Diaper is defined as “a basic garment for infants consisting of a folded cloth or other absorbent material drawn up between the legs and fastened about the waist” by Merriam Webster dictionary.
Now based on the requirement diapers are primarily used for infants and young children but they are also now used for elderly people and for adults suffering with mental or physical disabilities. Now-a-days people have started using them for pets too, so diapers have become an integral part of our lives.
Disposable diapers have now completely replaced the traditional re-usable diapers made of cotton fabric used earlier. Disposable diapers are mostly made using the following components and materials:
1) Polyethylene film
2) Polypropylene Non-woven Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic
3) Absorbent core – Wood pulp fluff
4) Super Absorbent Polymer
5) Elastane /Spandex fiber
6) Quick wicking layer
7) Adhesive Hot melts and Elastomeric
8) Fastening tape Stick type/Hook and loop type
9) Moisturizer lotions and fragrance lotions
10) Breathable/Cloth-like back sheet
Here we will focus on the role of Elastane /Spandex fiber in diapers.
In disposable diapers usually polyurethane or polyester foam elastics, and synthetic rubber or spandex elastics are used. But due to their properties now-days mostly spandex elastics are used.
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In 1956, a spark was ignited in the form of the invention of a product which was supposed to be the alternative for “Rubber” in that time of war where rubber was getting scarce and expensive; this yarn was given the name of “