Abstract: Composite nonwoven material through which liquid can pass at a high speed and having an excellent resistance to rewetting and fluffing. The material comprises at least one first layer (2) of combed-type fibres and a second layer (3) of combed-type fibres, the fibres of the first layer having a denier greater than that of the fibres of the second layer, the layers being joined to one another by needling. Application to absorbent sanitary articles.

Abstract: An absorbent article such as a panty liner for disposal of body fluids discharged thereon includes a body facing side, an undergarment facing side and an absorbent core disposed therebetween, the undergarment facing side including a thermoplastic synthetic fiber layer placed against a bottom surface of the core and having a density lower than that of the core, a synthetic resin layer having a density higher than that of the fiber layer and a first thermoplastic synthetic fiber having a density lower than that of the resin layer, and the synthetic fiber layer being coated with adhesive agent to an undergarment.

Abstract: The present invention is a disposable absorbent article having a liquid pervious topsheet, a backsheet joined to the topsheet, and a fecal management member positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The fecal management member includes a backing and a sheet of fibers. The sheet of fibers has anchor portions in the backing at spaced bonding locations and has arcuate portions of the sheet projecting from the backing between bonding locations.

Abstract: A cotton ball includes a cotton material having an outer peripheral portion, and a net or web covering engaged onto the outer peripheral portion of the cotton material for forming the cotton ball and for stably retaining the cotton material within the net or web covering. The net or web covering includes a number of threads secured together. The threads may include a number of resilient threads and a number of cotton threads or fiber threads for adjusting the resilience of the net or web covering and for suitably reducing the resilience of the net or web covering.

Abstract: A tampon formed of a substantially cylindrical mass of compressed fibers substantially enclosed in a fluid-permeable cover has improved ability to prevent early leakage. This tampon has a stability of at least about 15 N, and is capable of radially expanding upon exposure to a humid environment. The radius increases by at least about 10% after 15 minutes to 90% relative humidity at 40° C.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a disposable absorbent article. The disposable absorbent article comprises a liquid previous topsheet; a liquid impervious backsheet combined with the topsheet; an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet; and a barrier cuff having a proximal edge and a distal edge, the proximal edge being joined to the topsheet and the distal edge being away from the top surface of the topsheet. The barrier cuff comprises a single layer web having a water resistance value of at least 150 mm H2O, and an average bending force value of less than about 25 mg cm2/cm.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article, such as a diaper. The disposable absorbent article has a first topsheet with apertures large enough for low-viscosity fecal material to pass through to a fecal material storage element. The fecal material storage element immobilizes the fecal material in position for dewatering, so that the liquid components of the fecal material are absorbed by the core and the solid components of the fecal material are separated from the liquid components. This arrangement provides for easier cleaning of the wearer when the soiled disposable absorbent article is removed.

Abstract: A breathable disposable absorbent articles of layered construction, each layer having a garment facing surface, and a wearer facing surface. The breathable disposable absorbent article comprises at least a first backsheet layer and a second backsheet layer. At least one of the breathable layers of the backsheet comprises a resilient, three-dimensional web, which consists of a liquid impervious polymeric film having apertures. The apertures form capillaries, which are not perpendicular to the plane of the film but are disposed at an angle of less than 90° measured from the plane of the film.

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article having a liquid permeable surface layer, a backing sheet, and an absorbent layer interposed between the surface layer and the backing sheet. The surface layer includes a liquid permeable base and a layer of continuous filaments extending substantially in one direction and disposed on the surface of the base. The continuous filament layer is fixed to the base at a plurality of fixing portions which are spaced apart in the filament extending direction by a given pitch, to thereby form loop portions of the continuous filaments between adjacent fixing portions. The loop portions are raised toward the surface side.

Abstract: Absorbent article comprising an optional liquid permeable topsheet, an optional, sometimes liquid impermeable, backsheet, an absorbent core disposed between the topsheet and backsheet, if any, and at least one liquid management member which comprises a film having at least one microstructure-bearing hydrophilic surface that promotes rapid directional spreading of liquids, the liquid management member and core being in contact. Also, liquid management members which comprise a film having at least one microstructure-bearing hydrophilic surface that promotes directional spreading of liquids. The surface has a plurality of V-shaped grooves having an angular width of Alpha, Alpha being between about 10° and about 120°. The hydrophilic surface has a contact angle with water of Theta, Theta being equal to or less than (90°−Alpha/2).

Abstract: Absorbent article such as a diaper, pant diaper, incontinence guard, sanitary napkin, wound dressing or the like comprising a layer of continuous fibers (9), so called tow, which is bonded in a random pattern where the bonding sites are randomly distributed in the xy- as well as in the z-direction of the layer, but where the fibers otherwise are substantially unbonded to each other. Preferably the layer is bonded by means of so called through-air-bonding. The layer can either be used as a liquid acquisition layer between the topsheet and the absorbent body, as a topsheet or as a combined topsheet and liquid acquisition layer.

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article including: a liquid permeable surface layer formed of continuous filaments individually extending over the entire length of the surface layer, the continuous filaments including at least heat-fusible continuous filaments; a backing sheet; and a fibrous absorbent core located between the surface layer and the backing sheet and containing heat-fusible fibers. Between the surface layer and the fibrous absorbent core, disposed is an absorbent sheet which is formed of superabsorbent polymer to have a plurality of through passages. The surface layer and the fibrous absorbent core are partially fusion-bonded to each other via the through passages formed in the absorbent sheet for retaining the absorbent sheet between the surface layer and the fibrous absorbent core.

Abstract: There is disclosed an absorbent article including: a liquid permeable surface sheet; a backing sheet; and an absorbent layer located between the surface sheet and the backing sheet. The backing sheet includes a liquid impermeable base sheet and a layer of continuous filaments individually extending along a longitudinal direction of the absorbent article and stacked on an outer surface of the base sheet. The base sheet and the continuous filament layer are partially fixed.

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article including: a liquid permeable surface member; a backing sheet; and an absorbent layer interposed between the surface member and the backing sheet. The surface member includes an upper layer located at a liquid-receiving side surface and a lower layer located adjacent to the absorbent layer. The upper layer is formed of first continuous filaments. The lower layer is formed of second continuous filaments. The first and second continuous filaments individually extend over the entire length of the surface member. Hydrophilicity of the lower layer is higher than that of the upper layer.

Abstract: An absorbent article is provided comprising flocked fibers adhered to one or more internal surfaces of an absorbent article comprising a cover, an absorbent core, and a backsheet, such as the internal surface of the cover, either surface of the absorbent core, or the internal surface of the backsheet.

Abstract: A disposable undergarment has a liquid-absorbent panel, and the panel includes a body fluid absorbing/holding layer formed with a plurality of depressions each extending in the thickness direction thereof and a nonwoven fabric layer placed upon upper surface of the absorbing/holding layer. Heat-sealable fibers contained in the absorbing/holding layer are heat-sealed with the nonwoven fabric layer over contacting surfaces of these absorbing/holding layer and the nonwoven fabric layer. Furthermore, the nonwoven fabric layer is partially engaged in the depressions of the absorbing/holding layer so that the heat-sealable synthetic fibers contained in the absorbing/holding layer are heat-sealed with the nonwoven fabric layer also over contacting surfaces of these two layers in the respective depressions.

Abstract: A dispersible absorbent product comprises a mechanically weakened fibrous web. The dispersible absorbent product can absorb a sufficient amount of fluid without becoming overloaded and suffering from leakage, and is dispersible using a standard toilet. The mechanically weakened regions of the web enhance the dispersibility of the product. Additionally, the dispersible absorbent products may be pre-moistened with a composition. The pre-moistened products are stable in storage, easily dispersible down a toilet, and deliver cleaning, conditioning, and like benefits. Methods of making such dispersible absorbent products are also disclosed.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a diaper, pant diaper, incontinence guard, sanitary napkin, wound dressing and the like, comprising a layer of continuous fibers, so-called tow, which have been bonded together in points, lines or spots in a bonding pattern (10), but otherwise are substantially unbonded to each other, and which layer comprises at least two zones (5a-e), as seen in the cross-sectional direction of the layer, which zones are different with respect to one or several properties such as basis weight, density, pore size, hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity and/or other absorption properties and/or properties affecting skin condition. Said layer can either be used as a liquid acquisition layer (5) in the article underneath a topsheet (2), as a topsheet (12), or as a combined topsheet and liquid acquisition layer (22).

Abstract: A composite material adapted for barrier garment applications is made by laminating a film with an amorphous polymer layer to a prebonded nonwoven web under conditions producing laminate bonds corresponding to the prebond locations, and unbonded areas between the bonds while maintaining constant film thickness. The composite has enhanced resistance to viral penetration for use as a surgical gown material, for example, and also desirably has a MVTR of at least about 300 g/m2/24 hours and a hydrohead of at least about 50 mbar. In use as a component of a protective apparel such as a surgical gown or drape, the composite provides comfort and protection with reduced risk of film damage.

Abstract: A method for forming shaped fibrous articles. The method involves introducing at least a portion of a fibrous element into a shaping tool and subjecting the fibrous element in the shaping tool to ultrasonic energy. This imparts the shape of the shaping tool to the surface of the fibrous element. The apparatus has a guide-holder to receive and removably retain a fibrous element and an ultrasonic shaping tool which can be applied to the fibrous element. The shaping tool has a recess corresponding to a predetermined shape for the article. Preferably, the shaping tool and guide-holder are reciprocally moveable with respect to one another.

Abstract: An absorbent article including a liquid-permeable top layer, an absorbent core layer, a breathable outer cover, and an inner nonwoven filament layer between the absorbent core and breathable outer cover. The outer cover includes a breathable film and an outer nonwoven filament layer. The inner nonwoven filament layer has a mean fiber denier which is higher than the mean fiber denier of the outer nonwoven filament layer. The inner nonwoven filament layer serves as a dampness inhibitor which reduces or prevents perceived dampness on the external surface of the outer cover by lowering thermal conductivity between the absorbent core and the outer cover surface.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as the shown diaper (10), has a front waistband portion (14), a back waistband portion (12) and an intermediate portion (16) interconnecting said front and back waistband portions. The article includes a backsheet member (30), a liquid permeable topsheet layer (28), and an absorbent body (32) sandwiched between the topsheet layer (28) and backsheet member (30). The backsheet member includes an air permeable, polymer sheet layer (96), and a first, outward nonwoven fibrous web (94) attached to or otherwise operatively joined with a major facing surface (78) of the polymer sheet layer (96) at a plurality of individual, spaced apart thermal bonds (98).

Abstract: A washable and re-usable patient underpad has top section of a porous terry or circular knit fabric with a polyester stabilizing yarn. The top section is serged, stitched, or bonded to a bottom section that includes a PVC vinyl water barrier bonded to a polyester knit cloth. The loops of the terry or circular knit fabric layer are preferably oriented toward the bottom section to enhance air circulation through the pad.

Abstract: A web material which exhibits an elastic-like behavior along at least one axis when subjected to an applied and subsequently released elongation. The web material includes a strainable network having at least two visually distinct regions of the same material composition. The first region undergoes a molecular-level deformation and the second region initially undergoes a substantially geometric deformation when the web material is subjected to an applied elongation in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of elongation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a breathable laminate including an oriented microporous elastomeric film and at least one support layer bonded to the film. The present invention also relates to a process for forming the breathable laminate including the step of stretching a filled film to produce a microporous film before bonding it to a support.

Abstract: A composite material adapted for mechanical fastener use as a loop fastener component with a complementary hook component is made by laminating a film with an amorphous polymer layer to a prebonded nonwoven web under conditions producing laminate bonds corresponding to the prebond locations, and loose filaments or fibers between the bonds. The composite also desirably has a MVTR of at least about 100 g/m.sup.2 /24 hours and a hydrohead of at least about 50 mbar. In use as a component of a disposable personal care product such as a disposable diaper, the loop fastener component may be substantially the entire backing, providing comfort, protection and highly variable fit.

Abstract: An absorptive article containing a surface material comprising a combined non-woven fabric comprising at least two layers of a long fiber non-woven fabric and a short fiber non-woven fabric joined together and an absorbing body for retaining a body fluid is disclosed in which the short fiber non-woven fabric is composed of hot-melt-adhesive composite short fibers having at least two kinds of thermoplastic resin components of a high melting point component and low melting point component, and the hot-melt-adhesive composite short fibers are hot-melt-adhered together, the crossing angle of the short fibers at least preferably at least 45%, preferably at least 50% of the total contact points in the short fiber non-woven fabric are occupied by an angle of 60.degree. to 90.degree. in the analysis of the distribution of the crossing angle at the contact points of the fibers.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet attached to the topsheet, an absorbent core of a combination of airlaid material, wetlaid material and superabsorbant, the core being positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet to absorb fluid, and wherein the core includes an elongated, cylindrical, raised portion for improved contact with a user, and a scrim material surrounding at least a portion of the raised portion of the core.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid distribution layer for absorbent articles which exhibits directional liquid distribution properties and has desirable physical integrity. The liquid distribution layer is a nonwoven web of substantially continuous microfibers that has its fibers substantially aligned along one planar dimension of the web, wherein the fibers are hydrophilically modified or hydrophilic. Additionally, the liquid distribution layer may have an increasing fiber alignment gradient as well as a decreasing fiber thickness gradient in the direction of the web thickness. Further provided are suitable processes for producing the liquid distribution layer.

Abstract: A novel absorbent structure is disclosed in which an initially flat, dense structure becomes a three-dimensional, high bulk, channeled structure upon wetting. The structure offers unusually high directionality in fluid transport to improve the distribution of fluid in longitudinal articles. The self-bulking of the wetted article can also lead to improved fit in articles such as diapers and in general increases the void volume of the wetted article for high absorbent capacity.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a breathable film and a breathable, cloth-like film/nonwoven composite made from the breathable film which is stretch-thinned and bonded to a fibrous polyolefin nonwoven web. Certain thermoplastic films such as, for example, linear low density polyethylene films are difficult to thermally bond to, for example, polypropylene nonwoven webs due to the incompatibility of the two polymers. The present invention incorporates a bonding agent into one or both of the two layers thereby making it easier to thermally bond the two layers together. Processes for forming the various composite are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin includes a liquid-permeable topsheet made of thermoplastic synthetic fibers and a liquid-absorbent core integrated with the topsheet at debossed spots. The debossed spots are formed as enlarged diameter upper depressions formed by compressing the topsheet and core together, and reduced diameter lower depressions formed by partially heating the bottom of the depression while under pressure, resulting in the heat-sealing of the topsheet and the core.

Abstract: A liquid-absorbing sheet material is prepared by spraying fibers of a molten liquid conveyable material onto a surface of a one- or two-layer fabric base material while applying a vacuum to the opposite surface. The fibers of the liquid conveyable material permeate the one- or two-layer base material.

Abstract: A facing fabric (10) for a reusable incontinent product (40) having a pair of multi-filament ground yarn sets (14, 16) interknitted together with a warp knit third set of yarns (18) which define loops (22) on one face of the fabric (10) in a warp knit three bar construction. The loop-facing yarns (18) are unnapped, multi-filament polyester with a denier of about 150 to 300 denier in a range of about 1 to 5 denier per filament, and advantageously about 48 filaments when the denier is about 150 and about 132 filaments when the denier is about 300. A barrier layer (46) may be added to the fabric (10) to create the reusable incontinent product (40).

Abstract: According to the present invention, an absorbent member for use in an absorbent core is provided which efficiently acquires and distributes body fluid throughout its entire structure and which maintains open acquisition area for repeated insults of body fluid. The absorbent member comprises an absorbent medium including a low density fibrous material and higher density absorbent strips distributed throughout the absorbent medium. The absorbent strips may be randomly distributed or distributed in a pattern and can be comprised of any paper, tissue or nonwoven or a laminate of paper and superabsorbents. Further, the present invention relates to absorbent articles, such as diapers, sanitary napkins, and adult incontinent pads, comprised of the absorbent members of the present invention.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing of an absorbent structure in an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, tampon, panty protector, incontinence guard, diaper, bed protector, wound or sore dressing, saliva absorbent and like articles is comprising the use of absorbent material in roll form directly in the product without first defibrating the material and then forming a mat. The material possesses good aquisition properties, which are meaningful to the function of the product. A high surface dryness is obtained, among other things. In addition to cellulose fibers, the absorbent structure may also include superabsorbent material and/or binding fibers, among other ingredients. The pulp mat is very thin, therewith obviating the need to compress the mat further in the product. In the case of certain product applications, the material is softened mechanically prior to its use as an absorbent material.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an absorbent structure in an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, tampon, panty protector, incontinence guard, diaper, bed protector, wound or sore dressing, saliva absorbent and like articles is produced by using absorbent material in roll form directly in the product without first defibrating the material and then forming a mat. The material possesses good wicking properties and swelling properties, which are meaningful to the function of the product. A high surface dryness is obtained, among other things. In addition to cellulose fibres, the absorbent structure may also include superabsorbent material and/or binding fibres, among other ingredients, The pulp mat is very thin, therewith obviating the need to compress the mat further in the product. In the case of certain product applications, the material is softened mechanically prior to its use as an absorbent material.

Abstract: An absorbent pad for animal accessories. The absorbent pad includes an absorbent layer having first and second sides. A one-way moisture barrier in the form of driweave is positioned proximate to at least one side of the absorbent layer. The barrier allows moisture to pass toward the absorbent layer and resists passage of moisture away from the absorbent layer. The several layers are encased in a mesh that protects the pad and provides support thereto for maintaining its shape. The layers may be stitched together to maintain their orientation. Optionally, deodorizer and disinfectant may be applied to the absorbent layer for neutralizing odors created by absorbed animal waste, as well as sanitizing it.

Abstract: The liquid-permeable composite nonwoven fabric for use in the body fluids absorptive articles such as sanitary napkins comprises a liquid-permeable nonwoven fabric made from thermoplastic synthetic fibres and a plurality of continuous filaments made from thermoplastic synthetic resin being arranged parallel to one another and bonded to an upper surface of the nonwoven fabric at bonding zones arranged intermittently along and longitudinally of the respective filaments so that each filament may form bulges describing circular arcs above the nonwoven fabric.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liquid distribution layer for absorbent articles which exhibits directional liquid distribution properties and has desirable physical integrity. The liquid distribution layer is a nonwoven web of substantially continuous microfibers that has its fibers substantially aligned along one planar dimension of the web, wherein the fibers are hydrophilically modified or hydrophilic. Additionally, the liquid distribution layer may have an increasing fiber alignment gradient as well as a decreasing fiber thickness gradient in the direction of the web thickness. Further provided are suitable processes for producing the liquid distribution layer.

Abstract: A fibrous web having a length, a width and a thickness, with at least about 50 percent of the fibers aligned in a direction generally perpendicular to the length and width of the web. The web defines a plurality of spaced-apart gaps, each having a top and a bottom, and each of the gaps extends from one surface of the web at least about 50 percent through the thickness of the web. The density of a portion of the web defining the bottom of the gap is greater than the density of a portion of the web defining the top of the gap. The portion of the web which defines the top of the gap may be composed substantially of terminal ends of the fibers. In addition, the portion of the web which defines the bottom of the gap may be composed substantially of continuous fibers. The fibrous web may be a meltblown nonwoven web or a neck-stretched, meltblown nonwoven web.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a breathable film and a breathable, cloth-like film/nonwoven composite made from the breathable film which is stretch-thinned and bonded to a fibrous polyolefin nonwoven web. Certain thermoplastic films such as, for example, linear low density polyethylene films are difficult to thermally bond to, for example, polypropylene nonwoven webs due to the incompatibility of the two polymers. The present invention incorporates a bonding agent into one or both of the two layers thereby making it easier to thermally bond the two layers together. Processes for forming the various composite are also disclosed.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a diaper, sanitary napkin, adult incontinent device which have absorbent cores comprised of blends of different types of fibers are provided. The absorbent articles preferably comprise a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheet, a blended absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and an acquisition layer. The absorbent core comprises a homogeneous blend of fibers comprising a first group of short, low denier, hydrophilic fibers and a second group of longer, higher denier, moisture insensitive synthetic fibers. The first group of fibers is selected from a group comprising natural fibers, synthetic fibers or cross-linked cellulose fibers. The second group of fibers comprises between about 5 and 90% of said absorbent core, by weight. The absorbent core is compressed to a density of at least about 0.09 g/cm.sup.3 (1.5 g/in..sup.2).

Abstract: A composite nonwoven material comprises at least one layer (2) of a carded voile of hydrophobic thermoplastic fibers, the said fibers being partially disoriented in at least a proportion of the thickness of the voile so that a proportion of the said fibers has an angular orientation in relation to the main plane of the fibers of the said voile, and a layer (3) made of voile of nonwoven of noncarded type of hydrophobic thermo-plastic fibers, the fibers of at least one of the layers being chosen from fibers with a low melting point, two-component fibers, mixtures of such fibers with fibers of high melting point and fibers mixed with a binder or one face of the voile of one of the layers is coated with a binder, the layers being joined together by heat-melting.

Abstract: Viscose filaments, preferably in staple fibre form, which have a decitex of less than 5.0 and a multi-limbed cross-section, the limbs having a length-to-width aspect ratio of at least 2:1. Examples of multi-limbed cross-sectional shapes are Y--, X--, H-- and T-- shapes. The fibre can be formed into woven, non-woven or knitted fabrics, and is especially useful for absorbent products.

Abstract: The present invention provides a resilient fluid transporting network suitable for use in absorbent articles. The fluid transport network includes a plurality of bicomponent capillary channel fibers capable of intra-fiber fluid transport. The fibers have a base portion and at least two walls extending from the base portion to form an external capillary channel. The walls and the base portion are made of a first polymeric material which has a first melting point temperature. The distal ends of the capillary channel walls are made of a second polymeric material which has a second melting point temperature lower than the first melting point temperature.

Abstract: A panty liner comprising a primary liquid-retaining component in the form of a unitary sheet of non-woven fabric. A liquid-impervious barrier layer is affixed to the sheet of non-woven fabric to prevent body exudate absorbed therein to egress through a garment facing side of the panty liner. The invention also extends to a method and to an apparatus for manufacturing the panty liner.

Abstract: There is provided a protective laminate having barrier properties which has a first outer layer having liquid repellency through the use of an internal, low surface tension liquid repellency additive and a bulky second outer layer having liquid absorbency through the use of an internal wetting agent, where the layers are bonded to form a laminate. When the laminate is used as part of a garment, the absorbent layer goes against the wearer.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a sanitary napkin having a body surface and a garment surface and being comprised of an absorbent means underlayed by a liquid barrier means, wherein the sanitary napkin is relatively highly flexible and has a capacity great enough to handle medium to high menstrual flows, is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the sanitary napkin comprises, from the body surface down, an apertured formed film topsheet, an apertured nonwoven wipe acquisition sheet, a wet-laid tissue, a superabsorbent core, and a barrier sheet. Preferably, the central width of the absorbents is at least about 6.5 centimeters and the caliper of the napkin as a whole is less than about 2.6 millimeters. In a preferred embodiment, the napkin has laterally extending flaps which drape over the edges of the wearer's panties in the crotch and are attachable to the garment side of the wearer's panties.

Abstract: A process for forming a sheet material having a fibrous surface and the sheet material produced thereby; the fibers are produced by deposition of a heated, thermally sensitive material on to a substrate, which is transported at a velocity approximately equal to the velocity of the material being deposited. By manipulating the fiber density and denier, the sheet material can be made to be either softer or rougher to the touch.