Polyacrylic Superabsorbent Polymer With High Capillary Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing super absorbent polymers face challenges in maintaining high absorption capacity and centrifuge retention capacity while achieving a fast absorption rate, often compromised by the use of foaming agents or high crosslinking density.
Innovation Solution
A polyacrylic acid-based super absorbent polymer with a capillary constant of 0.4 mm^5 or more, achieved through controlled manufacturing processes to enhance capillary action, surface area, and convexity, minimizing extractable components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a foaming agent is included in the monomer composition to form a porous structure, then the surface area of the super absorbent polymer is increased and absorption rate is improved, but overall properties such as surface tension, liquid permeability, and bulk density are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the foaming agent from the monomer composition entirely, extracting the harmful element that caused the deterioration of overall properties while seeking alternative methods to achieve the desired porous structure and absorption rate through different compositional ratios of absorbent particles and pulp fibers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the compositional parameters by adjusting the ratio of super absorbent polymer particles to pulp fibers (where the super absorbent polymer content is 10-50 wt% based on total weight), and modifies the physical parameters of the pulp fibers through controlled fibrillation to achieve optimal absorption performance without foaming agents
2Reliability
If the crosslinking density is increased to improve overall properties, then surface tension and liquid permeability are improved, but centrifuge retention capacity is reduced due to difficulty in absorbing moisture between dense crosslinked structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a heterogeneous structure where highly crosslinked super absorbent polymer particles (with improved overall properties) are distributed within a fibrillated pulp fiber matrix, allowing different regions to fulfill different functions: the crosslinked particles provide structural integrity and surface properties, while the fibrillated pulp spaces provide moisture absorption pathways and retention capacity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The polymer exhibits a fast absorption rate and excellent absorption capacity, maintaining balance with centrifuge retention capacity and liquid permeability, suitable for various applications including sanitary products and horticultural uses.
Implementation Method 1
The present disclosure is directed to providing a super absorbent polymer (SAP) having excellent fluid absorption capacity due to capillary action, thereby having a fast absorption rate and excellent absorption capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A super absorbent polymer may have a capillary constant of 0.4 mm5 or more as derived using n-hexane. The super absorbent polymer may be a polyacrylic acid (salt)-based super absorbent polymer. The super absorbent polymer may have a fast absorption rate and an improved absorption capacity, resulting in improved performance.