“…They also possess excellent fluid retention properties under pressure2, 3 as they immobilize the fluid by entrapment rather than by holding it in the structure. Because of the aforementioned features, SAPs are finding extensive applications in drug delivery as carriers,4–6 agricultural and horticultural fields as soil conditioners,7–10 disposable diapers,11 hygienic napkins,12 cement,13 effluent treatments for removing heavy metals, and dye,14, 15 disposal of radioactive uranium ions,16 absorbing oil,17 coal dewatering,18 sensors19 etc. Besides, they are also employed in communication cables, humidity control, artificial snow for winter sports, toys, cosmetics and as an industrial absorbent, and for prevention of moisture ingress into walls and ceilings 20, 21.…”