Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article comprising; (a) a topsheet having a skin facing side and a core facing side, the topsheet being liquid permeable and having the core facing side coated with at least about 0.01 mg/m2, preferably from about 0.05 mg/m2 to about 0.2 mg/m2, of calcium carbonate; (b) a backsheet which is liquid impermeable; and (c) an absorbent core comprising an absorbent material, the absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprising a polymer sheet 4 in which a super absorbent polymer 12 exists between an upper layer sheet 10 arranged on the skin side and a lower layer sheet 11 arranged on the non-skin side is included. A fiber absorber 5 including pulp fiber is disposed adjacent to the surface on the skin side of an area corresponding to a body fluid discharge region H of a wearer in the polymer sheet 4. The super absorbent polymer 12 is not arranged in an area which overlaps with the fiber absorber 5, and is arranged in the other area. The water absorption rate of the absorbent article is not reduced even when water is repeatedly absorbed. Additionally, leakage is prevented, a wearing feeling is not worsened, and the adsorbent article may have a reduction in thickness.

Abstract: A topsheet for use in an absorbent article is provided and has at least a first layer. The first layer comprises at least 15% by weight of natural fibers by total weight of the first layer. The first layer has a plurality of apertures. The first layer comprises land areas between the plurality of the apertures. The contact angle on the land areas of the first layer between the plurality of the apertures is more than 70°, according to the Contact Angle Test Method. The topsheet has a run-off of less than 40%, according to the Run-off Test Method.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to sanitary absorbent articles and in particular to disposable feminine sanitary absorbent articles that are extremely thin, highly absorbent and have superior structural integrity properties.

Abstract: A diaper assembly including a diaper including hook fasteners positioned beneath and concealed by covers constructed from resiliently stretchable material, and a pocketed sling configured to removably attach to the diaper, the pocketed sling including loop fasteners arranged to removably attach to the hook fasteners concealed beneath the covers, thereby concealing attachment points between the diaper and the pocketed sling.

Abstract: The invention relates to a blood plasma collecting flask made of plastic for the storage of blood plasma in the frozen state, comprising a flask body (1) which in the horizontal section has a cross-section with a rectangular basic shape and has on its upper side a flask neck (2), wherein the lateral faces of the flask body (2) respectively define a flat or slightly inwardly curved area (3) adjoining which are areas rounded towards the face surfaces.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article has front and back panels, each having an elastic film layer and each having first and second zones. The first zone of each panel is extensible and retractable and the second zone of each panel is non-extensible and non-retractable. Each of the front and back panels has first and second side edges. An absorbent assembly is secured to the front and back panels. The absorbent assembly has a first end secured to the second zone of the front panel and a second end secured to the second zone of the back panel. A pair of seams join the front and back panels together at the first and second side edges to form a disposable absorbent article having a waist opening and a pair of leg openings.

Abstract: Garments comprising functional fabrics and methods of making such garments are disclosed. In certain embodiments, an undergarment is disclosed comprising at least one moisture-absorbent layer of fabric having a first body-contacting side and a second side, and at least one moisture-repellent layer of fabric having a first side disposed adjacent to the second side of the moisture-absorbent layer, and a second side; and a leg cuff comprising a portion of the moisture-repellent layer, a seam and an elongate elastic member.

Abstract: Wound treatment dressings comprising combinations of at least one conductive layer, at least one absorbent layer or a moisture regulation layer, and methods of making and methods of use are disclosed for treatment of wounds in humans and animals. The novel dressings aid in healing by helping restore the transepithelial potential of the skin, providing a functional anti-microbial barrier, and allowing for regulation of the moisture content of the wound without disturbing the wound.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a disposable absorbent pad comprising multiple layers. In particular, the absorbent pad of the present invention maintains skin dryness by absorbing moisture while preventing leakage to the skin or the bed linens, allowing air circulation at the surface of the patient's skin to prevent heat buildup, and is strong enough to allow the patient to be repositioned, even when the pad is wet. In a particular embodiment the first layer is comprised of a fluid-permeable, porous material, the second layer is disposed under the first layer and is comprised of at least one super absorbent material, and a base layer disposed under the second layer.

Abstract: A double diaper package includes adhesively attached, similarly sized inner and outer diapers. Each of the diapers has a liquid permeable skin contacting net and a liquid impermeable polymeric back sheet edge bonded to each other so as to surround and encase a super-absorber in a fibrous matrix. The inner diaper has an adhesive coated edge flap of the liquid impermeable sheet extending from the edge bond. This edge flap secures the outer diaper to the inner diaper, forming a double diaper package that is attached to the baby using waist-securing tabs connected to the inner diaper. When soiled, the inner diaper is pulled away by releasing the waist-securing tabs and the adhesive edge flap attachment. The fresh, clean, outer diaper is attached using the waist-securing tabs of the outer diaper. The inner soiled diaper is then discarded.

Abstract: An absorbent feminine care article (20) having a longitudinal direction (22), a lateral direction (24), first and second longitudinally opposed end portions (72, 72a), and an intermediate portion (76) located between the end portions. The article (20) comprises an absorbent body structure (30) sandwiched between a cover (26) and a baffle (28). In a particular aspect, the absorbent structure (30) can include an intake layer (32) and a shaping layer (36). In other aspects, the intake layer (32) and shaping layer (36) can have differently configured absorbent capacities, differently configured densities, differently configured basis weights and/or differently configured sizes which are selectively arranged to provide desired combinations of liquid intake rate, absorbent retention capacity, shape maintenance, and aesthetics.

Abstract: An absorbent core comprising fluff pulp fiber treated with polysiloxane, wherein the absorbent core has a density of about 0.15 g/cm3 or greater and a Young's modulus of about 75 psi or less. The polysiloxane may comprise an amino-functional moiety, The absorbent core may comprise superabsorbent, and may be employed in a disposable absorbent product.

Abstract: An absorbent sheet made from an air-laid fiber web includes a functional emboss pattern of a continuous (wave-like) shape extending in the machine direction of the sheet. The emboss pattern defines a plurality of compressed regions operative to preferentially convey sorbed liquid away from the point of insult to prevent product failure. The sheet is particularly useful as absorbent core material within a multi-layer absorbent pad. In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of making absorbent sheet utilizing an emboss roll provided with radially projecting circumferential sinuate bosses.

Abstract: The present invention relates to shape deformable materials, which are capable of (1) being deformed, (2) storing an amount of shape deformation, and (3) recovering at least a portion of the shape deformation when exposed to a humid environment. The shape deformable materials can advantageously be in the form of films, fibers, filaments, strands, nonwovens, and pre-molded elements. The shape deformable materials of the present invention may be used to form products, which are both disposable and reusable. More specifically, the shape deformable materials of the present invention may be used to produce products such as disposable diapers, training pants, incontinence products, and feminine care products.

Abstract: Provided is a water-decomposable absorbent article including a water-decomposable back layer, a water-decomposable and liquid-pervious surface layer, and a water-decomposable absorbent layer sandwiched between the back layer and the surface layer. The absorbent layer is formed of at least one composite sheet of a water-soluble or water-swellable polymer layer and a water-decomposable fibrous layer, of which the uppermost layer adjacent to the surface layer is the water-decomposable fibrous layer.

Abstract: A highly breathable, stretch-thinned film having enhanced breathability includes a matrix polymer, a particulate filler, and an incompatible polymer that is thermodynamically incompatible with the matrix polymer. The incompatible polymer can be added to the film in the form of laminate waste material.

Abstract: Nonwoven webs in accordance with the present invention include multicomponent fibers bonded by a multiplicity of bond sites to form a coherent web. The multicomponent fibers include a first component formed of a hydrophobic polypropylene and a second component formed of a blend of a hydrophobic polyolefin and a hydrophilic melt additive. This second component is disposed at the surface of the fibers. The hydrophilic melt additive-modified polyolefin component can be arranged in various configurations in the cross-section of the fiber and the fibers can have various cross sections. For example, the hydrophilic component can occupy a portion of the surface of the fiber, as would occur for example with a side-by-side or segmented pie multicomponent fiber configuration. Alternatively, the modified hydrophilic polyolefin can occupy substantially the entire surface of fiber, as for example by producing the fibers in a sheath core configuration with the hydrophilic modified component forming the sheath.

Abstract: An absorbent article such as a diaper has an outer layer of a porous fabric and an inner absorbent core. A separator layer of thermally bonded nonwoven fabric is positioned between the outer layer and the core to minimize rewet by liquids. The fibers of the nonwoven fabric of the separator layer have a diameter greater than 28 microns, and at least 5 crimps per extended inch, and the fabric has a porosity of about 90-95%, to provide superior rewet properties.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent garment comprising a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet is disclosed. The absorbent core is formed from at least one and preferably more than one laminate comprising three layers, including an upper layer, a lower layer and a central fibrous layer containing from about 50-95% by weight superabsorbent polymer. The upper and lower layers comprise tissue, airlaid fluff pulp or synthetic non-woven fibrous layers. The upper and lower layers together assist to maintain the integrity of the core during manufacture and in use, contain the superabsorbent polymer within the insult area of the garment and act to diffuse multiple insults so that gel blocking is minimized. The absorbent garment thus formed is very thin, lightweight and economical.

Abstract: A disposable waste containment article includes a waste containment structure that has an absorbent core which is positioned between a wearer and a backsheet and held in place by a primary elastic, and a cover joined to the waste containment structure. Methods are provided for making the waste containment article.

Abstract: A device for preventing adhesions or binding of tissue to tissue or of tissue to bone which comprises a composite of a first layer and a second layer, each of which comprises a biodegradable polymer. The first layer is selected from the group consisting of a non-porous layer and a porous layer having a pore size no greater than 3.mu.. The second layer has pores which have a pore size of from about 30.mu. to about 250.mu.. Such a composite device provides for tissue growth into the second layer, while the first layer acts as an adhesion-preventing barrier, and enables attachment of the device to tissue without suturing. Alternatively, the device comprises the first layer hereinabove mentioned and a second layer which is an adherence layer and which adheres to tissue and/or bone.

Abstract: This invention relates to a novel absorbent structure and absorbent products containing this absorbent structure. More particularly, the absorbent structure of this invention is a flexible and retentive reservoir layer comprising a perf-embossed or tenderized peat board material.

Abstract: A washable and reusable absorbent garment designed to be fitted about the waist and legs and covering the groin and anal areas of a wearer. The garment includes a number of superimposed layers of textile material sewn together along their edges. Elastic material may be sewn in the material around the leg openings and waist to improve the fit. A liner material covers the inner surface of the garment. The liner layer of the garment or that portion which is next to the wearer's skin is a knitted bicomponent textile comprised of a brushed polyester outer layer which is interknitted with a nylon block co-polymer inner layer. The materials function to transfer moisture in both vapor and liquid form from the polyester side to the nylon side where it is dispersed and made available to the garment's second or absorbent layer. The two specific materials in the liner adjacent the wearer's skin and absorbent material work together to maintain a high degree of comfort for the wearer even after it has been wetted.

Abstract: A composite textile fabric for moving moisture away from the skin is provided. The composite fabric includes a first fabric layer comprising either a polyester, acrylic or nylon material which has been rendered hydrophilic, a second fabric layer comprising at least 5% by weight of a super absorbent material and a barrier layer having a high moisture vapor transmission rate applied to said second fabric layer. The first fabric layer and the second fabric layer are formed integrally and concurrently by knitting a plaited construction.

Abstract: Novel apparatus and methods for a reusable, multi-layered diaper are disclosed. The diaper offers maximum health protection and ecological sensibility, with an ideal balance of comfort, cost and absorbency utilizing a unique multi-layered construction. The multi-layered construction comprises a first layer contacting a body, the first layer being a polyester wicking fabric. The multi-layered construction also comprises a middle layer associated with the first layer. The middle layer being significantly absorbent and characterized by the presence of viscose fibers to increase the absorbency of at least one middle layer. The multi-layered construction further comprises an outer layer associated with at least one middle layer. The outer layer being impermeable to liquids such that the diaper is waterproof. The present invention also comprises methods for making the reusable, multilayered diaper.

Abstract: A moisture-managing bed pad and bed sheet are provided for being positioned between a patient and a supporting surface. The bed sheet includes a moisture-managing bed pad. The bed pad includes a moisture transport top fabric layer for residing in patient contact and for wicking moisture away from the body of the patient. A moisture dispersal intermediate fabric layer resides adjacent the top fabric layer for receiving and dispersing moisture from the top fabric layer, and for providing a reservoir for moisture wicked inwardly from the top fabric layer. A liquid impermeable, vapor permeable bottom fabric layer resides adjacent to the intermediate fabric layer for providing a leak-proof barrier. The barrier permits dissipation of moisture in vapor form. The top, intermediate, and bottom fabric layers of the bed pad are attached by spot welds to form a unitary structure. One or more sheet sections reside adjacent to the bed pad for defining the bed sheet.

Abstract: The highly absorbent, leak-proof and breathable diaper of the invention is a 3-layer fabric incorporating a first layer of terry cloth, a second layer of polyurethane film, and a third layer of woven, or knit, fabric. Both the first and second layers, and the second and third layers, are laminated together with a urethane adhesive. The first layer then serves as a fluid absorbing portion for the diaper, while the second and third layers form a leakage-preventing portion for it.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for containing and draining fluids comprising a two layered evaporating bandage used in combination with an absorptive means which system will drain and dry harmful body fluids from surgical incisions, wounds and burns.

Abstract: A method of using an evaporating bandage which will drain and dry harmful body fluids from surgical incisions, wounds and burns and eliminate the problems associated therewith is disclosed. The bandage has a first layer made of an absorbent material and a second layer made of a non-absorbent material.

Abstract: Superabsorbent synthetic fibers are prepared by a method wherein segments of synthetic fibers are coated with a solution of (a) a hydrophilic, uncomplexed polymer and (b) a complexing agent, and the coated fibers are fluff or flash dried causing the polymer to complex and to form a superabsorbent coating on the synthetic fibers in situ.

Abstract: The present invention provides a garment article which includes a body of gatherable material, and a heat sensitive, thermally-elasticizable ribbon material which is secured to the gatherable material with a hot melt adhesive. The hot melt adhesive is disposed on a surface of the thermally-elasticizable ribbon to provide a heat recoverable, elastomeric tape. The tape is adhesively secured to the garment by the hot melt adhesive, and is activated by an application of heat to shrink and shir the gatherable material.

Abstract: A stable, nonreactive, thermoplastic polymer blend comprising form about 10 to about 95 percent by weight of a superabsorbent, thermoplastic polymeric composition and from about 90 to about 5 percent by weight of at least one thermoplastic polymer.

Abstract: A stable, nonreactive, thermoplastic polymer blend comprising from about 10 to about 95 percent by weight of a superabsorbent, thermoplastic polymeric composition and from about 90 to about 5 percent by weight of at least one thermoplastic polymer.

Abstract: A light-occlusive self adherent eyepatch is disclosed comprising an absorbent pad having a nonadherent lower surface, a thin microporous polymeric film overlying the upper surface of the pad, pressure sensitive adhesive means extending around the periphery of the pad to adhere the patch to the eye socket, and a removable liner protecting the lower surface of the pad and the adhesive prior to use. The polymeric film blocks at least 95 percent of the light of a preselected wavelength impinging on the film, and the overall eyepatch is conformable and moisture vapor permeable.

Abstract: A water absorbent fibrous product comprising a fibrous cellulosic material impregnated with a water absorbent acrylic polymer and a fibrous material, which is produced by a method in which an aqueous solution of a monomeric component comprising acrylic acid and a radical initiator is diffused in a fibrous cellulosic material and heated, followed by blending with a fibrous material. The fibrous product exhibits a high water absorbency, and finds applications as high-quality disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, surgical pads, surgical sheets, paper towels or the like.

Abstract: Nonwoven, air-laid fabrics formed predominantly of textile length, synthetic, resilient fibers of staple length, the fabric being resin-bonded and having a density less than about 0.06 gm/cc at 0.16 lb/sq. in. load and a weight less than 3 oz/sq. yd. The fabric is resin-bonded using a bonding solution providing less than 180% solution pickup and more than 15% dry solids add-on. The fabric is used as a facing or covering for disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, incontinent pads, tampons and the like.

Abstract: Absorbent devices, such as catamenial tampons and catamenial pads. The devices comprise an unbonded array of non-absorbent, hydrophillic, resilient, moisture insensitive fibers contained within a porous overwrap. When the devices are intended to be presented in the compressed state, the compressed density of the mass of fibers should be less than about 0.3 grams per cubic centimeter. The devices can contain ancillary absorbent material.

Abstract: Highly absorbent low density fibrous structures such as webs or batts formed from mixtures of powdered or microcrystalline hydrogel preparations with surfactant treated filler materials having a particle size equal to or greater than the hydrogel particle size. Absorbent materials of the invention exhibit good wicking properties and result in more efficient use of hydrogels by minimizing gel blocking. Additional improvements include reduced dusting, improved stabilization and somewhat higher absorbency when compared with hydrogel materials alone. Uses for these materials include, by way of example and not limitation, disposable diapers, incontinent pads, sanitary napkins, wipes, surgical sponges and the like.

Abstract: An improved topsheet for use in absorbent articles such as sanitary pads. The topsheet comprises a three-dimensional hydrophilic formed film having a plurality of openings leading from a surface of the topsheet to an absorbent core. The topsheet presents a more comfortable and dryer surface which contacts the wearer and a clean, dry appearance to the wearer. The clean, dry appearance is obtained by employing an opacifying agent in the film. The openings comprise tapered capillaries having a base in the surface plane of the topsheet and an apex remote from the surface plane of the topsheet. Each apex is in intimate contact with the absorbent core. In a preferred arrangement, the hydrophilic polymer film topsheet comprises Nylon 6, Nylon 6 and polyetheramide, or other resins having chemistries similar to nylon.