Sanitary Pads Raw Material Composition and Properties Analysis

March 09, 2025 / By

# Sanitary Pads Raw Material Composition and Properties Analysis

Sanitary pads are essential hygiene products used by millions of women worldwide. Understanding the raw materials used in 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. Wood pulp is often blended with superabsorbent polymers (SAP) to enhance its capacity.
– **Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP)**: These synthetic materials 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 must be soft, comfortable, and allow for quick liquid penetration. Common materials include:

– **Nonwoven Fabrics**: 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. This material is smooth and provides a dry surface feel.

## 3. Back Sheet

The back sheet is the outermost layer of the sanitary 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. It is lightweight and provides an effective barrier against leaks.
– **Breathable Microporous Film**: This material allows air to pass through while blocking liquids, enhancing comfort by reducing moisture buildup.

## 4. Adhesive

Adhesives are used to secure the sanitary pad in place within the underwear. The adhesive must be strong enough to hold the pad in place but gentle enough to avoid skin irritation. Common types include:

– **Hot Melt Adhesives**: These are applied in a molten state and solidify upon cooling, providing a strong bond.
– **Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives**: These adhesives form a bond when pressure is applied, making them easy to use and reposition.

## 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 treated with silicone to prevent the adhesive from sticking to it, allowing for easy removal when the pad is ready to be used.

## 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 absorbent core materials.
– **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 discomfort caused by moisture buildup.
– **Leakage Prevention**: 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 biodegradable materials that minimize the environmental impact of sanitary pads.

## Conclusion

The raw materials used in sanitary pads play a critical role in their performance, comfort, and safety. From the absorbent core to the back sheet, each component is carefully selected and engineered to meet the specific needs of users. As technology advances, we can expect further innovations in materials that enhance the functionality and sustainability of sanitary pads.