Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)

PEG is used to fully stabilize green wood. Used soon after the wood has been cut, it enters end grain rapidly and edge grain more slowly; best results are seen with end-grain cuts.

PEG remains as a waxy coating inside cell walls, preventing them from shrinking, expanding, or collapsing. Two types are available.

PEG 1000 has a molecular weight of 1000. At room temperature the solid block has a firm, waxy consistency. It melts around 98°F (37°C). PEG 1450 has a higher molecular weight and its flaked form is easier to dissolve. It takes a bit longer than PEG 1000 to fully permeate and stabilize the wood cells, but it has a higher melting temperature (110°F or 43°C) and is less subject to bleeding at high temperatures or high humidity. Both types use the same mixture ratios (makes one gallon at 50% solution).

To finish wood treated with PEG let the object fully dry; complete any sanding, carving and routing; apply a penetrating oil finish or, for a glossy finish, an epoxy polymer.

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