PEG-8 is a polyethylene glycol with polymerization level 8 which means that it contains 8 -CH2CH2O- groups. It has relatively a low molecular weight and is readily soluble in water, alcohols, esters, glycol ethers, ketones, and aromatic solvents, similar to its closest relatives from PEG-6 to PEG-10. It is a clear and colorless liquid at room temperature.
The solubility of the polyethylene glycols decreases as their molecular weight or polymerization level increases. They are virtually insoluble in aliphatic hydrocarbons, ethers, natural and mineral oils.
PEG-8 can be used to modify the viscosity of liquids, and as an intermediate in organic syntheses. It is a stable ingredient, resistant to moderately strong acids, alkalis, and salt solutions. Generally speaking, PEG-8 is fairly inert, with a boiling point over 300°C, and is therefore considered non-volatile.