Evonik, one of the world’s leading suppliers of superabsorbent polymers, has developed innovative absorbent core technology for ultrathin diapers. In this new technology, the superabsorbent particles are found in small pockets that are formed by laminated nonwovens to allow the diaper core to absorb and distribute liquid more quickly.

Evonik, which is based in Essen, Germany and has additional manufacturing sites in the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, plans to license the technolgy, which has already been described in a number of patent filings, in the hygiene market.

The new technology gives the diaper core a particularly high level of stability, ensuring that the superabsorbent particles always remain at the place where they are needed, according to the company. This special design, combined with an enhanced Favor brand superabsorbent polymer, enables the diaper to be used more efficiently—rewetting is significantly reduced, while wearing comfort is enhanced considerably.    

Evonik executives say the technology will allow users to benefit from lower raw material and logistical costs while following the industry trend toward ultrathin underwear-like diapers. Superabsorbent polymers, the key raw material of modern hygiene articles, are water-insoluble, cross-linked polymers. They are capable of absorbing and storing up to 500 times their own weight in aqueous liquids and provide other performance characteristics such as skin dryness. The scope of applications for Evonik’s superabsorbent polymers reaches beyond baby diapers to include feminine hygiene and adult incontinence products as well as a broad range of technical areas.