Nippon Shokubai 's super absorbent resin (SAP)
Find our more
Five applications of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) Helpful Resources
Various SAP applications beyond diapers
Demonstrates SAP performance in diverse scenarios
Daily Use Materials
Building & Construction
Dispersion / Aggregation
Resin Modification
Absorption/emission
Superabsorbent polymer (SAP) has such high absorbency that the word "super" is used in English to describe it, and it is used in everyday applications such as diapers and sanitary products.
But SAP's use cases go beyond diapers and feminine care products.
We will introduce examples of how SAP is used to solve problems in a variety of situations.
You may find hints like, "If this characteristic exists, maybe it can solve the problem I'm having."
table of contents
What is superabsorbent polymer (SAP)?
Superabsorbent Polymer (SAP) is a polymer that can absorb and retain up to 1000ml of water per gram of resin. It can absorb a large amount of liquid and become gel-like when absorbing, preventing the liquid from moving or leaking. In addition, once absorbed, the liquid is not easily released and can be retained for a long time.
Water absorption principle of superabsorbent polymer (SAP)
The principle by which SAP absorbs water is mainly "water absorption by osmotic pressure." SAP has a mesh-like structure with ionic groups. When SAP comes into contact with water, Na becomes Na + (sodium ion), increasing the osmotic pressure, and the SAP absorbs water molecules and swells.
Image of SAP expanding
Great for all occasions! 5 examples of how SAP can be used
Usage example 1: Waterproof tape
Challenges
Even if the undersea cable is damaged
Want to reliably prevent seawater from entering
Solve it with SAP!
Instantly absorbs and swells even in seawater that contains a lot of electrolytes, preventing water ingress
Maintains water absorption function for a long time in harsh environments
Similar SAP applications
- Water pouch
- Measures to prevent water leakage from electrical equipment
Products used
Usage example 2: Waste liquid treatment agent
Challenges
Occurs in medical and manufacturing sites
Large amounts of liquid waste
Hassle-free
I want to solidify it and dispose of it.
Solve it with SAP!
Absorbs and solidifies various solutions
Simply insert for easy processing
No leakage of waste liquid during transportation
Similar SAP applications
- muddy water solidification
- Food waste liquid solidification
- Medical wastewater treatment
Example 3: Water-expanded rubber
Challenges
Tunnel concrete
Filling the gap
I want to prevent water leakage
Solve it with SAP!
Water-expanding rubber containing SAP absorbs water and swells
Absorbs groundwater and seawater to fill gaps
Similar SAP applications
- Preventing water from entering buildings
- Prevents water leaks from pipes
Products used
Usage example 4: Ice pack
Challenges
Easy and comfortable when you have a fever
I want to cool my head and neck.
Solve it with SAP!
Can be used as a thickening agent and has a thickening effect even at temperatures below freezing to high temperatures
Soft gel for comfortable body cooling
Similar SAP applications
- Cooling gel pillow
- Cooling agents during transportation and storage
Products used
Usage example 5: Greening
Challenges
Easy construction and maintenance
I want to promote greening
Solve it with SAP!
Add to soil to absorb and retain water for a long period of time.
Reduces the burden of watering as a water-retaining material
Similar SAP applications
- Horticultural water retention material
- Wall greening
Products used
Bonus: Various possible uses
There are many other possible uses in addition to those introduced here.
- Disposable hand warmers
- Humidity Control Wallpaper
- Improving mineral handling
- Puddle Absorbing Sheet
- Air freshener gel
- Thickener
Details of various superabsorbent polymers
(AQUALIC™ CA, AQUALIC™ CS, ACRYHOPE™)