Method of increasing the size and absorption under load of superabsorbent polymers by impregnation with a solution of cross-linking agent

摘要

A method of enhancing the water absorbance of and increasing the particle size of fine water absorbent cross-linked polyacrylic polymer particles includes impregnating the cross-linked polyacrylic polymer particles with an impregnating solution containing a cross-linking agent for the polyacrylic polymer. The solution is impregnated into the polymer in a weight ratio of polymer, dry basis, to impregnating solution in the range of about 1:1 to about 1:10 and preferably at a weight ratio of polymer, dry basis, to impregnation water in the range of about 100:99 to about 100:999.9, and subjecting the impregnated polymer particles to conditions, such as increased temperature, e.g. 50 DEG C - 150 DEG C, to react the impregnated cross-linking agent within the polymer particles to form a further cross-linked polyacrylic polymer having enhanced capacity for absorption of fluids under load (AUL) and increased particle size.