Performance of a novel, eco-friendly, cellulose-based superabsorbent polymer (Cellulo-SAP) : Absorbency, stability, reusability, and biodegradability

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

13 Scopus Citations
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Author(s)

  • Rosa Arredondo
  • Zhongshun Yuan
  • Dennise Sosa
  • Anthony Johnson
  • Ramon Filipe Beims
  • Hongwei Li
  • Qiang Wei

Detail(s)

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1762-1771
Journal / PublicationCanadian Journal of Chemical Engineering
Volume101
Issue number4
Online published12 Aug 2022
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2023
Externally publishedYes

Abstract

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) have attracted tremendous attention recently, with researchers noting that their high water absorbability is valuable for various applications, especially in agricultural contexts. Two types of materials can be used to produce SAPs: Fossil-based (which are harmful to the environment) and bio-based (which are significantly more environmentally friendly, given their biodegradability and minimal toxic side effects). Although bio-based SAPs are preferable for environmental reasons, their synthesis tends to be time consuming and labour intensive, while their absorption capacity (AC) can be far below expectations. To address these problems, a novel, eco-friendly, cellulose-based superabsorbent polymer (Cellulo-SAP) was developed in this study through facile preparation via free radical synthesis using modified cellulose. Then, the absorbency, thermal/pH stability, reusability, and biodegradability of Cellulo-SAP were evaluated. This new polymer demonstrated reusability as a water reservoir, in addition to high thermal and pH stability. More importantly, Cellulo-SAP achieved an AC of 475 g/g and exhibited superior biodegradability compared to a commercial, fossil-based SAP. Accordingly, these results prove that Cellulo-SAP can be used in agriculture as an effective alternative to fossil-based SAPs. © 2022 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering.

Research Area(s)

  • absorption property, bio-based superabsorbent polymer, biodegradability, swelling kinetics

Citation Format(s)

Performance of a novel, eco-friendly, cellulose-based superabsorbent polymer (Cellulo-SAP): Absorbency, stability, reusability, and biodegradability. / Arredondo, Rosa; Yuan, Zhongshun; Sosa, Dennise et al.
In: Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 101, No. 4, 04.2023, p. 1762-1771.

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review