The Institute for Polyacrylate Absorbents (IPA) is an industry association whose mission is scientific research and information concerning the safe manufacture and use of polyacrylate superabsorbent polymers. Based in Washington, D.C., and affiliated with SOCMA, IPA members include all of the North American manufacturers of polyacrylate-based superabsorbents and leading consumer product companies who use polyacrylate superabsorbents in personal care products. These polymers are used predominantly in personal care products, including baby diapers and adult incontinence products.
While IPA focuses on North America, it maintains close ties with international groups that share its interest in polyacrylate superabsorbent materials. This includes the Superabsorbent Producers and Converters Expert Committee (SPACE), a subunit of EDANA, the international association serving the nonwovens and related industries, the Asia Superabsorbent Polymers Industry Association (ASPIA), and the Japan Superabsorbent Polymers Industry Association (JASPIA).
