POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL 4000

Polyethylene Glycol 4000 (PEG 4000) is a high-molecular-weight, water-soluble polymer extensively utilized in diverse industries. Known for its non-toxic nature, excellent solubility, and stabilizing properties, PEG 4000 is a vital component in pharmaceutical formulations, cosmetics, and industrial processes.

Applications

1. Pharmaceutical Industry

PEG 4000 is a commonly used excipient in drug formulations due to its biocompatibility and stabilizing properties.

Uses:

• Tablet binder and film-coating agent
• Base for suppositories and topical formulations
• Solubilizer for poorly water-soluble drugs

Benefits:

• Enhances drug stability and delivery
• Provides uniformity in drug formulations
• Safe for oral, topical, and rectal applications

2. Cosmetics and Personal Care

PEG 4000 improves the functionality and texture of various cosmetic products.

Uses:

• Emollient and moisturizer in skincare products
• Thickening agent in creams and lotions
• Base for haircare formulations

Benefits:

• Promotes smooth application
• Retains moisture in skin and hair products
• Non-irritating and skin-friendly

3. Industrial Applications

PEG 4000 plays a critical role in numerous industrial processes.

Uses:

• Lubricant in plastics and rubber manufacturing
• Release agent in molds and adhesives
• Stabilizer in coatings, inks, and resins

Benefits:

• Enhances material processing and product quality
• Provides excellent compatibility with other chemicals
• Improves product longevity

4. Food and Beverage Industry

As a food-grade polymer, PEG 4000 is used in select applications.

Uses:

• Binder in food tablets and supplements
• Coating agent for candies and food items

Benefits:

• Recognized as safe (GRAS) for specific uses
• Improves product consistency and stability

Safety and Handling

Safety Precautions

While PEG 4000 is considered safe, proper precautions must be observed during handling.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear gloves and goggles to prevent direct contact.
• Avoid Inhalation: Use in a well-ventilated environment to avoid inhaling dust.
• Minimize Contact: Avoid prolonged skin or eye contact.

First Aid Measures

• Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical advice if irritation develops.
• Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
• Ingestion: Rinse mouth and drink water. Contact a physician if adverse effects occur.

Storage Guidelines

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep containers tightly closed to prevent contamination.
• Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents.

Environmental Considerations

PEG 4000 is biodegradable and environmentally friendly when used appropriately. Prevent large-scale release into waterways or soil.