Technology
What are Superabsorbent Polymers
Superabsorbent polymers are a revolutionary material that has become close to a $10 billion business. These tiny crystals, looking almost like sugar, are actually made up of a network of incredibly thirsty polymer chains. When they come in contact with aqueous liquids, they absorb up to hundreds of times their own weight. In doing so, they transform into a gel that locks the liquid away and will not release it, even under pressure.
The main use of superabsorbent polymers is in modern personal hygiene products. Today’s disposable diapers and incontinence products are now high-tech products. The power behind the transformation is superabsorbents. Just a few grams allow hygiene articles to lock up urine, keeping skin dry and healthy. In the past 30 years, diapers have become many times thinner and 2/3 lighter, all while increasing their absorption manyfold. This Is not only good for babies, but it is also good for the environment, too. Disposable diapers now use 1/3 of the raw materials previously. Packaging and transport costs are also reduced. Adults can also now have incontinent articles that are discrete and as thin as underwear, increasing their quality of life and mobility.
Superabsorbent polymers can also perform wonders in other markets. They have numerous uses in food packaging, soil additives, medical products, underground cable protection, firefighting, waste solidification, concrete additives, and other applications.
Technology
SAP Production Technology
The world of superabsorbent polymers has changed dramatically since their first large-scale commercial production in the mid-1980s. The properties and performance of superabsorbents have had to keep up with the rapidly developing needs of the market and product advances. Originally, only high absorption was important. Then retention, followed by absorption under pressure, permeability, and speed of absorption. Superabsorbent polymers have been called on to perform more and more roles in personal hygiene products and other markets. Continuous innovation is key.
It is critical to have a production technology that can not only produce today’s state-of-the-art superabsorbent polymers but can also evolve and keep up with the changing needs of the market and the continual progression of the technology. It is also essential, in this highly competitive market, to have a process that is efficient and economical. The Superabsorbent Technologies AG process checks all these boxes. It is a proven technology that can produce advanced products at a competitive price and capital investment. And it has the flexibility to be continually upgraded to advance as the technology does.