What Is CRC (Centrifuge Retention Capacity)?

Updated 2026-08-02 · Soft Care Guide Editorial Team · Reviewed by Editorial Team · Fact Checked

Direct Answer

CRC (Centrifuge Retention Capacity) measures how much liquid SAP retains after centrifuge spinning, indicating the gel's base absorption capacity.

Key Takeaways

  • CRC (Centrifuge Retention Capacity) measures how much liquid SAP retains after centrifuge spinning, indicating the gel's base absorption capacity.
  • How it works: SAP is soaked in saline, then spun in a centrifuge to remove free liquid; the retained amount is the CRC (g/g).
  • SAP CRC values typically range 25-45 g/g depending on grade
  • Myth: CRC alone determines diaper quality. Real performance needs CRC + AAP + SFC together

How CRC (Centrifuge Retention Capacity) Works

SAP is soaked in saline, then spun in a centrifuge to remove free liquid; the retained amount is the CRC (g/g). It is a core quality metric for SAP raw material. Combined with AAP (pressure) and SFC (flow), it describes full performance. High CRC means high base capacity; balance with speed and flow determines product behavior.

Examples and Applications

  • SAP CRC values typically range 25-45 g/g depending on grade
  • Manufacturers grade SAP by CRC for different product needs

CRC (Centrifuge Retention Capacity) vs. Related Terms

TermWhat it isKey difference
AAPCRC (Centrifuge Retention Capacity)CRC is retention after centrifuge (no load); AAP measures retention under pressure

Limitations and Common Misconceptions

  • Myth: CRC alone determines diaper quality. Real performance needs CRC + AAP + SFC together
  • Myth: Higher CRC is always better. Very high CRC SAP can be slow or gel-block in practice
What is CRC for SAP?

Centrifuge retention capacity: liquid retained per gram of SAP after spinning out free liquid.

What is a typical CRC value?

Roughly 25-45 g/g depending on SAP grade and product application.

References

  1. BASF - Superabsorbents (HySorb / SAVIVA), how SAP works — BASF (accessed 2026-08-02)
  2. Family Cares - The Science of Absorbency: Superabsorbent Polymer in Diapers — 行业媒体 (accessed 2026-08-02)