Polyethylene glygol (PEG)

[ScubaGirlCC]

Does anyone know where I can purchase some Polyethylene glygol (PEG) 4000. I have some wooden artifacts I need to preserve? I searched the internet and came up with nothing!

Thanks.

 

[Schwim]

You could try calling your local pharmacist or a hospital pharmacist. They use it as a medium for concocting suspensions.

I was able to get some this way when trying to find cheap humidor "primer" you could also check out cigar/humidor suppliers.

 

[diversteve]

Isn't it glyCol?

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000 - Google Product Search

One source: Gallade Chemical Shopping Cart

 

[foles1972]

Hi ScubaGirlCC!

 

[oxyhacker]

Fine woodworking suppliers usually carry PEG for stabilizing green wood, but it's usually PEG 1000. Miralax, a readily available OTC laxative, is PEG 3350.

How important is it that you use 4000?

 

[savantblanc]

What about RV antifreeze? You can buy it by the gallon @ walmart.
Wouldn't a higher molecular weight decrease solubility?

 

[oxyhacker]

It's not the same thing at all. Polypropylene vs polyethylene. Or something like that.

What about RV antifreeze?

 

[two.crows]

I buy all practically all chemicals from Sigma/Aldrich - this one is probably what you want (~$30/kg).

Good luck.
(I assume you know how to use it.)

 

[ScubaGirlCC]

It was just suggested to use the 4000. I am open to ideas and suggestions for what works best and is somewhat economical too.

I had a friend who tried antifreeze before and it just turned the wood really green.

 

[captainfizz]

Have you read "History Under The Sea" by Mendel Peterson? Good book on preservation. Also there are other ways to preserve wooden items. Carl Fismer