The super absorbent polymer (SAP) contributes to solving moisture problems in various fields. Super absorbent resin is a polymer material that absorbs water hundreds to 1000 times its own weight and does not release water even under certain pressure.
When SAP comes into contact with water, the water enters the spaces between the molecular chains through osmotic pressure generated by the difference in ion concentration inside and outside the polymer. The molecular chains expand to the region limited by the three-dimensional crosslinking through the repulsion of anions, creating a state where water is absorbed in each mesh.
SAP(super absorbent polymer) for non-sanitary materials can help control moisture in various situations, represented by its use in simple toilets, and also contributes to SDG Goal 6, "Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all."
Pet Sheets and Cat Litter
Pet sheets for indoor toilets for dogs and cat litter are representative products. Pet sheets mainly have an absorption layer made of pulp and super absorbent resin, a non-woven fabric on the surface to direct the urine to the absorption layer, and a leak-proof film to prevent absorbed urine from seeping to the back. The main type of cat litter involves granulated super absorbent resin coated on the surface of a core made by kneading pulp, waste paper, and sawdust into a lump. Because it is designed to form clumps only where the cat urinates, it is easy to handle. Additionally, compared to traditionally used bentonite, it is lighter in weight. SAP with high water absorption speed is more effective.
Simple Toilets for Disasters
SAP(super absorbent polymer) is used as a urine solidifier in simple toilets for use during disasters. By placing a plastic bag in the toilet and sprinkling SAP, it gelifies the urine. To prevent the spread of excrement and for easy post-use processing, rapid gelification is required. Similarly, portable toilets for easy use during travel are also being commercialized.
Cooling Materials
Super SAP is also used in cooling materials (items containing gel-like substances in polyethylene or similar bags) used during transportation of fresh produce like vegetables, cakes, and frozen foods. This SAP polymer application requires adjusting the hardness of the gel depending on the item to be kept cool, providing both hard gel and soft gel types.
Waste Blood Treatment Agent
SAP( superabsorbent polymer) is used to solidify (gelify) waste blood generated during surgeries in medical settings. Collected waste blood is stored in specialized containers, and SAP is used to thoroughly solidify it to prevent the risk of secondary infection due to leakage during storage, transport, and disposal.
Water-absorbing Soil Bags
Water-absorbing bags, popular as disaster countermeasures against flooding from typhoons and heavy rains, utilize SAP. Unlike traditional sandbags filled with soil, water-absorbing bags are completed by soaking bags containing super absorbent polymer(SAP) in water. They can be prepared quickly, are lightweight, and take up less storage space.
Water Retention Agent
In the agriculture and horticulture field, water retention agents are representative. Additionally, they are also developed in seedling sheets, coated fertilizers, pesticides with slow-release capabilities in the soil.
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