Surface-crosslinking of itaconic acid-based superabsorbent polymer using a novel bio-based surface-crosslinker based on succinic acid

Abstract

A novel bio-based crosslinker - epoxidized succinic acid (ESA)-was prepared from the condensation reaction of succinic acid with epichlorohydrin. The ESA was used as a surface-crosslinker to improve the low gel strength of itaconic acid-based superabsorbent polymers (SAPs). The surface-crosslinked SAP showed a significant improvement in absorbency under loads of up to 220%, and its storage modulus increased by similar to 12 times compared to that of an untreated SAP. The proper balance of absorption performance was optimal when the acetone:DW volume ratio of the surface-crosslinking solution was 8:2. The bio-based content of the optimal SAP was enhanced up to 59.7%.