1

CHAPTER-1

1.INTRODUCTION

1.1 GENERAL INTRODUCTION

In the recent years, Industry is attempting to decrease the dependence of

plastic based products due to the increased environmental awareness. This leading to
the need to environmentally friendly, Sustainable materials to replace existing ones.
This tremendous increase of production and use of plastics in every sector of our life
leads to huge plastic waste. The medically significant herbs also a skin friendly
incorporated instead of artificial chemicals. Disposable problems, as well as strong
regulations and criteria for a cleaner and safer environment, have directed greater the
scientific research toward eco-friendly and anti bacterial sanitary napkins.

Currently, the viable way toward anti bacterial sanitary napkins is the use
of natural fibres as raw material and natural herbs for finishing process. Natural fibres
are renewable and obtained from natural resources that present several advantages,
including low density, acceptable specific strength properties,skin friendly, low
cost,high absorption capacity and represent a traditional class of renewable materials
which experiencing a great rival. A number of investigations have been conducted on
several types of natural fibres such as bamboo,banana,sugar cane baggase,flax,jute to
study the effect of these fibre on the properties of moisture absorption capacity.oral
herbs used by the women during their menopause time in the olden days was selected
and investigated for its anti bacterial activity.

Thus, non wovens are explored as a  Non-toxic and non-irritating does not
contain other chemical ingredients, has stable performance, non-toxic, non-odor, and
 2

does not irritate the skin are found very encouraging.considering these aspects in this
study, an attempt was made to see the anti bacterial and moisture wicking properties of
disposable non woven sanitary napkin with the natural herbs for anti bacterial activity.

1.2 OBJECTIVES

The main objectives of the current research work which are outlined as follows:

1. To collect and extract the therapeutical compounds from the herbs such as
fenugreek, thyme and rose.
2. To finish the extracts on non woven fabrics and evaluate its antibacterial
properties using standard EN ISO 20645 test method.
3. To determine the difference in wicking or absorbency behavior of the finished
and plain fabrics.
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CHAPTER-2

2.LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 MENSTRUATION

Adolescence is the period of transition between puberty and adulthood. Menarche

is one of the markers of puberty and therefore can be considered as an important event
in the life of adolescent girls. For most females, it occurs between the age of 10 and 16
years; however, it shows a remarkable range of variation.The normal range for
ovulatory cycles is between 21 and 35 days. While most periods last from 3 to 5 days,
duration of menstrual flow normally ranges from 2 to 7 days. For the first few years
after menarche, irregular and longer cycles are common. Menstrual disorders are a
common presentation by late adolescence; 75% of girls experience some problems
associated with menstruation including delayed, irregular, painful, and heavy menstrual
bleeding, which are the leading reasons for the physician office visits by
adolescents.Menstrual patterns are also influenced by a number of host and
environmental factors.

2.2 SANITARY NAPKINS IN MENSTRUATION

India scores lowest in sanitary napkin usage in the world. Lack of awareness and
education regarding menarche contributes to anxiety, fear and abuse among young girls.
Commercial products like sanitary pads, tampons and menstrual cups are less widely
available and often unaffordable. Due to poor menstrual hygiene practices more than
70% of women are diagnosed with serious vaginal and urinary tract infections each
year. There is urgent need for Government, NGO’s and corporates to collaborate
 4

together to provide affordable and sustainable menstrual hygiene management solutions

for the welfare of the community at large.

Sanitary Pads are absorbent disposable single use products designed to receive, absorb,
and retain menstrual fluid. Most of the rural women and some urban women use cloth
also as absorbent because it is cheaper. However, in one study, conducted in Delhi-
NCR, they found that the use of cloth during menses has lowered a lot (2%, n=974) and
the women have switched to the use of sanitary pads (90%, n=974). Though, this
practice elevates the reproductive health & hygiene of women, it also raises a major
problem to the environment after it has been disposed. Frequently, it is openly dumped
in landfills, as it is collected with domestic waste. The rag pickers come in contact with
them & contract diseases as soiled pads harbor several bacteria and viruses. There are
no stringent guidelines/laws for its disposal in India and it is neither bracketed as
biomedical waste, nor categorized as plastic waste. As a result, they continue to choke
our landfills. One conventional sanitary pad contains the equivalent of about four plastic
bags. Conventional pads may also contain furans, pesticides like pyrethrum,
procymidone, mecarbam and fensulfothion synthetic fibers and petrochemical additives.
Most sanitary pads are bleached with chlorine compounds that contain traces of the
dioxin. The US Environmental Protection agency (EPA) has named dioxin to be the
most potent carcinogen which does not degenerate even after decades in the soil. Hence,
there should be arrangements for safe disposal of commercial sanitary pads or other
alternatives for menstrual hygiene, to maintain sustainable environment.
 5

2.3 MAJOR BODY DEFECTS RELATED TO MENSTRUATION

2.3.1 VAGINAL INFECTION

For many women, periods are bothersome enough with the cramps, mood swings,
bloating, and other PMS symptoms. But they can become more unpleasant when you
get a vaginal yeast infection on top of it all.Vaginal yeast infections, a condition also
called vaginal candidiasis, are most likely to occur the week before your period
starts.Vaginal yeast infections are fungal infections that can cause irritation in and
around the vagina. A yeast infection can cause extra discomfort when it happens shortly
before your period.

2.3.2 URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI)

It is the most common type of infectious disease in community practice after

respiratory tract infection. A study conducted to determine the prevalence of
community acquired-UTI in rural Odisha showed that prevalence of UTI in females was
45.2%.Urinary tract infections are believed to be among the most common form of
infection in girls and women of menstruating age and this is held to be due to
unhygienic practices

2.3.3 BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS

It is a condition of the vagina when there are too many of one kind of bacteria,
mainly Gardnerella vaginalis. The smell can get stronger after sex or during your
period. Some women can have bacterial vaginosis but have no symptoms at all.

2.3.4 CERVICAL CANCER

According to Dr Aruna Kalra, mostly, sanitary pads are safe to use, however,
there are a few ongoing studies that have reported the incidence of genital cancer with
the use of sanitary pads that use absorptive agents like dioxin and super-absorbent
 6

polymers, because the nature of the dioxin (present in sanitary pads) can get
accumulated in the body, and impact our reproductive organs, which can cause cervical
cancer or ovarian cancer.

Basically, dioxin is a carcinogen, which means it promotes the formation of cancer

causing cells in your body. The sanitary pads are bleached to improve their blood
absorbing capacity, and this bleach contains dioxin,” says Dr Kalra.The other problem
with dioxin is that it suppresses the body’s immunity. This makes our vagina all the
more vulnerable to infections. Plus, it impacts the production of reproductive hormones
like estrogen which can be problematic in the longer run.  
2.3.5 RASHES

Friction: Wearing a sanitary pad can cause friction from movement, resulting in a

rash. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, walking, running, and other
forms of physical activity can cause the pad to move back and forward and contribute to
a friction rash on the vulva.

2.4 SANITARY NAPKIN RAW MATERIALS

 Sanitary napkins are produced as layered structures as they have to fulfill

different properties such as absorption, leakage prevention, comfort etc. at the
same time.
 These layers contain textile and film structures.The uppermost layer which
contacts with the body is the topsheet. The material of topsheet can be
polyethylene film or polypropylene spunbond nonwoven fabric.
 An acquisition-distribution layer (ADL) is under the topsheet and it distributes
the menstrual fluid along the sanitary napkin and transfers it to the absorbent
layer below. ADL can be made of airlaid woodpulp nonwovens or
multicomponent structures composed of woodpulp and man-made fibers.
 7

 Absorbent layer is usually made of wood pulp and superabsorbent polymer. It

can be produced by airlaid technology and with different configurations.
 The bottom layer namely backsheet is usually an impermeable film . The ADL
and absorbent layers are made up of nonwoven fabrics. It is advantageous to use
nonwoven fabrics as they are easy and fast to produce, they absorb high amount
of fluid and they provide comfort to the user.
 They mainly focused on the absorption and moisture management properties of
sanitary napkins. For example, Das et. al. (2008) produced absorbent layers with
different ratios of superabsorbent viscose fibers, to be used in ultra-thin sanitary
napkins .
 Karakurd Elma et. al. (2018) investigated the effects of absorbent layer thickness
and superabsorbent polymer ratios to the liquid acquisition time and capacity .
 Wijesingha and Perera (2017) examined the usability of corn husk fibers for
absorbent layer of sanitary napkins.
 Yadav et. al. (2016) produced cellulose acetate nanofibers and searched their
usability on sanitary napkins to avoid from health risks .
 Pohlman (2016) analyzed the topsheets of commercial pentiliners . In all of these
researches, researchers used their own perspective in designing and evaluating
materials and experimental setups.
 Cotton fluff from loom waste was collected, cleaned and hydro-entangled to form
absorbent sheet. The sheet shows water absorbency of more than 470%.

 Bamboo wadding exhibits the highest absorptivity index (7.86), greater than
cotton terry cloth (0.84), hemp cloth (1.4), linen (1.57) and a commercial sanitary
pad (4.38).Though the absorptivity index of bamboo wadding is promising.
 8

Fig 2.4.1 bamboo

 The Acceptability Index of regular napkin was found 81.11%while 81.55%for
large napkin. 
 Mishra et. al. (2016) investigated To reduce the product cost, flax (Linum
usitatissimum L.), carding waste fibre was used as absorbent core, The developed
napkin was tested as per IS: 5405. On the basis of results it meets all the
requirements of test methods.

Fig 2.4 flax

2.5 HERBAL SANITARY NAPKIN

To avoid the above said disorders,the sanitary napkins need to be manufactured with
the help of natural resources that result in herbal sanitary napkins. The herbs used in
sanitary napkin are:

• Tulsi,
• Neem,
 9

• Aloe vera,
• Vetiver,
• Lemon,
• Turmeric

And etc. Fig 2.5.1 Aloevera

Fig 2.5.2 Tulsi Leaves

This anti-bacterial biodegradable absorbent pad would be an ideal substitute for

synthetic sanitary pads considering its 100% biodegradability.

2.6 KEY CRITERIA FOR SELECTON OF HERBAL SANITARY NAPKIN

2.6.1 HYGIENE

Sanitary waste disposal has become an increasing problems in India,

Thus bio degradable napkins should me made.

2.6.2 PERFORMANCE
women generally prefer sanitary napkins based on their absorptive capacity.

2.6.3 DISEASE FREE

Napkins should have less side effects and should not cause wide range of

diseases.

2.6.4 COMFORT
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Napkins should be comfort and not produce any unpleasant odour as they are

used throughout the day during menstruation.

2.6.5 COST
Sanitary napkins should available at an affordable cost that every women can

buy.based on the above criteria herbal sanitary napkins should be made. This will

promote hygienic menstruation around the world and there is avoidance of several

diseases caused due to the harmful synthetic sanitary napkins.

2.7 ANTI BACTERIAL FINISH

Textile fabrics are a very suitable substrate for the growth of microorganisms
when the basic requirements for their growth such as nutrients, oxygen, moisture,
and appropriate temperature are present. The large specific surface area of textiles can
promote the growth of microorganisms on the surface of the textile substrates.Natural
fibers are more prone to microbial attack than synthetic fibers. Cellulosic fibers
like cotton, jute, viscose, etc. themselves are not a direct source of nutrients for
microorganisms but, under some appropriate conditions, few fungi secrete enzymes
that convert cellulose into glucose which is a nutrient source for microorganisms. In
addition to that dust, soil, and a few textile finishes like size paste can be the source of
nutrients. Synthetic antimicrobial agents are very
effective against a wide range of microbes and give a durable effect on textile. There

are a number of demerits of synthetic antimicrobial agents including poor wash

fastness, leaching in water, and their toxiological effects. So, there is a huge demand for
 11

antimicrobial textiles based on the eco-friendly agent which not only can mitigate

microbial growth on the surface of textile materials but also satisfy the requirements

imposed by various recognized agencies towards sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Presently, in the era of eco-friendly operation, it has become vital for human beings

also to live in a world of hygiene and a healthy atmosphere. The major obstacle

that comes in their way is the microorganisms, which are responsible for deterioration,

staining, odour and toxiological effects. Microbes cause harm to human beings by

transmitting various diseases and infections. thus, it becomes very important to

alter all the surface properties of all the garments with eco-friendly anti-

microbial agents so that there is no chance of bacterial growth and they become safe for

end-use.

2.8 FUNCTIONS OF ANTIMICROBIAL TEXTILES

1. To avoid cross infection by pathogenic micro-organisms.

2. To arrest metabolism in microbes in order to reduce the odour formation.

3. To control the infestation by microbes.

4. To protect the textile products from staining, discoloration and quality deterioration.

2.9 PURPOSE OF ANTIBACTERIAL FINISH

A. Rot proofing is an antimicrobial finish applied to given material for protection either
long term or short term against physical deterioration.

B. Hygiene finishes are dealing with the control of infection and unwanted bacteria;
 12

aspecialized development is the prevention of dust mites.

C. Aesthetic finishes are used to control odour development and staining.

2.10 TYPES OF ANTI BACTERIAL AGENTS

The antimicrobial agents are classified broadly in two types viz. leaching types
and non-leaching types.
2.10.1 LEACHING TYPE OR CONVENTIONAL ANTIMICROBIALS
These products diffuse from the garment to come in contact with microbe. They
washed off the garments, forming a space of activity and any microbes coming into the
space are destroyed. However, with time, the potential decreases and thus, it just
attacks the microbes, giving them a chance to form a strain by mutation. The microbes
are consumed by the antimicrobial agents as they act on them. The product share
eventually used up by the bacteria and slowly loses their
effectiveness.

2 .10.2 NON LEACHING TYPE

These agents are bound to the product and control the cation of the

microorganisms. These products do not migrate off the garments, but, destroy the

bacteria when it comes in contact with the surface of the garment. The microbes are

not consumed by the antimicrobial agents. The antimicrobial agents destroy the

bacteria by acting on thier cell membrane. The antimicrobial finishing is permanent

type and will remain functional through the life cycle of the base fabric and can

withstand more than 40 laundry washes.

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2.11 TYPES OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS ACCORDING TO ACTION

AGAINST MICROORGANISM

There are two catgories of antibacterial agents such as:

(a) Biostatic drugs that inhibit the growth Of microorganisms; like bacteria, fungi
and viruses.
(b) Biocidal drugs those kill microorganisms by producing hydroxyl radicals

through a mechanism of common oxidative reaction and damage cellular death

pathway involving alterations in central metabolism and iron metabolism. The

efficiency of killing of microorganisms by bactericidal agents is >99.9%. The anti-

microbial agents work on three fundamental mechanisms viz. inhibition of protein

synthesis, inhibition of DNA replication and repair or inhibition of cell-wall turnover.

2.12 INHIBITION OF PROTEIN SYNTHESIS

There are three sequential phases viz. initiation, elongation and termination for

mRNA involving the ribosome and a host of cytoplasmic accessory factors. The

ribosome organelle is composed of two ribonucleo protein subunits, that organize

(initiation phase) on the formation of a complex between an mRNA transcript. The

broadest classes of antibiotics are the drugs that inhibit protein synthesis and they

can be divided into two subclasses, viz: 50S inhibitors and 30S inhibitors.

2.13 INHIBITION OF D.N.A. REPLICATION AND REPAIR

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The antibiotic-induced cell death occus due to the formation of double-

stranded DNA breaks following treatment with DNA gyrase inhibitors. These
mechanims are performed by the synthetic quinolone class of antimicrobials,
including the clinically-relevant fluoroquinolones, which target DNA topoisomerase

.
complexes .Quinolones are introduced in the 1960s as

derivatives of nalidixic acid, which was discovered as a byproduct of chloroquine

(quinine) synthesis and to treat urinary tract infections. Other first generation
quinolones and nalidixic acid and (i.e. oxolinic acid) are rarely used now ad days
owing to their toxicity. However, these bacteriostatic drugs predominantly inhibit
ribosome function, targeting both the 30S (tetracycline family and amino cyclitol
family) and 50S (macrolide family and chloramphenicol) ribosome subunits. The
aminocyclitol group of 30S inhibitors are the bactericidal aminoglycoside family of
drugs and the bacteriostatic drug spectinomycin; the aminoglycoside family,
excluding spectinomycin, is the only class of ribosome inhibitors known to cause
protein mistranslation. With respect to other classes of bactericidal antibiotics,
quinolones target DNA replication and repair by binding DNA gyrase complexed with
DNA, which drives double-strand DNA break
formation and cell death.

2.14 INHIBITION OF CELL WALL SYNTHESIS

Blactams are the cell-wall synthesis inhibitors that interact with penicillin-
binding proteins and glycopeptides interact with peptidoglycan building blocks and
interfere with normal cell-wall synthesis. They induce lysis and cell death.There will be
change in cell shape and size after the treatment with a cell wall synthesis inhibitor that
induce cellular stress responses, and culminate in cell lysis.
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2.15 APPLICATIONS METHODS OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS ONTO

TEXTILES
There are various methods of applications of antimicrobial agents on to textile

substartes. Most importantly, internal antimicrobial release is one of the method where

antimicrobial agents are incorporated into the synthetic fibres during spinning. The

fibre itself become intrinsically antimicrobial material that can release antimicrobial

agent internally af this finish. Another approach is surface application of

antimicrobial finish that is universally applicable for all types of fibers. However, the

durability to washing depends on the affinity of antimicrobials towards the fibre

substrate. The durability of the finish depends on the bonding strength of the polymers

with the textile surface. In case of some fibres like PAN, ionic charge could be

another.factor to consider for certain fibers,. The third approach is Chemical

bonding which is theoretically the best way to achieve durability and it is

suitable for cellulosic, wool and polyamide fibres. But, this method requires

suitable reactive groups on the fibers to work effectively.

2.16 NATURAL AND ECOFRIENDLY ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS

The conventional methods of preparation of anti-microbial textiles is the treating

textiles with some inorganic agents like CuCl 2, quaternary ammonium salts, halamines
 16

etc. Theses processes are not ecofriendly and susuatainable. However, there are

sustainable method by coating textiles with natural bio-extracts such as neem, aloe vera,

tulshi etc. Recently, coating with conductive polymers like polypyrrole, polytgiophene,

polyaniline etc. are found to be very promising as a sustainable and green approach for

preparation of antimicrobial textiles.

2.16.1 NEEM

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is called evergreen tree of India, and recognized as

one of the most promising sources of compounds with insect control, medicinaland

antimicrobial properties. The antimicrobial ingredients of neem are found in all parts of

the tree such as seed, bark, leaves and roots . The ingredients are hence extracted from

these parts of the plants. There are about 300 different types of active ingradients have

been extracted from different parts of neem tree. Among them, the most important

limonoids are azadirachtin, salannin and nimbin . The neem extracts have excellents

pest repellent property and due to that they have been widely used in herbal pesticide

formulation to inhibit growth of both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria.

2.16.2 ALOE VERA

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis, Miller) has been used in Ayurveda as a skin care
product for more than 2000 years. In recent times, it has been observed that the Aloe
leaf contains more than 75 nutrients and about 200 active ingredients, including 20
minerals, 18 amino acids and 12 vitamins. Aloe vera possesses antibacterial and
 17

antifungal properties, which can be exploited for medical textile applications, such as
wound dressing, suture, bioactive textiles.
There are various polysaccharides avaialble in Aloe vera. Examples are glucomannan,

acetylated glucomannan, glucogalactomannan with different composition,

galactogalacturan, acelylated mannan or acemannan. Acemannan a long chain

polymer consisting of randomly acetylated linear D-mannopyranosyl units has

immunomodulation, antibacterial, antifungal and antitumor properties. Aloe vera

extract at various concentrations (5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 gpl) was applied on cotton

fabric in presence of ecofriendly cross-linking agent glyoxal (100gpl) by a pad-

dry-cure technique. Qualitative (AATCC-147- 1998) and quantitative (AATCC-100-

1998) evaluations were conducted to evaluate antibacterial efficassy of the Aloe vera

treated cotton fabric. It was observed that the absorbance of the sample is directly

proportional to the concentration of the cells in the sample.

2.16.3 PRICKLY CHAFF FLOWER

Prickly chaff flower (Achyranthesaspera Linn.) belongs to the family

Amaranthaceae is one of the ayurvedic herbs found all over India. It is used as a

traditional medicine against various disorders from ancient times in India.It has been

extensively used in Ayurveda as an anti-inflammatory agent. A study showed that the

antimicrobial activity of prickly chaff flower against both the gram positive and gram

negative bacteria.antibacterial activity of prickly chaff flower treated cotton fabric was
 18

tested by parallel streak method for gram negative bacteria(Escherichia coli) and the

treated fabric showed mild antibacterial activity.

2.16.5 TURMERIC

Turmeric, commonly known as Curcuma longa that belongs to the family

Zingiberaceae, it is a yellow pigmented dried rhizome that is a powerful antioxidant,

antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory effect, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic,

antithrombotic, hepatoprotective, anti-viral and anti-parasitic in nature.The use of

turmeric extracts for the antimicrobial activity has long been known. Turmeric and its

extract have various beneficial effects on human health as they contain a number

of monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and curcuminoids. Among those secondary

metabolites, curcuminoids, such as curcumin, demethoxycurcumin,

bisdemethoxycurcumin and tetrahydrocurcumin, are yellowish pigments that have

antioxidative, anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory,and hypoglycemic effects.

2.16.6 CLOVE OIL

Clove oil (eugenol) is a main product of Syzygiumaromaticumthat belongs to

the family Myrtaceae.It contain 13% tannin and oleanolic acid, which spreads
antibacterial activities.Clove oil is used in aromatherapy and also used as pesticidal
textile material for repelling various microorganisms.A study showed that the cotton
fabric treated with high percent of clove oil resulted in high zone of inhibition against
Staphylococcus aureus(Gram positive) bacteria.
2.16.7 TULSI LEAVES
 19

Tulsi(Osmium basilicum) belongs to the family Labiatae. Tulsi leaves are

used as antimicrobial, insecticidal, antiprotozoal, diaphoretic, expectorant and aromatic
carminative. It was observed that the methanolic extracts of tulsi leaves treated
cotton fabric showed antimicrobial activity which is suitable for textile applications.

2.17 ANTI BACTERIAL FINISHING METHODOLOGIES

The antibacterial agents can be applied to the textile substrates by exhaust,pad-

dry-cure, coating, spray and foam techniques. The substances can also be applied by
directly adding into the fibre spinning dope. It is claimed that the commercial agents
can be applied online during the dyeing and finishing operations. Various methods for
improving the durability of the finish include:
1.Insolubilisation of the active substances in/on the fibre
2.Treating the fibre with resin, condensates or cross linking agents
3.Micro encapsulation of the antimicrobial agents with the fibre matrix by coating the
fibre surface.

4.Chemical modification of the fibre by covalent bond formation

5.Use of graft polymers, homo polymers and/or co polymerization on to the fibre.

2.18 THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF A GOOD ANTIBACTERIAL AGENT

FOR TEXTILE SUBSTRATES

• Should possess affinity for specific fabric and fiber types.

• Be easy to apply on textile substrates.

• Be able to inactivate undesirable microbes while simultaneously not affect

desired microbes.
 20

• Inert to chemicals to which the textile might be exposed during processing.

• Durable to repeated laundering, dry cleaning, ironing and prolonged storage

including resistance to detergents used to care for the textiles.

• Stable during usage without degrading into hazardous secondary products.

• Not adversely affect the user or the environment.

2.20 EVALUATION OF DEVELOPED SANITARY NAPKIN

2.20.1 ABSORBENT CAPACITY TEST

An absorbent capacity test is used to assess a material’s ability to absorb a liquid

and how quickly it does this, defined as its speed of absorption (ISO/IEC 17025). It is

being used by companies that produce products such as sanitary napkin, baby diapers,

wipes, paper towels, sponges and personal and feminine hygiene items. The specimen

will be measured before and after the shower in this experiment. Dry napkin weight is

first taken and then soaked in a 200 ml 0.9% saline solution and hangs for 1min to allow

the saline solution to drain from the napkin and the moist napkin’s weight has been

taken. (Fraizer 2006; EDANA 2018). For evaluating absorbent capacity of developed

sanitary napkin, saline solution (0.9 wt% NaCl) was used as a substitute of blood

(Yadav etal. 2016).

2.20.2 REWET/WET BACK TEST

 21

The rewet or wet back of sanitary napkin was assessed in accordance with

ISO/IEC 17025 where 5ml 0.9% saline solution is poured into the centre of napkin and

wait for 1 min. After that 3 g dry filter paper is put on centre for 15s which give first

filter paper weight and repetition of the procedure will give second filter paper weight.

The difference between second and first filter paper weight was recorded for all sample,

and all the procedures were performed in standard testing atmosphere (Temperature 20º

± 2°C and relative humidity 65 ± 2%) (EDANA 2018).

2.20.3 STRIKE THROUGH TEST

The experiment was established to assess the rate of penetration of a single drop

of liquid through the sanitary pad samples using only a small volume (5 ml) of 0.9%

saline solution (ISO/IEC 17025). In order to execute this experiment, a drop of the test

liquid was permitted to fall on the pad sample and the penetration rate of the liquid was

thoroughly observed. The was assessed by measuring the time taken for the blood

substitute to be absorbed from the upper layer of the pad to the inner layer. The drop

was monitored closely until the drop of the test liquid appeared on the pad sample like a

dull spot, the pad being observed over the same period of time (EDANA 2018).

2.20.6 PHYSICAL TESTING OF SANITARY NAPKIN

Sanitary napkin’s general physical attributes are the thickness, length, width and

weight which are assessed according to (ISO/IEC 17025). Based on the commercial
 22

sanitary napkin standard, the length, width and weight of the developed sanitary napkin

are taken into account and evaluated (Fraizer 2006; EDANA 2018). Ana thickness

tester (Model MAG-C1001, India, MAG Ana thick, Analog thickness Gauge),

measurement range (0.010–10.00) mm is used to determine the thickness of different

pads followed by IS 7702 test method.

2.21 EVAUATION OF ANTI BACTERIAL EFFICACY

ASTM E2149-01, a quantitative antibacterial test method intended to assess the

resistance of non-leaching antibacterial processed samples to microbe development
under dynamic contact conditions, has been used to investigate the antibacterial
characteristics of neem extract-treated non-woven fabrics (Ferrero and Periolatto 2012).
Antibacterial efficacy was investigated against S. aureus (gram positive) and E. coli
(gram negative). Each culture was suspended in a small amount of nutrient broth,
spread on the nutrient blood agar plate and incubated at 30°C for 2h. Two single
colonies were collected with an inoculating loop from the ager plate, suspended in 5ml

5
of nutrient broth and incubated at 37°C for 18h. the final concentration of 1.5–3.0 × 10
colony forming units per millilitre (CFU/ml) was produced by diluting each culture

H
with a sterile buffer solution (0.3mM phosphate buffer, p 7.2) which was used as a
diluent in all tests. These dilute culture solutions have been used for the antibacterial
experiment.
A 250-ml flask comprising 50 ml of active bacterial di

5
lution (1.5–3 × 10 CFU/ml) has been provided for each neem-treated and one
untreated sample, and small pieces (1cm×1cm) of non-woven fabric samples were put
 23

on flask. All flasks were loosely capped, positioned on a shaking incubator, shaken at
37°C and shaken at 120rpm for 1h. Using the buffer solution, a series of dilutions were
produced and each 0.1ml of dilution was put in the nutrient agar plate. The inoculated
plates were
incubated at 37 °C in the incubator (USA Binder) for 18–24h, and the surviving cells
were counted. The safety cabinet (Clernair from Belgium) was used for the preparation
of bacterial culture and transfer to agar plate. The antibacterial activity was
demonstrated as a percentage reduction of the organism after contact with the test
specimen compared to the number of bacterial cells that survive after contact with the
control using Eq 1 (Arif etal. 2015).where A and B are the surviving cells (CFU/ml) for
the flasks containing test samples (neem-treated non-woven fabric samples) and the
control (blank non-woven fabrics) respectively after 1-h contact time.

==% Reduction
=
B
−
A
B
×
% Reduction
=
B
−
A
B

CHAPTER-3
3.MATERIALS AND METHODS
This chapter consists of three parts
1. Details of developing the sanitary napkin
 24

2. Extraction and application of Anti bacterial finish.

3. Testing of the Anti bacterial efficacy and moisture wicking properties.

3.1 MATERIALS

The materials used are:

 TOP SHEET-NON WOVEN HYDROPHILIC
 ABSORBENT CORE-GEL SHEET+AIR LAID TISSUE
 BARRIER SHEET-MEDICAL GRADE PE SHEET
3.2 HERBS
Herbs like:
 FENUGREEK POWDER.
 THYME POWDER.
 ROSE POWDER.

3.3 METHOD

3.3.1 SAMPLE PREPARATION

In this research, finished non-woven fabrics were first treated with
(fenugreek,rose,thyme) extract solution, Fresh herbs were washed with distilled water
and grinded with mixer,then boiled with 100 ml of distilled water, and filtration was
performed using what-man No. 1 filter paper. For further investigation, three di fferent
concentrated neem extracts (100%, 25% and 50%) were prepared and used. The
grafting of the herb extract substrate was incorporated by the pad-dry-cure
method. The non-woven fabric was immersed in a solution comprising neem leaf
extract (100%, 25% and 50%) in three distinct conical flasks. The citric acid binder
(1%) was then introduced to all three flasks and held for 40s (Patel and Desai 2014).
Excess solution has been separated from the test fabric by using Padding Mangle at

2
room temperature, at a pressure of 2 kg/cm . After padding, all the test samples were
 25

dried at 80°C for 20 min and then cured at 120°C for 5min.the pad samples, developed
from treated non-woven fabric, consists of three layers where the first layer is non-
woven hydrophilic (285 mm × 75 mm) which is treated with CMC of different
proportions, the second layer is air laid + gel sheet (220 mm × 70 mm) and the third
layer is medical grade pe sheet (285 mm × 75 mm). Newly engineered core forming
machine transformed the core forming materials into cake form and inserted into the
pocket for quick absorption of menstrual fluid. All layers were sealed together by heat
sealing machine.

Tab 3.3.1 Test Pad Sample coding

TEST PAD SAMPLES CODE
Sample-1 (stayfree-regular) SA-01
Sample-2 (whisper-regular) SA-02
Sample-3 (amrutanjan comfy-regular) SA-03
Developed sample-1(non-woven HK-01
hydrophilic(100%FENUGREEK EXTRACT)
+gelsheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-2(non-woven HK-02
hydrophilic((100%ROSE EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-3(non-woven HK-03
hydrophilic(100%THYME EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+air laid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-4(non-woven HK-04
hydrophilic((50% FENUGREEK EXTRACT)
+gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-5(non-woven HK-05
hydrophilic((50%ROSE EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
 26

Developed sample-6(non-woven HK-06

hydrophilic((50% THYME EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-7(non-woven HK-07
hydrophilic((25%FENUGREEK EXTRACT)
+gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-8(non-woven HK-08
hydrophilic((25%ROSE EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-9(non-woven HK-09
hydrophilic((25%THYME EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-10(non-woven HK-10
hydrophilic((100%FENUGREEK
EXTRACT)+2 layer gel
sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-11(non-woven HK-11
hydrophilic((100%ROSE EXTRACT)+2
layer gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-12(non-woven HK-12
hydrophilic((100%THYME EXTRACT)+2
layer gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-13(non-woven HK-13
hydrophilic((50%FENUGREEK EXTRACT)
+2 layer gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-14(non-woven HK-14
hydrophilic((50%ROSE EXTRACT)+2 layer
gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
 27

Developed sample-15(non-woven HK-15

hydrophilic((50%THYME EXTRACT)+2
layer gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-16(non-woven HK-16
hydrophilic((25%FENUGREEK EXTRACT)
+2 layer gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-17(non-woven HK-17
hydrophilic((25%ROSE EXTRACT)+2 layer
gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-18(non-woven HK-18
hydrophilic((25%THYME EXTRACT)+2
layer gel sheet+airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-19(non-woven HK-19
hydrophilic((100%FENUGREEK
EXTRACT)+gel sheet+2 layer
airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-20(non-woven HK-20
hydrophilic((100%ROSE EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-21(non-woven HK-21
hydrophilic((100%THYME EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-22(non-woven HK-22
hydrophilic((50%FENUGREEK EXTRACT)
+gel sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-23(non-woven HK-23
hydrophilic((50%ROSE EXTRACT)+gel
 28

sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)

Developed sample-24(non-woven HK-24
hydrophilic((50%THYME EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-25(non-woven HK-25
hydrophilic((25%FENUGREEK EXTRACT)
+gel sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE
sheet)
Developed sample-26(non-woven HK-26
hydrophilic((25%ROSE EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)
Developed sample-27(non-woven HK-27
hydrophilic((25%THYME EXTRACT)+gel
sheet+2 layer airlaid+medical grade PE sheet)

3.4 EVALUATION METHODS

Initially, non-woven fabrics are treated with herb extract solution at different

concentrations (100 per cent, 25 per cent and 50 per cent) in order to select the best-

performing cloth for the further production of all sanitary napkins, which typically have

excellent antimicrobial properties. The developed sanitary pad samples then performed

a various testing to evaluate the ability of top layer and bottom layer to withstand blood

or other menstrual fluid leakage. Eventually, the cost structure of the produced sanitary

napkin was prepared and contrasted with commercial specimens.

3.4.1 ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTY TESTING

 29

The antibacterial properties of herb extract solution treated non-woven fabric

(used to design sanitary napkin) were evaluated using AATCC and EN ISO, which is a
quantitative antibacterial test method designed to evaluate the resistance of non-
leaching antibacterial treated specimens to the growth of the microbes under dynamic
contact conditions. Antibacterial activity was assessed against S.aureus (gram positive)
and E.coli (gram negative). Each culture was suspended in a small amount of nutrient
broth, spread on the nutrient agar plate, and incubated at 37 degree Celsius for 2 h. Two
single colonies were picked up with an inoculating loop from the ager plate, suspended
in 5 mL nutrient broth, and incubated for 18 hour at 37 degree Celsius. A final
concentration of 1.5-3.0 X 105 colony forming units per millilitre (CFU/mL) was
prepared by appropriately diluting each culture with a steric buffer solution (0.3 mM
phosphate buffer, p H 7.2) which was used as diluents in all experiments. These dilute
culture solutions were used for the antibacterial test. For each herbal extract treated and
one untreated sample, a 250 ml flask are prepared containing 50 mL of the working
bacterial dilution (1.5-3 x 105 CFU/Ml) and non-woven fabric samples which are cut into
small pieces (1cm x 1cm). All flasks were capped loosely, placed on a shaking
incubator, were shaken at 37 degree Celsius and 120 rpm for 1 hour. A series of
dilutions were made using the buffer solution and each 0.1 ml of the dilution was placed
in nutrient agar plate. The inoculated plates were incubated incubator at 37 degree
Celsius for 18-24 hour and surviving cells were counted, and transferring to agar plate.
The antibacterial was expressed in terms of % reduction of the organism after contact
with the test specimen compared to the number of bacterial cells surviving after contact
with the control using equation-1.

% Reduction = 𝐵−𝐴/𝐵 × 100................ (1)

 30

Where A and B are the surviving cells (CFU/ml) for the flasks containing test samples
(herbal extract treated samples) and the control (blank samples) respectively after 1
hour contact time.

Antimicrobial test result against S.aureus and E.coli

120
80
40
REDUCTION(%)

0
T CT CT CT T CT CT T CT
R AC A A A AC A A AC A
T TR TR TR T R TR TR T R TR
EX EX EX EX EX EX EX EX EX
K SE E K SE E K SE E
EE YM EE YM EE YM
R RO TH
R RO TH
R RO TH
UG 0% UG 50
% UG 25
%
N 10 0% N 50
% N 25
%
FE 10 FE FE
% % OF EXTRACT 25%
0% 50
10

S.AUREUS E.COLI

Fig 3.4.1 Microbial reduction with the increment of fenugreek,rose and

thyme extract

3.4.2 REWET OR WET BACK TEST

Wet back testing is particularly important for any sanitary napkin to examine the
pad’s ability to resist transportation back to the skin of a liquid that has so far penetrated
the cover stock. Wetback (or rewet) is a phenomenal characteristic for assessing the
quantity of liquid released by the product after absorption when the product is subjected
to pressure (2.22kg or 4.8lb) . The below graph demonstrates a comparison of the
wetback properties of the engineered pad samples against commercial pad samples. As
noted, the wet back property of the commercial sample (SA-01) is excellent, whereas
(SA-2) and (SA-3) have moderate wet back properties. Although the wet back value of
the developed pad samples (HK-
10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27) showed very good wet back
 31

properties when compared to the commercial sample (SA-01) were good due to the use
of extra layers of gel sheet and airlaid. Similarly, the developed sample (HK-22)
showed very good wet back properties when compared to the commercial sample (SA-
01).

Rewet of Pad samples

3
2.5
2
1.5
REWET(gm)

1
0.5
0
SA SA SA HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
01 02 03 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

PAD SAMPLES

FIRST(gm in secs) SECOND(gm in secs)

Fig 3.4.2 Wet back of various samples

3.4.3 TOTAL ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY BY PAD

Absorptive capacity performs a significant feature in sanitary napkins,
which are determined by the frequency of use without blood leakage. Absorptive
capacity (amount of liquid absorbed) of sanitary napkin may be represented by the
ability to absorb liquid or menstrual fluid. The maximum absorption capacity of
the pad was defined as the total volume of saline poured onto the pad before the
pad could no longer absorb saline, i.e. the last saline droplet remained on the pad
surface for more than 10. The absorption experiment was performed using saline
solution to assess the absorption capacity of the pad samples. Absorptive capacity
of developed pad samples was evaluated and contrasted with chosen commercially
accessible feminine sanitary napkins. The highest absorptive capacity for sample,
 32

SA-01 (64.6 gm), is observed among three commercial samples. On the other side,
the absorption capacity of the sample SA-02 and SA-03 is low owing to the use of
absorbent fibre only. The absorption capacity of the samples (HK-
10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18) is lower among the developed pad samples, but these
samples are comparable to CS-02 and CS-03. However, the developed pad
samples (HK-01,02,03,04,05,06,07,08,09,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27) display
improved absorption capacity. In the same way, the highest absorption capacity
(62.28gm) of the developed sample is recorded for the (HK-
19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27) sample.

ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY(gm)
66
64
62
60
58
56
54
HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- HK- SA-
02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 01

ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY(gm)

Fig 3.4.3 Total absorptive capacity of various samples

3.4.4 ACQUISITION TIME/STRIKE THROUGH TEST OF PAD

Strike through/penetration time is a measure of the speed at which the liquid has
been transported from the surface of the pad to the inside. High strike through
properties illustrates that the upper surface of the skin is readily absorbed by the pad
and keeps the skin feeling dry, avoiding any feeling of wetness and eventually
contributes to comfort while wearing a pad. The strike through properties of
commercial sample (SA-01) was higher than other commercial samples (SA-02 and
SA-03). However, commercial pad samples (SA-01) show a better strike through
 33

properties compared to other commercial and developed pad samples as they took the
least time to strike. On the other side, samples SA-02, SA-03, and HK-
10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18 revealed poor performances.However, the developed pad
samples HK-01,02,03,04,05,06,07,08,09,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27 give a reasonable
strike through as they contribute significantly to liquid transport from the upper surface
to the interior at a very high speed. A similar trend was observed for sample HK-
19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27 which took exactly the same acquisition time (3s) as the
commercial sample SA-01.

Fig. 3.3.4 Strike through test of various samples

3.4.5 PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF SANITARY NAPKIN

All of the nine samples used in this experiment have a product width of between
150 and 155mm, followed by commercial samples (SA-01 to SA-03) and newly
developed samples (HK-01 to HK-27). The weight of the commercial samples was
regarded as a standard weight during the development of sanitary napkin as the quality
of sanitary napkin depends on the size and weight. The weight of all developed samples
 34

(HK-01 to HK-27) is between 7 and 8g, which incorporates comfort and protection
against blood leakage during the use of sanitary napkin. The length of each sanitary
napkin pad sample hereby is kept at 285mm, which is the standard size according to
various established branded products and eventually preferable to consumers providing
additional protection against leakage both day and night. Thickness along with
absorbency is a basic requirement for sanitary napkin since it is not desirable and
convenient to use a thicker napkin the length, width and thickness of the developed
samples and commercial samples can be seen in the thickness of commercial samples
(SA-01) is significantly lower relative to other samples incorporating an additional
advantage for ultra-thin sanitary napkin, whereas SA-02 and SA-03 are thicker due to
the use of cotton or other hydrophilic fibres. Commercial sample average thickness
(SA-01) is 1.54mm which is smallest due to the use of SAP, microfibres and wood pulp
inside the base layer where newly developed pad samples (HK-01 to HK-27) were
slightly thinner than commercial samples (SA-01). The thickness value of developed
pad samples (HK-01 to HK-27) ranges from (1.6 to 4mm) as the extra layer of the
developed sample is made from airlaid and gel sheet. Among the developed samples
(HK-01 to HK-27) the lowest thickness value is 1.6 mm for (HK-
19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27) which is remotely similar to commercial (SA-01) samples.
 35

physical Attributes of Pad Samples

300

250

200

150
mm

100

50

0
SA SA SA HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK HK
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
01 02 03 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

PAD SAMPLE

PRODUCT LENGTH(mm) PRODUCT WIDTH(mm)

PRODUCT WEIGHT(gm) PRODUCT THICKNESS(mm)

Fig 3.3.5 physical attributes of pad samples

3.5 COST ANALYSIS OF DEVELOPED PAD SAMPLE

Cost analysis is a standardized process to determine the cost of each element. This plays
a vital role in the process of product design. It is necessary to make and purchase
decisions, to make alternative selections, to create a break-even analysis and to regain
capital. The cost analysis shall assess the economic feasibility of the planned factory,
sector or product.

There are several types of cost such as:

 Direct material Cost.

 Labor cost.
 Factory overhead cost.

Tab 3.5.1 Price of Various Raw Materials of Developed Sanitary Napkin

S.NO MATERIALS USED TO COST(RS) REQUIRED

 36

DEVELOP A PRODUCT KG
01 NON WOVEN RS.219/KG 1 KG
HYDROPHILIC
02 GEL SHEET RS.190/KG 1 KG
03 AIR LAID RS.175/KG 1 KG
04 MEDICAL GRADE PE RS.179/KG 1 KG
SHEET

Tab 3.5.2 Cost Structure Of Machinery And Accessories

DETAIL QUANTITY COST(RS)

SEALING MACHINE 01 RS.1000

Tab 3.5.3 Other Expenses Or Overhead Costs

EXPENSES COST(RS)
ELECTICITY BILL RS.500
TRANSPORTATION RS.300
STATIONERY RS.100
 37

Tab 3.5.4 Costing Of Sanitary Napkin

DETAILS COST(RS)
RAW MATERIAL PER NAPKIN RS.20
PACKET
WASTAGE 0.12
OVERHEAD COST PER NAPKIN RS.1.50
PACKET
COST PER NAPKIN PACKET RS.21.00
ADD PROFIT(20%) RS.4.00
WHOLE SALE PRICE PER PACKET RS.25.00
ADD WHOLESELLER PROFIT RS.3.00
MARGIN:10%
MAXIMUM RETAIL PRICE PER RS.28.00
PACKET(MRP)
MAXIMUM RETAIL PRICE PER RS.2.8
PIECE(MRP)

3.6 REVIEW OF THE SANITARY NAPKIN

3.6.1 SELECTION OF MATERIALS

A total of 15 questions were taken for this survey which includes their
assumption about our sanitary napkin and commercial sanitary napkin. The google
forms are designed and distributed to the persons of various group.
 38

3.6.2 METHOD OF STUDY

In our survey, we carried out our statistical study of 3 sets of age group. A
15 persons had given their review and we had separated the data as per age group
comprising 15 persons out of which 5 persons are of age group 13-18,5 of them
are of 19-30 age group and 5 of them are of above 31 age group.

CHAPTER-4

4.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTY TESTING

Tab 4.1 Reduction of microorganisms (S. aureus and E. coli) in treated non-woven
fabric with the increment Of (fenugreek,rose,thyme) extract concentration
 39

% OF EXTRACT REDUCTION (%) REDUCTION(%)

S.AUREUS E.COLI
100% FENUGREEK EXTRACT 78.34 73.99

100%ROSE EXTRACT 96.78 95.67

100%THYME EXTRACT 88.54 86.42

50%FENUGREEK EXTRACT 76.53 72.46

50%ROSE EXTRACT 95.97 92.65

50%THYME EXTRACT 87.64 85.92

25%FENUGREEK EXTRACT 72.11 67.9

25%ROSE EXTRACT 91.67 88.43

25%THYME EXTRACT 89.01 84.32

Tab 4.2 Surviving Cells After 1 Hr Contact Time (CFU/Ml) (S. aureus and E. coli)
in treated non-woven fabric with the increment Of (fenugreek,rose,thyme) extract
concentration
 40

TEST SANITARY NAPKINS SURVIVING CELLS AFTER 1 HR CONTACT 4.2

TIME (CFU/ML)
S.AUREUS E.COLI
Untreated[A] 2.34X105 2.27X105
Untreated[B] 2.25X105 2.32X105
Untreated[C] 2.23X105 2.31X105
100% fenugreek extract 14X103 17X103
100% rose extract 10X103 12X103
100% thyme extract 15X103 19X103
50% fenugreek extract 27X103 32X103
50% rose extract 31X103 34X103
50% thyme extract 33X103 37X103
25% fenugreek extract 51X103 59X103
25% rose extract 56X103 63X103
25% thyme extract 57X103 62X103
COMPARISON OF QUALITY BETWEEN COMMERCIAL AND DEVELOPED
PAD SAMPLES
 41

Tab 4.2 Comparison of Rewet,Absorptive,and Acquisition Test

PAD SAMPLES REWET OR WET BACK ACQUISITION

TEST TIME(IN SECS)
FIRST(gm SECOND(gm ABSORPTIVE
in secs) in secs) CAPACITY(gm)
SA-01 0.01 3
61.74 61.74
SA-02 0.75 4
61.74 61.74
SA-03 0.8 5
61.74 61.74
 42

HK-01 0.54 3
61.74 61.74
HK-02 0.5 3
61.74 61.74
HK-03 0.2 3
61.74 61.74
HK-04 0.6 3
61.74 61.74
HK-05 0.3 3
61.74 61.74
HK-06 0.4 3
57.8 61.74
HK-07 0.8 3
57.8 57.8
HK-08 0.7 3
57.8 57.8
HK-09 0.9 3
57.8 57.8
HK-10 0.86 4
57.8 57.8
HK-11 0.85 4
57.8 57.8
HK-12 0.81 4
57.8 57.8
HK-13 0.83 4
57.8 57.8
HK-14 0.87 4
57.8 57.8
HK-15 0.84 4
62.28 57.8
HK-16 0.89 4
62.28 62.28
HK-17 0.82 4
62.28 62.28
HK-18 0.88 4
62.28 62.28
HK-19 0.79 2.2 5
62.28
HK-20 0.76 2.49 5
62.28
HK-21 0.73 2.54 5
62.28
HK-22 0.72 2.73 5
62.28
HK-23 0.74 2.56 5
62.28
HK-24 0.78 2.27 5
62.28
HK-25 0.75 2.41 5
64.6
HK-26 0.71 2.13 5
64.6
HK-27 0.77 2.47 5
64.6

Tab 4.3 Physical Attributes of Pad samples

 43

SAMPLE PRODUCT PRODUCT PRODUCT PRODUCT

NAME LENGTH(mm) WIDTH(mm) WEIGHT(gm) THICKNESS(mm)
SA-01 285 155 8.03 1.6
SA-02 285 150 7.5 4.7
SA-03 280 150 7.7 5.2
HK-01 285 155 5 5.03
HK-02 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-03 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-04 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-05 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-06 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-07 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-08 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-09 285 155 7.4 5.03
HK-10 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-11 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-12 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-13 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-14 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-15 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-16 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-17 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-18 285 155 7.89 5.21
HK-19 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-20 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-21 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-22 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-23 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-24 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-25 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-26 285 155 7.61 5.14
HK-27 285 155 7.61 5.14

4.3 REVIEW OF THE SANITARY NAPKIN

Tab 4.3 Survey resuts

S.N A B C D
O
1. AGE GROUP 13-18=5 19-30=5 ABOVE 31=5
2. BRAND  Stayfree-3  Sofy-2  Carefree-3
 44

 Whisper-2  Carefree-1  Whisper-1

 Stayfree-2  Sofy-1
3. FACTORS  Brand-1  Brand-2  Brand-1
THEY  Price-1  Price-2  Price-2
CHOOSE  Product  Product quality-1  Product
quality-2  Product quantity-0 quality-1
 Product  Product
quantity-1 quantity-1
4. DISPOSABLE  Disposable-4  Disposable-5  Disposable-3
OR  Reusable-1  Reusable-0  Reusable-2
REUSABLE
5. PIECES IN A  Pack of 7-2  Pack of 7-1  Pack of 7-0
PACKAGE  Pack of 8-2  Pack of 8-3  Pack of 8-2
PREFER  Pack of 15-1  Pack of 15-1  Pack of 15-3
6. CHANGE  4 hrs-1  4 hrs-4  4 hrs-5
NAPKIN  6 hrs-3  6 hrs-1  6 hrs-0
 10 hrs-1  10 hrs-0  10 hrs-0
 12 hrs-0  12 hrs-0  12 hrs-0
7. MENSTRUAL  Light-3  Light-0  Light-0
FLOW  Moderate-1  Moderate-2  Moderate-3
 Heavy-1  Heavy-3  Heavy-2
8. PREFER  With wings-  With wings-5  With wings-
5  Without wings-0 5
 Without  Adhesive-0  Without
wings-0 wings-0
 Adhesive-0  Adhesive-0
9. MONEY  Rs.40-0  Rs.40-0  Rs.40-0
SPENT PER  Rs.95-2  Rs.95-4  Rs.95-1
MONTH  Rs.200-3  Rs.200-1  Rs.200-4
10. AWARE OF  Yes-1  Yes-4  Yes-1
HERBAL (nua) (nua,bella,whisper (whisper
COATED  No-4 aloevera,safe pee) aloevera)
 45

NAPKIN  No-1  No-4

11. EXPERIENCE  Yes-3  Yes-4  Yes-4
D SKIN (rashes,yeast (rashes,skin (rashes,skin
ALLERGIES infection,skin allergies,redness,itch allergies,
burns) ing and irritation ) redness,
 No-2  No-1 itching
and
irritation )
 No-1
12. COMFORT  Good  Good moisture  Good
GIVEN BY moisture absorption and moisture
OUR NAPKIN absorption leakage proof-2 absorption
and leakage  Soft and skin and leakage
proof-2 friendly-3 proof-1
 Soft and skin  Less price-0  Soft and skin
friendly-2  All of the above-0 friendly-3
 Less price-1  Less price-1
 All of the  All of the
above-0 above-0

13. HERBAL  4 hrs-4  4 hrs-4  4 hrs-3

NAPKIN  6 hrs-1  6 hrs-1  6 hrs-2
CHANGE  8 hrs-0  8 hrs-0  8 hrs-0
DURATION
14. RATING FOR  Excellent-2  Excellent-1  Excellent-1
OUR NAPKIN  Good-3  Good-4  Good-4
 Bad-0  Bad-0  Bad-0
15. REASON  Good  Packing and  Packing and
FOR RATING absorption adhesive is not adhesive is
and skin enough. not enough.
friendly.  Size variations are  Too thin.
less.
 46

CHAPTER-5

5.CONCLUSIONS

Antimicrobial finished non-woven fabrics were mounted in the core layer of the
pad with or without encapsulation of various sets of layers, and their use in women’s
hygiene products was successfully demonstrated and found that (DA-11) has excellent
antibacterial activity and reduces the bacterial growth. Some key features of pad were
 47

examined in saline solutions for all samples developed in this research and outcomes
were further compared with commercially available local female sanitary napkins used
during menstrual cycles for different phases. Among the samples developed (DA-01 to
DA-07), (DA-09 to DA-18) showed excellent absorption in saline solution in all
conditions compared to any other commercial merchandise (SA-01 to SA-03).
However, the performance of developed sanitary napkins with proportion of the
commercial pad quality does not increase considerably, but the finding of this research
suggests prospective implementation of Gel sheet as a substitute for SAP in the
absorbent nap-kin to provide better health conditions during menstruation. Most of the
materials and chemicals used in this study are environmentally friendly, not only
reducing the health risks associated with the use of SAP, but also making disposable
women napkin items more environmen-tally friendly.

5.1 SCOPE OF THE PROJECT:

Menstrual pads are worn by women to absorb menstrual discharge thereby
protect clothing and furnishings. They are usually individually wrapped so they are
easier and more discreet to carry in a purse or bag. This wrapper may be used to wrap
the soiled pads before disposing of them in appropriate receptacles. Some women prefer
to wrap the pads with toilet paper instead of or as well as using the wrapper, which,
often being made of slick plastic with a small tape tab, may not adequately stick.
Menstrual pads of any type should not be flushed down the toilet as they can cause
blockages. In developed countries, public toilets almost always include a receptacle in
which to place soiled pads. In first aid, they make excellent dressings for heavy
bleeding due to their high absorbency if gauze is unavailable or inadequate
 48

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