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Article: Absorbing work for smart polymers.(industrial application of superabsorbent polymer systems or gels)
- Article from:
- Chemistry and Industry
- Article date:
- January 18, 1999
- Author:
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Copyright informationCOPYRIGHT 1999 Society of Chemical Industry. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Many advanced polymer systems have properties that vary according to outside conditions. Now these 'smart gels' may have found a new application
If you think about uses for advanced materials, baby nappies may not immediately spring to mind. But often these have superabsorbent polymers hidden away inside. These materials absorb fluids and convert them into soft yet solid gels, thereby locking the liquid into the absorbent core of the product, reducing leaks and increasing dryness. Superabsorbent polymers have been in widespread use for the past 15 years, not only in nappies but also in adult incontinence pads and feminine hygiene products.
Despite ...