# Sanitary Napkins Raw Material Composition and Properties

Sanitary napkins are essential personal hygiene products used by women during menstruation. Understanding the raw materials used in their production and their properties is crucial for ensuring comfort, safety, and effectiveness. This article delves into the composition and properties of the raw materials commonly used in sanitary napkins.

## Core Components of Sanitary Napkins

The primary components of sanitary napkins include the top sheet, absorbent core, back sheet, and adhesive. Each of these components is made from specific materials that contribute to the overall functionality of the product.

### Top Sheet

The top sheet is the layer that comes into direct contact with the skin. It is typically made from non-woven fabrics or perforated films. These materials are chosen for their softness, breathability, and ability to quickly wick moisture away from the skin.

– **Non-woven fabrics**: These are made from synthetic fibers like polypropylene or polyethylene. They are lightweight, soft, and provide a comfortable feel.
– **Perforated films**: These are thin plastic films with tiny holes that allow moisture to pass through while keeping the surface dry.

### Absorbent Core

The absorbent core is the most critical part of the sanitary napkin, responsible for absorbing and retaining menstrual fluid. It is usually composed of a blend of fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymers (SAP).

– **Fluff pulp**: This is a highly absorbent material made from wood pulp. It provides bulk and helps in the even distribution of the absorbed fluid.
– **Superabsorbent polymers (SAP)**: These are synthetic materials that can absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their own mass. They are often used in granular form within the absorbent core.

### Back Sheet

The back sheet is the outermost layer of the sanitary napkin, designed to prevent leakage. It is typically made from polyethylene or polypropylene films.

– **Polyethylene films**: These are flexible, waterproof, and provide an effective barrier against leakage.
– **Polypropylene films**: These are similar to polyethylene but offer additional strength and durability.

### Adhesive

The adhesive is used to secure the sanitary napkin to the underwear. It is usually a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is safe for skin contact and provides a strong hold without leaving residue.

– **Pressure-sensitive adhesives**: These are designed to adhere to surfaces with light pressure and are commonly made from acrylic or rubber-based materials.

## Properties of Sanitary Napkin Raw Materials

The materials used in sanitary napkins are selected based on several key properties:

– **Absorbency**: The ability to quickly absorb and retain menstrual fluid is crucial. Materials like fluff pulp and SAP are chosen for their high absorbency.
– **Softness**: The top sheet must be soft to prevent irritation and ensure comfort during use.
– **Breathability**: The materials should allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of skin irritation and discomfort.
– **Leakage prevention**: The back sheet and absorbent core must work together to prevent any leakage, ensuring the user’s confidence and comfort.
– **Hypoallergenic**: The materials should be safe for skin contact and not cause allergic reactions.

## Conclusion

The composition and properties of the raw materials used in sanitary napkins play a vital role in their effectiveness and user comfort. By understanding these materials, manufacturers can continue to innovate and improve the quality of these essential hygiene products. Consumers, in turn, can make informed choices based on the materials and properties that best meet their needs.