Pentaethylene glycol

Pentaethylene glycol (CAS 4792-15-8), also abbreviated as PEG-5, is a mid-chain polyethylene glycol diol used as a humectant, plasticizer, and solvent.

Where is Pentaethylene glycol used?

• Pharmaceutical formulations: solvent and carrier for active ingredients in topical and semi-solid dosage forms
• Polymer and plastics: plasticizer that improves flexibility and processability in films and coatings
• Textile and leather processing: softening agent and humectant that maintains substrate moisture balance
• Metalworking fluids: lubricant component and carrier in water-miscible cutting and grinding fluid systems
• Its defined five-unit ethylene oxide chain makes it a well-characterized building block for formulators requiring a specific molecular weight fraction.

Good to know: Specification alignment with USP or Ph. Eur. PEG monographs should be confirmed; consult the supplier for regulated applications.

Commercial specifications

• Drum and IBC quantities
• Technical and pharmaceutical-grade specifications
• Buyers verify defined purity thresholds for regulatory requirements