Chapter VII Cross-linked cellulose and cellulose derivatives

Abstract

This chapter discusses cross-linked cellulose and cellulose derivatives. The chapter describes the pertinent physical and chemical characteristics of cellulose and various cellulose derivatives that led to the development of superabsorbence technology. There are a variety of products that utilize absorbent cellulose, which includes diapers, catamenial napkins, tampons, nursing pads, wound dressings and other incontinence products. Practically all forms of cellulose can function in absorbent products, including wood pulps, rayon, and cotton. The high bulk of fluffed pulp absorbent products and the skyrocketing costs of packaging and shipping, which are very dependent on product bulk, have spurred developments of compact materials with extraordinary absorbent characteristics, called the superabsorbents. Superabsorbent napkins are typically 67% lower in bulk volume than napkins constructed from fluffed pulp and can absorb up to 70 times their weight of liquid. In addition to the high fluid absorption capacity and low bulk, superabsorbent polymers have the ability to hold fluids under pressure; another important advantage over fluffed cellulose pulp.