In mature markets, disposable diaper and feminine hygiene products have reached market saturation. Since consumers of these products expect reliable absorption and no leakage, their purchase decisions are now based on other differentiating factors, such as scent and softness—but also thinness. Thinner products with less bulk, waste and store shelf space requirements are appealing for both consumers and retailers. While there are many ways to reduce the thickness of a diaper, the most impactful is reducing the fluff pulp amount. As the demand grows for thinner diapers with less pulp, maintaining the integrity of the absorbent core while reducing fluff percentage becomes more challenging.
As fluff pulp is reduced, the task of holding the core together and in place rests largely with the adhesive. But the same adhesive choice, amount and application used when the superabsorbent polymer (SAP) and fluff ratio is 50/50, will not perform as effectively when the SAP/fluff ratio is changed to 70/30 or an even a more disparate ratio.