Abstract: The subject invention pertains to large particle size, attrition-resistant, continuous, but wrinkled, high surface area aqueous fluid absorbent polymers, preferably of a crosslinked acrylic acid or acrylate. These absorbents have absorption rates superior to spherical absorbents. The subject invention further pertains to a process of preparing such polymers comprising suspension polymerization with an at least partially off phase soluble initiator. The subject invention further pertains to absorbent structures containing such polymers and to the use of such polymers therein.

Abstract: A process for making clusters of individual polymer beads bonded together to minimize attritition in use or processing but characterized by an open structure for fast absorption of aqueous solutions comprises suspending a monomer mixture in a continuous phase at high shear agitation such that fine droplets of monomer are formed in an inert organic phase. A suspending agent which prevents the clusters from coalescing is provided. A first polyethylenically unsaturated crosslinking monomer, having substantial solubility in the aqueous phase, and an organic phase soluble initiator system are provided such that polymerization at the surface of the polymer particles occurs to form the porous clusters of the invention, A second substantially oil soluble crosslinker is optionally provided to further crosslink the clusters such that they do not coalesce.