A method for producing an absorbent structure and the resulting absorbent
structure. The method includes the steps of introducing a thermoplastic
polymer into an extrusion apparatus, melting the thermoplastic polymer
material having a moisture content of at least 0.5 percent by weight into
the extrusion apparatus, and extruding the mixture such that the fluid in
the superabsorbent polymer material evaporates as pressure is released
and induces foaming of the thermoplastic polymer that bonds the
particulate polymer material together to create a matrix.