Absorbent Cores with Typhaine Raimbourg

In many ways, the core is the heart of any absorbent hygiene product. Whilst other portions of the article address consumer needs, it is the core that either succeeds or falls short in absorbing the insult. To improve performance, new ideas are continually being explored. For an explanation of the absorbent core and its recent developments, ‘Attached to Hygiene’ host Jack Hughes welcomes Typhaine Raimbourg, Bostik’s Technical Account Manager for the EMEA Region.

Common cores in today’s absorbent hygiene market

After introducing the traditional core’s components and their impact on absorption, Jack and Typhaine explore more recent innovations. The closely related pre-compound and compound cores are common in Asia. Although they do not crack, early versions presented other challenges, especially reduced wicking speed. Manufacturers have had some success in solving these issues, in part through the use of adhesives. However, adoption of the compound core type is not generally seen beyond the region.
The channel core, on the other hand, has wider appeal. First introduced in Europe, the design relies on adhesives to create the fluff/SAP-free channels from which the core gets its name. Its advantages include distribution of the insult and breathability supporting skin health. Specially formulated adhesives have evolved to enhance the channel core’s function.

Core testing for traditional and newer designs

Traditional core performance is generally evaluated in five ways. However, not every hygiene company does all five. These include acquisition speed, distribution, rewet, wicking, and core cracking. Bostik adds a preconditioned core cracking test which simulates the effects of wear prior to insult. For compound and pre-compound cores, SAP loss can be an issue and is commonly assessed. In the channel core, dynamic peel is used to check integrity of the channels. This can be done wet and dry, and through 24-hour immersion. Bostik’s advanced testing facilities are available to complete these and other valuable procedures. We can also provide recommendations to help ensure your products perform up to expectations. Book a meeting with us to discuss changing your core design.

Outline of the Episode

• [07:25] Introduction to the absorbent core system
• [11:20] Core cracking
• [12:05] Supporting consumer needs
• [15:05] History and evolution of the core
• [19:40] Benefits and trade-offs involved with various core types
• [23:43] Fluff ratios around the world
• [27:11] The role of the adhesive in absorbent cores
• [32:10] The ways core performance is tested
• [38:50] Issues to keep in mind if you are considering a change to your core
• [44:06] Customer challenges Bostik has helped to solve
• [48:05] Exciting possibilities on the horizon: Smart diapers and hybrid designs

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Contact Typhaine on LinkedIn.

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Host: Jack Hughes

Music by Jonathan Boyle

Produced and edited by: Jack Hughes with help from Paul Andrews, Michele Tonkovitz, Emory Churness, Nikki Ackerman, and Green Onion Creative.