Superabsorbent hydrogels enhanced by quaternized tunicate cellulose nanocrystals with adjustable strength and swelling ratio

Abstract Superabsorbent hydrogels were prepared from biodegradable material, where the matrix was cross-linked cellulose and carboxymethyl reinforced by quaternized tunicate nanocrystals (Q-TCNCs). Due to large amount of hydrophilic groups on cellulose, Q-TCNCs, had excellent water absorption capacity. The equilibrium swelling ratio superabsorbent exceeded 500 g/g in deionized 120 even synthetic urine, which higher than those commercial absorbent materials composed copolymers acrylic acid acrylamide. performances mechanical properties could be adjusted changing content Q-TCNCs. resultant expected replace polyolefin-based materials, thereby reducing environmental pollution.