Perdue University is working to develop superabsorbent materials from hemp hurd. Superabsorbant materials are used in applications like diapers, tampons, menstrual pads, and surgical pads.

Used diapers contribute a significant load to the overall waste stream. The World Economic forum reported last year that over 300,000 disposable diapers are landfilled or incinerated each minute and a single baby can use 6,000 diapers ahead of being toilet trained. 
 
Senay Semsek is head of the Department of Food Science and the Deans Chair in Food Science in the College of Agriculture at Perdue. Semsek notes the reliance on petroleum-based materials is an ongoing concern because of volatility in global oil markets which is often caused by geopolitical clashes. Hemp offers a renewable alternative that has the potential to benefit the agricultural sector as well as decarbonization efforts.

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