Quality assurance in light incontinence products

Sammanfattning

The master’s thesis investigates the procedure of specifying and monitoring the keymaterials Super Absorbent Polymers (SAP) and pulp in light incontinence products atEssity. The project focuses on four phases within the value chain from product development,design verification, process validation to running production. The aim was to evaluateexisting procedures to identify potential gaps and opportunities for improvement.The research approach was based on the DMAIC framework originating from the Six Sigmaphilosophy, integrating qualitative methods and data from semi-structured interviews,workshops with quantitative data from laboratory testing on prototype products. Statisticaltools were also implemented to analyze variation and correlation and to perform capabilitystudies.The study identified that variation in SAP and pulp amount and distribution affects theproduct performance. Due to process-related influences, such as environmental conditionsand technical factors, variation will always be present in the production system. Therefore,the importance of robust design strategies was highlighted together with the value ofproper monitoring of SAP and pulp amount and distribution across the value chain.Control measures based on gathered information were proposed to enhance process controland stability, emphasizing the importance of centering processes around target valuesrather than only specification limits. While the limited sample size and test scope restrictbroad generalization, the results provide a solid foundation for further investigation andpractical improvements when it comes to quality assurance. Additionally, the researchhighlights the value statistical tools can bring within the organization to sustain qualityimprovements.Overall, this thesis contributes to a deeper understanding of SAP and pulp managementin hygiene products and supports Essity’s efforts to optimize product consistency andcustomer satisfaction through data-driven quality control