Sustainable alternatives for producing biodegradable Sanitary Napkins

Abstract

Sanitary Napkins ensue multiple implications on the agenda of Sustainable Development Goals.  Comprising an estimated 0.13% of the total solid waste turnout of Bangladesh, sanitary napkins contribute little. Being a developing country —use of sanitary napkins in Bangladesh is comparatively low. With ensuing GDP growth, the use and disposal requirements will increase inevitably. All sanitary napkins consist polyethylene, polypropylene and superabsorbent polymer gels (SAP) making them environmental hazards. This study aims to review biodegradable polymers currently available that may produce sustainable alternatives to non-degrading components currently used. Lyocell™, Sodium carboxymethyle cellulose (Na-CMC), Acrylate grafted Banana fiber, Combination of Chitosan (CTS) and Silicon nanoparticles obtained from Rice husk ash (RHA), Crosslinked jute pulp (JP) with polybutylacrylate (PBA) and Sodium Silicate (SS), Starch Bioplastic, and Polylactic acid –have shown promising results as degradable biopolymers. Combining these compounds in a single product could solve the degradability issues associated with disposable sanitary napkins.