html

Sanitary Pad Raw Material Composition and Properties

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

Core Components of Sanitary Pads

The main components of a sanitary pad include:

  • Top sheet (facing layer)
  • Absorbent core
  • Back sheet (barrier layer)
  • Adhesive strips
  • Release paper

Detailed Material Breakdown

1. Top Sheet Materials

The top sheet is the layer that comes in direct contact with the skin. Common materials include:

  • Non-woven polypropylene: Soft, breathable, and quick-drying
  • Perforated film: Provides a dry surface feel
  • Cotton cover: For premium products, offering superior softness

2. Absorbent Core Materials

The core is responsible for fluid absorption and retention:

  • Fluff pulp: Primary absorbent material, usually from wood fibers
  • Superabsorbent polymers (SAP): Polyacrylate compounds that can absorb many times their weight in liquid
  • Airlaid paper: Used in some premium products for better absorption

3. Back Sheet Materials

The back sheet prevents leakage and provides structural integrity:

  • Polyethylene film: Most common, provides liquid barrier
  • Breathable microporous film: Allows vapor transmission while blocking liquids
  • Cloth-like non-woven: Used in premium products for better comfort

Key Properties of Sanitary Pad Materials

Materials used in sanitary pads must meet several critical requirements:

  • Absorbency: Ability to quickly absorb and retain menstrual flow
  • Softness: Comfort against sensitive skin
  • Breathability: Allows air circulation to prevent irritation
  • Hypoallergenic: Minimizes risk of skin reactions
  • Odor control: Some materials include odor-neutralizing properties
  • Biodegradability: Increasingly important for environmental considerations

Emerging Material Trends

The sanitary pad industry is evolving with new material innovations:

  • Bamboo fiber: Natural, antibacterial, and sustainable
  • Organic cotton: Chemical-free and biodegradable
  • Plant-based SAP: More environmentally friendly absorbent polymers
  • Biodegradable films: For eco-conscious back sheet options

Understanding these raw materials and their properties helps consumers make informed choices and manufacturers develop better products that balance performance, comfort, and environmental impact.