Structural Modifications of the Diaper Top-Sheet to Prevent Dermal Reactions in Infants

The goal of the project is to develop a new diaper for infants that is capable of preventing common diaper-related dermal reactions. The most common causes of the diaper-related dermal reactions are friction, humidity, pH, enzyme activity and microbiological infections. Through the examination of the state-of-the-art diaper technologies and modification of the top-sheet and absorbent layer of the diaper, these unwanted effects can be removed. The project will focus on both the development of novel materials and the incorporation of these materials onto the surfaces of various layers of the diaper to equip them with pH buffering and enzyme inhibition capacity. To evaluate the effects of these modifications on the diaper performance, chemical and biological tests will be carried out and a diaper prototype with the targeted modifications will be produced. The PURE students who will be involved in the project will be mainly working on the development of the surface modifying agents and their application on the surfaces of above-mentioned parts of the diapers. The students will be working under the direct supervision of a PhD student and are expected to interact with the other students and researchers in our group during the course of the program. The research will be mainly carried out at SU-IMC laboratories, but the other facilities at SU will be utilized if needed.