Materials And Structure Of Scouring Pads

Scouring pads primarily consist of a fibrous substrate and abrasive materials. The substrate for industrial scouring pads is typically nylon fiber; abrasive grains-such as aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, ceramic corundum, or diamond-are bonded to this substrate using adhesives to form an open, three-dimensional mesh structure. This design endows the pads with characteristics such as elastic abrasion, resistance to clogging, water and oil resistance, and self-sharpening properties.

Among household scouring pads, those made of synthetic sponge are primarily composed of polyurethane or melamine-formaldehyde copolymers. Their internal structure features micro-struts interwoven into a porous, honeycomb-like matrix, providing strong adsorption capabilities and frictional force. Emery scouring pads contain high-density emery abrasives and are designed for heavy-duty rust removal. Scouring pads made from natural materials-including natural wood pulp sponge, sisal fiber, and loofah-are characterized by their biodegradability and the absence of chemical additives.

As synthetic sponge scouring pads undergo wear during use, their micro-strut structure is prone to fracturing, releasing substantial quantities of microplastic fibers; studies have confirmed that approximately 6.5 million fibers can be released for every gram of material worn away. Furthermore, some inferior synthetic sponge pads may retain residual formaldehyde from the manufacturing process, posing a potential risk of exceeding safety limits. Finally, the porous structure of scouring pads tends to trap food residues and moisture, thereby becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.