kaliumpolyacrylaats

Kaliumpolyacrylaat is a water-insoluble, cross-linked polymer derived from polyacrylic acid where the acidic groups are neutralized with potassium ions. It functions as a superabsorbent polymer, meaning it can absorb and retain extremely large amounts of liquid relative to its own mass. This absorption capacity is primarily due to the ionic nature of the potassium salt and the cross-linked network structure of the polymer. When water encounters the material, the potassium ions dissociate, creating a negative charge on the polymer backbone. This negative charge repels itself, causing the polymer chains to expand and creating spaces for water molecules to enter and be held within the network.

The primary application of kaliumpolyacrylaat is as a soil conditioner in agriculture and horticulture. When mixed with soil, it improves water retention, reducing the frequency of irrigation and making water more available to plant roots, especially in arid or sandy soils. It can also help to reduce nutrient leaching from the soil by binding to dissolved nutrients and releasing them slowly. This property contributes to more efficient fertilizer use. Beyond agriculture, it finds use in hygiene products, such as disposable diapers and sanitary napkins, to absorb bodily fluids. It is also employed in industrial applications like waste solidification and in specialized packaging for moisture control. The production process involves the polymerization of acrylic acid, followed by neutralization with a potassium source and cross-linking to form the final insoluble product.