Sanitary napkins, an essential item for women during their menstrual cycle, are composed of several layers, each serving a specific function. Let’s delve into the structure and materials of sanitary napkins.

Structure of Sanitary Napkins

Generally, a sanitary napkin consists of three main layers:

Raw Material For Sanitary Pad

  • Top Sheet:
    This is the layer that comes into direct contact with the skin.
    Materials: Typically made of ss spunbond fabric or perforated film, although cotton and heat-bonded non-woven fabric are also used.
    Function: Quickly absorbs menstrual blood and directs it to the absorbent layer, while keeping the surface dry to minimize skin irritation.
  • Absorbent Core:
    The heart of the sanitary napkin.
    Materials: Primarily composed of fluff pulp, super absorbent polymer (SAP), and dust-free paper.
    Function: Efficiently absorbs menstrual blood and locks it inside, preventing leakage. SAP has a strong water-absorbing capacity, transforming the liquid into a gel to effectively prevent side leakage.
  • Back Sheet:
    The outer layer of the sanitary napkin.
    Materials: Usually made of polyethylene film.
    Function: Prevents menstrual blood from leaking onto clothing, and the back is coated with hot melt adhesive for easy attachment to underwear.

Materials Used in Sanitary Napkins

  • Top Sheet Materials:
  1.  Non-woven fabric: Soft, comfortable, and breathable, it is a common top sheet material.
  2. Perforated film: Has a microporous structure that allows for rapid liquid absorption while keeping the surface dry.
  3. Cotton: Skin-friendly but has relatively weak absorbency.
  4. Heat-bonded non-woven fabric: High softness and good absorbency.
  • Absorbent Core Materials:
  1. Fluff pulp: Provides a base for absorption and can quickly absorb liquid.
  2. Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP): A super absorbent material that can absorb a large amount of liquid and form a gel.
  3. Dust-free paper: Enhances the strength and toughness of the absorbent layer.
  • Back Sheet Materials:
  1. Polyethylene film: Waterproof and effectively prevents leakage.
  2. Hot melt adhesive: Firmly adheres the sanitary napkin to underwear.

Other Materials and Functions

  • Wings: Increase the fixation of the sanitary napkin and prevent side leakage.
  • Elastic side panels: Conform to the body’s curves for increased comfort.
  • Additives: Some sanitary napkins contain aloe vera, vitamin E, and other ingredients to soothe the skin.