Cellulose Or Cellulosic Materials Patents (Class 604/374)
  • Patent number: 7582074
    Abstract: An absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer and an absorbent layer arranged between the cover layer and the barrier layer, the absorbent article being drapeable and possessing the absorbency attributes required of a sanitary napkin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard G. Rosenfeld, Theresa Wysocki, Morris Yang, Marina Nikitina, John Poccia
  • Patent number: 7578810
    Abstract: A body attachable absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer and an absorbent system arranged between the cover layer and the barrier layer, the absorbent article being drapeable and possessing the absorbency attributes required of a sanitary napkin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard G. Rosenfeld, Theresa Wysocki, Morris Yang, Marina Nikitina, John Poccia
  • Patent number: 7566329
    Abstract: An absorbent article including a cover layer, a barrier layer and an absorbent system arranged between the cover layer and the barrier layer, the absorbent article being drapeable and possessing the absorbency attributes required of a sanitary napkin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard G. Rosenfeld, Hien V. Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20090124989
    Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a diaper, panty diaper, sanitary napkin or incontinence device including a liquid-permeable topsheet, a liquid-impermeable backsheet and an absorbent core enclosed between said liquid-permeable topsheet and said liquid-impermeable backsheet, wherein the absorbent core includes a superabsorbent material, wherein the superabsorbent material is an acidic superabsorbent material having a pH of 5.5 or less measured, for example, using test EDANA WSP 200.2 and the absorbent core additionally includes an organic zinc salt, in particular zinc ricinoleate. The combination of organic zinc salt and acidic superabsorber exerts a synergistic effect in the suppression of basic malodours, such as ammonia.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Jan Wastlund-Karlsson, Patrik Krook, Birgitta Yhlen
  • Publication number: 20090069767
    Abstract: A haemostatic device for minimally invasive surgery, especially that performed in the abdominal cavity, is in the form of an absorbent disc made of a biodegradable porous material with a center and a radial extension of at least 10 mm from the center, where the disc is formed in such a way that it can be converted into a radially reduced intermediate state with an essentially rotation-symmetrically shortened radius, in which state it can be introduced into the body through a tube, from which it can be released in the flat form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Applicant: AESCULAP AG, a corporation of Germeny
    Inventors: Erich Odermatt, Juergen Wegmann, Bernd Blender
  • Patent number: 7488697
    Abstract: The invention relates to a skin care article exhibiting a scrub cleaning effect by friction and comprising at least one first and one second external layer made of a fibrous material. The inventive article is characterized in that the first layer (10, 10?, 10?) forms an absorbing cushion and substantially consists of low-micronaire cellulose fibers, in particular less than 8, and the second layer (20, 20?, 20?) is substentially consists of high-micronaire fibers, in particular of micronaire higher than 8, said layers being selected from the following materials: flax, ramie, sisal, jute and hemp separate or mixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific France
    Inventors: Bernard Louis Dit Picard, Philippe Gregoire
  • Patent number: 7479578
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Gil Bernard Didier Garnier, Elizabeth Ann Allison, Mary Alice Berceau, Troy Michael Runge
  • Patent number: 7462755
    Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles, typically for feminine protection, comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, an absorbent element positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and at least a fluid acquisition/distribution layer. The absorbent article also comprises edge barrier elements for intercepting fluids. The edge barrier elements comprise a liquid absorbent thermoplastic composition comprising a polymeric base material having particles of water-insoluble water-swellable absorbent material dispersed therein, and are comprised between the absorbent core and the at least one fluid acquisition/distribution layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Carlo Toro, Enzo Pompei, Giovanni Carlucci, Marco Digiacomantonio, Fiorello Salone
  • Patent number: 7452922
    Abstract: Polymer particles are irradiated with radiation from a high energy source to increase the water or other fluid absorbency of the particles. Products manufactured using the activated particles include protective undergarments, bandages, kitty litter, and spill clean up materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Super Absorbent Company
    Inventors: Phillip Berlin, Mark Sinkinson
  • Publication number: 20080262458
    Abstract: An absorbent article (101; 201), such as a baby diaper (101) or an incontinence guard (201), in which the rear part of the absorbent article's liquid-permeable cover sheet (102; 202) oriented towards the body includes a receiving area (135; 235) for faeces. The article further includes a wiping area (131; 231) arranged outside the receiving area (135; 235), said wiping area (131; 231) being characterized in that it includes a separate material section (132; 232) including a wiping material (136; 236) intended for wiping faeces from a user dirtied with faeces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Pontus Winqvist
  • Publication number: 20080249492
    Abstract: A fiber material web of pulp fibers is made by pulp fibers being calendered and spot-connected or linearly connected without a binder in pressurized areas by fusion of the fiber bodies with generation of an embossed patter. The pulp fibers are chemically treated pulp fibers. The fiber material web is suitable for use in sanitary articles and as a filter material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: McAirlaid's Vliesstoffe GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Andreas Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20080195069
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the impregnation of a product consisting of fibrous material and formed from a continuous web (22), the method comprising at least one first step of cutting out a specific zone (24) of the continuous web (22) and at least one second step of applying an impregnation product to the specific zone (24), the first and second steps being carried out simultaneously or virtually simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: GEORGIA-PACIFIC FRANCE
    Inventor: Remy Ruppel
  • Patent number: 7411110
    Abstract: A thin, flexible, high capacity absorbent pad and a method of making such absorbent pads. The absorbent pad contains high levels of superabsorbent material homogeneously mixed with cellulose pulp fluff. The absorbent pad is subjected to high density compaction to achieve the thinness and high absorbent capacity of the invention. The absorbent pad can be used in absorbent articles, such as diapers, training pants, feminine hygiene products, incontinence products, and swim wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence Howell Sawyer, Michael John Niemeyer, Lori Tassone Holmes
  • Patent number: 7404810
    Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent articles, typically for feminine protection, comprising a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent element positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The absorbent article also comprises edge barrier elements for intercepting fluids. The edge barrier elements comprise a liquid absorbent thermoplastic composition comprising a polymeric base material having particles of water-insoluble water-swellable absorbent material dispersed therein, and are provided with a basis weight gradient along their respective width or length in the liquid absorbing thermoplastic composition and/or in the particles of water-insoluble water-swellable absorbent material dispersed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Carlo Toro, Enzo Pompei, Pancrazio Veronese
  • Patent number: 7402722
    Abstract: An absorbent article has an absorbent material and an outer surface including an inhibitor which is partially bound to the absorbent material and substantially inhibits the colonization of bacteria within the absorbent article. An absorbent article has an absorbent material. The absorbent material has an outer surface. The absorbent article includes a pre-toxin limiting agent which is partially bound to the absorbent material and substantially retards the production of bacteria-produced toxins by the bacteria residing within the absorbent article. An absorbent article has an absorbent material. The absorbent material has an outer surface. The absorbent article includes a toxin enclosing agent. The toxin enclosing agent substantially inhibits the migration of toxin outwardly from within the absorbent article towards the outer surface of the absorbent article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Donna Rene Hill, Thomas Ward Osborn, III, Catherine Cornick Davis
  • Publication number: 20080172017
    Abstract: Absorbent core for disposable absorbent articles, particularly for the absorption of menses or blood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Giovanni Carlucci, Alessandro Gagliardini
  • Patent number: 7297834
    Abstract: A surgical sponge identification system for a set of surgical sponges comprising each sponge in the set having an exterior surface, each sponge bearing on the exterior surface a unique indicium from a set of indicia uniquely identifying the set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Evan Shapiro
  • Publication number: 20070265590
    Abstract: The present invention aims to provide a sweat-absorbent sheet containing antimicrobial medical agent ingredient and effectively absorbing sweat and a disposable diaper having the sweat-absorbent sheet. A sweat-absorbent sheet comprises a base sheet and an antimicrobial medical agent ingredient integrated with the base sheet. The base sheet includes cellulose fiber. The medical agent ingredient is a quaternary ammonium salt. The base sheet is wetted with a solution of the quaternary ammonium salt and dried thereafter so as to be integrated with the quaternary ammonium salt. The sweat-absorbent sheet is available to a disposable diaper.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Publication date: November 15, 2007
    Applicant: UNI-CHARM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Satoru Sakaguchi
  • Patent number: 7265258
    Abstract: Absorbent articles comprising fibrous nits and other free-flowing particles are disclosed. In one embodiment, an absorbent article is disclosed comprising free-flowing particles in a central portion which, in conjunction with other absorbent members, provides excellent body fit and good fluid handling performance. In another embodiment, good leakage control is provided by the combined effect of good intake and fluid handling performance of fibrous nits coupled with a wicking barrier between the nits and the longitudinal sides of the articles. An optional central rising member can further enhance the topography of the article when compressed by urging the portion comprising nits to deflect vertically upward. Methods of preparing cellulosic nits and incorporating them into absorbent articles are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Wendy L. Hamilton, Heather A. Sorebo, William G. Reeves, Patsy A. Hansen, Emmanuelle C. Damay, Robert J. Makolin, Joseph DiPalma, Fung-Jou Chen, Jeffrey D. Lindsay
  • Patent number: 7195810
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Fort James Corporation
    Inventors: Bradley G. Schmidt, Jennifer N. Wergin, Barbara V. Buman, Michael P. Bouchette
  • Patent number: 7183336
    Abstract: Polymer particles are irradiated with radiation from a high energy source to increase the water or other fluid absorbency of the particles. Products manufactured using the activated particles include protective undergarments, bandages, kitty litter, and spill clean up materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Super Absorbent Company
    Inventors: Phillip Berlin, Mark Sinkinson
  • Patent number: 7163737
    Abstract: A new product is described characterized by its qualities to absorb undesirable scents present in the air, while serving at the same time as a carrier for aromas, fragrances, flavorings, repellents, attractants and other active ingredients. The active ingredients are gradually released by the carrier, which is compatible with the environment and current tendencies towards the use of organic and biodegradable products. The composition comprises a carrier and an active ingredient. The carrier is characterized as being particles obtained from the milling, separation, air wash and classification of the different fractions obtained from corncobs. An article of manufacture and a method of making the article containing the absorbent composition of matter is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventors: Jose Represas De Almeida, Genaro Casas Jassan
  • Patent number: 7102053
    Abstract: According to a method for making disposable diapers/adult incontinence pads, a diaper/incontinence pad is made whose pad is in three layers one on top of another; two outer layers of the pad consist of absorbent material and are positioned on opposite sides of an intermediate layer, which consists of a mixture of the absorbent material forming the two external layers and shredded material obtained by shredding faulty diapers/incontinence pads rejected from the diaper/incontinence pad production line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: GDM S.p.A.
    Inventors: Claudio Malpensi, Mario Gandini
  • Patent number: 7094318
    Abstract: The present invention relates to cross-linked cellulosic fiber having improved absorbency characteristics when compared to conventional cross-linked fibers. The cross-linked cellulosic fiber is obtainable by reacting pulp in the sheet or fluff form with one or more reagents selected from organic molecule having acid and aldehyde functional groups “acid aldehydes.” The invention also relates to a method of producing the cross-linked fiber. The method includes heating the treated cellulosic fibers to promote intrafiber cross-linking. The cross-linked fibers are characterized by having an improved centrifuge retention capacity, fluid acquisition rate, resiliency, absorbent capacity, absorbency under load, and other absorbent properties. The inventive cross-linked fibers are useful in forming absorbent composites, and in particular absorbent cores for use in absorbent articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Rayonier Products and Financial Services Company
    Inventors: Othman A. Hamed, Harry J. Chmielewski, Dana B. McBee
  • Patent number: 7081559
    Abstract: An absorbent composite sheet is thin and has a surface to be easily situated in dry condition. The absorbent composite sheet includes at least a first layer and a second layer. The first layer placed on the side of receiving a liquid is a non-woven fabric fabricated from thermoplastic synthetic resin fibers. The second layer stacked below the first layer is a non-woven fabric fabricated by entangling cellulose type fibers and thermoplastic synthetic resin fibers. The first layer and the second layer are joined by fuse bonding synthetic resin fibers of the first layer and synthetic resin fibers of the second layer. The liquid applied on a surface of the first layer is transferred to the second layer through gaps between synthetic resin fibers of the first layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Michiyo Fujikawa, Takeshi Hanajiri
  • Patent number: 7071327
    Abstract: A superabsorbent polysaccharide can be obtained by crosslinking a polysaccharide or derivative thereof with at least 1% by weight of a flexible spacer having a chain length of at least 9 chain atoms and having terminal activated coupling groups. The flexible spacer may comprise a polyalkyleneglycol with a molecular weight from about 400 to 10,000. The coupling groups may be provided by divinyl sulphone units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Guiseppe Mensitieri, Fabrizio Porro, Luigi Nicolais, Alessandro Sannino
  • Patent number: 7038104
    Abstract: An absorbent and method of making are provided according to the invention. The absorbent in one embodiment includes a fibrous cellulose component, a particulate cellulose component, and a binding agent. The fibrous cellulose component and the particulate cellulose component are intermixed and the binding agent binds the fibrous cellulose component and the particulate cellulose component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventors: Boyd R. Eifling, John H. Ebbers
  • Patent number: 6998360
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrophilic cotton product of 100% cotton fibers and including at least one first and one second outer layers. In the invention, the first layer is of fine fibers exhibiting a low micronaire value and constitutes a soft side and the second layer is of fibers exhibiting a higher micronaire value and constitutes a scraping surface. In particular, the product of the invention applies to cosmetics for makeup deposition on and/or removal from the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific France
    Inventor: Bernard Louis Dit Picard
  • Patent number: 6989005
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent article suitable for absorbing and retaining aqueous body fluids includes a backsheet that is substantially liquid impervious except at a discontinuity therein and an absorbent core between the backsheet and a topsheet. The absorbent core includes a non-removable component and a removable and replaceable component in fluid communication with the non-removable component. Access for the removal and replacement of the removable component is provided by the discontinuity in the backsheet. The replaceable absorbent core component may be removed and a like component may be substituted in place of the removed component without removal of the absorbent article from the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Gary Dean LaVon, Gerald Alfred Young, Theodora Beck
  • Patent number: 6974890
    Abstract: An absorbent structure for absorbent articles such as diapers, incontinence protectors, sanitary napkins, panty liners and like articles, the absorbent structure comprising at least 40 percent by weight superabsorbent material, based on the total weight of the absorbent structure in a dry state in the region or regions in which the superabsorbent is distributed, wherein the superabsorbent material is only partially neutralized. Absorbent articles that include the absorbent structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventors: Berith Porsö, Ulrika Hagrud, Marie-Louise Lagerstedt Eidrup, Jan Hansson
  • Patent number: 6958431
    Abstract: Disclosed are absorbent structures for use in disposable absorbent products for absorbing bodily fluids, wherein the absorbent structure includes a fluid storage layer including matrix fibers and a superabsorbent polymer for receiving fluids and a distribution strip positioned below the fluid storage layer. The distribution strip includes cellulosic fibers and has a basis weight of between 45 grams per square meter and 140 grams per square meter and a density of between 0.20 grams per cubic centimeter and 0.60 grams per cubic centimeter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: BKI Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Sonja Fields, Howard Leon Schoggen, Jeffery Todd Cook, Judson Fidler
  • Patent number: 6918992
    Abstract: A method of making a dry defibered fluff pulp suitable for absorption products is described. In the making of fluff pulp bentonite (montmorillonite), and optionally an additional inorganic particle compound, such as a synthetic silicate compound, is added to the pulp in an amount that in the final fluff pulp yields an amount of bentonite of 0.2 to 7 kg per ton fluff pulp and optionally an amount of the additional inorganic particle compound of 0.2 to 7 kg per ton fluff pulp, the total amount of retained particle additives amounting to no more than 8 kg per ton fluff pulp. Moreover, a thus made fluff pulp for absorption products, an absorption core for absorption products comprising such dry defibered fluff pulp and optionally a superabsorbent, and an absorption product comprising such a dry defibered fluff pulp and/or an absorption core are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Korsnas AB
    Inventors: Annica Strandberg, Stefan Hogman, Helena Tufvesson
  • Patent number: 6896669
    Abstract: A composite absorbent member containing layers that have a controlled pore size distribution is provided. For example, in some embodiments, the composite absorbent member has an inner layer and two outer layers, in which the inner layer has a higher weight percentage of pulp fibers than the outer layers and also contains smaller pores than the outer layers. In this embodiment, the resulting composite member can have a fast intake rate, less leakage, reduced rewetting, and reduced bunching and twisting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Patsy A. Krautkramer, Maureen M. Falls, Robert John Makolin, Glory Framary Ceman, William Reeves, Garry Roland Woltman
  • Patent number: 6890651
    Abstract: Sphagnum, sphagnum moss, and/or sphagnum peat is milled to create a multitude of sphagnum, sphagnum moss, and/or sphagnum peat particles substantially all of which have a size less than about 850 microns. Particles of milled sphagnum moss have been shown to retain excellent water and oil absorption capabilities until particle sizes become smaller than 180 microns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: AgResearch International, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter C. Bilkey
  • Patent number: 6867346
    Abstract: An absorbent composite having fibrous bands is described. The composite includes one or more fibrous bands in a fibrous base. The base includes a fibrous matrix and absorbent material. The fibrous bands are substantially free of absorbent material. Absorbent articles that include the composite and methods for forming the composite are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventors: Melissa I. Dopps, Richard A. Edmark, David G. Marsh, Peter A. Graef
  • Patent number: 6844066
    Abstract: The present invention relates to superabsorbent cellulose fiber including cellulose and at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer. The invention also relates to a method of producing the superabsorbent fiber, and absorbent articles including the superabsorbent fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Rayonier Products and Financial Services Company
    Inventor: Othman A. Hamed
  • Patent number: 6837970
    Abstract: A method of modifying a two-dimensional, flat fiber morphology of a never-been-dried wood pulp into a three-dimensional twisted fiber morphology without the aid of a chemical cross-linker. The method includes the steps of treating a never-been-dried wood pulp fiber slurry with a drying aid and thermally drying the wood pulp fiber slurry. The method may alternatively, or additionally, include the steps of spray drying a wood pulp fiber slurry and/or a slurry of a hydrophilic material, and flash drying the spray dried wood pulp fiber slurry and/or slurry of hydrophilic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Young Chan Ko, Sheng-Hsin Hu, Kambiz B. Makoui
  • Patent number: 6833488
    Abstract: A bio-compatible, biodegradable macromolecular water-absorbent polymeric material having a three-dimensional configuration with intermolecular covalent bonds and containing free functional groups selected from OH, SH, NH2, and COOH. The polymer is formed by polymer-polymer inter-coupling interaction between a natural water-soluble polymer A or its derivatives having a molecular weight between 20,000 and 500,000 Da, and a synthetic polymer B in a ratio of A:B of 15:85 to 85:15.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Exotech Bio Solution Ltd.
    Inventors: Mircea Dan Bucevschi, Monica Colt
  • Patent number: 6814721
    Abstract: The invention relates to an absorbent product with a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, two side edges (109, 110) extending essentially in the longitudinal direction, a front portion (114), a rear portion (115), a first surface and a second surface, and an absorption body (105) arranged between the first surface and the second surface. The absorption body (105) has a liquid storage area (106), and a secondary absorption area (107), the secondary absorption area (107) comprising portions which completely surround the liquid storage area (106) in the plane of the product, the liquid storage area (106) accounting for at least 75% of the total absorption capacity of the product, and a liquid-impermeable material layer (104) being arranged on the second surface of the product and essentially only within the liquid storage area. The invention also relates to a method of producing the absorbent product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products AB
    Inventor: Roy Hansson
  • Publication number: 20040147889
    Abstract: An absorbent article comprising a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid pervious backsheet joined to at least a portion of the topsheet, an absorbent core disposed between at least a portion of the topsheet and the backsheet, and a waste management element disposed in at least a portion of the crotch region. The waste management element preferably includes an acceptance element having an effective open area of at least about 30 percent and a storage element having a compressive resistance of at least about 70 percent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Donald C. Roe, Cheryl D. Fox, Aleksey M. Pinyayev
  • Publication number: 20040138634
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to absorbent articles and to methods for forming the absorbent articles. The absorbent articles of the present invention include an absorbent core that is disposed between a top sheet and a backsheet, whereby the articles have improved stiffness and an improved stiffness index.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventors: John D. Litvay, Ebba A. Hansen, Pamela Peters
  • Patent number: 6761955
    Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article including a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and having leakage-preventing side walls on a liquid-receiving side of the article. The leakage-preventing side walls extend in a longitudinal direction of the article and lie opposite one another in a width direction of the article. At least a liquid-receiving face of each leakage-preventing side wall is made of a fibrous sheet that contains hydrophobic fibers thermally bonded to one another and hydrophilic fibers shorter than the hydrophobic fibers. At least a part of the hydrophilic fibers form aggregates which are dispersed in the fibrous sheet and are bonded to the hydrophobic fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Mizutani, Makoto Suekane, Etsuko Tagami, Kazuya Nishitani
  • Patent number: 6720073
    Abstract: An absorbent composite that can handle complex fluids and maintain high absorbent capacity under high loads even after the material has been subjected to rigorous processing conditions. The absorbent composite includes an inhomogeneously crosslinked superabsorbent polymer having a highly crosslinked outer shell. The surface of the superabsorbent polymer includes a protective fibrous coating material and an association agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Nancy Birbiglia Lange, William Grover Reeves, Shannon Kathleen Melius
  • Patent number: 6699228
    Abstract: A disposable absorbent garment includes a topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core disposed therebetween. A pair of inboard leg gathers are attached to the topsheet on opposite sides of a longitudinal centerline of the absorbent article and extend at least through the crotch area. The absorbent garment further includes an upper, partial length absorbent structure. The upper absorbent structure has a front edge extending near the front waist opening and a rear edge terminating in the area of the crotch region. A second pair of inboard leg gathers are positioned inboard of the first pair of leg gathers, and disposed on top of the upper absorbent structure. A BM containment pocket is formed beneath the upper absorbent structure. The BM containment pocket reduces mixing of urine and BM and prevents soiling of genitals, thereby reducing the incidence and severity of diaper rash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Paragon Trade Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry Joseph Chmielewski, Ebba A. Hansen
  • Patent number: 6692603
    Abstract: Methods are disclosed for producing absorbent articles comprising molded airlaid webs and other molded fibrous webs. The molded webs can offer improved body fit and/or improved fluid handling. Molded airlaid webs, for example, can be formed having a central longitudinal hump and flexure zones longitudinally removed from the central hump to provide good contact with the body and improved fit when the article is squeezed from the sides. Molding can be achieved when a binder material is activated by an energy source and the web is held against a molding substrate. Energy sources can include microwaves, heated air, heated metal surfaces, ultraviolet radiation, ultrasonic energy, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Dean Lindsay, Fung-jou Chen, Robert Eugene Vogt, Julie Marie Bednarz, Tong Sun, Kambiz Bayat Makoui
  • Patent number: 6677256
    Abstract: Absorbent structures that form superabsorbent polymers in situ. The structures include an absorbent material and a fibrous material containing an activating agent. The fibrous material releases the activating agent upon stimulation with an activator, which causes the polymer to become a superabsorbent polymer. The absorbent component is desirably a water-swellable, water-insoluble polymer. The absorbent structures form a superabsorbent composition in situ. Methods of making the activating agent containing fibrous material are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Tong Sun, Werner Lonsky, Yong Li, Jian Qin, Xiaomin Zhang, Jacek Dutkiewicz
  • Patent number: 6670522
    Abstract: A unitary stratified composite composed of a first stratum and a second stratum integrally connected by a transition zone is disclosed. The first stratum serves as a liquid acquisition stratum that rapidly acquires and then transfers liquid to the second stratum. The second stratum serves to withdraw liquid from the first stratum and further serves as a temporary storage stratum. Methods for forming the unitary stratified composite are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventors: Peter A. Graef, Colin Elston, Daniel T. Bunker, Fred B. Howard, Jeffrey D. Mathews, Shahrokh A. Naieni, Charles E. Miller
  • Publication number: 20030236511
    Abstract: A novel absorbent structure for use in disposable absorbent articles includes a nonwoven fibrous web comprising at least about 5 wt-% of cellulosic materials, having a local density of greater than about 0.2 g/cm3, and a density relaxation of less than about 20%.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventors: Archie L. Jones, Lai-Hing Louie, Hien Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6664437
    Abstract: There is provided a new multi-layered fibrous material for use in personal care products. In this material, a layer having a mixture of pulp, superabsorbent and binder is adjacent a layer having a very high superabsorbent concentration. The structure is then compacted to a density of between about 0.1 to 0.3 g/cc. These layered structures have better intake properties than traditionally made competitive materials. These structures surprisingly also have better distribution properties than competitive materials. Such a fibrous material is useful in personal care products, like diapers, training pants, incontinence garments and feminine hygiene products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Lawrence Howell Sawyer, Andrew Scott Burnes, Sylvia Bandy Little, Lisa Ann Schild
  • Patent number: 6664439
    Abstract: An absorbent article having an ultimate fluid storage region and a fluid distribution region, positioned between the ultimate storage region and the garment oriented surface of the article, in fluid communication with the ultimate fluid storage region, the ultimate fluid storage region includes a material which has: (1) a Capillary Sorption Desorption Capacity at 100 cm (CSDC 100) of at least 10 g/g; (2) a Capillary Sorption Desorption Capacity at 0 cm (CSDC 0) higher than the CSDC 100; (3) a Loosely Bound Liquid Capacity (LBLC); and (4) a Capillary Sorption Desorption Release Height when 50% of the LBLC are released (CSDRH 50) less than 60 cm. Further, the liquid distribution layer material has a Capillary Sorption Absorption Height at 30% of its maximum capacity (CSAH 30) of at least 35 cm. Disuibution material can be foam materials, particularly those derived from high internal phase water-in-oil emulsions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Silke Arndt, Bruno Johannes Ehrnsperger, Mattias Schmidt, Gary Dean Lavon, Frank Neumann, Andrea Lieselotte Link