Abstract: A method for producing a multi-layer web, and the web produced thereby, are disclosed. The nonwoven web consists of two half-thickness portions laminated to each other. A first half-thickness portion is characterized by a given overall concentration of long and short fibers and has one face enriched in long fibers above the overall concentration and the other face enriched in short fibers above the overall concentration. The concentrations of long and short fibers decrease substantially uniformly from the enriched faces to form a transition region within the half-thickness portion. The second half-thickness portion is bonded to the short fiber-enriched face of the first half-thickness portion and has an outer face (opposite the bonded face) of substantial structural integrity as compared to the short length fiber-enriched face of the first half-thickness portion.

Abstract: A multi-layer diaper includes a porous facing layer to be positioned adjacent an infant's skin, and absorbent batt, and a water-impervious backing sheet. The facing layer is provided with areas of preferential liquid flow, surrounded by areas of increased water repellency relative to the areas of preferential liquid flow. The areas of preferential liquid flow are in the form of thinned areas, areas of increased wettability or areas of normal wettability surrounded by water repellent borders. The flow paths are spread over at least the central portion of the facing layer to direct liquid to the absorbent batt.