Sanitary Napkin Raw Materials: Key Components and Their Functions

# Sanitary Napkin Raw Materials: Key Components and Their Functions

Sanitary napkins are essential feminine hygiene products designed to provide comfort and protection during menstruation. Understanding the raw materials used in their production helps consumers make informed choices about the products they use. Let’s explore the key components of sanitary napkins and their functions.

## 1. Top Sheet (Cover Layer)

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

– Non-woven fabric (polypropylene or polyethylene)
– Perforated plastic film
– Cotton or bamboo fiber blends

Function: The top sheet allows quick absorption of menstrual flow while keeping the skin dry. High-quality top sheets are soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic to prevent irritation.

## 2. Absorption Core

The core is the most important part of a sanitary napkin, responsible for absorbing and retaining fluid. It consists of:

– Fluff pulp (wood cellulose)
– Superabsorbent polymer (SAP)
– Sometimes includes cotton or bamboo fibers

Function: The fluff pulp provides bulk absorption, while SAP (usually sodium polyacrylate) can absorb many times its weight in liquid, transforming it into a gel to prevent leakage.

## 3. Back Sheet (Barrier Layer)

The back sheet is the waterproof layer that prevents leaks. Common materials include:

– Polyethylene film
– Breathable microporous film
– Biodegradable materials like PLA (polylactic acid)

Function: This layer prevents menstrual fluid from leaking through to clothing while some modern designs allow moisture vapor to escape for better comfort.

## 4. Adhesive

Sanitary napkins include several types of adhesives:

– Pressure-sensitive adhesive for attaching to underwear
– Hot melt adhesive for bonding layers together
– Sometimes silicone-based adhesives for wings

Function: Keeps the pad securely in place during use while allowing easy removal when changing.

## 5. Release Paper

This protective layer covers the adhesive before use. It’s typically made from:

– Siliconized paper
– Plastic film

Function: Protects the adhesive until the pad is ready to be used and allows for easy application.

## 6. Wings (Optional)

Many modern pads include wings made from:

– Non-woven fabric
– Plastic film
– Sometimes with additional adhesive

Function: Wings fold over the sides of underwear to provide extra security and prevent side leakage.

## 7. Fragrance and Additives (Optional)

Some pads may include:

– Natural or synthetic fragrances
– Aloe vera or chamomile extracts
– Antimicrobial agents

Function: These additives aim to provide odor control or skin benefits, though they may cause irritation for some users.

## Environmental Considerations

With growing environmental awareness, manufacturers are exploring more sustainable materials:

– Organic cotton topsheets
– Bamboo fiber cores
– Biodegradable backsheets (PLA or starch-based)
– Chlorine-free fluff pulp

These eco-friendly alternatives aim to reduce the environmental impact of disposable sanitary products while maintaining performance.

Understanding these components helps consumers choose products that meet their needs for comfort, protection, and potentially environmental impact. As technology advances, we continue to see innovations in sanitary napkin materials that improve performance and sustainability.