Structure And Raw Materials of Sanitary Napkins

What are the raw materials used in sanitary napkins?

The main raw materials used in the production of sanitary napkins include: non-woven fabrics, fluff pulp, highly absorbent resin (SAP), polyethylene (PE) film, hot melt adhesive, elastic materials (including elastic rubber bands, elastic nonwovens), absorbent liner, dry paper, release paper. elastic materials (including elastic rubber bands, elastic nonwovens), absorbent liner, dry paper, release paper (release film), etc. Each raw material plays a different role in the product. Among them, the function of fluff pulp and highly absorbent resin (SAP) is to absorb and store liquid, which is the most important part of sanitary napkins.

What kind of structure does a sanitary napkin consist of?

The basic structure of sanitary napkin mainly includes the surface layer, infusion layer, absorbent core, anti-leakage bottom layer, etc., and the auxiliary components include the three-dimensional peripheral border, anti-adhesive release paper, etc.; the auxiliary components of menstrual trousers (trouser-type sanitary napkin) also include the elastic waist circumference, elastic leg circumference and so on.

The top layer, infusion layer, absorbent core, and leak-proof bottom layer perform the functions of receiving, diffusing, absorbing and storing fluids (blood), and preventing leakage, respectively. The main functions of the other auxiliary components are to prevent side leakage of liquid, to fix the sanitary napkin to the underwear or to make the menstrual trousers wearable on the body, and so on.

Surface Layer of Saniatry Napkin

The surface material of sanitary napkin is the nearest layer to contact with women's skin, Currently there are five main materials on the market that can be used as the surface layer.

• 100% Cotton (Spunlace)    

       It has better abrasion resistance, is soft and skin-friendly, and has good absorbency, but after use, it is very wet.

• Perforated Hot Air Nonwoven

       It has good fluffiness, softness and excellent penetration performance.

• Perforated Spunbond Nonwoven

       Spunbond nonwovens are strong, absorbent, dry and comfortable, but prone to linting. It is used less frequently in the quilt field.

• Thermal Bonded Nonwoven

       Light and soft.

• Perforated PE Film

       Fast downward osmosis, small reverse osmosis, dry surface, but the use of the population is prone to allergies.

Infusion Layer of Sanitary Napkin

The infusion effect, the liquid lateral conduction, increase the absorption area, to prevent the liquid concentrated absorption.

There are two main materials used to make the infusion layer of sanitary napkin.

• Spunbond nonwoven ADL

• Hot air through nonwoven ADL

Absorbent Core of Sanitary Napkin

The core of the sanitary napkin mainly plays an absorptive role, and according to the composition of the existing sanitary napkins in the market, it is composed of three main materials.

• Fluff Pulp

      Fluff pulp is a natural raw material mainly from coniferous woods such as pine, spruce and fir. Fluff pulp is inherently hydrophilic, capturing liquids quickly, and has been widely used in absorbent hygiene products such as sanitary napkins for decades.

• Superabsorbent polymers    

      The main brands are Sumitomo, Sandaia, Evonik, BASF, LG and so on. Each has its own characteristics, so purchase according to your needs.

• SAP Paper

      It consists of 2 layers of tissue and SAP, the most commonly used material for sanitary napkins. Flexible interchangeable material, favourite for ultra-thin sanitary napkins.

Anti-leakage Bottom Layer of Sanitary Napkin

• PE Film

The main material of the anti-leakage bottom layer of sanitary napkins is PE film. Which is breathable and waterproof.

Other Raw Materials of Sanitary Napkin

• Hot Melt Adhesive     

      It acts as a bond between the various structures of the sanitary napkin.

• Silicone Paper  

      It acts as a barrier and is more hygienic and safe.

• Anion Chip

      It has antibacterial and odour purifying effects, and is mainly used in high-end sanitary napkins.

Trends

Additionally, there is a growing trend towards using more sustainable and eco-friendly materials in the production of sanitary napkins, such as organic cotton, bamboo fibers, and biodegradable plastics. These materials are not only better for the environment but also safer for the health of the user. Overall, the raw materials used in sanitary napkins play a crucial role in ensuring the effectiveness, comfort, and safety of the product for menstruating individuals.