Polyelectrolyte Gels Comprising a Lipophilic, Cost-Effective Aluminate as Fluorine-Free Absorbents for Chlorinated Hydrocarbons and Diesel Fuel

Superabsorbent polymers comprising a lipophilic, halogen-free, and cost-effective aluminate ("altebate") anion have been synthesized. The polyelectrolytes are based on octadecyl acrylate monomers, 0.8-1 mol % ethylene dimethacrylate cross-linker, and 5 mol % N-3-acroyloxypropyl trialkylammonium altebate. At 30 °C, swelling degrees of 70 (chlorobenzene), 102 (CHCl3), 130 (THF), 163 (ClCH2CH2Cl), 171 (dichlorobenzene), and 208 (CH2Cl2) have been determined. The polyelectrolyte absorbs reversibly diesel fuel with a swelling degree of 34, even in the presence of water. Swelling times and critical swelling temperatures have also been determined. The challenges for the development of oil absorbents are discussed.