Novel superabsorbent materials obtained from plant proteins

This work reviews the potential of plant protein-based materials as superabsorbent polymers (SAP). The review also discusses important topics of relevance for the current state of petroleum-based SAP and explains the background of the high water uptake of such materials. As diapers represent one of the most significant example of SAP applications, their industrial assemblying is highlighted. The research in absorbent materials has shown that treated and functionalized proteins may play a role in daily-care applications where super absorbency is required. Consequently, a description of proteins and the interactions that can take place within these natural polymers are reviewed. Protein sidestream candidates from biorefinery processes are listed and a further description of protein extraction mechanisms is given. This review also summarizes the results that have been obtained so far in the area of protein-based SAP materials. Finally, the challenges that protein-based SAPs face, as a possible candidate to replace petroleum-based ones, are discussed.