Abstract: The present invention provides a three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, apertured, laminate web suitable for use as a topsheet on an absorbent article and a method for making the same. The web includes a first layer of substantially transparent, polymeric material having an inner surface and an outer surface. A nonwoven web is secured to the inner surface of the substantially transparent polymeric material and is visible through the substantially transparent polymeric material. The presence of the nonwoven web creates the appearance of a fibrous web which is perceived as soft and skin friendly while still maintaining the fluid transport benefits of prior art plastic webs.

Abstract: The present invention provides a three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, apertured, laminate web suitable for use as a topsheet on an absorbent article and a method for making the same. The web includes a first layer of substantially transparent, polymeric material having an inner surface and an outer surface. A nonwoven web is secured to the inner surface of the substantially transparent polymeric material and is visible through the substantially transparent polymeric material. The presence of the nonwoven web creates the appearance of a fibrous web which is perceived as soft and skin friendly while still maintaining the fluid transport benefits of prior art plastic webs.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a laminate material. The laminate material includes a first sheet and a second sheet spaced apart from one another by spacers to define a capillary zone for the capillary movement of fluid between the first and second sheets. The spacers connect the first sheet and the second sheet together to form the laminate material.

Abstract: The present invention provides a resilient, three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, fluid-pervious, plastic web suitable for use as a topsheet on absorbent articles, especially catamenial articles. The web includes a first layer of polymeric material and a second layer of fibrous material secured to the inner surface of the first layer of polymeric material. The fibrous material of the intermediate layer extends below the second surface of the web, preferably into the absorbent core. In-use, fluid deposited on the topsheet drains or empties more readily as the fibrous material of the second layer breaks up the fluid meniscuses which form along the second surface of the web, thereby providing improved dryness and cleanliness for the user.

Abstract: The present invention provides a resilient, fluid-pervious, laminate, plastic web suitable for use as a topsheet on absorbent articles, especially catamenial articles. The web includes a first layer of polymeric material, a second layer of polymeric material and an intermediate layer of fibrous material. The fibrous material of the intermediate layer extends below the second surface of the web, preferably into the absorbent core. In-use, fluid deposited on the topsheet drains or empties more readily as the fibrous material of the intermediate layer breaks up the fluid meniscuses which form along the second surface of the web, thereby providing improved dryness and cleanliness for the user.

Abstract: The present invention provides an absorbent article including a fluid pervious topsheet, a fluid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheet, and an intermediate layer positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet comprises: a resilient, three-dimensional, macroscopically expanded, fluid pervious web including a first polymeric material which exhibits a first melting point temperature and a second polymeric material bonded to the first polymeric material to form a laminate. The second polymeric material exhibits a second melting point temperature which is less than the first melting point temperature. The web has first and second surfaces spaced apart by a distance greater than the thickness of the laminate. The web includes a plurality of capillaries extending from the first surface to the second surface.