Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a formed film made by first subjecting the film to vacuum to form macro-protuberances, or macro-apertures, and then contacting the film with fluid to form micro-protuberances in the film. The invention includes absorbent articles including the formed film, the improved formed films, and the method of making the formed films.

Abstract: A fluid pervious topsheet suitable for use on an absorbent article is disclosed. The topsheet includes an apertured, three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, fluid pervious web having a textured wearer-contacting surface. The composite web permits liquids to penetrate while providing an improved, less plastic-like feel and visual aesthetics.

Abstract: A fluid pervious topsheet suitable for use on an absorbent article is disclosed. The topsheet includes an apertured, three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, fluid pervious web having a textured wearer-contacting surface. The composite web permits liquids to penetrate while providing an improved, less plastic-like feel and visual aesthetics. The process of the present invention, in one embodiment, comprises extruding a polymeric film onto a forming structure, applying a pneumatic pressure to the film to cause the film to be urged into substantial conformance with the forming structure, and depositing a particulate material on said film while the film is in a semi-molten state.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article that effectively prevents the leakage of body fluids beyond its confines. The article of the present invention comprises a body having a fluid-impermeable backsheet, an intermediate, fluid-absorbing core, and a fluid-permeable topsheet. A pair of leg cuff assemblies is attached to the body. Each assembly comprises a cuff standing portion and a cuff base portion. The assemblies are composed of two hydrophobic nonwoven layers. A first layer is composed of a spunbonded web and a second layer is composed of a meltblown fiber. The first layer extends from the free, unattached end of the cuff standing portion to the distal edge of the article defining the leg opening. The second layer is provided where needed and in weights as needed to provide maximum assembly hydrophobicity with a minimum use of material. This construction allows the cuff assemblies to form fluid-impermeable dams which prevent passage of body fluid beyond the article along its leg hole sides.

Abstract: A fluid pervious web suitable for use as a topsheet on an absorbent article is disclosed. The topsheet includes a fibrous and apertured, three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, plastic web. The fibrous and apertured, three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, plastic web permits bodily fluids to penetrate while providing an improved, less plastic-like feel and visual aesthetics.