Polyethylene glycol, also known as antifreeze, is a petroleum-derived compound that is made from ethylene glycol, the main ingredient in antifreeze. It is also known by other names such as polyethylene oxide or polyoxyethylene. Polyethylene glycols are non-toxic, neutral, odorless, lubricating, moisture-absorbing, non-volatile, and non-flammable compounds.
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) has a wide range of chemical applications due to its low toxicity, which allows for its use in various products. This polymer is used as a lubricating coating for many water-based and non-water-based surfaces and environments.
PEG is also used in gas chromatography.
It is utilized for preserving objects that have been removed from underwater. This substance can replace water in wood and prevent it from changing shape as it dries.
Polyethylene glycol is used in mass spectrometry experiments.
