Tampons are usually made of cotton, rayon or a mix of these two fibres. But maybe in the future they’ll be made of jellyfish. Yes, you read that right. Jellyfish. And no, this isn’t as gross as it sounds. In 2014, researchers at the Tel Aviv University in Israel have created a super-absorbent material called Hydromash. The source of this material? Jellyfish bodies with some added nanoparticles for antibacterial reasons.

Hydromash: for diapers, sponges and of course tampons

Jellyfish are made of 90% water, yet they don’t disintegrate in the sea. This fact led the scientists to believe that the creatures are capable of absorbing large amounts of liquid. More research and tests were done and Hydromash was made; a flexible material many times more absorbent than paper towels. It could therefore be used in diapers, medical sponges and of course tampons.

Seeing as Hydromash is biodegradable and eco-friendly, jellyfish tampons could well be an environmental solution for the tonnes of garbage synthetic menstrual products create each year. It takes hundreds of years before a normal non-recyclable tampon is broken down (especially if it’s individually wrapped in plastic). Hydromash however, breaks down in just 30 days.

As for the poor jellyfish, apparently they are a plague anyway. There are too many slimy stinging creatures in the sea, terrorising fish farms, boats and beaches. One more reason to turn them into tampons.

Photo by Randy via Unsplash

Read also:
What’s app
Why not try something different?

Period! is an independent, online magazine about all aspects of menstruation. Period! is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you’re suffering from medical complaints, always visit your doctor or GP. Editorial articles can contain affiliate links. Sponsored collaborations can be found in the category Spotlight. Do you have any questions? Check our contact page.