Why is absorbent material critical in specimen transport packaging?

Absorbent material is critical in specimen transport packaging primarily because it serves to absorb any leakage that may occur in the event of breakage. When transporting samples that could contain liquids, especially hazardous materials, there is always a risk of the primary container being compromised, either through physical damage or other failures. The absorbent material acts as a safety buffer, containing and absorbing any leaked substances, which helps prevent spills that could pose a risk to handlers, the environment, or the general public.

This feature is vital for maintaining safety standards during the transportation of dangerous goods, as it mitigates the potential for harmful exposure or contamination resulting from leaked contents. Unlike other options, such as maintaining temperature or preventing contamination from external sources, the primary function of absorbent material directly addresses the immediate concern of managing leaks and spills during transport.