Note: this question is a repost as my original question was funded
with a card that recently had to be cancelled due to fraud- the
clarifications will be posted below:

What is the exact chemical and consistancy of the powder needed to
make fake snow as seen in "Instasnow" and similar polymer powders?

I've researched that most are based off a "super sluper" absorbant
polymer like sodium polyacrylate or polyacrylamide, but in samples i
have of polyacrylate, I only result in a gel form.

Any places to buy this chemical in bulk are appreciated but not
necessary. (not from any of the overpriced "insta snow" or similar
novelty sellers)


Clarifications from previous post:

   "Request for Question Clarification by  pafalafa-ga  on 04 Nov 2006 10:22 PST

    sbm5788-ga,

    There are dozens of materials used to make artificial snow, depending
    on quantity needed, appearance, mode of application and environmental
    considerations.

    For instance, I know of a source of 13-lb bags of fake snow (finely
    shredded polyethylene -- very convincing) for $45.

    Can you tell us what sort of application you have in mind.  That will
    help in answering your question.

    pafalafa-ga

    Clarification of Question by sbm5788-ga on 04 Nov 2006 15:05 PST

    In terms of the type, I'm focusing on the super absorbant,
    hydrophyllic, powders that expand from powder form to the snow as in
    the "instant snow" type powders seen here:

    http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/science/79ea/

    However, the credit card used to post this question was just cancelled
    due to a fraud, so I need to repost a new question with a different
    one.  Please continue in the new thread.   Thank you for your reply."