Xian, Shaanxi, China – August 25, 2026 – In the manufacture of sanitary napkins, the release paper—also known as the peel strip or backing paper—is a critical but often overlooked component. While it serves the simple function of protecting the adhesive layer before use, its design and quality profoundly influence the user experience. Two of the most common complaints—”adhesive residue left on underwear” and “release paper won’t peel off”—are directly traceable to the properties of the release paper.
The Core Principle: How Release Paper Works
Release paper consists of a base substrate (usually kraft paper or a polymer film) coated with a thin layer of silicone oil. This silicone layer creates a non-stick surface that allows the pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) on the napkin to be temporarily held without bonding permanently. The key parameters governing this interaction are:
Silicone coating weight: The amount of silicone applied per unit area.
Release force: The force required to separate the release paper from the adhesive.
Adhesive peel strength: The bond strength between the adhesive and the target surface (underwear fabric).
The relationship between these three parameters must be carefully balanced. If the release force is too high, the user cannot peel the paper off easily. If the release force is too low, the paper may detach prematurely or, more critically, the silicone may transfer to the adhesive, reducing the adhesive’s ability to stick.
The Two Extremes: Sticking and Residue
Problem 1: Release Paper Won’t Peel Off (Sticking)
This occurs when the release force is too high. The silicone coating may be too thin, incomplete, or degraded, allowing the adhesive to bond directly to the paper fibers or film. Common root causes include:
Insufficient silicone coating weight (e.g., < 0.5 g/m²).
Silicone cross-linking not fully cured during manufacturing.
Aging or oxidation of the silicone layer during storage.
Problem 2: Adhesive Residue (Transfer)
This is the opposite extreme. When the release force is too low—often due to excessive silicone oil—some of the silicone transfers from the paper to the adhesive surface. Once the napkin is applied to underwear, the contaminated adhesive has reduced tack, or it fails to bond. More seriously, the silicone-contaminated adhesive may leave a sticky residue on the fabric after removal.
⭐The “Goldilocks” Balance: Optimal Parameters
To avoid both extremes, manufacturers must fine-tune three variables:
Practical Recommendations for Procurement
When evaluating release paper for sanitary napkins, consider the following:
Request silicone coating weight data: The supplier should specify the coating weight and curing level of the silicone.
Test release force under real conditions: Storage temperature and humidity affect release performance; test samples after accelerated aging (e.g., 7 days at 40°C/80% RH).
Check for adhesive transfer: After peeling the release paper, press the adhesive onto a standard fabric (e.g., cotton or nylon) and inspect for any visible residue or loss of tack.
Monitor batch-to-batch consistency: Silicone application is sensitive to production conditions; request quality control reports to ensure stable performance across batches.
Conclusion
The release paper is not merely a protective layer; it is an integral component that must be designed in harmony with the adhesive chemistry. A well-optimized release system ensures smooth peeling, clean transfer, and reliable adhesion, significantly enhancing the end-user experience and reducing complaints.
About Us
SHAANXI WINNIN HYGIENE PRODUCTS CO LTD is an integrated R&D, production, and sales enterprise specializing in tailored personal care solutions.
Spanning 40+ acres with a total investment exceeding 70 million CNY, our 16,000㎡ smart production base houses 25 automated production lines, delivering an annual capacity surpassing $3 million USD.
Media ContactCompany Name: Shaanxi Winnin Hygiene Products Co., Ltd.Contact Person: Media RelationsEmail: Send EmailCountry: ChinaWebsite: https://www.winnindiaper.com/
