Modifying Polyethylene Oxide for Melt-Processability

Water-soluble packaging, disposable articles, and transdermal patches are possible applications for products made using water-soluble PEO.

Generally, high-molecular-weight polyethylene oxide (PEO) can present processing challenges due to its high melt viscosity and poor melt drawability; it can be difficult to form into fine-gauge film or small-diameter fibers. There is the alternative technology of solution casting, which has occasionally been utilized to cast thin films; however, solution casting may not always be practical for large-scale, economically viable film production.