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PEG 400 and PEG 600 often appear next to each other on a quotation sheet. Their names are similar, and both are liquid grades of Polyethylene Glycol at around 25°C. Even so, replacing one with the other without testing may change how a formulation is mixed, pumped or stored.
The first point to check is molecular weight. Dotachem’s PEG 400 has an average molecular weight of 380–420, while PEG 600 is in the 570–630 range. This difference is reflected in viscosity and hydroxyl value: PEG 400 has an OH value of 267–295 mg KOH/g, compared with 178–196 mg KOH/g for PEG 600.
Pay Attention to Warehouse Temperature
Handling conditions are easy to overlook when comparing these two grades.
PEG 400 has a melting range of about 4–8°C and generally remains easy to transfer under normal warehouse conditions. PEG 600 melts at approximately 18–22°C. On a cold day, it may become noticeably thicker or partly solid.
That does not necessarily indicate a quality problem. The material may simply need suitable warming before it can be pumped or used. Buyers operating in colder regions should therefore discuss storage and unloading conditions before ordering PEG 600.
Item
PEG 400
PEG 600
Average molecular weight
380–420
570–630
Melting range
4–8°C
18–22°C
Water, maximum
0.5%
0.5%
pH, 5% aqueous solution
4.0–7.0
4.0–7.0
Hydroxyl value
267–295 mg KOH/g
178–196 mg KOH/g
Form at 25°C
Liquid
Liquid
Which Grade Fits the Process?
PEG 400 is often preferred when easy handling, lower viscosity and reliable flow at ordinary temperatures matter. PEG 600 may be considered when a higher molecular weight and greater body are required.
The final choice should not be based on the grade number alone. Buyers should evaluate solubility, viscosity, operating temperature and compatibility with other raw materials. A small trial is useful when changing from PEG 400 to PEG 600 in an established formulation.
What Should Buyers Confirm?
Before ordering from a China Polyethylene Glycol supplier, confirm:
- Required PEG grade and average molecular weight
- Hydroxyl value and moisture limit
- Expected storage and processing temperature
- Packaging size and order quantity
- COA, TDS and SDS requirements
- Destination port and delivery schedule
Dotachem provides PEG grades from PEG 200 to PEG 20000. Customers can contact our team with their application and technical requirements to compare suitable grades, confirm current specifications and arrange supply. Professional staff also provide order follow-up and after-sales support throughout the purchasing process.
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