ADL (Acquisition and Distribution Layer)
ADL, or Acquisition and Distribution Layer, is a nonwoven fabric primarily used in the absorbent core of sanitary napkins, baby diapers, adult incontinence products, and other hygiene items. It serves as an intermediate layer placed between the top sheet (which contacts the skin) and the absorbent core (usually made of fluff pulp and superabsorbent polymer). The primary function of ADL is to quickly acquire and evenly distribute bodily fluids throughout the absorbent core, preventing leakage and improving comfort and dryness. ADL enhances the performance of hygiene products by improving rewet performance, reducing leakage, and speeding up fluid penetration.

Specification of ADL (Acquisition and Distribution Layer)

• Material: Thermobonded or chemically bonded nonwoven (commonly made from polyester, polypropylene, or bicomponent fibers)
• Basis Weight: Typically 20 – 40 gsm (grams per square meter)
• Color: White, blue, green (blue is commonly used for identification in hygiene products)
• Thickness: 0.3 – 1.0 mm (depending on structure and bonding)
• Absorption Speed (Acquisition Time): ≤ 3 seconds (depending on test method and product design)
• Rewet Value: ≤ 0.2 g (indicates how much moisture is released back to the top sheet)
• Tensile Strength:
• Machine Direction (MD): ≥ 5 N/25 mm
• Cross Direction (CD): ≥ 3 N/25 mm
• Permeability: High liquid permeability required to allow rapid fluid transfer
• Air Permeability: ≥ 150 L/m²·s (at 100 Pa)
• Elongation: Typically 20% – 80% depending on fiber type and bonding
• Chemical Additives: Should be skin-safe; typically surfactants are added to enhance hydrophilicity
• Biocompatibility: Non-toxic, dermatologically safe, and hypoallergenic
• Odor: Odorless