Composting, disposable diapers

One of the studies of cloth diapers assumed a life of 92 uses (a study funded by the disposable industry), whereas the other assumed 167 uses (a study funded by the cloth diaper industry). A study funded by the disposable diaper industry assumed an energy cost for transporting the cotton to China where the diapers were made. One would have to check to see what fraction of cloth diapers are made this way. Disposable diaper makers have pushed composting as a method of disposal. Most cities do not compost this type of waste. The polyolefins would not degrade well in this process, even though the lack of stabilizers in the polypropylene might allow it to become powder. 

In the early 1990s, composting and recycling of disposable diapers were actively considered in the United States, Canada and Europe. For composting, a biodegradable component such as pulp and superabsorbent polymer are used after removing the plastic back panel and tape. The compost has excellent water retention and can be used for soil improvement. Techniques to remove those plastics are now under development. 

Here, the development of biodegradable polymers is assumed. The importance here is to produce useful materials for plants upon biodegradation. Along with kitchen waste, if compost can be made of disposable diapers, it can contribute significantly to the weight reduction of waste. 

PLA fibers, because of their natural wicking properties, are finding utility in the diaper and feminine hygiene markets, both in spun bond top sheets and acquisition/distribution layers. Again the ability to replace petroleum-based fibers with enhanced performance with a natural-based fiber has strong consumer appeal. An additional benefit is that since PLA fibers are fully compostable the products can be disposed of by composting if the infrastructure for disposal is in place. 

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