CARBOWAX™ SENTRY™ Polyethylene Glycol 400 NF, Macrogol 400 Ph. Eur.

What is CARBOWAX™ SENTRY™ Polyethylene Glycol 400 NF, Macrogol 400 Ph. Eur.?

It is a water-soluble linear polymer with an average molecular weight of 400 g/mol. It is a clear, viscous liquid that is easy to handle and ideal for formulations requiring moisture retention, smooth texture, or enhanced solubility. Its terminal hydroxyl groups allow for chemical modification, making it a versatile intermediate in synthesis. Whether developing topical creams, oral solutions, or chemical intermediates, CARBOWAX™ SENTRY™ Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) 400 delivers consistent performance and reliability. Country of Origin: United States of America.

Uses

Pharmaceuticals excipients
Indirect food additives / food contact
Cosmetic ingredients
Personal care ingredients - INCI Name: PEG-8
Chemical intermediates

Benefits

Excellent Solubilizer – Enhances solubility of poorly water-soluble APIs, improving bioavailability.
Versatile Excipient – Acts as a solvent, plasticizer, humectant, and carrier across oral and topical formulations.
High Compatibility – Works well with a wide range of APIs and excipients, supporting flexible formulation design.
Low Volatility – Offers formulation stability due to its low vapor pressure and thermal stability.
Proven Safety – Safe for pharmaceutical use with a well-established safety profile.
Moisture Retention – Functions as a humectant in topical products, helping maintain hydration and product integrity.
Biodegradability – Readily biodegradable based on testing with OECD 301D.

Happy woman buying medicine at pharmacy store

CARBOWAX™ SENTRY™ Polyethylene Glycols

Select the right CARBOWAX™ SENTRY™ Polyethylene Glycols and Methoxypolyethylene Glycols to meet your needs. 

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Properties

Certifications & Standards
Certifications	Halal, Kosher
cGMP Status	Cosmetic, Excipient, Food Contact/Indirect Food Additive
Compendial Compliance	Ph.Eur., USP-NF
Food Contact Clearance (FDA 21 CFR)	Food Contact/Indirect Food Additive

Sustainability & Safety
Biodegradation	Readily

Typical Properties
Average Hydroxl Number	264 - 300 mg KOH/g
Freezing Range	4 - 8 °C
Heat of Fusion	36 Cal/g
Melting or Freezing Range	4 – 8 °C
Molecular Weight	380 – 420 g/mol
Product Form	Liquid
Solubility	Acetone, Aliphatic Hydrocarbons, Ethanol, Isopropanol, Oils and Fats, Practically Insoluble in Ethers, Readily Soluble in Water
Vapor Pressure (at 20°C)	<0.01 mmHg
Viscosity (100°C)	6.8 – 8.0 cSt