The effectiveness of incontinence pads and pants could soon be improved, thanks to the development of a super-absorbent material.

Created by UK-based Technical Absorbents, Super Absorbent Fibre (SAF) is a white, odourless material that can be used to produce a range of different fabrics.

It benefits from very high rates of saline and water uptake and can be used to create a range of levels of absorbency to suit the requirements of people with varying levels of adult incontinence.

According to its manufacturer, SAF received high levels of interest at a recent exhibition on disposable hygiene products in China, including from companies involved in the production of adult incontinence products.

David Hill, business development manager for Technical Absorbents, said: "It was interesting to see the great deal of new development activity within the Chinese hygiene industry, driven by the increasing awareness of untapped market opportunity arising from advanced product innovation.

"Use of SAF is being recognised as a truly viable way to achieve such innovation, based on absorbent cores with softer, lighter and improved absorbent uniformity."