Recently, materials science has made significant advances, with
numerous applications across various industries. One such innovation that has
gained enormous attention is polyacrylate-based superabsorbent polymers. They
are extraordinary substances that possess the remarkable capacity to absorb and
retain large quantities of liquids, which can prove vital in a variety of
different sectors, right from personal care products, agriculture to medical
applications and beyond.
Polyacrylate
based Super Absorbent Polymer is composed up of acrylic acid blended with sodium hydroxide to
form a three-dimensional network structure that can absorb 300 – 400 times
water and retain large amounts of liquid relative to its own weight. The
ability of water retention polymer depends upon the ionic concentration of an aqueous
solution. These polymers, also known as
SAP, play a crucial role in water management, moisture retention, and enhancing
the efficiency of various industries.
Let us understand some properties of Sodium based SAP.
·
High Absorbency: Possess the ability to absorb hundreds of times their weight in
water.
·
Swelling Capacity: Upon absorbing water, acrylate polymer experiences extensive
swelling, forming a gel-like substance that locks the liquid securely within
it.
·
Retention under Pressure: Maintains their absorbency even
under pressure.
Two
most commonly used SAPs are Sodium Polyacrylate and Potassium Polyacrylate
where the former finds usage in industrial applications whereas the latter, in
agriculture. The extraordinary and remarkable absorption power of these
polymers is due to their unique chemical structure and the presence of
cross-linked polyacrylate chains. For instance, a small amount, when exposed to
liquid, can transform into a gel-like substance within seconds. This property
has led to their widespread use in various applications where moisture
management is essential. In addition to their outstanding absorption capacity,
SAPs are non-toxic and can be synthesized from renewable resources, further
enhancing their sustainability profile.
Common Applications of Sodium Polyacrylate polymer
·
It is commonly used in hygiene products such as diapers,
protective garments, etc.
·
In the medical field, polyacrylate-based SAPs find application in
wound dressings.
·
It is also useful for many applications like Artificial Snow,
Surgical dryers, Reusable hot/cold packs, ice gel packs, food packaging, and
fire protection.
·
It is a valuable aid in the propagation of seedlings, promoting
their successful establishment and growth.
Chemtex Speciality Limited has been supplying polyacrylate based super
absorbent polymer to various industries such as detergent and soap
manufacturing processes, wastewater treatment plants (where the molecules bind
metal ions present in hard water with dirt and other contaminants, laundry, housekeeping
chemicals formulators, etc. Due to its remarkably high absorption capacity and
speed, Sodium Polyacrylate boasts a diverse array of uses in the production and
processing of Fire-Retardant Gel, Candles, Protective Garments, Sanitary
Napkins, Diapers, Insecticides, Pesticides, Herbicides, Composites, Laminates,
Hot and Cold Therapy Packs, as well as various other related applications. Furthermore,
this water-absorbing polymer plays a crucial role in safeguarding electrical
and optical cables against moisture. When applied to the conductor, it
effectively prevents water from seeping into communication and power cables,
ensuring optimal signal transmission even under adverse rainy or flood
conditions.
Key Features & Benefits of Chemtex’s Polyacrylate based super
absorbent polymer.
•
Excellently absorbs aqueous waste
•
Water absorbing capacity up to 400 times of its own weight.
•
Retains Moisture for a considerable period of time.
•
Ensures faster absorption rate compared to conventional polymers
•
High water absorbency and excellent stability
•
Broad spectrum range of application
•
Non-Polluting; Biodegradable
For more information, visit https://www.chemtexltd.com/products-and-solutions/performance-chemicals/general-chemicals/sodium-polyacrylate/