Bio-Based Antibacterial Finishing of Bamboo Spunlace Nonwovens using Herbal Agents for Feminine Hygiene Applications
摘要
Menstrual hygiene is a critical aspect of women’s health, yet many conventional sanitary napkins rely on synthetic materials that can cause discomfort and promote bacterial growth. This study explores a natural, antibacterial, and eco-friendly alternative by incorporating plant-based antibacterial agents into sanitary napkins. Caesalpinia sappan and Acalypha indica, known for their powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties, were applied to hydroentangled bamboo spunlace fabric using direct, extract-based, and nanoparticle finishing techniques to enhance their effectiveness. Milkweed fiber and milkweed/bamboo fiber blended layers were used as an absorbent core for ensuring better moisture management and skin-friendly comfort. The antibacterial effectiveness of the treated materials was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, demonstrated significant antibacterial inhibition up to ~26 mm for nano-finished samples. Additionally, essential moisture management properties, including liquid spreading rate, retention capacity, absorption efficiency, and holding capacity under pressure were evaluated. The evaluations confirm that enhanced dryness on the top surface layer leads to improved overall sanitary napkin performance. The results highlight a significant improvement in both antibacterial performance and moisture regulation, with maximum liquid absorption reaching 91 mL indicating the potential of these materials as an alternative to conventional menstrual hygiene products. By integrating naturally derived antibacterial agents with biodegradable, skin-safe textiles, this research contributes to the development of healthier, more environment-friendly and eco-conscious menstrual hygiene solutions.