Abstract: The present invention relates to an apertured web formed from a polymeric film having permanent hydrophilicity which is suitable for use as a topsheet in an absorbent article. One embodiment of the present invention is a multi-layer polymeric film having a first layer, a second layer, and at least one intermediate layer between the first and second layers, where one of the first or second layers is a block copolymer of a polyether and another polymer and the other layer is a hydrophobic layer as defined herein. Methods of producing such webs are also disclosed. The present invention also pertains to absorbent articles which preferably include a topsheet in accordance with the present invention, a backsheet secured to the topsheet, and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet.

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: The present invention provides a forming structure comprising a screen having a plurality of apertures. The apertures each have a periphery, and each of the apertures has at least one protrusion extending inwardly from the periphery. The protrusions preferably extend inwardly to at least one apex, which may be sharp or have a finite radius. The forming structures may be utilized in a multi-phase forming process to form three-dimensional, macroscopically-expanded apertured film materials.

Abstract: An apertured, compression-resistant web is disclosed, the web comprising a first surface having a plurality of microapertures forming volcano-shaped surface aberrations, a second surface generally parallel to and spaced apart from the first surface. A plurality of fluid passageways extend between the first surface and the second surface to place the first surface and the second surface in fluid communication with one another. The web is formed of a multilayer polymeric film comprising at least one rigid layer and at least one substantially less rigid layer joined to the rigid layer. In a preferred embodiment, a rigid layer has an elastic modulus of at least 120 kpsi a substantially less rigid layer has an elastic modulus of not greater than 75 kpsi. The multilayer film is preferably formed by coextuding a rigid layer comprising a blend of polystyrene and polypropylene, and a substantially less rigid layer comprising a blend of LDPE and LLDPE.

Abstract: A package for heating a plurality of substantially upright, in-line food items in a toaster having a trough, handle, and retainer. The trough provides support for bottom end of food items and for catching by-products when the package is used in a toaster. The handle is connected to the trough. The retainer is connected to the handle above the trough. The retainer provides support for upper end of food items. The retainer has an opening through which upper ends of the plurality of food items extend. The retainer and the handle are oriented such that the upright plane of the edges of the retainer and the handle are substantially parallel to the plane of a radiant heat source in the toaster. The retainer and the handle subject to radiant heat from the heat source are thin enough to minimize the amount of radiant heat absorbed by the retainer and the handle while maximizing the percent area of the food items exposed to the radiant heat source.

Abstract: Non-planar thermoplastic article having a flexible portion suitable for use in an aggressive chemical environment, with the flexible portion is an irradiated thermoplastic consisting of polyethylene, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene ethyl acrylate, or ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers. Such articles can be made by forming the article and then irradiating, or alternatively by radiating the thermoplastic and then forming the article.