Superabsorbent resin concentrating device and method for concentrating superabsorbent resin

Abstract

To provide a superabsorbent resin concentrating device and a method for concentrating superabsorbent resin, which are capable of optimizing the moisture content of superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction that is generated during the regeneration process of used superabsorbent resin, before the resin is introduced into another treatment process.SOLUTION: A superabsorbent resin concentrating device comprises an introduction section for introducing the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction, a transfer section for transferring the superabsorbent resin, a pressurizing section for pressurizing the superabsorbent resin, a measuring section for measuring one or more of the water content, thickness and width of the superabsorbent resin introduced into the transfer section, and a control section for adjusting the distance between the pressurizing section and the transfer section based on the amount of fluctuation in the measured value in the measuring section. A concentrating method using this device is also provided. This method enables a concentration process to be performed without applying excessive pressure load when removing attached water or retained water from the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and a method for concentrating a superabsorbent resin. More specifically, the present invention relates to a superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and a method for concentrating a used superabsorbent resin in a regeneration process of the used superabsorbent resin. [Background technology]

[0002] Products designed to absorb bodily fluids, such as disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, and incontinence pads (hereafter referred to as "absorbent products for bodily fluids"), are mainly made of pulp, superabsorbent polymers (hereafter referred to as "SAP"), and plastics, and are widely used. In particular, as we enter an aging society, the use of disposable diapers is increasing year by year in ordinary households, hospitals, and welfare facilities. The large amounts of used body fluid absorbent articles that are discharged are mainly disposed of by incineration as waste.

[0003] However, incineration of used body fluid absorbent articles containing a large amount of moisture requires high-temperature treatment and large-sized incineration equipment, which places a large burden on the incineration equipment, such as accelerating the deterioration of the furnace. Also, from the viewpoint of effective utilization of resources, there is a demand for separating and recovering components from used body fluid absorbent articles and reusing them, without relying on incineration.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method for separating and recovering pulp and superabsorbent resin from used body fluid absorbent articles, in which a mixture of metal salts is added to a gel-like mixture of pulp and superabsorbent resin (water-absorbent polymer) contained in the used body fluid absorbent articles to dehydrate, shrink and solidify the superabsorbent resin, and then color it, and the pulp and superabsorbent resin are separated and recovered, and the separated and recovered superabsorbent resin is subjected to acid treatment and alkali treatment to restore the water absorbing power of the superabsorbent resin. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-225645 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] As described in Patent Document 1, when separating and recovering a superabsorbent polymer from a used body fluid absorbent article, it is known that the absorbency of the superabsorbent polymer is restored by dehydrating the superabsorbent polymer by adding a metal salt, and then by subjecting the superabsorbent polymer to an acid treatment and an alkali treatment. In order to make the superabsorbent polymer with restored absorbency into a regenerated product (product), it is necessary to perform a drying treatment once. At this time, the superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after treatment with acid (acid reaction) has recovered a certain amount of water absorption, and in addition to the water attached to the surface, there is also water held by the resin itself (retained water). In addition to being highly sticky, if pressure is applied to dehydrate the resin, the physical properties change and the resin becomes even more sticky, making it extremely difficult to remove moisture. This increases the energy (thermal energy) required for the drying process, and is one of the factors that increase the cost of regenerating superabsorbent resin.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and a method for concentrating a superabsorbent resin that are capable of optimizing the moisture content (water content) of the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction that is generated during the regeneration process of used superabsorbent resin before being introduced into another treatment process. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] As a result of intensive research into the above-mentioned problems, the present inventors discovered that in the concentration (dehydration) treatment of a superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after an acid reaction, by applying pressure to the superabsorbent resin while transferring it and controlling the degree of pressure based on specific parameter values ​​related to the state of the superabsorbent resin during transfer, it is possible to optimize the water content (moisture content) of the superabsorbent resin before it is introduced into another treatment process, and thus completed the present invention. That is, the present invention provides the following superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and superabsorbent resin concentrating method.

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, the superabsorbent resin concentrating device of the present invention is characterized by comprising an introduction section for introducing superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction, a transfer section for transferring the superabsorbent resin, a pressure section for pressurizing the superabsorbent resin, a measurement section for measuring one or more of the water content, thickness and width of the superabsorbent resin introduced into the transfer section, and a control section for adjusting the distance between the pressure section and the transfer section based on the amount of fluctuation in the measured value in the measurement section. When subjecting the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after the acid reaction to a concentration (dehydration) treatment, it is difficult to remove the adhering water or the retained water using a filtration device that uses the weight of the superabsorbent resin. On the other hand, it is difficult to adjust the pressure applied to the superabsorbent resin without causing deformation or deterioration of the physical properties of the superabsorbent resin using a pressurized filtration device such as a normal screw press or belt press, due to the characteristics (indeterminate shape and high viscosity) of the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after the acid reaction. Here, the superabsorbent resin concentrating device of the present invention pressurizes the superabsorbent resin that has become hydrated after the acid reaction by adding a strong acid while transferring it, and controls the degree of pressurization based on the variation of the parameter value, using one of the moisture content, thickness, and width of the superabsorbent resin as a parameter among the states of the superabsorbent resin introduced into the transfer section. This makes it possible to perform the concentration process without applying excessive pressure load when removing attached water or retained water from the superabsorbent resin in the hydrated state after the acid reaction. That is, it is possible to optimize the moisture content (moisture content) of the superabsorbent resin in the hydrated state after the acid reaction before introducing it into another treatment process, and it is possible to reduce the energy (heat energy) required for the drying process. In addition, in the next process (neutralization treatment with alkali), a chemical agent is added to the solid content of the superabsorbent resin, and by optimizing the moisture content of the superabsorbent resin in the hydrated state after the acid reaction and keeping it within a predetermined range, it is easy to optimize the amount of chemical agent used in the next process.

[0010] In one embodiment of the superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus of the present invention, the transport section is inclined. This feature reduces the area required for arranging the device, compared to when the transport unit is installed parallel to the ground, making it possible to save space. In addition, potential energy can be utilized in transporting the superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after the acid reaction, making it possible to reduce the power required for transport (the driving energy of the transport unit).

[0011] In one embodiment of the superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus of the present invention, the control section is characterized in that it controls the amount of the superabsorbent resin introduced into the introduction section. According to this feature, the control unit can control the degree of pressurization by adjusting the distance between the pressurizing unit and the transfer unit, and can also control the amount of superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after the acid reaction that is the target of concentration (pressurization) introduced, making it possible to control the degree of pressurization of the superabsorbent resin even more precisely.

[0012] In addition, the method for concentrating a superabsorbent resin of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is characterized by comprising an introduction step of introducing a superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction, a transport step of transporting the superabsorbent resin, a pressurization step of pressurizing the superabsorbent resin, a measurement step of measuring one or more of the water content, thickness and width of the superabsorbent resin introduced in the transport step, and a control step of adjusting the distance between the pressurization step and the transport step based on the amount of fluctuation in the measured value in the measurement step. The method for concentrating a superabsorbent polymer of the present invention pressurizes the superabsorbent polymer that has become hydrated after an acid reaction caused by the addition of a strong acid while transferring it, and controls the degree of pressurization based on the variation of the parameter value, using one of the moisture content, thickness, and width of the superabsorbent polymer among the states of the superabsorbent polymer introduced into the transfer section. This makes it possible to perform a concentration process without applying an excessive pressure load when removing attached water or retained water from the superabsorbent polymer in a hydrated state after the acid reaction. In other words, it becomes possible to optimize the moisture content (moisture content) of the superabsorbent polymer in a hydrated state after the acid reaction before being introduced into another treatment process, and it becomes possible to optimize the amount of chemicals used in the neutralization process in addition to reducing the energy (heat energy) required for the drying process. Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a superabsorbent resin concentrating device and a superabsorbent resin concentrating method that are capable of optimizing the moisture content (water content) of superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction that is generated during the regeneration process of used superabsorbent resin before it is introduced into another treatment process. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a concentrating device for a superabsorbent resin in a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram (flow diagram) of a regeneration treatment system for used superabsorbent resin to which a concentrating device for superabsorbent resin according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a superabsorbent resin concentrating device in a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a superabsorbent resin concentrating device in a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the superabsorbent polymer concentrating device and the superabsorbent polymer concentrating method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The superabsorbent polymer concentrating method according to the present invention is to be replaced with the description of the configuration and operation of the superabsorbent polymer concentrating device according to the present invention. It should be noted that the superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and the superabsorbent resin concentrating method described in the embodiments are merely examples provided to explain the superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and the superabsorbent resin concentrating method of the present invention, and are not limited thereto.

[0016] The apparatus for concentrating a superabsorbent resin and the method for concentrating a superabsorbent resin according to the present invention are intended to carry out a concentration (dehydration) treatment on a superabsorbent resin in a specific state. Furthermore, the superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and method of the present invention are particularly suitable for use as a pretreatment apparatus and pretreatment method when introducing the water-containing superabsorbent resin after the acid reaction, which is generated in the process of regenerating used superabsorbent resin separated and recovered from used body fluid absorbent articles, into other treatment steps (neutralization treatment or drying treatment). In the following, the superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus and the superabsorbent resin concentrating method according to the present invention will be simply referred to as the "concentrating apparatus" and the "concentrating method".

[0017] The body fluid absorbent article in the present invention generally refers to well-known articles that absorb body fluids and are sold and used as disposable sanitary products, such as paper diapers (for children and adults), incontinence pads, sanitary napkins, and breast pads. An example of the structure of a bodily fluid absorbent article includes a surface material that is in direct contact with the user's skin, a water-absorbing material that absorbs bodily fluids, and a waterproof material (waterproof sheet) that covers the outside of the article. More specifically, the components of a disposable diaper, which is one type of body fluid absorbent article, include, for example, a surface material such as a nonwoven fabric made of chemical fibers such as polypropylene or polyester, a water-absorbing material such as pulp or a highly water-absorbent resin, and a waterproof material such as a resin film such as a polyethylene film, or a paper or nonwoven fabric that has been treated with a resin, such as polyethylene-laminated paper or polyethylene-laminated nonwoven fabric. In the present invention, among the components of the body fluid absorbent article, the components other than pulp and the highly water-absorbent resin, such as nonwoven fabric, resin film and resin-coated paper, are collectively referred to as "plastics".

[0018] In the present invention, the used body fluid absorbent article is not particularly limited in the state of use. For example, it may be one with solid waste (feces, etc.) attached, one with liquid waste (urine, menstrual blood, etc.) attached, or one with both attached, but in consideration of the cost and processing efficiency of the recycling process, it is preferable that it is in a state where urine is absorbed as the main component. In addition, the used body fluid absorbent articles used in the present invention include those that are collected, recovered, and transported from facilities where users of the body fluid absorbent articles live or stay, such as ordinary households, hospitals, and welfare facilities. In the following embodiment, a paper diaper that absorbs urine as a main component will be mainly used as an example of a used body fluid absorbent article, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0019] The superabsorbent polymer (SAP) in the present invention may be any polymer that can be used as a water-absorbing material in used body fluid absorbent articles, and there are no particular limitations on its specific structure or composition, but examples thereof include water-swellable crosslinked polymers obtained by polymerizing hydrophilic monomers. More specifically, examples include partially neutralized crosslinked polyacrylic acid polymers, crosslinked and partially neutralized starch-acrylic acid graft polymers, isobutylene-maleic acid copolymers, saponified products of vinyl acetate-acrylic acid copolymers, hydrolyzates of acrylamides and (co)polymers, hydrolyzates of acrylonitrile polymers, and (meth)acrylamide derivatives, and particularly preferred examples include polyacrylic acid (salt)-based crosslinked polymers mainly composed of acrylic acid or its salt.

[0020] The superabsorbent resin to be treated by the concentrating device and the concentrating method of the present invention is a superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction (hereinafter, also referred to as "subject to be treated P0"). More specifically, in the treatment of used superabsorbent resin, the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after an acid reaction accompanying a substitution treatment of the functional groups of the superabsorbent resin from which the absorbed body fluid has been discharged is treated. In particular, in the regeneration treatment of used superabsorbent resin, the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state in which the functional groups of the superabsorbent resin have been hydrogen-substituted from polyvalent metal salt to free acid by an acid reaction is treated.

[0021] [First embodiment] (Highly absorbent resin concentrator) Fig. 1 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus in a first embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 1A is a plan view seen from above, and Fig. 1B is a cross-sectional view seen from the side. The superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus 100A of this embodiment (hereinafter simply referred to as "concentrating apparatus 100A") comprises an introduction section 101 for introducing the object to be treated P0 into the concentrating apparatus 100A, a transfer section 110 for transferring the object to be treated P0, a pressurizing section 120 for pressurizing the object to be treated P0, a measurement section 130 for measuring the state of the object to be treated P0 introduced into the transfer section 110, and a control section 140 for adjusting the distance between the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120 based on the amount of fluctuation in the measured value in the measurement section 130, and controlling the degree of pressurization applied to the object to be treated P0.

[0022] The concentrating device 100A in this embodiment is mainly related to treatment after an acid reaction in which a strong acid is added to a used superabsorbent resin. More specifically, the concentrating device 100A in this embodiment can be used as a concentrating section 23 provided downstream of an acid reaction section 22 in a regeneration processing means 20 in a regeneration system 1 for used superabsorbent resin, which will be described later.

[0023] Each component of the concentrating apparatus 100A will be described in detail below. (Introduction) The introduction section 101 is for introducing the object to be treated P0 into the concentrating apparatus 100A. The introduction section 101 may be any one capable of introducing the object to be treated P0 to the upstream side of the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120, and may be a transfer mechanism having a drive section, such as a conveyor, or a device that transfers the object by gravity, such as a flat plate or trough having an inclined section. Since the object to be treated P0 has been treated with a strong acid (acid reaction), the material of the introduction section 101 is preferably one having excellent acid resistance. The introduction section 101 may be made of a material or structure having water permeability. Specifically, a punched metal or a wire screen may be used. This makes it possible to remove part of the adhering water adhering to the surface of the treatment object P0 immediately after the acid reaction or to the treatment object P0 in a washed state in the introduction section 101, thereby making it possible to increase the efficiency of the concentration treatment in the subsequent stage.

[0024] Further, the introduction section 101 may be provided with an introduction pipe 102. The introduction pipe 102 is not particularly limited as long as it can transport the water-containing superabsorbent resin after the acid reaction from the place (acid reaction section 22) where the used superabsorbent resin was subjected to the acid reaction treatment and discharge it onto the introduction section 101. In this case, the introduction pipe 102 may be provided so as to be capable of reciprocating in the width direction of the introduction section 101. This makes it possible to more quickly and reliably expand the shape of the treatment target P0 supplied onto the introduction section 101 in the width direction, and makes it possible to suppress the application of excessive pressure load when the treatment target P0 is introduced into the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120 in the subsequent stages. As with the inlet part 101, the inlet pipe 102 is preferably made of a material having excellent acid resistance.

[0025] (transfer department) The transfer section 110 transfers the superabsorbent resin (treatment object P0) in a water-containing state after the acid reaction, and by controlling the distance from the pressure section 120 by the control section 140, it performs a concentration (dehydration) process on the treatment object P0, thereby reducing the moisture content and increasing the concentration of the treatment object P0.

[0026] 1, the transfer section 110 in this embodiment may be one into which the object to be treated P0 is introduced from the introduction section 101 and which is arranged parallel to the ground and facing the pressurizing section 120. Note that, while FIG. 1 shows the transfer section 110 provided below the pressurizing section 120, the positional relationship between the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120 is not limited thereto as long as a space in which the object to be treated P0 is sandwiched between the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120 is formed. In addition, the space in which the object to be treated P0 is sandwiched may have a constant height throughout, or may be one which becomes narrower from the upstream side to the downstream side of the transfer section 110.

[0027] In addition, as the transfer section 110 in this embodiment, a structure capable of transferring the treatment target P0 and concentrating it by filtration can be used, and more specifically, a structure related to a multiple disk type concentrator or a belt type filtration concentrator can be used. As an example of the transport section 110 in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 1, a structure relating to a belt-type filtration concentrator capable of transporting the object to be treated P0 and concentrating it by filtration by moving a belt 111 carrying the object to be treated P0 will be described, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this case, the material and structure of the belt 111 may be any material capable of holding the solid content of the object to be treated P0 and allowing moisture to pass through, and the detailed structure is not particularly limited.

[0028] (Pressure section) The pressurizing section 120 is for pressurizing the superabsorbent resin (processing object P0) in a water-containing state after the acid reaction, and by controlling the distance from the transfer section 110 by the control section 140, it performs a concentration (dehydration) process on the processing object P0, thereby reducing the moisture content and increasing the concentration of the processing object P0.

[0029] The pressure applying unit 120 in this embodiment may be arranged parallel to the ground and facing the conveying unit 110, as shown in FIG. In addition, the pressure applying section 120 in this embodiment may have a structure capable of applying pressure to the material to be treated P0 placed on the transfer section 110 within a specified region (specified area), and more specifically, may have a structure related to a multiple disc concentrator or a belt press dehydrator.

[0030] 1, the pressure unit 120 of this embodiment will be described taking as an example a structure relating to a belt press type dehydrator capable of applying pressure to the object to be treated P0 by driving a belt 121 provided so as to face the transfer unit 110, but is not limited thereto. In this case, the material and structure of the belt 121 are not particularly limited as long as they suppress adhesion of the object to be treated P0 and drive smoothly in accordance with the transfer of the object to be treated P0 by the transfer unit 110. The belt 121 may have the same structure as the belt 111 in the transfer section 110, but when the pressurizing section 120 (belt 121) is located above the transfer section 110 (belt 111) as shown in Fig. 1, it is preferable that the material of the belt 121 is non-permeable. As a result, moisture does not permeate to the pressurizing section 120 side located above, and moisture permeates only to the transfer section 110 side located below, so that moisture removed from the treatment object P0 does not return to the treatment object P0 side, and it is possible to increase the concentration efficiency of the treatment object P0.

[0031] In addition, the pressure unit 120 of this embodiment is provided with a moving mechanism 122 to adjust the distance from the transport unit 110. The moving mechanism 122 is not particularly limited in its detailed structure as long as it can change the position (height and distance) of the pressure unit 120 (belt 121) relative to the transport unit 110 (belt 111) and can be driven and controlled by the control unit 140 described later. Note that, although the present embodiment will be described taking as an example a case where the moving mechanism 122 is provided on the pressure unit 120 side, the moving mechanism may be provided on the transport unit 110 side.

[0032] Here, the concentrating process of the processing target P0 by the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120 in the concentrating apparatus 100A of this embodiment will be described. 1, the object to be treated P0 is introduced from the introduction section 101 to the upstream side of the transfer section 110. Then, by driving the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120 with the object to be treated P0 sandwiched between them, the object to be treated P0 placed on the belt 111 is subjected to pressure at the same time as being transferred, whereby the moisture (adherent water and retained water) in the object to be treated P0 is discharged as filtrate from the belt 111 side, and together with the concentration of the object to be treated P0, the object to be treated P0 becomes flat (hereinafter referred to as "flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1").

[0033] At this time, in order to rapidly and efficiently concentrate and flatten the object to be treated P0, a pressing roll 112 for pressing the object to be treated P0 may be further provided upstream of the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120. This allows the object to be treated P0 introduced from the introduction section 101 to be flattened to a certain degree before being sandwiched between the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120, and makes it possible to prevent excessive pressure from being applied when the object to be treated P0 is sandwiched between the transfer section 110 and the pressurizing section 120. In addition, at this time, a plurality of pressing rolls 112 may be provided as necessary to adjust the thickness of the object to be treated P0 in stages and prevent excessive pressure from being applied by the pressing roll 112.

[0034] The flat-plate-shaped highly water-absorbent resin P1 is then peeled off from the belt 111 by a scraper 113 provided downstream of the belt 111. Then, the flat-plate-shaped highly water-absorbent resin P1 is fed via a chute 114 to devices for performing neutralization and drying (neutralization device and drying device).

[0035] The superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after the acid reaction (the treatment target P0 and the plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) has its functional groups substituted with hydrogen, and although it is known that the water absorption performance is restored to a certain degree, it is not sufficient for use as a regenerated product (product). Therefore, by performing a neutralization treatment, the hydrogen-substituted superabsorbent resin is replaced with cations (alkali metal ions, etc.) other than hydrogen ions (alkali substitution), and the composition is made the same as that of the superabsorbent resin before use, making it possible to fully restore the water absorption performance of the superabsorbent resin. Then, by performing a drying treatment, it becomes possible to use it as a regenerated product (product). Here, when the water content of the superabsorbent resin to be subjected to the neutralization treatment or drying treatment is high, the energy (heat energy) required to sufficiently dry the superabsorbent resin in the drying treatment increases. In addition, in the neutralization treatment, the amount of the chemical used is determined based on the solid content of the superabsorbent resin, but when the water content of the superabsorbent resin is unknown or varies, there is a risk of excessive or insufficient addition of the chemical. On the other hand, in the concentrating apparatus 100A of this embodiment, flat superabsorbent resin P1 that has been concentrated to the target moisture content is supplied to the neutralizing apparatus and drying apparatus, making it possible to optimize the amount of chemicals used in the neutralization process and reduce the energy (thermal energy) required for the drying process.

[0036] 1, a chemical agent adding means 150 for adding a chemical agent for neutralization to the flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1 may be provided on the chute 114. This allows the flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1 and the neutralization chemical agent to be mixed in advance before being introduced into the neutralization device, thereby making it possible to increase the efficiency of the neutralization process.

[0037] The chemical adding means 150 may be any means capable of adding the neutralizing chemical to the flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1, and is not particularly limited in its specific structure, but is preferably capable of uniformly adding the neutralizing chemical to a predetermined region of the flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1. This makes it possible to prevent the neutralizing chemical from being unevenly distributed when mixed with the flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1.

[0038] For example, the chemical adding means 150 may include a chemical storage section 152 that stores a neutralizing chemical, and a spraying means 151 having a nozzle 151a that supplies the neutralizing chemical supplied from the chemical storage section 152 together with a fluid from above the flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1. This allows the neutralizing chemical to be uniformly supplied to a predetermined region of the flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1 via the spraying means 151. Although the fluid for supplying the neutralizing agent by the spraying means 151 may be a liquid (solvent), it is preferable to supply the neutralizing agent in a solid (powder) form as described below. Therefore, a preferable example of the fluid used by the spraying means 151 is one with a low water content, for example, compressed air.

[0039] It is preferable to use a nozzle 151a of the spraying means 151 having a spraying (supplying) area with approximately the same length as the width of the flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1. This makes it possible to add the neutralizing agent uniformly in the width direction of the flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1, improving the mixing efficiency of the flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1 and the neutralizing agent, and improving the processing efficiency in the neutralization device.

[0040] The neutralizing agent stored in the agent storage section 152 of the agent adding means 150 may be any agent capable of neutralizing (substituting with alkali) the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after the acid reaction. If a liquid agent (agent dissolved in water) is added to the superabsorbent resin in a water-containing state after the acid reaction, water absorption occurs in parallel with the substitution reaction to cations, and the solid content concentration of the neutralized superabsorbent resin decreases. As a result, the energy required for drying the superabsorbent resin increases in the drying process following the neutralization process. For this reason, the neutralizing agent used in the agent adding means 150 is preferably a solid agent, and a powdered agent is particularly preferably used from the viewpoint of improving the efficiency of contact (mixing) with the superabsorbent resin.

[0041] Here, the powdered drug may be any drug capable of replacing the hydrogen-substituted superabsorbent resin with a cation other than hydrogen ion, and may be, for example, hydroxide, carbonate, and hydrogen carbonate of alkali metal. The alkali metal may be at least one selected from the group consisting of lithium, sodium, and potassium. The alkali metal salt may be one type or a mixture of multiple types of alkali metal salts. More specifically, sodium carbonate, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, etc. may be mentioned. In this embodiment, sodium carbonate is particularly preferably used as the powdered drug, taking into consideration the ease of availability in powder form and cost.

[0042] When performing concentration (dehydration) processing on the object to be treated P0, due to the characteristics of the object to be treated P0 (irregular shape and high viscosity), it is necessary to optimize the pressure applied to the object to be treated P0 in order to perform effective concentration processing while suppressing changes to the physical properties of the object to be treated P0. The concentrating apparatus 100A of this embodiment is provided with a measuring section 130 that measures specific parameters related to the state of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) introduced into the transfer section 110 in order to optimize the pressure applied to the treatment object P0, and a control section 140 that adjusts the distance between the transfer section 110 and the pressure section 120 based on the amount of fluctuation in the measurement value in the measuring section 130.

[0043] (Measurement part) The measuring section 130 measures at least one of the moisture content, thickness T, and width W of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped highly water-absorbent resin P1) introduced into the transport section 110. The parameters measured by the measuring unit 130 in this embodiment (the moisture content, thickness T, and width W of the treatment object P0 (flat-shaped superabsorbent resin P1)) can all be used as information for understanding the concentration state of the treatment object P0 (flat-shaped superabsorbent resin P1). For example, the moisture content of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) is a parameter that can directly grasp the concentration state of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1), and the thickness T and width W of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) are parameters that vary depending on the concentration state of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1).

[0044] The measuring unit 130 of this embodiment may be any unit capable of acquiring the parameters to be measured. For example, for moisture content, a known sensor or detector (such as an ultrasonic concentration meter) may be used, and for thickness T and width W, information may be acquired by visually checking a scale attached to the transport unit 110, or analysis may be performed using an image processing device that reads in the information as an image.

[0045] In addition, the location where the measurement unit 130 is provided (the location where the measurement is performed) is not particularly limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the measurement may be performed on the flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1 after the treatment by the transfer unit 110 and the pressurizing unit 120, or the measurement may be performed on the object to be treated P0 before being introduced into the transfer unit 110 and the pressurizing unit 120. In addition, from the viewpoint of easily determining the concentrated state of the object to be treated P0 (flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) and facilitating the calculation in the control unit 140 described later, it is preferable that the measurement unit 130 of this embodiment is configured to measure the flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1 after the treatment by the transfer unit 110 and the pressurizing unit 120. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the measurement may be performed near the scraper 113.

[0046] Information (data) relating to the parameters obtained by the measuring unit 130 is input to the control unit 140. Note that, as a data input means, it is preferable that the measuring unit 130 and the control unit 140 are connected to each other via a communication means or wiring so that data measured by the measuring unit 130 is electrically transmitted and received, but this is not limited thereto. Another example of the input means is, for example, data relating to the thickness T and width W obtained by visual inspection of the measuring unit 130 by an operator, which is directly input manually to the control unit 140 by the operator.

[0047] (Control unit) The control unit 140 is for controlling the degree of pressure applied to the processing object P0 by adjusting the distance between the transport unit 110 and the pressure unit 120 based on the amount of fluctuation in the measured value in the measurement unit .

[0048] The control unit 140 in this embodiment is connected to the measurement unit 130 so as to enable input and output of measurement results (data) in the measurement unit 130, and is connected so as to enable drive control of the moving mechanism 122 in order to adjust the distance between the transfer unit 110 and the pressure unit 120.

[0049] An example of the control by the control unit 140 will be described. When the parameter measured by the measuring unit 130 is the moisture content of the treatment target P0 (flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1), the optimum value (or suitable range) of the moisture content is set in advance, and the degree of pressurization is set by comparing it with the measurement result in the measuring unit 130. That is, the driving range of the moving mechanism 122 (the distance between the transport unit 110 and the pressurizing unit 120) is calculated, and the moving mechanism 122 is driven.

[0050] As another example of control by the control unit 140, when the parameters measured by the measurement unit 130 are the thickness T and width W of the processing object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) on the transfer unit 110, information relating to the thickness T and width W that satisfy the optimal value (or suitable range) of the moisture content is obtained in advance, and by comparing it with the measurement results in the measurement unit 130, the driving range of the moving mechanism 122 (the distance between the transfer unit 110 and the pressure unit 120) is calculated (the degree of pressure is set) and the moving mechanism 122 is driven.

[0051] By performing the above-mentioned control, the concentration process can be performed without applying excessive pressure load to the treatment object P0, and it becomes possible to easily optimize the moisture content (moisture content) of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) discharged from the concentration device 100A.

[0052] Furthermore, the control unit 140 in this embodiment may also control the amount of material introduced into the introduction unit 101 based on the measurement results of the measurement unit 130. Usually, the introduction flow rate (supply liquid amount) of the material P0 to be treated to the introduction unit 101 is constant, but depending on the treatment conditions upstream of the introduction unit 101, the amount of material P0 introduced (concentration) at that time is not necessarily constant. If the amount of material P0 introduced (concentration) fluctuates, it may become difficult to control and adjust the transfer unit 110 and the pressurizing unit 120 to obtain a desired concentration efficiency (water content). Therefore, by being able to control the amount of the object to be treated P0 introduced into the transfer section 110 and the pressure section 110, the control section 140 can adjust the degree of pressure applied to the object to be treated P0 more precisely.

[0053] As described above, the concentrating device 100A in this embodiment pressurizes the superabsorbent resin that has become hydrated through an acid reaction caused by the addition of a strong acid while transferring it, and controls the degree of pressurization based on the variation of the parameter value, using one of the moisture content, thickness, and width of the superabsorbent resin as a parameter among the states of the superabsorbent resin introduced into the transfer section. This makes it possible to perform the concentration process without applying excessive pressure load when removing attached water or retained water from the superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after the acid reaction. In other words, it becomes possible to optimize the moisture content (moisture content) of the superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after the acid reaction before being introduced into another processing step, and it becomes possible to optimize the amount of chemicals used in the neutralization process in addition to reducing the energy (heat energy) required for the drying process. Moreover, the concentrating apparatus 100A in this embodiment is suitably used as one of the treatment devices in a regeneration treatment system for used superabsorbent resin separated and recovered from used body fluid absorbent articles.

[0054] (Used superabsorbent resin recycling system (SAP recycling system)) Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a used superabsorbent resin regeneration system to which the concentrator 100A according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied. Fig. 2 is a flow diagram showing a regeneration process of a used superabsorbent resin by the used superabsorbent resin regeneration system using the concentrator 100A according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the used superabsorbent polymer regeneration system (hereinafter referred to as "SAP regeneration system 1") comprises separation means 10 that separates used body fluid absorbent articles into pulp, superabsorbent polymer (SAP), and plastic, and regeneration means 20 that restores the water absorption performance of the separated superabsorbent polymer. In Fig. 2, the bold arrows (lines L1 to L6) indicate the movement route (routine) of the superabsorbent polymer (SAP), and are made up of piping and a transport mechanism (conveyor, etc.).

[0055] In the SAP regeneration system 1, used body fluid absorbent articles are fed into a separation means 10, where they are separated into pulp, superabsorbent resin, and plastic. The separation means 10 is provided with a dehydration means 12 for dehydrating the superabsorbent resin, which more reliably releases the body fluid absorbed by the superabsorbent resin out of the superabsorbent resin and increases the efficiency of separation and recovery of the superabsorbent resin. In addition, the superabsorbent resin separated and recovered by the separation means 10 is treated in a predetermined order by a regeneration treatment means 20, whereby the water absorption performance of the superabsorbent resin is sufficiently restored, enabling it to be effectively utilized (remanufactured) as a regenerated item (product). The separation means 10 and the reproduction processing means 20 in the SAP reproduction system 1 will be described in detail below.

[0056] (separation means) The separating means 10 is used for carrying out a separating process in which used body fluid absorbent articles are classified into pulp, highly water-absorbent resin, and plastic. As shown in Figure 2, the separation means 10 may include a separation section 11 in which used body fluid absorbent articles are placed and separated, and a dehydration means 12 that dehydrates the highly absorbent resin in the separation section 11.

[0057] The separating section 11 is supplied with conditioned water together with the used body fluid absorbent article, and serves to separate the used body fluid absorbent article into its respective constituent components. The adjusted water here refers to water that is supplied to turn the pulp and the superabsorbent resin into a slurry and to increase the separation efficiency when the used body fluid absorbent article is separated into its constituent components in the separation section 11. For this reason, water with a slightly lower degree of clarity can be used, and in addition to treated water with relatively low clarity such as sewage treatment water, reclaimed water, and circulated water can be used.

[0058] In the separating section 11, the specific means for separating the used body fluid absorbent article into each component is not particularly limited. The separation section 11 may include a separation tank into which used body fluid absorbent articles are placed, and means for carrying out various processes related to separating the used body fluid absorbent articles into their respective constituent components are provided in the separation tank.

[0059] Examples of the separation section 11 include a bag-breaking means or a fragmentation means provided inside or outside the separation tank as a dispersion means for physically decomposing used bodily fluid absorbent articles and dispersing the constituent components within the tank. Here, the bag-breaking means is a means for breaking the packaging (bag) used when collecting and transporting the used body fluid absorbent article, and the fragmenting means is a means for breaking the surface material and waterproof material of the used body fluid absorbent article to make it into a shape suitable for subsequent mechanical treatment such as dissolving and stirring, and for releasing the inner water-absorbing material (pulp and superabsorbent resin) to the outside. Specific examples of the dispersion means include means for strong stirring, means for cutting with a crushing blade, and means for repeatedly piercing the material with a member having many needles attached thereto.

[0060] The separation section 11 may be provided with a separation and recovery means for separating and recovering each of the constituent components dispersed in the separation tank by the dispersion means. The separation and recovery means is not particularly limited as long as it can separate and recover pulp, superabsorbent resin, and plastics by their constituent components. For example, in addition to classification by size and separation by specific gravity, a treatment tank separate from the separation tank is provided to separate the components based on their solubility or insolubility in solvents and chemicals. The superabsorbent resin separated by the separation and recovery means is introduced into the regeneration treatment means 20 via line L1. Meanwhile, the pulp and plastic are discharged outside the SAP regeneration system 1 via line L7 consisting of a piping or a transfer mechanism. In the SAP regeneration system 1 shown in Figure 2, the superabsorbent resin is recovered in a dispersed or concentrated state in the separation means 10 without being dissolved (decomposed) with chemicals or the like, and is introduced into the regeneration processing means 20 via line L1. However, the other constituents, pulp and plastic, may also be separated and recovered in a dissolved state (dissolved liquid) in the separation means 10.

[0061] The dehydration means 12 is for carrying out a dehydration process of the highly water-absorbent resin by adding a polyvalent metal salt. Normally, superabsorbent polymers absorb water by dissociating cations (salt components) in liquid, which causes the functional groups of the superabsorbent polymer (e.g., carboxyl groups, etc.) to have a negative charge, and by creating a difference in ion concentration with the water outside the resin, a force (force based on electrostatic interaction or osmotic pressure) that draws water into the superabsorbent polymer. On the other hand, by adding a polyvalent metal salt (polyvalent metal ion) to the used superabsorbent polymer that has absorbed body fluids, which is taken up by the superabsorbent polymer instead of the body fluid (water), the used superabsorbent polymer can be dehydrated. Therefore, the dehydration means 12 may be a means for adding a polyvalent metal salt to the used superabsorbent resin in the presence of water.

[0062] The dehydration means 12 is not particularly limited in its specific structure as long as it is capable of adding a polyvalent metal salt to the separation section 11 (separation tank) into which the used body fluid absorbent article and adjusted water are placed, as shown in FIG. 2. For example, the apparatus may include a tank for storing the polyvalent metal salt and a supply pipe connecting the tank to a separation tank. The polyvalent metal salt may be in either a solid state or an aqueous solution state in which the polyvalent metal salt is dissolved in water. The supply pipe may also be provided with a control mechanism for controlling the amount of the polyvalent metal salt supplied.

[0063] The polyvalent metal salt may be a salt of a metal having a valence of two or more, and examples of the salt include alkaline earth metal salts and transition metal salts. As the alkaline earth metal salt, water-soluble salts of beryllium, magnesium, calcium, strontium and barium can be used. Preferred alkaline earth metal salts include calcium chloride, calcium nitrate, magnesium chloride, magnesium nitrate, etc., and among them, calcium chloride is more preferred in terms of cost and dehydration effect. Examples of transition metal salts include water-soluble salts of iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, etc. As transition metal salts, inorganic acid salts, organic acid salts, complexes, etc. can be used as long as they are incorporated into water-absorbent polymers. Among them, inorganic acid salts or organic acid salts are preferred as transition metal salts in terms of cost and availability. Examples of inorganic acid salts include iron salts such as iron chloride, iron sulfate, iron phosphate, and iron nitrate; cobalt salts such as cobalt chloride, cobalt sulfate, cobalt phosphate, and cobalt nitrate; nickel salts such as nickel chloride and nickel sulfate; and copper salts such as copper chloride and copper sulfate. Examples of organic acid salts include iron lactate, cobalt acetate, cobalt stearate, nickel acetate, and copper acetate.

[0064] By adding the polyvalent metal salt from the dehydration means 12, the superabsorbent polymer in the separation section 11 releases the absorbed body fluid and loses almost all of its water absorption capacity. This causes the superabsorbent polymer to become in a particulate state with improved settling properties and separability from water. This improves the separation efficiency of the separation and recovery means described above.

[0065] Furthermore, the separating means 10 may include, in addition to the above-mentioned separating section 11 and dehydration means 12, a means for effectively and efficiently classifying the used body fluid absorbent articles into their respective constituent components (pulp, superabsorbent resin, plastic) and a means for introducing them in an appropriate state to each processing step downstream of the separating means 10. For example, a concentration adjustment tank for adjusting the concentration of each constituent component during or after the separation process may be provided.

[0066] (Regeneration processing means) The superabsorbent resin that has passed through the separation means 10 is introduced into the regeneration means 20 via line L1. The regeneration means 20 is for carrying out a regeneration process for recovering the water absorbing performance of the highly water absorbent resin. 2, the regeneration treatment means 20 may include a washing section 21, an acid reaction section 22, a concentrating section 23 consisting of the above-mentioned concentrating apparatus 100A, a neutralizing section 24, and a drying section 25, all of which are connected by lines L2 to L5. The regenerated superabsorbent resin (regenerated SAP) is discharged from the drying section 25 via line L6.

[0067] The washing section 21 is for carrying out a washing step of washing the highly water-absorbent resin separated in the separating means 10 and recovered via the line L1. The washing section 21 is not particularly limited in its specific structure as long as it can remove impurities (dirt, unseparated pulp, etc.) adhering to the surface (outer surface) of the superabsorbent resin with washing water. Here, water with a slightly lower degree of clarity can be used as the washing water, and treated water with relatively low clarity such as sewage treatment water, reclaimed water, and circulated water can be used. A specific example of the cleaning unit 21 is, for example, a cleaning tank in which a superabsorbent resin and cleaning water are introduced and stored, and impurities are removed from the superabsorbent resin by stirring inside the cleaning tank. The superabsorbent resin washed in the washing section 21 is separated from the washing water containing the removed impurities, and is introduced into the acid reaction section 22 via line L2.

[0068] The acid reaction section 22 is provided after the cleaning section 21 and is used to carry out an acid reaction step of adding a strong acid to the highly water-absorbent resin. As described above, the superabsorbent resin introduced into the acid reaction section 22 by the dehydration means 12 in the separation means 10 is in a state in which it has lost its water absorption capacity due to the cations of the polyvalent metal salt. The acid reaction section 22 adds a strong acid to the superabsorbent resin to lower the pH, thereby replacing the cations (for example, calcium ions) derived from the polyvalent metal salt in the superabsorbent resin with hydrogen ions.

[0069] The acid reaction section 22 may, for example, be provided with an acid reaction tank capable of storing the superabsorbent resin introduced via the line L2 and connected to a means for adding a strong acid. The means for adding the strong acid is not particularly limited, but may, for example, be provided with a tank for storing the strong acid and a supply pipe.

[0070] The strong acid added in the acid reaction section 22 may be any acid capable of adjusting the pH in the acid reaction section 22 to 3 or less, preferably 2 or less, and examples thereof include hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, and nitric acid. In addition, in order to favorably proceed with the reaction between the superabsorbent polymer and the strong acid in the acid reaction section 22, it is preferable to add adjustment water and adjust the superabsorbent polymer concentration (the content of the superabsorbent polymer in water). At this time, the suitable superabsorbent polymer concentration in the acid reaction section 22 is preferably in a range that facilitates stirring and mixing in the acid reaction section 22, specifically, 4% by mass or less, more preferably 2% by mass or less.

[0071] The superabsorbent resin treated in the acid reaction section 22 is introduced as a slurry (dispersion) into the concentrating section 23 via line L3.

[0072] The concentrating section 23 is provided after the acid reaction section 22 and serves to carry out a concentrating step for concentrating the highly water-absorbent resin. Here, the concentrating step by the concentrating section 23 is intended to remove water from the slurry (dispersion liquid) introduced from the acid reaction section 22 and increase the concentration of the hydrogen-substituted superabsorbent resin. This makes it possible to improve the processing efficiency in the subsequent steps (neutralization step and drying step).

[0073] The superabsorbent resin concentrated in the concentration section 23 is introduced through a line L4 into the neutralization section 24. Here, the concentration section 23 and the line L4 may be the above-mentioned concentrating apparatus 100A. This makes it possible to supply a superabsorbent resin with an optimized water content to the neutralization section 24 and drying section 25 downstream of the concentration section 23, reducing the energy (thermal energy) required for the drying process in the drying section 25 and optimizing the amount of chemical used in the neutralization section 24.

[0074] The neutralization section 24 is provided after the concentration section 23 and serves to carry out a neutralization step of neutralizing the highly absorbent resin. As described above, the water absorption performance of the superabsorbent polymer that has been hydrogen-substituted by the addition of a strong acid is restored to a certain degree, but is not sufficient for use as a regenerated product (product). Therefore, by performing neutralization in the neutralization unit 24, the hydrogen-substituted superabsorbent polymer is substituted with cations other than hydrogen ions (alkali substitution) to give the superabsorbent polymer a composition similar to that of the superabsorbent polymer before use, and it is possible to fully restore the water absorption performance of the superabsorbent polymer.

[0075] The superabsorbent resin neutralized (alkali-substituted) in the neutralization section 24 is introduced into the drying section 25 via line L5.

[0076] The drying section 25 is provided after the neutralization section 24 and is used for carrying out a drying step to dry the highly water-absorbent resin. The superabsorbent resin neutralized in the neutralization section 24 is in a water-containing state, and by drying this in the drying section 25, it can be reused as a regenerated product with sufficient water absorption performance restored.

[0077] The drying section 25 may be any device capable of drying the hydrous (shapeless) superabsorbent resin until it becomes particulate and can be handled. For example, a known device such as a band dryer or drum dryer may be used.

[0078] The dried superabsorbent resin is discharged as regenerated SAP to the outside of the SAP regeneration system 1 through line L6. The regenerated SAP can be used for the same purpose as the unusable superabsorbent resin, for example, it can be reused as a water-absorbing material for body fluid absorbent articles, or it can be used as other water-absorbing materials. In addition, a means for further improving the utility value of the regenerated SAP may be provided downstream of the drying section 25. For example, a particle size adjusting means or a molding means may be provided.

[0079] The SAP regeneration system 1 shown in FIG. 2 comprises a separation means for separating the superabsorbent resin from the used body fluid absorbent article, and a regeneration means for regenerating the separated superabsorbent resin. When the superabsorbent resin is separated from the used body fluid absorbent article, a polyvalent metal salt is added to the superabsorbent resin to perform a dehydration process, which allows the body fluid absorbed by the superabsorbent resin to be more reliably released to the outside, and the efficiency of separation and recovery of the superabsorbent resin can be improved. In addition, by performing a process in a predetermined order on the separated and recovered superabsorbent resin, the water absorption performance of the superabsorbent resin can be fully restored, and it can be effectively used (remanufactured) as a regenerated product (product). In particular, by providing the above-mentioned concentrating device 100A as a concentrating section provided after the acid reaction section by adding a strong acid, it is possible to supply the superabsorbent resin with an optimized water content to the subsequent processing step, which facilitates optimization of the amount of chemicals used in the neutralization section, and also greatly reduces the energy (heat energy) required for drying in the drying section, thereby reducing running costs. Furthermore, by making it possible to separate, recover and remanufacture the superabsorbent polymer from used body fluid absorbent articles such as used disposable diapers, which are discarded in large quantities, it is possible to promote the use of this polymer as a new resource.

[0080] [Second embodiment] Fig. 3 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus in a second embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 3A is a plan view seen from above, and Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view seen from the side. In the concentrating apparatus 100B according to the second embodiment, the transfer section 115 (belt 116) is provided at an incline with respect to the ground, and the pressurizing section 123 (belt 124) is also provided at an incline in accordance with the inclination of the transfer section 115 to form a space for clamping the object to be treated P0. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, a support 117 for supporting the inclination of the transfer section 115 (belt 116) may be provided, and an introduction section 103 and an introduction pipe 104 may be provided in accordance with the inclination of the transfer section 115 in order to introduce the object to be treated P0 into the inclined transfer section 115. Note that, in the configuration of the concentrating apparatus 100B, the same parts as those of the concentrating apparatus 100A in the first embodiment will not be described.

[0081] In the concentrating apparatus 100B of this embodiment, the area required for arranging the apparatus is reduced by inclining the transport section 115 (belt 116) compared to a case where the transport section is installed parallel to the ground, and it is possible to achieve space saving. In addition, since potential energy can be utilized in transporting the superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after the acid reaction, it is also possible to reduce the power required for transport (the driving energy of the transport section 115).

[0082] In this case, the moving mechanism 125 provided in the pressure applying section 123 is capable of moving the pressure applying section 123 in a direction perpendicular to the transport section 115, as well as adjusting the angle at which the pressure applying section 123 faces the transport section 115.

[0083] Moreover, the control unit 141 in this embodiment adjusts the distance between the transport unit 115 and the pressure unit 123 based on the amount of fluctuation in the measured value in the measurement unit 130. When controlling the driving of the movement mechanism 125, the control unit 141 may adjust the vertical distance to the transport unit 115 or control the opposing angle to the transport unit 115. In addition, the control unit 141 may also control the amount of the treatment target P0 introduced. As a result, similar to the concentrating device 100A in the first embodiment described above, the concentration process can be performed without applying excessive pressure load to the treatment object P0, and it becomes possible to easily optimize the moisture content (water content) of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) discharged from the concentrating device 100B.

[0084] The concentrating apparatus 100B of this embodiment can be applied as the concentrating section 23 in the SAP regeneration system 1 shown in Fig. 2. This makes it possible to reduce the running costs involved in the regeneration process of used superabsorbent resin, similar to the concentrating apparatus 100A of the first embodiment.

[0085] [Third embodiment] Fig. 4 is a schematic explanatory diagram showing a superabsorbent resin concentrating apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 4A is a plan view seen from above, and Fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view seen from the side. The concentrating apparatus 100C according to the third embodiment is provided with a plurality of rollers 126 instead of the belt 124 as the pressurizing unit 123 shown in the second embodiment. Note that, in the configuration of the concentrating apparatus 100C, the description of the same parts as those of the concentrating apparatuses 100A and 100B in the first and second embodiments will be omitted.

[0086] The concentrating apparatus 100C in this embodiment makes it easy to perform stepwise pressure adjustment on the processing object P0 (flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) by using a plurality of rollers 126 as the pressurizing unit 123. That is, since the regions (locations) to which pressure is applied to the processing object P0 (flat-plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) are dispersed, it becomes possible to perform precise pressure adjustment in optimizing the moisture content (moisture content).

[0087] At this time, the movement mechanism 127 provided in the pressure unit 123 not only moves the pressure unit 123 in a direction perpendicular to the transport unit 115, but also enables each roller 126 to move independently.

[0088] Similarly to control unit 141 in the second embodiment, control unit 142 in this embodiment adjusts the distance between transport unit 115 and pressure unit 123 based on the amount of fluctuation in the measured value in measurement unit 130. When controlling the driving of movement mechanism 127, control unit 142 may adjust the vertical distance to transport unit 115 or control the selection of roller 126 to be driven. In addition, the control unit 142 may also control the amount of the treatment target P0 introduced. As a result, similar to the concentrating devices 100A and 100B in the first and second embodiments described above, the concentration process can be performed without applying excessive pressure load to the treatment object P0, and it becomes possible to easily optimize the moisture content (water content) of the treatment object P0 (flat plate-shaped superabsorbent resin P1) discharged from the concentrating device 100C.

[0089] The concentrating device 100C of this embodiment can be applied as the concentrating section 23 in the SAP regeneration system 1 shown in Fig. 2. This makes it possible to reduce the running costs involved in the regeneration process of used superabsorbent resin, similar to the concentrating device 100A of the first embodiment.

[0090] The above-mentioned embodiment shows an example of a superabsorbent polymer concentrating device and a superabsorbent polymer concentrating method. The superabsorbent polymer concentrating device and the superabsorbent polymer concentrating method according to the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and the superabsorbent polymer concentrating device and the superabsorbent polymer concentrating method according to the above-mentioned embodiment may be modified within the scope of the gist described in the claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0091] The superabsorbent polymer concentrating apparatus and method of the present invention are suitable for use in a technology for recovering and regenerating superabsorbent polymer from used body fluid absorbent articles discarded from ordinary households, hospitals, welfare facilities, etc., and remanufacturing the products. [Explanation of symbols]

[0092] 1 SAP regeneration system, 10 separation means, 11 separation section, 12 dehydration means, 20 regeneration treatment means, 21 washing section, 22 acid reaction section, 23 concentration section, 24 neutralization section, 25 drying section, L1 to L7 lines 100A, 100B, 100C concentrating device, 101, 103 introduction section, 102, 104 introduction pipe, 110, 115 transfer section, 111, 116 belt, 112 pressure roll, 113 scraper, 114 chute, 117 support, 120, 123 pressure section, 121, 124 belt, 122, 125, 127 moving mechanism, 126 roller, 130 measurement section, 140 to 142 control section, 150 chemical addition means, 151 spray means, 151a nozzle, 152 chemical storage section, P0 treatment object (super absorbent resin in a water-containing state after acid reaction), P1 flat-plate super absorbent resin, T thickness of treatment object (flat-plate super absorbent resin), W width of treatment object (flat-plate super absorbent resin)

Claims

1. an introduction section for introducing the superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after the acid reaction; A transfer section that transfers the superabsorbent resin; A pressurizing unit that pressurizes the highly absorbent resin; a measuring section for measuring at least one of a water content, a thickness, and a width of the superabsorbent resin introduced into the transport section; A control unit that adjusts the distance between the pressurizing unit and the transporting unit based on a fluctuation amount of the measured value in the measurement unit; A concentrating device for a highly absorbent resin, comprising:

2. 2. The apparatus for concentrating a highly absorbent resin according to claim 1, wherein the transport section is inclined.

3. 3. The apparatus for concentrating a highly absorbent resin according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls an amount of the highly absorbent resin introduced into the introduction unit.

4. An introduction step of introducing a superabsorbent resin in a hydrated state after the acid reaction; A transfer step of transferring the superabsorbent resin; a pressurizing step of pressurizing the superabsorbent resin; a measuring step of measuring at least one of a water content, a thickness, and a width of the superabsorbent resin introduced in the transporting step; a control step of adjusting the distance between the pressurizing step and the transporting step based on the amount of fluctuation of the measured value in the measuring step; A method for concentrating a highly absorbent resin, comprising:

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