Upcycling the superabsorbent polymer and cellulose mixture of diapers for agricultural applications

Aim: To give the superabsorbent polymer and cellulose mixture left over from diaper production a second use in agriculture, as a way of raising the water holding capacity of soil.

Methods: The sodium-rich material is enriched with potassium by ion exchange in potassium nitrate solution. Its effect on the water holding capacity of soil and on the growth of maize and tomato seedlings is then tested in greenhouse trials.

Scope: Run as a GTÜ TTO R&D project with Evyap from December 2025 and completed in August 2026.