Abstract: Absorbent articles including an absorbent core having multiple absorbent layers. The absorbent layers interact in a manner which desirably locates absorbed liquid in an appointed, high saturation wicking layer. The localization of the liquid within this wicking layer increases the potential of this layer to move liquid through capillary action due to the higher saturation level and increased amount of liquid available. The intake capability of the absorbent system is maintained or improved over current systems by keeping a second layer of the absorbent system at low saturation levels through as many insults of the absorbent article as possible, while providing enhanced intake performance through appropriate control of the composite properties.

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent structure comprising first and second surge management layers and an absorbent layer located between said first and second surge management layers. The first surge management layer comprises synthetic polymeric fibers and the second surge management layer comprises hydrophilic fibers. The density of the absorbent layer is greater than the density of the first and second surge management layers.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a retention portion for storing absorbed liquids, and a distinctive surge management portion. The surge management portion, which has a selected basis weight, is constructed to rapidly uptake and temporarily hold at least three (3) successive surges of liquid directed into the target zone of the article and then release each of the surges to the retention portion. The retention portion desorbs each input of liquid from the surge management portion and stores the liquid. Particular functional and structural parameters can further characterize the surge management portion of the absorbent article.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a retention portion for storing absorbed liquids, and a distinctive surge management portion. The surge management portion, which has a selected basis weight, is constructed to rapidly uptake and temporarily hold at least three (3) successive surges of liquid directed into the target zone of the article and then release each of the surges to the retention portion. The retention portion desorbs each input of liquid from the surge management portion and stores the liquid. Particular functional and structural parameters can further characterize the surge management portion of the absorbent article.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a high wicking liquid absorbent composite suitable for a wide number of uses including personal care products and the process for making the same. The composite is made from a relatively uniform mixture of from about 5 to about 20 percent fine wettable fiber, from about 3 to about 30 percent pulp fibers, from about 50 to about 90 percent superabsorbent and from 0 to about 10 percent binder, the percentages being on a dry weight basis. The mixture is compressed into a composite having a density of from about 0.1 to about 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter and a vertical wicking height of at least about 10 centimeters in one hour. The process involves forming a sheet comprising 50 to 90 percent fine wettable fiber and 10 to 50 percent pulp fiber on a dry weight basis. The sheet is then fiberized into a plurality of individual fibers within an air stream.

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent structure comprising first and second surge management layers and an absorbent layer located between said first and second surge management layers. The first surge management layer comprises synthetic polymeric fibers and the second surge management layer comprises hydrophilic fibers. The density of the absorbent layer is greater than the density of the first and second surge management layers.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin having an absorbent batt containing a thermoplastic material is provided. The absorbent batt is folded on itself at least on each longitudinal axis with the fold being maintained by fusing areas of the adjacent layers over the batt near the folded edge.Also contemplated are multiple layers of absorbent formed by folding with the folds being maintained by additional fused areas.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin with an absorbent batt which has been folded upon itself along each longitudinal edge and then folded inwardly to provide a three layer absorbent batt. The sanitary napkin has a fluid permeable wrap which overlies each outer and inner fold and terminates at the outer edges of the third layer. A fluid impermeable baffle is positioned between the multiple layers of absorbent and the wrap except on the top, i.e., body facing surface of the absorbent batt.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin is provided which is capable of transmitting viscous menstrual fluid into the absorbent portion of the napkin without cover runoff. The napkin has a fluid permeable cover which is integrated with a portion of the absorbent matrix. This portion of the absorbent matrix is also designed to provide increased comfort, initially during use, and after the napkin has become wet.

Abstract: A tampon having a series of parallelly aligned fibers is fused to a withdrawal string positioned transversely near one end of the fibers. The aligned fibers are then rolled in a jelly roll configuration in a manner which allows the free end of the withdrawal string to be centrally positioned at the bottom of the tampon at the inner end of the jelly roll.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin having body-shape conforming inwardly arcuate recesses along its longitudinal axis is provided. The napkin has pressure sensitive adhesive means equidistantly recessed along each inwardly arcuate edge.