Methoxypolyethylene glycols

Methoxypolyethylene glycols (CAS 9004-74-4), abbreviated MPEG and also marketed as Polyethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether, are mono-end-capped PEG derivatives used as solubilizers, carriers and surface modifiers.

Where is Methoxypolyethylene glycols used?

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: carrier and solubilizer in drug delivery systems, including PEGylation of active compounds to extend circulation time and improve bioavailability
• Personal care: humectant and texture modifier in skin creams, serums and hair conditioners, improving spreadability without tackiness
• Industrial cleaning: low-foaming surfactant component and coupling agent that stabilizes mixed solvent systems
• Polymer chemistry: macromonomer for grafting onto polyurethane, acrylic or cement-based systems, improving dispersion and reducing particle agglomeration
• The terminal methoxy group blocks one reactive end for controlled reactivity and steric stabilization.

Good to know: Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to USP and Ph. Eur. specifications; technical-grade product serves polymer and industrial cleaning applications where high purity is still essential.

Commercial specifications

• Common grades from MPEG 350 to MPEG 5000