Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are advanced functional materials capable of absorbing and retaining large volumes of liquids. This paper reviews the synthesis, modification, and processing methods of different SAPs, as well as their applications in various industries. Synthetic SAPs, such as polyacrylic acid (PAA), polyacrylamide, polyacrylonitrile, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), exhibit superior water absorption properties compared to natural polymers like cellulose, chitosan, and starch. However, synthetic polymers are not easily biodegradable, leading to the need for modifications or the grafting of superabsorbent functional groups onto natural polymers. Research on superabsorbent fibers and gels is increasing, particularly in biomedical applications such as drug delivery, wound dressing, and tissue engineering. The water absorption mechanism of SAPs follows Flory’s network theory, driven by osmotic pressure and the presence of hydrophilic functional groups. The water absorption rate is influenced by factors such as pH and ionic concentration. Natural SAPs, including polysaccharide-based materials, are gaining attention due to their biodegradability and environmental friendliness. Common natural polymers used include cellulose, chitosan, starch, proteins, amino acids, and alginate. Superabsorbent polymers are prepared in various forms, including particles, fibers, and gels, each with specific applications. Particles are widely used in cosmetics, agricultural water retention, and industrial adsorbents. Fibers are used in medical dressings, hygiene products, and filtration materials. Gels are used in hygiene products, drug delivery, water collection, and purification. In industrial applications, SAPs enhance the self-healing properties of concrete and are used in wastewater treatment. In agriculture, they improve soil water retention and control the release of fertilizers and pesticides. Biomedical applications include drug delivery systems, wound dressings, and tissue engineering scaffolds, where SAPs provide controlled drug release, promote wound healing, and support tissue regeneration. The paper also discusses the challenges and future directions in the development of SAPs, emphasizing the importance of balancing material properties and environmental sustainability.Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are advanced functional materials capable of absorbing and retaining large volumes of liquids. This paper reviews the synthesis, modification, and processing methods of different SAPs, as well as their applications in various industries. Synthetic SAPs, such as polyacrylic acid (PAA), polyacrylamide, polyacrylonitrile, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), exhibit superior water absorption properties compared to natural polymers like cellulose, chitosan, and starch. However, synthetic polymers are not easily biodegradable, leading to the need for modifications or the grafting of superabsorbent functional groups onto natural polymers. Research on superabsorbent fibers and gels is increasing, particularly in biomedical applications such as drug delivery, wound dressing, and tissue engineering. The water absorption mechanism of SAPs follows Flory’s network theory, driven by osmotic pressure and the presence of hydrophilic functional groups. The water absorption rate is influenced by factors such as pH and ionic concentration. Natural SAPs, including polysaccharide-based materials, are gaining attention due to their biodegradability and environmental friendliness. Common natural polymers used include cellulose, chitosan, starch, proteins, amino acids, and alginate. Superabsorbent polymers are prepared in various forms, including particles, fibers, and gels, each with specific applications. Particles are widely used in cosmetics, agricultural water retention, and industrial adsorbents. Fibers are used in medical dressings, hygiene products, and filtration materials. Gels are used in hygiene products, drug delivery, water collection, and purification. In industrial applications, SAPs enhance the self-healing properties of concrete and are used in wastewater treatment. In agriculture, they improve soil water retention and control the release of fertilizers and pesticides. Biomedical applications include drug delivery systems, wound dressings, and tissue engineering scaffolds, where SAPs provide controlled drug release, promote wound healing, and support tissue regeneration. The paper also discusses the challenges and future directions in the development of SAPs, emphasizing the importance of balancing material properties and environmental sustainability.