3M pioneered the development of synthetic sorbents while leveraging one of their core technologies. Sorbents contain no abrasive granules that can damage expensive equipment. They are made from microfiber materials which contain millions of tiny pockets that absorb and hold liquids. Available formats include petroleum (for oil-only), maintenance (for non-aggressive liquids), and chemical (for most aggressive and non-aggressive liquids).

Sorbents come in high capacity, medium capacity, and traditional absorbency so users can select the right product for the size of their potential spill. These pads and rolls can be wrung out and reused many times with virtually no loss in absorbency. Types available include rolls and pads with booms, mini-booms, pillows, drum covers, spill kits, and response packs for many types of spills and tasks.

The high and medium capacity sorbents are lightweight to reduce the volume of waste going into landfill. Sorbents may be incinerated with very low ash residue. High capacity sorbents contain at least 25 percent recycled content by weight. Medium capacity sorbents contain at least 50 percent recycled content by weight.