Superabsorbent polymers structural characteristics

Unlike the water absorption characteristics, in moisture absorption by superabsorbent polymers these characteristics do not appear because these polymers are crosslinked. The saturation moisture content is basically the same as for the hydrophilic polymers prior to crosslinking. However, due to the crosslinked structure, adhesion is minimized. Thus, even after moisture absorption/drying cycles, the surface area is kept relatively constant and the rate of moisture absorption/drying will also be kept relatively constant. 

The basic structure of superabsorbent polymers is simply slightly cross-linked hydrophilic polymers. In order to form superabsorbent polymers, molecular weight should be higher and crosslink density should be lower. Here, the word slightly is quite qualitative. However, it is because highly crosslinked polymers show poor water absorption characteristics that they are no longer called superabsorbent polymers. 

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