Polyetyleeniglykolin

Polyetyleeniglykolin, commonly referred to as poly(ethylene glycol) or PEG, denotes a family of synthetic polyether compounds built from repeating ethylene oxide units. In its typical form, it is dihydroxyl-terminated with the structure HO-(CH2-CH2-O)n-H, where n indicates the degree of polymerization and determines the molecular weight and physical state.

Polyethylene glycols are generally soluble in water and many organic solvents. They are colorless, odorless, non-volatile, and range from liquids at low molecular weight to waxy solids at higher molecular weights. The physical properties, including viscosity and solubility, depend on the polymer’s molecular weight. PEGs are non-ionic and often function as humectants, solvents, lubricants, and plasticizers in various formulations.

Production and derivatives: PEGs are produced by the polymerization of ethylene oxide, typically initiated by water, glycols, or other diols, and can be further derivatized to create a wide array of PEG-containing materials. End groups can be functionalized to yield reactive PEGs, PEGylated lipids and proteins, or PEG-based excipients and surfactants.

Uses: PEGs are widely used as pharmaceutical excipients and as laxatives (notably PEG 3350), as solvents, stabilizers, and binders in drug formulations, in cosmetics and personal care products, and as lubricants and surfactants in industrial applications. In biomedicine, PEGylation of proteins and drugs is employed to improve solubility, stability, and circulatory half-life.

Safety and handling: PEGs generally exhibit low toxicity and good chemical stability. They are considered safe for many consumer and medical uses, though high-dose or high-MW exposures can cause gastrointestinal effects or irritation in some individuals. Proper handling and adherence to relevant guidelines are advised.