SESSION AL03 + AL04 / 14 October 2025 / 09:00 - 12:30
Active Lab: Biodegradable jute cellulose-based sanitary pads for sustainable menstrual hygiene management
Organised by:
Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan, Echocells Research Lab, Echotex Limited (BD)
This interactive session explores a groundbreaking innovation in menstrual hygiene management that merges material science with environmental responsibility.
Part 1 will delve into the conceptual and technical foundation—addressing the environmental impact of conventional products and introducing a sustainable alternative based on jute-derived cellulose. Participants will engage with presentations on the transformation of natural fibers into viscose, biopolymer films, and superabsorbent components, followed by a live demonstration of the multi-layered sanitary pad prototype—surface layer, core, and backing. Environmental considerations such as biodegradability, flushability, and sterilization techniques will be highlighted.
Part 2 will present clinical evaluation results from trials led by Icddr,b, assessing comfort, safety, and user acceptability. An overview of the manufacturing process willl highlight the scalable, cost-effective techniques for mass production using existing textile infrastructure. In the hands-on Interactive Design Lab, participants will examine materials, co-develop application models, and explore use-case adaptations.
The session concludes with an open discussion on user feedback, challenges in adoption, policy implications, and global replication potential.
This lab fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among environmental scientists, material engineers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers—paving the way for impactful deployment in under-resourced communities globally.
