Polyethylene Oxide (PEO)

Polyethylene oxide (PEO) is a high–molecular weight, water-soluble polymer. Structurally, it is identical to polyethylene glycol (PEG) but distinguished from it in being higher in molecular weight. As such, it is considered a relatively safe, nontoxic chemical for aqueous solution formulations. PEO is a nonionic polymer that is highly water retentive and lubricious and is used in a diverse array of applications. PEO polymers are used as thickeners, lubrication aids, film formers, flocculants, and binders. In coating, ink, and adhesive applications, they help control viscosity to specifications that improve workability. In adhesive applications, PEO provides a unique functionality in terms of exhibiting good wet tack and drying completely without tack, resulting in toweling and tissue adhesives that repulp more easily. In water treatment applications, PEO provides high binding and flocculating ability for silaceous and fibrous materials present in mining and papermaking processes. PEO is sold under the POLYOX™ and UCARFLOC™ brands of products from IFF.