Superabsorbent polymer uses
Superabsorbent polymers are primarily used as an absorbent for water and aqueous solutions for diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, and similar applications. Undoubtedly, in these applications, superabsorbent materials will replace traditional absorbent materials such as cloth, cotton, paper wadding, and cellulose fiber.
Since the introduction of superabsorbent diapers in Japan in 1983, the global market for superabsorbent polymers has grown and changed dramatically in the last ten years as superabsorbents have replaced fluff pulp in diapers and other personal hygiene articles. Worldwide superabsorbent polymer production capacity grew from only a few million metric tons in 1985 to greater than 700 million tons in 1995 with the United States accounting for 30% of this superabsorbent polymer demand.
- Artificial snow for motion picture and stage productions
- Candles
- Cement-based materials (e.g. concrete)
- Composites and laminates
- Controlled release of insecticides and herbicides
- Diapers and adult diapers
- Drown-free water source for feeder insects
- Expansion microscopy
- Filtration applications
- Fire-retardant gel
- Flood control
- Fragrance carrier
- Frog tape (high tech masking tape designed for use with latex paint)
- Fuel monitoring systems in aviation and vehicles
- Gel ball shooters (a cross between paintball and airsoft; used in China)
- Grow-in-water toys
- Hot and cold therapy packs
- Magical effects
- Medical waste solidification
- Motionless water beds
- Potting soil
- Spill control
- Surgical pads
- Waste stabilization and environmental remediation
- Water absorbent pads
- Water retention for supplying water to plants
- Wire and cable water blocking
- Wound dressings
- Food additives
The safety of superabsorbent polymers
Superabsorbents are safe for use in absorbent hygiene products. They have been extensively tested and researched.