scope:

Specifies a method for the determination of the total polyethlene glycol (PEG) content of aromatic and aliphatic nonionic surfactants of the type R-(O-C₂H_4)-OH,p is the mean ethylene oxide (EO) value to be determined if these substances are present in quantities of not less than approximately 0,1% by weight. The method detects all polyethylene glycol from diethylene flycol upwards. Monomeric ethylene glycol cannot be determined. The method is applicable up to a degree of ethoxylation of at least 25 for products which are soluble in an 80/20 (v/v) mixture of methanol and water. Long-chain products with a low degree of ethoxylation, e.g. tallow alcohol+ 5 EO, are not soluble, and require an amended preliminary treatment.