The Chemical In Gel Ice Pack Bag: sodium polyacrylate polymer

Gel ice pack

Gel ice pack also called cold pack, is the substitute product for the traditional ice bag.

best gel ice packs can be used to:

• lower the body’s temperature;

• transport the medicine, food, flower;

• deal with the emergency hurt pain on sports injuries.

Different from traditional ice bags, non toxic gel packs have become increasingly popular.

Advantages of biodegradable ice packs

• Soft feel and nice appearance;

• Effectively curb the breeding of bacteria;

• More effective. (Its specific heat is 3-4 times than ice’s)

What chemical is in gel ice packs for shipping?

Chemical in ice gel packs's sodium polyacrylate polymer

As a type of superabsorbent polymers, sodium polyacrylate can absorb plenty of water and become a gel form.

One-gram sodium polyacrylate can absorb 300-1000 grams of pure water. In other words, it’s enough to contain 1 gram (or less)  sodium polyacrylate for each gel ice pack.

Advantages of Sodium polyacrylate

• high specific heat capacity;

• low cost (for each gel ice pack) ;

• non-toxic & environment friendly;

 Is the gel inside an ice pack toxic?

The gel inside ice packs is typically made of sodium polyacrylate, which is safe for human use under normal circumstances and does not cause direct toxicity. Sodium polyacrylate is a polymer compound primarily used to maintain the gel's flexibility and cooling effect during the cold therapy process. However, if the ice gel ice pack is damaged or ruptured, it could lead to gel leakage. While sodium polyacrylate is non-toxic, it is still advisable to avoid direct contact or ingestion. If it comes into contact with skin or eyes, rinse with plenty of water immediately. In case of any accidents, seeking prompt medical advice is recommended.

Other applications of water gel sodium polyacrylate

Except for gel ice pack,  it can be used in every aspect of our life:

• thermal insulation material (ice towels, ice pillows…);

• absorbent material (such as in paper diapers, sanitary napkins, nursing pads…);

• water blocking material (such as inflatable sandbags, waterproof for cable…);

• expanding material (inflatable toy).

Furthermore, these ice packs are lightweight and portable, making them perfect for home use as well as for travel, sports, and outdoor activities where injuries or soreness may occur. They are commonly found in first aid kits, physical therapy clinics, and even in the homes of individuals who frequently experience muscle aches, joint pains, or post-surgery swelling.