Coloring a Superabsorbent Polymer with Metal Ions. An Undergraduate Chemistry Experiment

• Autores: Jing Fun Young, Yueh-Huey Huey Chen
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 86, Nº. 3 (March), 2009, págs. 347-349
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • A novel undergraduate chemistry experiment involving superabsorbent polymers commonly used in diapers and other personal care products is described. Students observe the removal of divalent transition-metal ions from aqueous solutions by the polymers. With the procedures provided, students are able to color the superabsorbent polymers with metal halides solutions and isolate the the formed metal(II) polyacrylates. Metal(II) polyacrylates with unique colors are obtained with metal ions Cu2+, Ni2+, Co2+, and Fe2+. The ion-exchange capacity of the polymer with Cu2+ is also investigated by colorimetry.