) can also be functionalized with reactive terminal groups such as hydroxyl, amine, carboxyl, NHS, aldehyde, or maleimide for specialized pharmaceutical and biomedical applications.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) quality control checks parameters such as average molecular weight, PDI (polydispersity index), appearance, purity, moisture content, and heavy metal content.

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Handling of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) should be handled in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practices.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) handling requires avoiding breathing dust when handling solid grades, avoiding contact with eyes, and avoiding prolonged skin contact.

Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) should be used in a well-ventilated area with local exhaust ventilation when dust may be generated from solid grades.
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) handling requires washing hands thoroughly after handling and not eating, drinking, or smoking while using the product.

SDS of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Stability and Reactivity of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Chemical stability:
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is stable under normal recommended storage and handling conditions.

Reactivity:
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) has low reactivity under normal use conditions.
It should be kept away from strong oxidizing agents and highly reactive chemicals.

Conditions to avoid:
Excessive heat.
Open flames and sparks.
Direct sunlight.
Moisture absorption.
Dust generation for solid grades.

Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents.
Strong acids.
Strong bases.
Highly reactive chemicals.

Hazardous decomposition products:
Carbon monoxide (CO).
Carbon dioxide (CO2).

Handling and Storage of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Handling:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practices.
Avoid breathing dust when handling solid grades.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.

Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at 15 to 25 degrees C.
Keep containers tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption.
Store in sealed containers such as HDPE containers, steel drums, lined drums, or IBCs.
Protect from moisture, humidity, excessive heat, contamination, and strong oxidizing agents.
Typical shelf life is 24 to 36 months when unopened and stored properly.

First Aid Measures of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
Seek medical attention if symptoms such as breathing difficulty or respiratory discomfort persist.

Skin contact:
Wash affected area with soap and plenty of water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Seek medical attention if irritation or discomfort continues.

Eye contact:
Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
Continue rinsing and seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water and drink plenty of water.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel.
Seek medical attention if a large amount has been swallowed as it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea.

Notes for physician:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote is required.

Firefighting Measures of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Suitable extinguishing media:
Water spray.
Carbon dioxide (CO2).
Dry chemical powder.
Foam.

Specific hazards:
Polyethylene Glycol (E1521) is combustible but not easily ignited under normal conditions.
Flash point is generally above 200 degrees C for most grades.
Combustion may produce carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

Protective equipment for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Wear full protective clothing during firefighting operations.

Firefighting advice:
Cool exposed containers with water spray from a safe distance.
Prevent contaminated firefighting water from entering drains, soil, or waterways.

Accidental Release Measures of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Personal precautions:
Ensure adequate ventilation.
Avoid breathing dust from solid grades.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment.
Spilled PEG, especially solid PEG on floors, may create slippery surfaces; clean up spills immediately.

Environmental precautions:
Prevent large quantities from entering drains, surface water, groundwater, or soil.

Cleanup methods:
For solid material, collect carefully while avoiding dust generation.
For liquid material, absorb with inert material such as sand, earth, or vermiculite.
Collect into suitable labeled waste containers.
Wash contaminated surfaces with water and detergent.
Dispose of according to local regulations.

Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):

Engineering controls:
Provide adequate general ventilation.
Use local exhaust ventilation when dust may be generated from solid grades.
Eyewash stations should be available in handling areas.

Respiratory protection:
Not normally required under standard handling conditions with adequate ventilation.
Use an approved respirator suitable for particulates or organic vapors if dust, mist, or aerosol is generated.

Eye protection:
Wear safety glasses with side shields or chemical safety goggles when splashing or dust exposure is possible.

Hand protection:
Wear nitrile rubber or other suitable chemical-resistant gloves when prolonged or repeated contact may occur.

Skin and body protection:
Wear suitable work clothing, lab coat, or protective apron when handling large quantities or when splashing may occur.

Hygiene measures:
Wash hands after use.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling the product.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.

Identifiers of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
E Number: E1521
CAS No.: 25322-68-3
EC No.: 500-038-2
MDL Number: MFCD00081839
RTECS Number: TQ4027000
Function: Carrier, coating agent, humectant, emulsifier, antifoaming agent, thickener, binder, lubricant, pharmaceutical excipient

Properties of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Physical state: Liquid (low MW grades) or solid (high MW grades)
Appearance: Clear colorless viscous liquid (PEG-400 to PEG-600) or white waxy solid (PEG-1000 and above)
Odor: Odorless
Taste: Tasteless
Color: Colorless
Density: Approximately 1.115 g/cm3 at 20 degrees C
Melting point: Varies by grade; approximately -15 degrees C for PEG-200; 35 to 40 degrees C for PEG-1000; 44 to 45 degrees C for PEG-2000
Boiling point: Approximately 197 degrees C (PEG-200); approximately 388 degrees F (PEG-8000)
Flash point: Generally above 200 degrees C (232 degrees F for PEG-8000)
Autoignition temperature: Approximately 775 degrees F
Vapor pressure: 0.06 mmHg at 20 degrees C; 1 mmHg at approximately 127 degrees C
Vapor density: 2.14 (vs air)
Solubility in water: Readily soluble; miscible with water
Solubility in organic solvents: Soluble in alcohol, toluene, acetone, dichloromethane; insoluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons
Hygroscopic: Yes
Flammable: Combustible but not easily ignited
Explosive: No risk of explosion

Specifications of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Chemical name: Polyethylene Glycol (Macrogol)
Molecular weight range (food grade): 380 to 9,000 g/mol
Purity (pharmaceutical grade): Up to 99.5%
Appearance: Colorless viscous liquid or white waxy solid depending on grade
ADI: 10 mg/kg body weight per day (EU)
Maximum permitted level in food supplements (capsule/tablet): 10,000 mg/kg
Permitted use in tabletop sweeteners: Quantum satis (powder and tablet form)
Storage temperature: 15 to 25 degrees C
Shelf life: 24 to 36 months when properly stored in sealed containers
Container materials: HDPE, steel drums, lined drums, IBC containers

Names of Polyethylene Glycol (E1521):
Polyethylene Glycol
PEG
E1521
Macrogol
Polyethylene Oxide
Polyoxyethylene
Poly(oxyethylene)
Carbowax
PEO
α-Hydro-ω-hydroxypoly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)
Polyethanediol
Polyoxyethylene Glycol