13. Implications and applications¶

Eco-Friendly Menstrual Care: Biodegradable Menstrual Pads for a Greener Future¶

A Sustainable Solution for Rwanda¶

This week, I’ll focus on developing my final project, which is still in the brainstorming phase. Over the next three months, I aim to refine my ideas and explore how I can integrate the techniques and materials I’ve learned so far—such as biomaterials, modular design, and smart textiles—into a cohesive and impactful concept. I’m particularly interested in incorporating elements of interactivity, like sensors, responsive materials, or movement, to create a dynamic and engaging design. While there’s still much to decide, I’m excited to experiment and start shaping the direction of my project! alt text

Research & Concept¶

To support my project on innovative, recyclable, and reusable menstrual pads with integrated health-monitoring technology, I researched several reference projects, innovations, and key scientific publications related to sustainable textiles, wearable health monitoring, and eco-friendly product design:

1.1. Sustainable Textiles for Hygiene Products¶

I reviewed advancements in sustainable and biodegradable materials, such as plant-based plastics (PLA, PHA) and natural fibers, which are increasingly being used to create eco-friendly hygiene products. These materials inspired my decision to incorporate biodegradable layers for the waterproof section of the pad. Publication: "Sustainable Materials in Hygiene Products: A Review" by J. Chen et al. (2020) discusses eco-friendly alternatives for single-use hygiene products.

1.2. Wearable Health Monitoring Sensors¶

I explored wearable sensors that monitor moisture, temperature, and pH levels to ensure optimal hygiene and health tracking. These technologies have proven effective in providing real-time feedback, aligning with my goal to integrate smart textiles into the pads. Publication: "Advances in Wearable Sensors for Health Monitoring" by L. Zhao et al. (2019) outlines recent developments in wearable health technologies.

1.3. Modular and Washable Product Design¶

I examined modular designs in reusable products to better understand how components can be structured for easy cleaning and extended use. This research informed the washable and durable design of the menstrual pad. Publication: "Modular Design in Reusable Hygiene Products" by A. Patel et al. (2021) discusses innovative methods for creating sustainable, user-friendly products.

1.4. Smart Textiles for Real-Time Health Monitoring¶

I studied thermochromic and conductive fabrics, which can visually or electronically indicate changes in moisture levels or detect potential infections. This supports my aim to incorporate health-monitoring technology into the product. Publication: "Smart Textiles: The Future of Health Monitoring" by E. Green et al. (2022) reviews the integration of smart textiles in healthcare applications.

1.5. Eco-Friendly Product Development¶

I researched case studies of sustainable product design that repurpose materials, such as fabric scraps or recycled textiles, to minimize environmental waste. This aligns with my focus on upcycling fabric remnants in the production of the pads.

Publication: "Eco-Design Practices for Textile Products" by M. Rivera et al. (2020) highlights the benefits of integrating recycling and upcycling into product development.

References & Inspiration¶

Inspired by the potential of sustainable and smart textile technologies, I aim to develop an innovative menstrual pad that integrates health monitoring and environmental consciousness. My project draws on advancements in biomaterials, smart textiles, and modular product design to create a solution that is both user-friendly and eco-friendly. I conducted in-depth research into existing technologies and materials while mapping out the initial technical and practical requirements to bring this concept to life.

This project reflects my commitment to creating a reusable, health-focused menstrual pad that empowers users to monitor their health and reduce waste sustainably.

Reference Projects:¶

Reusable Menstrual Pads:¶

GladRags: A company that produces cloth menstrual pads designed for reuse, promoting sustainability and reducing waste. Their product is made with organic cotton and comes in a range of sizes and absorbencies. Aisle Pads: Another brand offering eco-friendly, reusable menstrual pads. Their product design emphasizes comfort, durability, and a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of disposable hygiene products. alt text

Smart Textiles:¶

Conductive Fabrics: Research on fabrics integrated with conductive fibers, which can be used for health monitoring. These textiles can detect vital signs such as heart rate or muscle activity, offering a way to monitor health continuously. Thermochromic Fabrics: Fabrics that change color in response to temperature. These materials are being explored in health applications, such as indicating fever or changes in body temperature, and could be used in medical uniforms or wearables. alt text

Biodegradable Materials:¶

Plant-Based Plastics (e.g., PLA): Projects that use polylactic acid (PLA), a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, are leading the way in reducing plastic waste and creating more eco-friendly products. alt text Recycled Textiles: Innovations in recycling fabrics and turning them into new, sustainable textiles. Companies are developing methods to break down used clothing and recycle them into fibers that can be used for new products, reducing textile waste.

Modular Hygiene Products:¶

Cloth Diaper Systems: Brands like GroVia and BumGenius offer cloth diaper systems with modular components, such as adjustable inserts and covers. This modularity allows for easy cleaning, replacing parts, and customizing the system for different needs, enhancing the product's longevity and sustainability. alt text

Health Monitoring Devices:¶

Wearable Health Trackers: Devices like the Fitbit or Apple Watch track various health metrics such as heart rate, steps, sleep, and more. These devices have inspired the integration of health indicators into textiles, leading to the development of smart clothing that can monitor things like pH, moisture, and temperature for health tracking purposes. alt text

Why, What, Who, When, Where?¶

Why?:¶

The project addresses two critical issues: the need for sustainable menstrual products to reduce environmental waste and the demand for health monitoring to enhance menstrual hygiene and comfort. My goal is to offer a reusable, biodegradable pad that combines functionality with health-tracking technology.

What?:¶

The product is a reusable menstrual pad made from sustainable materials, integrated with smart textile sensors that monitor health indicators such as moisture and pH levels.

Who?:¶

The target audience includes individuals seeking eco-friendly menstrual products and those interested in health-focused hygiene solutions. This product is particularly suited for environmentally conscious users and those in regions where sustainable menstrual hygiene is critical.

When?:¶

The pad is designed for daily use during menstrual cycles and reusable for extended periods, thanks to its washable and durable materials.

Where?:¶

The pad is intended for everyday use, designed to be comfortable and adaptable for users in various lifestyles and environments.

How?:¶

The pad will incorporate biodegradable materials for the base structure and smart textiles for health monitoring. Sensors embedded within the pad will measure pH and moisture levels, providing real-time feedback through an app or a visual indicator. The pad will be designed for easy washing and long-term use, reducing both cost and waste.