»» Start Animation

*You will need Adobe Flash Player installed on your computer. » download player

OVERVIEW:
Superabsorbent polymers (SAP) are large chain-like molecules that can absorb water up to thousands of times their own weight. Their ability to absorb is strongly related to the surface area of the polymer that is in contact with water. The surface area depends on the polymer particles size. Fine particles result in larger area than coarse particles.

This animation is classified into two sections: “Basic (high school chemistry or equivalent)” and “Advanced (AP chemistry or college chemistry)”

Required skills: Knowledge of High School Algebra and Geometry

Class: High School Chemistry; AP Chemistry; College Chemistry

Approximate Time: 45 min - 1 hr

Author(s):
Prof. Richard D. Braatz,
Li May Goh,
Effendi Rusli,
John A. Washington,
Jorge Pazmino,
Seyeong Im,
Mitsuko Fujiwara,
Rasche, M.,
Kim, K. K.,
Reid, D.

Institution:
University of Illinois
at Urbana-Champaign
Urbana, IL USA

Author(s):
Valerie Maynard

Institution:
Northwestern University, IL USA

Level:
High School Chemistry,
AP Chemistry,
College Chemistry