Optimization and performance evaluation of engineered sanitary pads made from modified sugar cane bagasse cellulose with adjustable core absorbent layer thicknesses

Abstract

An eco-friendly core absorbent sanitary pad was developed from modified bagasse-based cellulose with adjustable core absorbent layer thicknesses to address sustainability and biodegradability matters associated with traditional sanitary pads. Waste sugarcane bagasse was treated with chemical and mechanical processes, including 3% NaOH, 5% acid, and 3% bleaching, to remove lignin, hemicellulose, and impurities. The obtained bagasse fiber was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) to examine its functional groups and chemical bonds resulting from different treatments on the fiber structure, to analyze surface morphology at the microscopic level, and to evaluate its thermal characteristics, respectively. The final product was converted into a fine pulp, which was utilized to make the sanitary pad's central absorbent layer. Evaluations were conducted on important performance metrics, including absorbency, leak prevention, comfort, flexibility, and environmental impact. Interestingly, the results showed a significant improvement in performance with increased absorbent layers, achieving up to 33 g absorbency and 32.17 g retention, with a rewet result above 90% and a p-value less than 0.005. The findings show that, compared with conventional goods, the developed sanitary pad sample exhibited competitive features, including sustainability and reduced environmental impact.