Sodium Polyacrylate

Sodium Polyacrylateis referred to as a sodium salt of polyacrylic acid with the chemical formula [-CH2-CH (CO2-Na)-] n. It is also known as water lock. Sodium Polyacrylate serves as an anionic polyelectrolyte with negatively charged carboxylicgroups in the main chain. While sodium neutralized polyacrylic acids are the most common form used in industry, there are also other salts available including potassium, lithium and ammonium.
Sodium Polyacrylate finds its use as a sequestering agent in detergents that is it has the ability to bind hard-water elements, such as magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc, to make the detergents work more effectively. Chelating agents neutralize the presence of heavy metals that may be found in water, dirt and other substances that can be found in laundry, making the detergent more effective in cleaning and neutralizing odors in clothes. It also functions as thickening agents or as super absorbent polymers. Sodium Polyacrylate also serves as the main ingredient in high-absorbency diapers.