Sanitary Napkins Raw Material Composition and Properties

# Sanitary Napkins Raw Material Composition and Properties

Sanitary napkins are essential personal hygiene products used by women during menstruation. Understanding the raw materials used in their production is crucial for ensuring comfort, safety, and effectiveness. This article delves into the composition and properties of the primary raw materials used in sanitary napkins.

## Core Components of Sanitary Napkins

The main components of sanitary napkins include the top sheet, absorbent core, back sheet, and adhesive. Each of these components is made from specific materials that contribute to the overall functionality of the product.

### 1. Top Sheet

The top sheet is the layer that comes into direct contact with the skin. It is typically made from non-woven fabrics or perforated films. The materials used must be soft, breathable, and quick-drying to ensure comfort and prevent irritation.

– **Non-woven fabrics**: These are made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyethylene. They are lightweight, soft, and allow for good air circulation.
– **Perforated films**: These are thin plastic films with tiny holes that allow liquid to pass through while keeping the surface dry.

### 2. Absorbent Core

The absorbent core is the most critical part of the sanitary napkin, responsible for absorbing menstrual fluid. It is usually composed of a blend of fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers (SAP).

– **Fluff pulp**: This is a highly absorbent material made from wood pulp. It provides bulk and helps distribute the fluid evenly.
– **Superabsorbent polymers (SAP)**: These are synthetic materials that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their own mass. They are often used in granular form within the absorbent core.

### 3. Back Sheet

The back sheet is the outermost layer of the sanitary napkin, designed to prevent leakage. It is typically made from polyethylene or polypropylene films.

– **Polyethylene films**: These are flexible, waterproof, and provide a barrier against leaks.
– **Polypropylene films**: These are similar to polyethylene but offer additional strength and durability.

### 4. Adhesive

Adhesive is used to secure the sanitary napkin to the underwear. It is usually a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is safe for skin contact.

– **Pressure-sensitive adhesives**: These adhesives are designed to stick firmly to fabrics without causing irritation or leaving residue.

## Properties of Sanitary Napkin Materials

The materials used in sanitary napkins must possess specific properties to ensure they perform effectively and safely.

### 1. Absorbency

High absorbency is crucial for the absorbent core to handle menstrual flow efficiently. Both fluff pulp and SAP contribute to this property, with SAP offering superior liquid retention.

### 2. Softness and Comfort

The top sheet must be soft and gentle on the skin to prevent irritation and discomfort. Non-woven fabrics and perforated films are chosen for their soft texture and breathability.

### 3. Leakage Prevention

The back sheet must be impermeable to liquids to prevent leaks. Polyethylene and polypropylene films are effective barriers that keep the menstrual fluid contained within the napkin.

### 4. Skin Safety

All materials used in sanitary napkins must be hypoallergenic and free from harmful chemicals to ensure they are safe for prolonged skin contact.

### 5. Environmental Considerations

With increasing awareness of environmental issues, there is a growing demand for biodegradable and eco-friendly materials in sanitary napkins. Some manufacturers are exploring alternatives like bamboo fibers and organic cotton for the top sheet and absorbent core.

## Conclusion

The composition and properties of raw materials used in sanitary napkins play a vital role in their performance and user satisfaction. From the softness of the top sheet to the absorbency of the core and the leak-proof nature of the back sheet, each component is carefully selected to meet the needs of women during menstruation. As technology advances, we can expect further innovations