Polyethylene glycol, M.W. ∼ 3,400, white powder

Supplier: MP Biomedicals

Synonyms: Poly(ethylene oxide), Macrogol, PEO, PEG, Carbowax

02151916.5 0215191601 0215191602
ICNA02151916.5EA 233 SGD
ICNA02151916.5 ICNA0215191601 ICNA0215191602
Polyethylene glycol, M.W. ∼ 3,400, white powder
Polyethylene glycol

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a condensation polymer of ethylene oxide and water. PEGs are susceptible to oxidative degradation in the presence of air. Minimizing the exposure of PEG to elevated temperatures and/or exposure to oxygen, or addition of an antioxidant can limit the amount of degradation. PEGs do not hydrolyze or deteriorate upon storage. PEGs do not support the growth of molds. PEG is incompatible with phenol and may reduce the antimicrobial action of other preservatives.


  • Auto Ignition: 581 °F (Lit.)
  • Vapor Density: >1 (vs air) (Lit.)
  • Vapor Pressure: <0.01 mmHg at 20 °C (Lit.)


PEG has been used in the precipitation of proteins, as a fusing agent in enhancing the effect of macrophages on hybridoma, in the separation and purification of biomolecules, and in induction of cell hybridization PEG has also been used to recover pathogenic viruses and human rotaviruses from water, oyster and sediment samples. PEG has demonstrated to have anticell proliferation and antitumor effects via induction of apoptosis.


Soluble in aqueous solution (100 mg/mL-clear, colorless solution)


Caution: Research Use Only (RUO).

Formula: H(OCH₂CH₂)nOH
Melting Pt: 55…65 °C
Density: 1,1…1.2 g/mL (lit.)
Storage Temperature: Ambient
MDL Number: MFCD00081839
CAS Number: 25322-68-3

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Specification Test Results

Identity Test Passes
FTIR Conforms to Reference
Melting Point 55-65°C
pH (5% aq soln) 4.5-7.5

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