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 both manufacturers and consumers. 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:

– **Cellulose Fluff Pulp**: This is the primary absorbent material, derived from wood pulp. It is highly absorbent and provides the bulk of the pad’s absorbency.
– **Super Absorbent Polymers (SAP)**: SAPs are synthetic materials that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their own mass. They are often used in conjunction with cellulose fluff pulp to enhance the pad’s absorbency.

## 2. Top Sheet

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

– **Nonwoven Fabrics**: These are made from synthetic fibers such as polypropylene or polyester. They are lightweight, breathable, and provide a soft feel against the skin.
– **Perforated Films**: Some pads use perforated plastic films as the top sheet. These films are 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 pad, designed to prevent leakage and provide a barrier against moisture. Materials used for the back sheet include:

– **Polyethylene Films**: These are thin, flexible plastic films that are impermeable to liquids. They are commonly used in sanitary pads to prevent leakage.
– **Breathable Films**: Some pads use breathable films that allow air to pass through while still preventing liquid leakage. These films enhance comfort by reducing moisture buildup.

## 4. Adhesives

Adhesives are used to secure the pad to the underwear and to bond the different layers of the pad together. Common types of adhesives include:

– **Hot Melt Adhesives**: These are thermoplastic adhesives that are applied in a molten state and solidify upon cooling. They provide strong bonds and are commonly used in sanitary pad manufacturing.
– **Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives**: These adhesives are tacky at room temperature and adhere to surfaces upon application of light pressure. They are often used for the adhesive strips that secure the pad to underwear.

## 5. Release Paper

Release paper is used to protect the adhesive layer 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. It is easy to peel off when the pad is ready to be used.

## Properties of Sanitary Pad Raw Materials

The raw materials used in sanitary pads must possess specific properties to ensure the product’s effectiveness and comfort:

– **Absorbency**: The materials must be able to absorb and retain menstrual fluid efficiently.
– **Softness**: The top sheet and other layers in contact with the skin should be soft and non-irritating.
– **Breathability**: The materials should allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of irritation and discomfort.
– **Leakage Prevention**: The back sheet and absorbent core must work together to prevent any leakage.
– **Durability**: The materials should be strong enough to withstand the stresses of daily use without tearing or breaking.

In conclusion, the raw materials used in sanitary pads are carefully selected to provide a balance of absorbency, comfort, and leakage prevention. Understanding these materials and their properties can help consumers make informed choices and manufacturers improve their products.