Sodium Polyacrylate

Sodium Polyacrylate experiment

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• chemistry

[cher716]

isn't it really toxic



[gccn]

@cher716 Only if you eat massive quantities. This stuff is in baby diapers, and when babies get old enough, they learn to tear OFF their diapers, tear UP their diapers, and throw it all around. Then sample the fibers from inside because, you know, to babies, stuff from a diaper is very delicious-looking.

[cher716]

@gccn This includes paper towels used to clean up, and the saturated nappy. Sodium polyacrylate should never be poured down the sink. as far as diapers go no long term studies have been done but it is suspected that disposable diapers may cause long term reproductive problems and may even cause asthma. So I'm wondering why some companies say it's as toxic as table salt if scientists go to thes extreme safety measures when using it.

[gccn]

@cher716 Oh it's somewhat toxic. Remember that this is a liquid absorber, meaning the internal juices will be absorbed and you could get a blockage (digestive and respiratory) from a large piece or several pieces. As I said, I wouldn't recommend sitting down and eating a healthy portion of it, but unless you're going to do the experiment(s) under a fume hood, there's bound to be a sliver of it get in the nose or mouth and get internally. It's not as deadly as, say, Plutonium.

[MichaelAaronPerez]

I know that they use this stuff in the Slushy Magic thing on TV. Is that safe to eat? I feel like it's not...

[gccn]

@MichaelAaronPerez I wouldn't eat it. But I know it's non-toxic.

[irenfrea]

I´d throw a bucket of that in a pool

[EternalSickness]

It's to show how much water sodium polyacrylate can absorb.

[cher716]

@gccn Hands should be cleaned immediately after exposure with moist paper towels or baby wipes, then with soap and water. Safety goggles should be worn when sodium polyacrylate crystals are being used. All materials containing sodium polyacrylate should be disposed by placing them in a sealed plastic container, such as a ziploc bag, and placed in the rubbish.

[cher716]

@gccn ok...this is from a science experiment safety tips for students...Sodium polyacrylate is toxic if swallowed and exposure to the eyes should be avoided. Students should not complete preparation of the activity. It should be completed by a trained professional such as a teacher. Sodium polyacrylate crystals can be harmful to nasal membranes, and should not be inhaled. Everyone who comes in contact with the sodium polyacrylate should keep their hands away from their faces.

[gccn]

@RadioTrefoil Better yet: Pack it in an ice cube tray or box. When they add the liquid... :D

[RadioTrefoil]

This would make for a great prank. Stick it in someone's drink when they're not looking.