Hydroxy Polyethylene Glycol Ether, Hydroxy PEG Ether, Polyethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether, HPEG

HYDROXY POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL ETHER (HPEG) 

Product Name: Hydroxy Polyethylene Glycol Ether (HPEG)
CAS No.: — (Not assigned - polymeric product)
Synonyms: HPEG, Hydroxy PEG Ether, Polyethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (related class)

SECTION 1: PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND EXPLANATION:

HPEG (Hydroxy Polyethylene Glycol Ether) is a polyethylene glycol derivative containing hydroxyl functional groups . It is a non-ionic surfactant consisting of a PEG chain with a terminal hydroxyl (-OH) group. This hydrophilic structure provides excellent water solubility and compatibility with aqueous systems.

HPEG is widely used in water-based polymer synthesis, particularly in polyacrylate superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and dispersion agents . The reactive terminal hydroxyl groups enable high-performance cross-linking and polymerization reactions.

Unlike EPEG (which has a specific CAS number 31497-33-3 ), HPEG is a polymeric product and therefore is not assigned a specific CAS number . HPEG products are identified by technical parameters such as molecular weight (Mn), hydroxyl value, and viscosity rather than a single CAS number.

SECTION 2: TYPICAL PROPERTIES

Note: Values are typical and may vary depending on the specific product grade.

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:

HPEG is typically supplied as a clear to pale liquid or white to off-white flake solid depending on the grade. It is completely soluble in water . The pH of a 1% aqueous solution ranges from 6 to 8.

The hydroxyl value, ranging from 20 to 60 mg KOH/g, indicates the concentration of reactive functional groups. Molecular weight typically ranges from 1000 to 5000 , with higher molecular weight grades providing different viscosity and reactivity characteristics. Viscosity at 25°C ranges from 200 to 800 mPa·s for liquid grades. Flash point is >100°C, indicating it is not a readily flammable liquid.

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:

HPEG's molecular structure features hydroxyl functional groups that provide chemical reactivity for various reactions including esterification (with acids), etherification, and urethane formation (with isocyanates) . This reactivity makes HPEG a versatile building block for polymer synthesis and modification.

In polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PCE) production and superabsorbent polymer (SAP) synthesis, HPEG can be used as a macromonomer that participates in polymerization reactions . The hydroxyl groups can also be derivatized to introduce additional functionality. HPEG is compatible with most aqueous and polar solvent systems and is stable under normal storage conditions.

SECTION 4: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:

HPEG's primary functional role is as a non-ionic surfactant and reactive polymer intermediate. The polyethylene glycol chain provides excellent water solubility and surfactant properties, while the terminal hydroxyl group enables chemical reactivity and polymer modification.

In superabsorbent polymer (SAP) production, HPEG enables high-performance cross-linking that provides superior water absorption capacity . In dispersion and emulsion applications, HPEG acts as an effective stabilizer, preventing particle agglomeration and maintaining system stability .

SECTION 5: APPLICATION AREAS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

APPLICATION AREAS EXPLANATION:

Superabsorbent Polymer (SAP) Production: HPEG is used in the production of superabsorbent polymers for hygiene products including baby diapers, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products . The reactive terminal groups enable cross-linking that provides high water absorption capacity.

Water-Based Acrylic Polymers: HPEG is incorporated as a monomer component in water-soluble acrylic polymers for various applications including coatings, adhesives, and water treatment.

Adhesive and Coating Formulations: HPEG improves properties of water-based adhesive and coating formulations including adhesion, wetting, and film formation.

Dispersion and Emulsion Stabilizers: HPEG acts as an effective non-ionic stabilizer in dispersion and emulsion systems, preventing particle agglomeration and maintaining system stability.

SECTION 6: ADVANTAGES

• Excellent Water Solubility: Completely soluble in water for aqueous applications

• Reactive Hydroxyl Groups: Enables cross-linking, esterification, and polymer modification

• Non-Ionic Surfactant Properties: Provides dispersion and stabilization without ionic interference

• Versatile Molecular Weight Range: Available in 1000-5000 MW for varying applications

• Compatibility: Compatible with wide range of polymers and formulations

• Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions

• Low Toxicity: Generally considered low toxicity for industrial applications

• Effective Cross-Linking: Enables high-performance SAP production

SECTION 7: HANDLING AND STORAGE

STORAGE AND HANDLING EXPLANATION:

HPEG should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area at temperatures between 5-35°C . Keep containers tightly closed in original packaging to prevent moisture absorption and contamination. Protect from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents and strong acids.

Handling Precautions:

• Avoid skin and eye contact

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (safety goggles, protective gloves)

• Use in well-ventilated areas

• Wash thoroughly after handling

SECTION 8: SAFETY AND REGULATORY INFORMATION

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:

• Skin Contact: Wash with plenty of water and soap

• Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes

• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist

• Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical attention if large amount swallowed

• PPE Recommendations: Safety goggles, protective gloves, protective clothing

REGULATORY INFORMATION:

SECTION 9: COMPARATIVE TECHNICAL DATA

COMPARATIVE EXPLANATION:

EPEG has a specific CAS number (31497-33-3) . VPEG and HPEG are polymeric products, therefore they are not assigned specific CAS numbers . These products are identified by technical parameters such as molecular weight (Mn), hydroxyl value, and viscosity .

SECTION 10: SUMMARY AND CRITICAL NOTES

SUMMARY:

Hydroxy Polyethylene Glycol Ether (HPEG) is a polyethylene glycol derivative containing hydroxyl functional groups . It is a non-ionic surfactant supplied as a clear to pale liquid or white to off-white flake solid with complete water solubility. Molecular weight ranges from 1000 to 5000 , with hydroxyl values of 20-60 mg KOH/g.

HPEG is widely used in superabsorbent polymer (SAP) production, water-based acrylic polymers, adhesive and coating formulations, and as a dispersion and emulsion stabilizer . The reactive hydroxyl groups enable cross-linking, esterification, and polymerization reactions.

Unlike EPEG (which has CAS 31497-33-3 ), HPEG is a polymeric product and therefore is not assigned a specific CAS number . HPEG is identified by technical parameters such as molecular weight, hydroxyl value, and viscosity.

HPEG is considered a low-toxicity material, but appropriate personal protective equipment should be used during handling. Store in cool, dry conditions at 5-35°C .

Basic Properties:

Main Application Areas:

Key Safety Points:

• NOT HAZARDOUS: Typically not classified as hazardous under GHS

• IRRITANT: May cause mild skin and eye irritation; use appropriate PPE

• STORAGE: 5-35°C, cool, dry, well-ventilated; protect from light and moisture

• PPE RECOMMENDED: Safety goggles, protective gloves

• CONTAINER: Keep tightly closed

CRITICAL NOTES:

1. Polymeric Product - No CAS Number: HPEG is a polymeric product and therefore is not assigned a specific CAS number . Unlike EPEG (which has CAS 31497-33-3 ), HPEG is identified by technical parameters such as molecular weight (Mn), hydroxyl value, and viscosity .

2. Reactive Hydroxyl Groups: HPEG's terminal hydroxyl groups enable cross-linking, esterification, and urethane reactions, making it a versatile building block for polymer synthesis, especially in SAP production.

3. Superabsorbent Polymer Production: HPEG is widely used in SAP production for hygiene products including diapers, adult incontinence products, and feminine hygiene products. The reactive terminal groups enable high-performance cross-linking.

4. Molecular Weight Variability: Available in 1000-5000 molecular weight grades providing different viscosity and performance characteristics for various applications.

5. Water Solubility: Complete water solubility makes HPEG ideal for aqueous formulations and applications, including water-based acrylic polymers and dispersions.

6. Non-Ionic Nature: As a non-ionic surfactant, HPEG provides dispersion and stabilization without ionic interference, making it compatible with a wide range of formulations.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The information provided is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the product's suitability for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable local, national, and international regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All occupational health and safety rules must be observed when working with HPEG.

Note on CAS Number: HPEG is a polymeric product and therefore is not assigned a specific CAS number . These types of polymeric products are identified by technical parameters such as molecular weight, hydroxyl value, and viscosity. Please consult the manufacturer's specification for detailed product identification.