Functional Monomers

Poly(ethylene glycol) Dimethacrylate (PEGDMA)

Poly (ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate, identified by CAS Number 25852-47-5, is a high-performance bifunctional monomer that serves as a cornerstone in the development of advanced polymeric networks. As a dimethacrylate ester of polyethylene glycol, this compound acts as a versatile crosslinking agent, uniquely combining the reactive precision of methacrylate groups with the inherent hydrophilicity and flexibility of the PEG backbone. In the global specialty chemicals market, PEGDMA is recognized for its ability to produce swellable, biocompatible hydrogels and resilient coatings. Its chemical structure allows for the creation of tailored three-dimensional structures through free-radical or photo-initiated polymerization. Whether utilized in high-tech medical devices, dental resins, or sophisticated industrial coatings, PEGDMA provides a critical balance of structural integrity and aqueous compatibility. This makes it an indispensable component for researchers and manufacturers aiming to engineer materials with specific diffusion, mechanical, and surface properties in both aqueous and organic environments.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Superior Hydrophilicity: The PEG chain ensures excellent water affinity and moisture retention in cured systems.
Exceptional Flexibility: Offers greater chain mobility and impact resistance compared to short-chain crosslinkers.
High Purity: Rigorous manufacturing standards ensure minimal residual impurities for consistent batch-to-batch polymerization.
Low Volatility: Enhances safety during handling and processing.
Customizability: Available in various molecular weights to tune crosslink density and pore size.
Biocompatibility: Frequently selected for medical-grade applications due to its non-toxic profile and low immunogenicity.
Dual Curing Pathways: Compatible with both thermal and UV-induced polymerization processes for manufacturing versatility.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Physical State: Clear, colorless to slightly yellowish liquid at room temperature.
Solubility: Excellent solubility in water, alcohols, and various polar organic solvents.
Stabilization: Typically inhibited with Hydroquinone or MEHQ to ensure shelf-life stability and prevent autopolymerization.
Reactive Groups: Features two terminal methacrylate groups for efficient network formation.
Viscosity: Low to medium viscosity depending on the specific PEG chain length.
Storage Conditions: Must be stored in a cool, dark environment, preferably under refrigeration (2-8°C), to maintain reactive efficacy.
Compatibility: Easily copolymerized with other acrylic or methacrylic monomers to modify final polymer characteristics.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Biomedical Engineering: Core material for synthesizing hydrogel scaffolds, wound dressings, and soft contact lenses.
Dental Materials: Utilized in the formulation of dental composites, sealants, and adhesive resins for improved toughness.
3D Printing: A key ingredient in photocurable resins for SLA and DLP technologies, providing flexibility to printed parts.
Industrial Coatings: Employed in the production of hydrophilic coatings, anti-fog treatments, and flexible surface finishes.
Drug Delivery: Used to create controlled-release matrices and nanocarriers for targeted pharmaceutical applications.
Specialty Adhesives: Enhances bond strength and flexibility in moisture-sensitive adhesive formulations.