Kemaix · PPG grade selection
For PPG 400 vs PPG 1000 vs PPG 2000, start with the exact product identity and functionality. Then compare hydroxyl value, viscosity under matching test conditions, moisture limits and the requirements of your formulation. The grade number alone cannot establish interchangeability or suitability.
Polypropylene glycol grade selection is a screening task before it becomes a purchasing decision. A useful shortlist combines supplier documents with a controlled application trial. This guide explains what to compare without treating another manufacturer's published values as Kemaix specifications. For the broader distinction between polymer families, see the PEG versus PPG selection guide.
PPG 400 vs 1000 vs 2000: what the numbers leave out
These numbers commonly identify nominal molecular-weight grades. They do not state every property or acceptance limit. Confirm how the supplier defines each designation before comparing products with similar names.
For a published reference, Sanyo Chemical's diol SANNIX PP-400, PP-1000 and PP-2000 show the following relative order. These observations describe that supplier's reference family, not Kemaix specifications or a prediction for every PPG product. See the source table.
| Reference comparison | 400 diol grade | 1000 diol grade | 2000 diol grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydroxyl value within that family | Highest of these three | Intermediate | Lowest of these three |
| Dynamic viscosity at the source's common test temperature | Lowest of these three | Intermediate | Highest of these three |
| What to verify for your candidate | Exact identity and functionality | Exact identity and functionality | Exact identity and functionality |
- 01Identify the productExact grade and functionality
- 02Check hydroxyl valueSpecification and test method
- 03Match viscosity conditionsUnits, temperature and method
- 04Validate in your processControlled bench and pilot trials
- 05Confirm documentsTDS, SDS and available batch COA
A selection workflow, not a performance ranking or replacement guarantee.
The practical question is whether your formulation needs the hydroxyl content and handling properties of the proposed grade. Confirm functionality before applying a diol comparison to a different product type. Do not infer water compatibility, finished-product performance or approval status from this ordering. Keep typical values separate from contractual limits. A product can have an attractive typical value while its permitted variation exceeds your process tolerance. The PPG series collection provides the family overview; obtain current documents for the exact candidate before setting purchasing limits.
Compare functionality and hydroxyl value together
For hydroxyl-functional polyethers, diols have two hydroxyl groups and triols have three. Commercial materials can have an average functionality. Confirm the declared type rather than inferring it from the grade number.
For an ideal hydroxyl-terminated material with known functionality:
Number-average molecular weight ≈ 56,100 × functionality ÷ hydroxyl value (mg KOH/g).
Sanyo's technical information provides the diol and triol relationships. This is an approximate consistency check, not proof of composition or equivalence.
For a reactive formulation, ask your formulation engineer to review hydroxyl equivalents before a replacement trial. An equal-weight substitution can change the reacting proportions even when the material remains within its own specification.
Compare viscosity at the same temperature
A viscosity number needs its test conditions. Before comparing PPG 1000 vs PPG 2000, check temperature, units and the measurement method on both documents.
Dynamic viscosity may be reported in mPa·s or cP. Kinematic viscosity may be reported in mm²/s or cSt. These are different quantities; converting between them requires density under appropriate matching conditions. Do not compare the bare numbers.
Record the sample condition, instrument or method, and temperature. If the suppliers use different conditions, request comparable measurements rather than ranking the grades from unmatched data.
Finally, assess viscosity at your actual process conditions. Pumping, mixing and dosing requirements may differ from the conditions printed on the TDS. Define acceptable handling behavior in your equipment. A nominal grade does not establish a universal heating temperature, mixing procedure or compatibility with water.
Evaluate a replacement grade in a controlled trial
Begin with a recorded baseline for the existing material. Include its exact code, batch, formulation, concentration, mixing sequence, temperature and the tests used to release the finished product.
- Define acceptance criteria. Choose measurable criteria relevant to the application, such as handling viscosity, appearance, stability or a specified finished-product test. Set limits before reviewing results.
- Check document compatibility. Compare chemistry, functionality, hydroxyl value, moisture and relevant specification limits. Resolve unexplained differences before testing.
- Run a bench comparison. Hold the documented formulation and process conditions constant where technically appropriate. For reactive systems, review any necessary equivalent adjustment with the formulation engineer.
- Record differences. Document observations, measurements and deviations. Repeat testing as needed to distinguish a material effect from process variation.
- Confirm at pilot scale. Assess the equipment, residence time and storage conditions relevant to production before approving a change.
Keep the accepted sample and its batch COA as traceable references. A successful bench result supports the next evaluation step; it does not establish performance across every formulation or operating condition. Broader chemistry context is available in the polyalkylene glycol guide.
Request documents for the exact PPG grade
Send each supplier the same comparison checklist. Ask for:
- Exact product code, chemistry and declared functionality.
- Current TDS with revision date, units, test methods and test temperatures where relevant.
- Specification limits identified separately from typical properties.
- Moisture limit and any other application-critical acceptance criteria.
- Current SDS for handling, storage and hazard information.
- Available batch COA showing the relevant release results and batch identity.
- Packaging, quantity, destination and supply terms for your order.
A TDS describes technical properties; an SDS addresses safety information; a batch COA records the reported results for an identified batch. Their roles differ. Check which tests the COA actually covers and how they match your purchase specification.
If a document omits an essential condition, ask for clarification before comparing its value. Review the Kemaix PPG family and request documents for your shortlisted product codes.
PPG grade selection FAQ
Is PPG 2000 better than PPG 1000 or PPG 400?
No grade is universally better. Select against the chemistry, handling requirements and performance criteria of your formulation. A higher nominal grade number is not a quality rating or a guarantee of improved results.
Can I replace PPG 1000 with PPG 2000 at the same dosage?
Do not assume a direct replacement. Compare functionality, hydroxyl value and other relevant properties, then test. Reactive formulations may require an equivalent-based review before evaluating a revised dosage.
Does the same PPG number mean the same product across suppliers?
It does not establish equivalence. Confirm exact product identity, specification limits and test conditions. Compare batch information and application results rather than relying on the designation alone.
Does a PPG family name establish food or pharmaceutical suitability?
No. Any intended regulated use needs documentation applicable to the exact grade, use and destination. General chemistry descriptions and approval statements for a different product do not establish suitability for your purchase.
Send your PPG selection brief
For a grade review, send the candidate PPG codes, intended application, current material and the properties you need to match. Include process temperature, relevant formulation conditions, target quantity and destination.
Specify which documents you need, such as TDS, SDS or an available batch COA. If you have purchasing limits or a trial protocol, attach them so the review addresses those requirements.
Ask Kemaix to review the candidate grade and confirm document and supply availability for the proposed order. Sample arrangements and commercial terms require confirmation for the specific inquiry.
