Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – Polyethylene glycol 20,000
Quantity/Pack Size – 1000g, 250g
Form – Powder
Grade – Laboratory Grade
Application – Protein crystallization, molecular biology, biochemical assays
Product Overview
Polyethylene glycol 20,000 (PEG 20000) is a high-molecular-weight, water-soluble polymer widely used in laboratory settings for its unique properties. This laboratory-grade PEG is synthesized through polymerization of ethylene oxide, resulting in a non-toxic, non-irritating compound with excellent solubility in water and organic solvents. Its high molecular weight makes it particularly suitable for applications requiring precise control over osmotic pressure, such as protein crystallization, where it helps stabilize proteins and induce crystal formation. PEG 20000 is also valued in molecular biology for its ability to precipitate nucleic acids and proteins, facilitating purification processes. The polymer’s inert nature ensures minimal interference with biochemical reactions, making it a reliable choice for sensitive assays. Its hygroscopic properties allow it to maintain moisture balance in formulations, while its low volatility ensures stability under varying experimental conditions. This grade of PEG is rigorously tested to meet stringent purity standards, ensuring consistency in research applications. Whether used as a precipitating agent, stabilizer, or crystallization medium, PEG 20000 delivers reproducible results, making it an essential reagent in modern laboratories.
FAQs
1. What is the solubility of polyethylene glycol 20,000 in water?
Polyethylene glycol 20,000 is highly soluble in water, forming clear, colorless solutions at room temperature. The solubility decreases slightly with increasing molecular weight but remains excellent for most laboratory applications.
2. Can this PEG be used for cell culture applications?
While PEG 20000 is generally non-toxic, its high molecular weight may limit its use in certain cell culture applications. Lower molecular weight PEGs are typically preferred for cell culture media to avoid potential osmotic stress.
3. How should polyethylene glycol 20,000 be stored for long-term use?
Store PEG 20000 in a tightly sealed container at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keeping it in a desiccator can help prevent hygroscopic absorption of atmospheric moisture over extended storage periods.
4. What alternatives exist for protein crystallization if PEG 20000 is unavailable?
Alternatives include PEG 8000, PEG 4000, or other molecular weight variants depending on the specific crystallization requirements. Ammonium sulfate or sodium chloride can also be used as precipitating agents in some cases.
5. Does PEG 20000 affect enzyme activity in biochemical assays?
PEG 20000 is generally inert and does not interfere with most enzyme activities at typical working concentrations. However, high concentrations may alter reaction kinetics due to increased viscosity or osmotic effects.
