Surface modification of superabsorbing hydrogels through a feasible esterification reaction: Toward tunable superabsorbent for hygienic applications

ABSTRACT

Improved superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) were prepared by feasible esterification reactions to prohibit gel blockage and develop swollen gel strength leading to enhanced saline absorbency under load (AUL). Thus, water–dimethylsulfoxide solutions containing benzyl chloride and 1,2-dichloroethane were used to modify SAP particle surface through tetramethylguanidine-promoted reactions. Attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to verify the modification. Influence of the modification reaction variables on free swelling (in water and saline), AUL, absorption rate, contact angle, water retention capability, gel blockage prohibition, gel content, and rheological properties were investigated. This modification approach was considered as a good candidate to scale up the production of SAPs for hygienic applications.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Absorbency under load
• esterification
• gel blockage
• hydrophobic modification
• superabsorbent polymer
• surface crosslinking