Performance of a novel, eco-friendly, cellulose-based superabsorbent polymer (Cellulo-SAP) : Absorbency, stability, reusability, and biodegradability
Research output: Journal Publications and Reviews › RGC 21 - Publication in refereed journal › peer-review
Author(s)
Detail(s)
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1762-1771 |
Journal / Publication | Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering |
Volume | 101 |
Issue number | 4 |
Online published | 12 Aug 2022 |
Publication status | Published - Apr 2023 |
Externally published | Yes |
Link(s)
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.
In: Canadian Journal of Chemical Engineering, Vol. 101, No. 4, 04.2023, p. 1762-1771.
Research output: Journal Publications and Reviews › RGC 21 - Publication in refereed journal › peer-review