Polyethylene glycol

Polyethylene glycol (CAS 25322-68-3), commonly abbreviated as PEG and listed as E1521, is a water-soluble polymer available across a broad molecular weight range.

Known in pharmaceutical and industrial markets as Macrogol 4000 and Macrogol 6000, it functions as a humectant, solvent, plasticizer, and rheology modifier across multiple manufacturing sectors.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, PEG serves as a tablet binder, film-coating agent, and suppository base, with specific molecular weight grades selected to control release profiles.

Personal care formulators use it to adjust viscosity, improve spreadability, and carry active ingredients in creams, lotions, and cleansing products for various skin applications.

Textile and paper processors apply PEG as a fiber lubricant and softening agent to reduce friction during production and improve the overall handle of the end-product.

In polymer processing, it acts as a plasticizer and processing aid, improving flow characteristics in resin compounding and extrusion operations for industrial manufacturing.

PEG is supplied as a liquid, semi-solid, or waxy solid depending on molecular weight, with higher grades such as PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 supplied as flakes or powder.

Standard grades include USP/NF, Ph.Eur., BP, and food-grade specifications. Technical-grade material is available for industrial applications where compliance is not required.