Sanitary Pad Raw Material Composition and Properties

# Sanitary Pad Raw Material Composition and Properties

## Introduction to Sanitary Pad Materials

Sanitary pads are essential feminine hygiene products designed to absorb menstrual flow. The effectiveness and comfort of these products largely depend on the quality and composition of their raw materials. Understanding the materials used in sanitary pad production helps consumers make informed choices about their personal hygiene products.

## Core Components of Sanitary Pads

### 1. Top Sheet (Cover Stock)

The top sheet is the layer that comes in direct contact with the skin. It’s typically made from:

– Non-woven polypropylene or polyethylene
– Perforated plastic films
– Soft, breathable materials with quick-drying properties

Key properties: Softness, breathability, and rapid liquid transfer to the absorption layer

### 2. Absorbent Core

The core is the most important functional component, usually consisting of:

– Fluff pulp (wood cellulose)
– Superabsorbent polymers (SAP)
– Sometimes blended with cotton or rayon

Key properties: High absorption capacity, retention under pressure, and liquid distribution

### 3. Back Sheet

This waterproof layer prevents leakage and is typically made from:

– Polyethylene or polypropylene films
– Breathable microporous films in premium products
– Sometimes with adhesive strips for secure placement

Key properties: Liquid impermeability, flexibility, and breathability (in advanced products)

### 4. Adhesives

Various adhesives serve different functions:

– Body-attachment adhesive (keeps pad in place)
– Core stabilization adhesive (binds absorbent materials)
– Packaging adhesive (for individual wrapping)

Key properties: Skin-friendly, strong enough for secure placement but easy to remove

## Additional Components

### 1. Wing Materials

For winged sanitary pads, the wings are typically made from:

– Non-woven materials similar to the top sheet
– Sometimes with additional elastic components

### 2. Release Paper

Protects the adhesive before use, usually made from:

– Siliconized paper
– Plastic films

### 3. Fragrance Components (optional)

Some pads include:

– Microencapsulated fragrances
– Natural essential oils (in organic products)

## Material Properties and Performance

The performance of sanitary pads depends on several material properties:

### 1. Absorption Capacity

– Measured in grams of fluid absorbed per gram of material
– SAP can absorb 30-60 times its weight in fluid
– Fluff pulp provides capillary action for liquid distribution

### 2. Retention Under Pressure

– Important for comfort during movement
– SAP maintains absorption even when compressed

### 3. Breathability

– Reduces skin irritation and discomfort
– Measured in moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR)

### 4. Softness and Skin-Friendliness

– Critical for sensitive skin
– Measured by friction coefficient and surface texture

## Emerging Material Trends

Recent developments in sanitary pad materials include:

– Biodegradable and compostable materials
– Organic cotton and bamboo fiber options
– Antibacterial treatments using silver ions or plant extracts
– Enhanced breathability technologies

## Conclusion

Understanding the composition and properties of sanitary pad raw materials helps consumers evaluate product quality and make choices that suit their needs. Manufacturers continue to innovate with new materials that improve comfort, absorption, and environmental sustainability while maintaining safety and effectiveness.