Steve Spangler Science: Water Absorbing Crystals

One of the most common applications for super absorbent polymers is their use as the water-absorbing ingredient in baby diapers.

That’s right… baby diapers! It’s possible that you may even have worn them for a few years not so long ago. Ask your parents about the difference this kind of diaper made in their attitudes about life.

In spite of their usefulness, these diapers can be a problem. If you’ve ever observed a baby in diapers splashing in a wading pool, you know that even one diaper can absorb lots and lots of water! Most public pools won’t allow them to be worn in the water because huge globs of gooey gel can leak out and make a mess of the filter system. Also, some folks used to throw them away in toilets. Not a good idea unless you’re a plumber.

But for the most part, these diapers are a great invention and make for dry, happy babies!


Science Topics
Biology, Botany, Chemistry, Conservation & Sustainability, Polymers
K-6
Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 2nd Grade, 3rd Grade, 4th Grade, 5th Grade, 6th Grade

What are you looking for?

Organization

Steve Spangler Science

Website URL

Type of Resource

Tutorial

Assigned Categories