Hydrophilic polymers, agricultural applications

Superabsorbents are superabsorbent polymers, which are loosely crosslinked hydrophilic polymers and have ionic charges in the polymers. They absorb water, swell, and retain aqueous solution above hundred times their own weight. Because of the excellent characteristics, the superabsorbents have been widely used in many applications such as disposable diapers, feminine napkins, soil additives in agricultural or horticultural applications, gel actuators, water-blocking tapes, materials for drug delivery system, absorbent pads, etc., where water absorbency or water retention is important. 

Polymer hydrogels are cross-linked hydrophilic polymer networks that are able to swell considerably in an aqueous medium. The development of hydrogels is a dynamic field of research, and these materials could be used in various applications as agriculture, wastewater treatment, and of course biomedicine and pharmacy (drug delivery systems, wound dressing, soft contact lenses, etc.). 

---