PEG 400

Polyethylene Glycol · Pharma & Industrial Grade — Bulk supply across India & International Markets

What is PEG 400?

PEG 400, or Polyethylene Glycol 400, is a liquid polyether compound with an average molecular weight of approximately 400 g/mol. The number "400" refers to the average molecular weight, which determines the physical state — PEG 400 is a viscous, clear, colourless to slightly yellow liquid at room temperature, making it one of the most widely used liquid PEG grades commercially.

Polychem Industries supplies PEG 400 in pharmaceutical grade (BP/USP) and industrial grade to pharmaceutical manufacturers, cosmetic formulators, textile processors, and industrial chemical companies across India and internationally. PEG 400's unique combination of water solubility, low toxicity, chemical inertness, and excellent lubricating properties make it one of the most versatile excipients and industrial raw materials available.

Available Grades

GradeFormPurityStandardApplications
Pharma GradeClear viscous liquid99%+BP / USP / IPPharmaceuticals, cosmetics, personal care
Industrial GradeClear viscous liquid98%+IndustrialTextile, industrial lubricants, paper, rubber

Applications & Uses

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Pharmaceutical Formulations

One of the most widely used pharmaceutical excipients globally. Used as a solvent, co-solvent, humectant, and plasticiser in tablets, capsules, topical preparations, suppositories, and injectable formulations.

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Cosmetics & Personal Care

Used in moisturisers, lotions, creams, shampoos, and personal care products as a humectant, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent. Provides a smooth, non-greasy skin feel.

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Textile Processing

Used as a lubricant, softener, and antistatic agent in textile fibre processing. Applied to yarns and fabrics to reduce friction, improve processing efficiency, and improve handle.

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Printing Inks

Used as a solvent and humectant in water-based printing inks for inkjet printers and industrial printing applications. Prevents ink drying in printer heads and improves print quality.

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Industrial Lubricants

Used as a water-soluble lubricant in metalworking fluids, mould release agents, and industrial lubricant formulations where water washability is important.

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Chemical & Research

Used as a solvent and reaction medium in chemical synthesis, as a cryoprotectant in biological research, and as a component in speciality chemical formulations.

Technical Specifications

PEG 400 — Key Properties

Chemical NamePolyethylene Glycol 400
CAS Number25322-68-3
Average Molecular Weight380 – 420 g/mol
AppearanceClear, colourless to slightly yellow viscous liquid
Density1.12 – 1.13 g/cm³ at 20°C
Viscosity (20°C)90 – 110 cSt
pH (5% solution)4.5 – 7.5
Water ContentMax 0.5%
OdourPractically odourless
Packaging200 L drums / IBC tanks

Why Source PEG 400 from Polychem Industries?

  • Pharma Grade (BP/USP/IP) and Industrial Grade available with full documentation
  • Certificate of Analysis and MSDS provided with every supply
  • Consistent quality for pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturers
  • Reliable bulk supply in drums and IBC tanks
  • Competitive pricing with year-round availability
  • Export documentation experience for international shipments

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the "400" in PEG 400 mean?
The number 400 refers to the average molecular weight of the polyethylene glycol polymer in g/mol. PEG with lower molecular weights (200, 300, 400) are liquids at room temperature, while higher molecular weights (1000, 1500, 4000, 6000) are waxy solids. PEG 400 is one of the most widely used liquid grades due to its ideal balance of viscosity, water solubility, and lubricating properties.
Is PEG 400 safe for pharmaceutical use?
Yes — Pharma Grade PEG 400 meeting BP, USP, and IP specifications has been extensively studied and is approved for use in pharmaceutical formulations including oral, topical, and parenteral preparations. It is classified as GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) by the FDA when used as a pharmaceutical excipient at appropriate levels.
What is the difference between Pharma Grade and Industrial Grade PEG 400?
Pharma Grade PEG 400 meets the strict purity requirements of BP, USP, or IP pharmacopoeia including limits on heavy metals, aldehydes, and other impurities. Industrial Grade meets general industrial specifications and is suitable for textile, lubricant, and other non-pharmaceutical applications where pharmacopoeia compliance is not required.
Do you export PEG 400 outside India?
Yes. We export to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and South Africa with full export documentation. Contact us for export pricing and lead times.

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