A new superabsorbent and biodegradable sheet for applications in agriculture, cosmetics, and medical fields
Okinawa, Japan – April 7, 2025 – EF Polymer K.K. (Headquarters: Kunigami District, Okinawa; Founder & CEO: Narayan Lal Gurjar), a developer of 100% organic superabsorbent polymers, has collaborated with Soken Chemical Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Toshima-ku, Tokyo; President: Koji Tomita), a company specializing in acrylic adhesives and functional polymer products, to develop the new “EF Polymer Sheet.” The product is expected to have applications across a wide range of industries, including agriculture, cosmetics, and medical fields.
Background
Traditional absorbent sheets are widely used in cosmetics, medical care, and packaging. However, many of these products rely on petroleum-based materials, contributing to microplastic pollution and environmental concerns at disposal. To address these issues, Soken Chemical explored open innovation opportunities and took an interest in EF Polymer’s superabsorbent technology derived from orange peels. This led to the concept of developing a sheet-based product using this sustainable material.
The EF Polymer Sheet, born from this collaboration, combines EF Polymer’s 100% natural superabsorbent polymer with biodegradable nonwoven fabric, creating an eco-friendly, next-generation absorbent sheet. With high water absorption capacity and natural decomposition after use, this product offers a sustainable alternative to conventional absorbent sheets across multiple industries.
Key Features
- High Absorption: Can absorb approximately 10 to 20 times its own weight in water
- Biodegradability: Naturally decomposes, reducing environmental impact at disposal
- Gentle on the Skin: Made from natural ingredients, suitable for cosmetic and medical applications
- Versatile Applications: Usable in beauty, healthcare, agriculture, packaging, and more
Applications for EF Polymer Sheet
This innovative product is expected to be useful in the following areas:
- Beauty & Healthcare: Facial masks and sheet packs infused with skincare formulations
- Medical: Gauze and wound dressings for absorbing blood and bodily fluids
- Agriculture: Used as a covering material to maintain moisture and promote plant growth
- Food & Packaging: Biodegradable wraps and absorbent materials for food trays
- Pet Products: Eco-friendly pet toilet sheets and waste bags
- Disposable Amenities: Biodegradable laundry bags for hotels and events
Narayan Lal Gurjar, Founder & CEO of EF Polymer, commented: “We are delighted that our technology has evolved into a new product format through the development of the EF Polymer Sheet. Originally designed for agriculture, EF Polymer has now expanded into a sheet-based product, proving the versatility of our technology. Moving forward, we aim to strengthen partnerships with companies that share our vision and values, fostering new value creation through collaboration while working towards a greener and more sustainable future.”
About EF PolymerEF Polymer is a deep-tech startup founded in India and growing in Okinawa, Japan. The company upcycles agricultural waste, such as orange and banana peels, into 100% organic superabsorbent polymers. These polymers are primarily used in agriculture but are also being adapted for applications in consumer goods, cosmetics, and medical fields. EF Polymer actively supports green transformation (GX) initiatives by helping companies transition to sustainable materials. Through its technology, EF Polymer aims to combat environmental challenges, especially water scarcity. https://ja.efpolymer.com/