Superabsorbent polymers (SAP) are partially neutralized homopolymers of glacial acrylic acid (with internal and surface cross-linking) that have found widespread commercial use as a liquid absorbent in baby diapers, adult incontinence products, feminine hygiene products, electric cable wrap protection, firefighting, planting soils, and as a thickener in cosmetics and coatings. Demand for diapers and hygiene products is driven by population growth and rising household income levels. In developing countries, the predominant factor is the emergence of a middle class that can afford disposable diapers and feminine hygiene products. In contrast, demand growth in much of the developed world is driven by its aging populations, which have an increasing need for adult incontinence products.
