Differences Between Materials Used in Disposable Medical Supplies

The choice of substrate fundamentally defines a disposable product's barrier, absorbency, drape and price. The five most common categories are summarised below.

SMS — Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond

Three-layer non-woven; standard for AAMI Level 2 gowns and drapes. Hydrophobic, light, breathable, low lint.

SMMS — Adds a Second Meltblown Layer

Higher hydrostatic head, used for AAMI Level 3 procedure-pack reinforcements.

Spunlace

Hydroentangled cellulose/PET blend. Very soft on skin, suitable for face drapes and OB delivery packs.

Wood-pulp non-woven

Biodegradable, high absorbency. Used in bed sheets and underpads.

PE-coated SMS

Impervious to fluid strikethrough. Used in reinforced zones of Level 4 gowns and orthopedic drapes.

About the author — Lantian Medical is a Chinese manufacturer of disposable surgical supplies established 2004. More about us · Contact sales.