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 materials used in sanitary napkins.

## 1. Absorbent Core

The absorbent core is the most critical component of a sanitary napkin. It is responsible for absorbing and retaining menstrual fluid. The primary materials used in the absorbent core include:

– **Wood Pulp**: Wood pulp is a natural fiber that provides excellent absorbency. It is often blended with synthetic materials to enhance its performance.
– **Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP)**: SAPs are synthetic materials that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid. They are highly effective in maintaining dryness and preventing leakage.

## 2. Top Sheet

The top sheet is the layer that comes into direct contact with the skin. It must be soft, comfortable, and allow for quick absorption of menstrual fluid. Common materials used for the top sheet include:

– **Nonwoven Fabrics**: These are made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyester. They are lightweight, breathable, and provide a soft feel.
– **Perforated Film**: Some sanitary napkins use a perforated film as the top sheet. This material is designed to allow liquid to pass through quickly while keeping the surface dry.

## 3. Back Sheet

The back sheet is the outermost layer of the sanitary napkin. It prevents leakage and keeps the absorbent core in place. Materials used for the back sheet include:

– **Polyethylene Film**: This is a common material used for the back sheet due to its waterproof properties and flexibility.
– **Breathable Microporous Film**: This material allows air to pass through while preventing liquid leakage, enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of irritation.

## 4. Adhesive

Adhesives are used to secure the sanitary napkin to the underwear. The adhesive must be strong enough to hold the napkin in place but gentle enough to avoid skin irritation. Common types of adhesives include:

– **Hot Melt Adhesives**: These are applied in a molten state and solidify upon cooling, providing a strong bond.
– **Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives**: These adhesives become sticky when pressure is applied, making them easy to use and remove.

## 5. Release Paper

Release paper is used to protect the adhesive before the sanitary napkin is used. It is typically made from:

– **Silicone-Coated Paper**: This type of paper is easy to peel off and does not leave residue on the adhesive.

## Properties of Sanitary Napkin Materials

The materials used in sanitary napkins must possess specific properties to ensure they function effectively:

– **Absorbency**: High absorbency is crucial for managing menstrual flow and preventing leakage.
– **Softness**: The materials must be soft to avoid irritation and ensure comfort during use.
– **Breathability**: Breathable materials help reduce moisture buildup and prevent discomfort.
– **Hypoallergenic**: Materials should be hypoallergenic to minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
– **Biodegradability**: With increasing environmental concerns, biodegradable materials are becoming more popular in sanitary napkin production.

Understanding the composition and properties of sanitary napkin raw materials is essential for manufacturers to produce high-quality products that meet the needs of consumers. By selecting the right materials, manufacturers can ensure that sanitary napkins are comfortable, effective, and safe for use.