The compound is a non-ionic surfactant whose main functions include dissolution, solubilisation, moistening and softening. It features a broad range of applications. It is used as an ingredient e.g. in body cosmetics, wood processing and tyre production. Due to a number of advantages, the surfactant is readily chosen for diverse applications.
It belongs to polyethylene glycol polymers with 32 monomers in the polymer chain. The CAS number of the compound is 25322-68-3. The substance comes as a white to light yellow wax with a faint odour. It has strong hygroscopic properties.
PEG-32 dissolves very well in water. pH of a 10% aqueous solution of PEG-32 is slightly acidic to neutral. Besides water, the surfactant dissolves well in organic solvents such as low aliphatic alcohols (methanol and ethanol) and ethylene glycol or propylene glycol. The molar mass of PEG-32 is approx. 1500 g/mol. The density of the substance is approx. 1.08 g/mL (at the temperature of 70ᵒC). The solidification point of the compound is within the range of 42 to 48ᵒC. PEG-32 exhibits good stability and functionality even in hard water.
See below for a list of the basic functions PEG-32 fulfils in products:
PEG-32 is a solvent and solubiliser for active substances and sparingly soluble substances. It considerably increases the solubility of a substance in a dissolving medium. Due to the chemical constitution of its molecule, it contains a fair number of groups such as –H+ or –OH–. They are readily bonded to other groups of dissolved compounds. Additionally, a very good solubility in water results in a relatively easy and even distribution of ingredients in a formulation.
When applied to the skin, it forms a thin film on the skin surface to protect the skin against excessive moisture loss and thus maintains the right moisture level and improves the skin condition. When used in care products, PEG-32 protects the skin against adverse external impacts such as toxins, dirt or bacteria. The moisturising effect of PEG-32 is beneficial for the skin and more. Hair shampoos containing this surfactant, due to proper hydration, soften the hair and make it shiny. Thanks to its moisturizing and water-binding properties, PEG-32 maintains the correct consistency of cosmetics. It is compatible with other compounds that act as moisturisers e.g. in the cosmetic industry (cetyl alcohol, glycerol).
PEG-32 is used e.g. in the production of soap bars. It is used as a plasticiser and binder. In addition, its ability to attract water molecules prevents products such as soaps from drying up excessively and thus their structure does not crack or break up. It is essential from the consumers’ perspective and for the functionality of the product.
It is a component of perfumes. It acts as a perfume fixative. Its presence reduces the evaporation rate of volatile components, so perfumes retain their quality for a longer time and the fragrance changes gradually.
As an anti-adhesive agent, it is used in the processing of rubber, plastics and elastomers. It is a component used in the production of tyres. It acts as a zinc white activator in curing processes.
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has approved PEG-32 for indirect use in the food industry as a lubricant.
PEG-32 is present in a number of articles, mainly cosmetics and care preparations. See below for some examples of applications of PEG-32:
PEG-32 is considered to be a safe ingredient of cosmetics; however, it is not recommended for use in the production of cosmetics for babies. It should not be applied to damaged skin either.
