In this project, we will explore the feasibility of the use of soybean oil and soy protein for the development of a new bio-based super-absorbent polymer (SAP). We will be developing the synthetic route to formulate a new hybrid polymeric material from modified soybean oil, modified soy protein, and/or soy meal that will have the ability to absorb large quantities of liquids. This proposal will complement our previous project founded by NDSC where a novel soybean oil-based polymer was developed for the agricultural mulch application and demonstrated excellent water-absorbing properties. In this project, we will be working on the improvement of water-absorbing properties by incorporating soy protein and/or soy meal into the SAP polymer. The new biobased SAP will be completely biodegradable and can have an application for disposable hygiene products and personal care products as well as for agricultural products. The new soy-based SAP will compete with existing polyacrylic acid-based SAPs and being biodegradable, will sufficiently lower the negative environmental impact.

The main objective of this project is to develop a new bio-based super-absorbent polymer (SAP) from soybean oil and soy protein/soy meal. The modified soybean oil (SBO) will be co-polymerized with acrylic acid (AA) in emulsion polymerization in the presence of modified soy protein. The modified soy protein will work as an emulsifier and will be incorporated into the polymer dispersion. The new bio-based SAP will be formed as a dry film or dry powder. The presence of soybean oil in the polymer will enable the crosslinking of the polymer for further use as a liquid-swellable material, or super-absorbent. The new biodegradable SAP can have a wide application in personal care products such as disposable diapers and sanitary napkins, animal care products such as pet pads and urine odor absorbers, and agricultural products such as seed coats, fertilizers, and moisture control additives.

The anticipated deliverables of this research will be the identification of the chemical composition of a new soy oil-based polymer containing soybean oil and soy protein crosslinker for use as a superabsorbent for liquids (water and oils). Other anticipated results will include the project final report and the possibility of patent applications and publication of results in a scientific journal.

Updated May 4, 2023:
Work has not yet started.

If successful, the project will generate additional demand for soy-based products such as soy oil and soy meal. The global market for super-absorbing materials has perceived remarkable growth during the last 40 years and is expected to persist in the coming years. According to plastermart.com, the global SAP market stood at 1,861, 800 metric tons in 2013. Another market research company, MarketsandMarketsTM forecasts the annual market growth rate in US$ as 5.9%, from 2021 to 2026. The market for SAP products is driven by the high consumption rate caused by population growth and growing demand for disposable products. Considering environmental concern, the bio-based and bio-degradable products from soy have a great potential to replace the part of synthetic and non-biodegradable SAPs on the market.