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 and retaining 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 synthetic fibers to enhance performance.
– **Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP)**: A synthetic material that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to its own mass. SAP is 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 must be soft, comfortable, and allow for quick liquid penetration. Common materials include:

– **Nonwoven Fabric**: Made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyethylene, nonwoven fabrics are soft, breathable, and allow for rapid liquid transfer to the absorbent core.
– **Perforated Film**: Some pads use a thin, perforated plastic film as the top sheet, which provides a smooth surface and quick liquid absorption.

## 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 include:

– **Polyethylene Film**: A thin, flexible plastic film that is impermeable to liquids, ensuring that menstrual fluid does not leak through the pad.
– **Breathable Microporous Film**: Some high-end pads use a breathable film that allows air to pass through while still preventing liquid leakage, enhancing comfort.

## 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 Adhesive**: A type of thermoplastic adhesive that is applied in a molten state and solidifies upon cooling, providing a strong bond.
– **Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive**: This adhesive remains tacky at room temperature and forms a bond when pressure is applied, making it easy to attach and remove the pad.

## 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 paper is coated with a thin layer of silicone, which prevents the adhesive from sticking to it until the paper is removed.

## Properties of Sanitary Pad Materials

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

– **Absorbency**: The ability to quickly absorb and retain menstrual fluid is paramount. This is primarily achieved through the use of wood pulp 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, reducing the risk of skin irritation and odor.
– **Leakage Protection**: The back sheet and absorbent core must work together to prevent any leakage, ensuring the pad remains effective throughout use.
– **Biodegradability**: With increasing environmental concerns, there is a growing demand for materials that are biodegradable and eco-friendly.

In conclusion, the raw materials used in sanitary pads are carefully selected to provide a balance of comfort, absorbency, and protection. Understanding these materials and their properties helps in making informed choices about the products we use, ensuring both personal comfort and environmental responsibility.