How green is Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP)?

Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) consists of small gel-like beads that have all the water removed. When water is reintroduced, the crystals absorb the water and grow into a gel. SAP is an essential component in baby diapers, feminine hygiene products as well as double glazing and moister control beads in electronic packaging materials. In 2000 worldwide consumption reached 3 million metric tons.

What goes into Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP)

Superabsorbent polymers are made from the polymerization of acrylic acid blended with sodium hydroxide in the presence of an intiator to form a poly-acrylic acid. From an environmental stand-point SAPs have a footprint that is similar to plastics.

Recycling and material recovery

Most SAPs used in nappies and other personal hygene products end up in landfill, in other products like electronic packaging beads and double glazing moister control strips the beads can be dryed and used again.

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