Synthesis and Characterization of Poly (CMC-g-cl-PAam/Zeolite) Superabsorbent Composites for Controlled Delivery of Zinc Micronutrient: Swelling and Release Behavior

A series of novel superabsorbent hydrogel composites, poly(CMC-g-cl-PAam/Zeolite) (ZSAPC) were prepared by in situ graft polymerization using a cellulosic backbone, acrylamide and natural zeolite. The swelling and deswelling behavior of the prepared composites was evaluated and analyzed by different empirical models. The composite with optimum water absorption capacity were impregnated with ZnSO4 in situ during polymerization reaction. Zincated composites showed less water absorption capacity as compared to non-zincated ones. Zinc release behavior of zincated test hydrogel composites was studied in water and soil. All the test compositions exhibited non-Fickian or anomalous transport (0.43 < n < 0.84) and behaved as slow release products.