| abstract |
Absorbent gelling materials are prepared by cross-linking polyaspartate units. The cross-linked homopolymers exhibit improved gel volumes, gel strengths and extractable material characteristics. Using diamine cross-linkers in an amount of 2.5 - 30 percent by weight, the blue-dextran saline gel volumes of at least 15 can be obtained. Similarly, gel strengths of 300 N/m2 or better, including gel strengths above 3000 N/m2, can be obtained. The resulting product is susceptible of a variety of uses, is biodegradable, and can be prepared in a particle size suitable for use in a diaper. |