Sanitary Napkins Raw Material Composition and Properties

# Sanitary Napkins Raw Material Composition and Properties

Sanitary napkins are essential personal care products designed to provide comfort and hygiene during menstruation. Understanding the raw materials used in their production is crucial for both manufacturers and consumers. This article delves into the composition and properties of the primary materials used in sanitary napkins.

## Core Components of Sanitary Napkins

### 1. Absorbent Core

The absorbent core is the most critical part of a sanitary napkin, responsible for absorbing menstrual fluid. It is typically made from a blend of fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers (SAP). Fluff pulp, derived from wood fibers, provides bulk and structure, while SAP enhances the absorbency by locking in moisture.

### 2. Top Sheet

The top sheet is the layer that comes into direct contact with the skin. It is usually made from non-woven fabrics or perforated films. These materials are chosen for their softness, breathability, and ability to quickly transfer liquid to the absorbent core. Common materials include polypropylene and polyethylene.

### 3. Back Sheet

The back sheet is the outermost layer of the sanitary napkin, designed to prevent leakage. It is typically made from a waterproof material such as polyethylene film. This layer ensures that the absorbed fluid does not seep through to the user’s clothing.

### 4. Adhesive

Adhesive is used to secure the sanitary napkin to the underwear. It is usually a pressure-sensitive adhesive that provides a strong yet gentle hold. The adhesive must be hypoallergenic to prevent skin irritation.

## Additional Materials

### 1. Fragrance

Some sanitary napkins include a fragrance to mask menstrual odor. However, fragrances can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions, so they are often optional or used in minimal amounts.

### 2. Dyes

Dyes are used to color the top sheet or back sheet, making the product more visually appealing. These dyes must be non-toxic and safe for skin contact.

### 3. Release Paper

Release paper is used to cover the adhesive before the sanitary napkin is used. It is typically made from silicone-coated paper or film, which allows for easy removal.

## Properties of Sanitary Napkin Materials

### 1. Absorbency

The primary property of sanitary napkin materials is their ability to absorb and retain fluid. The combination of fluff pulp and SAP ensures high absorbency, while the top sheet facilitates quick liquid transfer.

### 2. Softness

Softness is crucial for user comfort. The top sheet and other materials in contact with the skin must be gentle to prevent irritation or discomfort.

### 3. Breathability

Breathability is essential to prevent moisture buildup and maintain skin health. Non-woven fabrics and perforated films are commonly used to ensure adequate airflow.

### 4. Leakage Protection

The back sheet and adhesive must provide reliable leakage protection. The materials used must be impermeable to liquids while remaining flexible and comfortable.

### 5. Hypoallergenic

Given the sensitive nature of the application, all materials must be hypoallergenic to minimize the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.

## Conclusion

Understanding the raw materials and their properties is vital for producing high-quality sanitary napkins that meet consumer needs. From the absorbent core to the back sheet, each component plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort, hygiene, and reliability. By selecting the right materials and understanding their properties, manufacturers can create products that provide optimal performance and user satisfaction.