POLYETHYLENE GLYCOLS
Prepared at the 31st JECFA (1987), published in FNP 38 (1988) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 61st JECFA (2003). An ADI of 0-10 mg/kg bw was established at the 23rd JECFA (1979)
SYNONYMS PEG, Macrogol; INS No. 1521
DEFINITION Addition polymers of ethylene oxide and water usually designated by a number roughly corresponding to the molecular weight.
Chemical names alpha-Hydro-omega-hydroxypoly (oxy-1,2-ethanediol)
C.A.S. number 25322-68-3
Chemical formula (C2H4O)n+1H2O
Structural formula HOCH2 - (CH2 - O - CH2)n - CH2OH
Formula weight 200-9500
DESCRIPTION PEG's below 700 molecular weight occur as clear to slightly hazy, colourless, slightly hygroscopic liquids with a slight characteristic odour.
PEG's between 700-900 are semi-solid. PEG's over 1000 molecular weight are creamy white waxy solids, flakes, or free-flowing powders.
FUNCTIONAL USES Carrier solvent, excipient
