Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to adhesive compositions comprising selected ratios of crystalline and amorphous polymers. In some versions of the invention, polymers capable of existing in different configurations (e.g., a polymer such as polypropylene which can exist in an atactic, syndiotactic. or isotactic configuration) are used to prepare adhesives of the present invention. As an example, a selected amount of isotactic polypropylene is blended with a selected amount of atactic polypropylene to prepare an adhesive composition having one or more performance properties (e.g., bond strength) that are superior to the performance properties of a conventional hot-melt adhesive. The adhesive compositions of the present invention are suitable for use in the preparation of laminated disposable absorbent products.

Abstract: Facetted impression elements are disclosed. The impression elements can be located, for instance, on an anvil roll and may be used during an embossing or bonding process. The impression elements include at least two chamfered surfaces that at least partially surround the top surface. The chamfered surfaces are at an angle to the top surface that lower and reduce drag that may occur between the impression element and a sheet of material as the impression element enters and exits the sheet. In one embodiment, the impression element includes a first chamfered surface having an angle of from about 5° to about 40° and a second chamfered surface having an angle of from about 40° to about 70°.

Abstract: A hybrid absorbent foam includes an integrated hybrid foam layer having an open surface, a closed surface, and a foam body extending between the open and closed surfaces. The integrated hybrid foam layer has an open-cell content of at least 50%, while the closed surface provides a barrier to aqueous liquids. The integrated hybrid foam layer is formed as a single layer, and has a substantially uniform polymer composition throughout its thickness. The integrated hybrid foam layer combines the functions of liquid absorbency, retention, and barrier into a single layer, and is useful in a wide variety of absorbent articles.

Abstract: A package for consumable products is disclosed. The package includes a plurality of subpackages connected together by a connecting member. For instance, the package may contain two subpackages or alternatively four subpackages all connected at one end to a connecting member. The package is particularly well suited to holding relatively large quantities of the consumable product. Because the subpackages are connected at one end, the package may be draped over an adjacent structure, such as a shopping cart. In this way, the package can be placed in a shopping cart without taking up an excessive amount of space.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to adhesive compositions comprising selected ratios of crystalline and amorphous polymers. In some versions of the invention, polymers capable of existing in different configurations (e.g., a polymer such as polypropylene which can exist in an atactic, syndiotactic. or isotactic configuration) is used to prepare adhesives of the present invention. As an example, a selected amount of isotactic polypropylene is blended with a selected amount of atactic polypropylene to prepare an adhesive composition having one or more performance properties (e.g., bond strength) that are superior to the performance properties of a conventional hot-melt adhesive.

Abstract: Absorbent structures are disclosed which contain a first layer, a second layer, and an absorbent core. The absorbent structures are adapted to contain aqueous body exudates such as urine, menses and loose bowel movements. In particular, the absorbent structures of the present invention are suitable for incorporation into a variety of disposable absorbent articles.

Abstract: Ultrasonically bonded laminated absorbent products comprising a liquid permeable top sheet, a liquid impermeable back sheet, an absorbent core positioned between the liquid permeable top sheet and the liquid impermeable back sheet, and an adhesive composition are disclosed. The laminated structure further comprising an embossed pattern stamped onto the liquid permeable top sheet, the liquid impermeable back sheet, the absorbent core, or any combination thereof. The adhesive composition comprises a mixture of atactic and isotactic polymers such that it has melt and flow characteristics similar to those of the topsheet and backsheet.

Abstract: Ultrasonically bonded laminated products comprising a first thermoplastic substrate, a second thermoplastic substrate, and an adhesive composition are disclosed. The adhesive composition comprises a mixture of atactic and isotactic polymers such that it has melt and flow characteristics similar to those of the thermoplastic materials.

Abstract: Ultrasonically bonded laminated absorbent products comprising a first substrate, a second substrate, and an adhesive composition are disclosed. The first and second substrates are dissimilar or non-bondable materials. The adhesive composition comprises a mixture of atactic and isotactic polymers such that it has melt and flow characteristics similar to those of the materials.