Diaper and hygiene barrier films

Disposable diapers (baby, geriatric), feminine hygiene pads, urinary incontinence pads and similar products use barrier films in the backsheet — the outer layer that prevents leakage. For decades dominated by polyethylene (PE) — cheap, effective as barrier — the premium segment is increasingly migrating to breathable PU films or laminated PU-PE films due to clear advantages: breathability (skin irritation prevention through ventilation), textile feel (superior to raw PE plastic), better comfort and visual appearance, compatibility with nonwoven lamination for premium products. Premium diapers from brands like Pampers (Ultrafit), Huggies (Ultra Conforto) use variations of these systems. High-volume global application — disposable diaper market is multi-billion dollar with growth in emerging markets and in geriatrics driven by aging. Concentration of global manufacturers (Kimberly-Clark, P&G, Essity, Ontex, Daio, Unicharm) but with relevant regional players.