The Synthesis of a Superabsorbent Polymer

Charles M. Garner , Matthew Nething and Phuc Nguyen
Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798
J. Chem. Educ., 1997, 74 (1), p 95
DOI: 10.1021/ed074p95
Publication Date (Web): January 1, 1997
History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

The preparation and mode of action of a superabsorbent polymer is described. The material consists of lightly crosslinked, mostly neutralized polyacrylic acid which can be prepared using either a redox or a thermal radical initiator. The resulting polymer absorbs 500-3000 times its weight in distilled water, depending on the degree of crosslinking employed. However, the absorbency is shown to be very sensitive to the presence of salt (70-250X in 0.2% NaCl) or acid (5X in dilute HCl). The impressive absorbency is explained in terms of an osmotic force to dilute the highly ionic interior of the polymer. These factors combine to make this an especially educational and enjoyable organic laboratory experiment.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Organic Chemistry

Keywords (Subject):

Synthesis
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  • Received: August 03, 2009

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