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 raw materials used in sanitary pads.

## Core Absorbent Material

The core of a sanitary pad is designed to absorb menstrual fluid efficiently. The primary materials used in the core include:

– **Wood Pulp**: This is the most common absorbent material. It is highly absorbent and helps in retaining fluid within the pad.
– **Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP)**: SAP is a synthetic material that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to its own mass. It is often used in combination with wood pulp to enhance absorption capacity.

## 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 for the top sheet include:

– **Nonwoven Fabric**: Made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene, nonwoven fabrics are soft, breathable, and allow for quick fluid transfer to the absorbent core.
– **Perforated Film**: Some pads use a perforated film as the top sheet, which is designed to be soft and allow fluid to pass through quickly.

## Back Sheet

The back sheet is the outermost layer of the sanitary pad, designed to prevent leakage. It is typically made from:

– **Polyethylene Film**: This material is waterproof and prevents menstrual fluid from leaking through the pad. It is also flexible and comfortable to wear.
– **Breathable Microporous Film**: Some high-end pads use breathable films that allow air to circulate while still preventing leakage.

## Adhesive

To keep the sanitary pad in place, an adhesive is applied to the back sheet. The adhesive must be strong enough to hold the pad securely but gentle enough to avoid skin irritation. Common adhesives include:

– **Hot Melt Adhesive**: This type of adhesive is applied in a molten state and solidifies upon cooling, providing a strong bond.
– **Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive**: This adhesive is tacky at room temperature and adheres upon application of light pressure.

## Additional Components

Some sanitary pads include additional components for enhanced comfort and functionality:

– **Wings**: These are extensions on the sides of the pad that fold over the edges of underwear to provide extra security and prevent leakage.
– **Fragrance**: Some pads are infused with a light fragrance to mask menstrual odor. However, this can sometimes cause irritation for sensitive skin.
– **Moisturizers**: Certain pads include moisturizing agents like aloe vera to soothe the skin and reduce irritation.

## Properties of Raw Materials

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

– **Absorbency**: High absorbency is crucial for the core materials to manage menstrual flow effectively.
– **Softness**: The top sheet must be soft to prevent irritation and ensure comfort during use.
– **Breathability**: Materials should allow air circulation to reduce the risk of skin irritation and discomfort.
– **Leakage Prevention**: The back sheet must be impermeable to prevent leaks while remaining flexible and comfortable.
– **Adhesion**: The adhesive must provide a secure fit without causing skin irritation or leaving residue on clothing.

Understanding the composition and properties of the raw materials used in sanitary pads helps in making informed choices about the products we use. It also highlights the importance of quality and safety in the manufacturing process to ensure the well-being of users.