Sanitary Pads Raw Material Composition and Properties

# Sanitary Pads Raw Material Composition and Properties

Sanitary pads are essential hygiene products used by millions of women worldwide. Understanding the raw materials that go into their production is crucial for ensuring quality, comfort, and safety. This article delves into the composition and properties of the primary raw materials used in sanitary pads.

## 1. Absorbent Core

The absorbent core is the heart of a sanitary pad, responsible for absorbing menstrual fluid. It is typically made from a combination of the following materials:

– **Wood Pulp:** A natural, biodegradable material that provides excellent absorbency. It is often blended with superabsorbent polymers (SAP) to enhance its capacity.
– **Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP):** These are synthetic materials that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their own mass. SAPs are crucial for preventing leakage and ensuring long-lasting dryness.

## 2. Top Sheet

The top sheet is the layer that comes into direct contact with the skin. It needs to be soft, comfortable, and quick-drying. Common materials used include:

– **Nonwoven Fabrics:** These are made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyethylene. They are designed to be soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
– **Perforated Films:** Some pads use a thin, perforated plastic film as the top sheet. This material is highly effective at keeping the surface dry but may be less breathable than nonwoven fabrics.

## 3. Back Sheet

The back sheet is the outermost layer of the pad, designed to prevent leakage and provide a barrier against moisture. Materials used for the back sheet include:

– **Polyethylene Film:** A thin, flexible plastic film that is impermeable to liquids. It is commonly used due to its effectiveness and low cost.
– **Breathable Films:** These are advanced materials that allow moisture vapor to escape while preventing liquid leakage. They enhance comfort by reducing the feeling of dampness.

## 4. Adhesive

Adhesives are used to secure the pad to the underwear. They must be strong enough to hold the pad in place but gentle enough to avoid damaging the fabric. Common types include:

– **Hot Melt Adhesives:** These are applied in a molten state and solidify upon cooling. They provide a strong bond and are commonly used in the industry.
– **Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives:** These adhesives are tacky at room temperature and form a bond when pressure is applied. They are easy to apply and remove.

## 5. Release Paper

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

– **Silicone-Coated Paper:** This type of paper is treated with silicone to prevent the adhesive from sticking to it. It is easy to peel off when the pad is ready to be used.

## Properties of Sanitary Pad Materials

The materials used in sanitary pads must possess several key properties to ensure they perform effectively:

– **Absorbency:** The ability to quickly absorb and retain menstrual fluid is crucial. This is primarily the role of the absorbent core and SAP.
– **Softness:** The top sheet must be soft and gentle on the skin to prevent irritation and discomfort.
– **Breathability:** Materials should allow air to circulate to reduce the risk of skin irritation and odor.
– **Leakage Prevention:** The back sheet and adhesive must work together to prevent any leakage, ensuring the pad stays in place and protects clothing.
– **Biodegradability:** With increasing environmental concerns, there is a growing demand for materials that are biodegradable or made from renewable resources.

## Conclusion

The composition and properties of raw materials used in sanitary pads are critical to their performance and user comfort. From the absorbent core to the back sheet, each component plays a vital role in ensuring that the pad is effective, comfortable, and safe. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative materials