Bio-tribology of incontinence management products: additional complexities at the skin–pad interface

Friction, shear forces and moisture between the human skin and textiles are important factors affecting skin injuries such as blisters, abrasions and decubitus ulcers. Whilst much research has been conducted to study the friction of skin-textile couples, the interactions between contact mechanics and incontinence management products are not well understood. This study addresses some tribological issues at the skin-textile interface using skin care products. It was observed that the use of skin care products and moisture can increase friction. This is due to changes in the mechanical properties of materials such as their compliance and the higher forces required to shear the interfaces in wet conditions. It was concluded that not only does the coefficient of friction vary, but also the mechanism of slip at the interface can be modified through the addition of medicated creams. This research highlights the importance of understanding the principles of contact mechanics of interfaces which can lead to significant improvement in incontinence management.