An absorbent binder coating including monoethylenically unsaturated
polymer units, polyacrylate ester units that include an alkoxysilane
functionality, and polyolefin glycol units and/or polyolefin oxide units,
can be applied to various substrates. For example, the coating can be
self-applied to an article of clothing or to a person's skin to provide
absorbency. Alternatively, the coating can provide moisture absorbency,
as well as adhesive properties, when incorporated into various articles
including medical devices, wound dressings, laminates, absorbent
garments, packaging materials, and horticultural products.