Evaluation of some commonly marketed diapers in India

Abstract

Objectives of the present study are to analyze and study commonly available diapers in the Indian market for their material and properties, which will be used for designing neonatal diapers. ISO methods were followed for analyzing the diapers along with physical and
analytical techniques. Three basic layers constitute the construction of diapers. The three basic layers are skin touching layer i.e. top sheets, which needs to be biocompatible and skin friendly. The absorbent layer acts as a substrate for uptaking and withholding the urine. The
backlayer acts as barrier for the flow of urine. The efficiency of diaper can be gathered from the two basic characteristics, absorbency and % retention (withholding capacity). The absorbency time and % retention studies were therefore carried out. Toxicological studies were carried out as per OECD guidelines for analyzing sensitivity of material on skin. The construction material used were found to be different in the various types available in the market. The market samples contain super absorbent polymer (SAP) along with cellulosic pulp. Low absorbency time with high % urine retention observed have revealed high use of
SAP concentration in diapers.