# Sanitary Napkins Raw Material: Composition and Manufacturing Process

Sanitary napkins are essential hygiene products used by millions of women worldwide. Understanding the raw materials and manufacturing process behind these products is crucial for ensuring quality, safety, and sustainability. This article delves into the composition of sanitary napkins and the steps involved in their production.

## Composition of Sanitary Napkins

Sanitary napkins are made from a combination of materials, each serving a specific purpose. The primary components include:

### 1. Absorbent Core
The absorbent core is the heart of a sanitary napkin. It is typically made from wood pulp or a blend of wood pulp and superabsorbent polymers (SAP). The core is responsible for absorbing and retaining menstrual fluid.

### 2. Top Sheet
The top sheet is the layer that comes into direct contact with the skin. It is usually made from non-woven fabric or perforated film, designed to be soft, breathable, and quick-drying to ensure comfort.

### 3. Back Sheet
The back sheet is the outermost layer of the sanitary napkin. It is made from a waterproof material, often polyethylene, to prevent leakage and keep the user’s clothing dry.

### 4. Adhesive
Adhesive is applied to the back sheet to keep the sanitary napkin securely in place. It is usually a pressure-sensitive adhesive that is safe for skin contact.

### 5. Release Paper
The release paper covers the adhesive before use. It is typically made from silicone-coated paper or plastic film, which is easy to peel off.

### 6. Fragrance and Additives
Some sanitary napkins include fragrances or additives to mask odors or provide additional comfort. However, these are optional and not present in all products.

## Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing of sanitary napkins involves several steps, each requiring precision and adherence to hygiene standards. Here’s an overview of the process:

### 1. Raw Material Preparation
The first step is the preparation of raw materials. Wood pulp is processed into a fluffy, absorbent material, while superabsorbent polymers are prepared in granular form. Non-woven fabrics and films are also prepared for the top and back sheets.

### 2. Core Formation
The absorbent core is formed by blending wood pulp and SAP. This mixture is then compressed and shaped into the desired thickness and size. The core is the most critical part of the napkin, as it determines the absorbency and comfort.

### 3. Layer Assembly
The top sheet, absorbent core, and back sheet are assembled in layers. The top sheet is placed on top of the core, followed by the back sheet. Adhesive is applied to the back sheet to secure the layers together.

### 4. Cutting and Shaping
The assembled layers are cut into individual napkins. The shape and size can vary depending on the product design. Some napkins may have wings or additional features for better fit and leakage protection.

### 5. Packaging
The final step is packaging. Each sanitary napkin is individually wrapped in a release paper and then packed into boxes or pouches. Packaging is done in a sterile environment to maintain hygiene.

### 6. Quality Control
Throughout the manufacturing process, quality control checks are conducted to ensure that the sanitary napkins meet safety and performance standards. This includes testing for absorbency, leakage, and skin irritation.

## Conclusion

Sanitary napkins are a vital product for women’s health and hygiene. The raw materials and manufacturing process are designed to provide comfort, safety, and reliability. By understanding the composition and production steps, consumers can make informed choices and manufacturers can continue to innovate and improve these essential products.