Jellyfish-containing Superabsorbent Hydrogels

Abstract

Jellyfish have the potential to be a good alternative solution to the problems we may encounter in the future. It is important to use this potential effectively and obtain environmentally friendly results. Superabsorbents, which come across us in many forms from diapers to oil traps, have their own supply and demand today. In this study, the use of Aurelia aurita and Rhizostoma pulmo jellyfish, which are frequently encountered in the Marmara Sea, as superabsorbent materials was investigated. After drying and grinding these simple organisms, which contain over 95% water, their potential as superabsorbent materials was examined both directly and in hydrogels. By incorporating jellyfish tissue into hydrogels, which are traditionally chemically cross-linked polymeric 3D network structures, transparent hydrogels with high strength and water capacity, where both physical and chemical bonds are effective, were characterized within the scope of the study. These hydrogels, which have the capacity to hold more than 1000 times their dry weight in water, have a promising potential for use, especially in agriculture and health applications.

Keywords

• superabsorbent
• hydrogel
• photopolymerization
• jellyfish

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