Abstract: A flexible laminate structure that is formed from a first substrate, a second substrate, and discrete regions of a functional material sandwiched therebetween is provided. In particular, the first and second substrates contain thermoplastic polymers that are fused together at certain portions such that fused portions and unfused portions are formed. The unfused portions form pockets that contain the functional material and are relatively small in size. In some embodiments, for example, the pockets have an approximate width to height ratio of less than about 10.

Abstract: A laminate structure that is formed from a first substrate, a second substrate, and discrete regions of particles sandwiched therebetween is provided. In particular, the first and second substrates are bonded together at certain portions such that bonded portions and unbonded portions are formed. The unbonded portions form pockets that contain the particles. The pockets have a length-to-width ratio of greater than about 2. The resulting laminate structure of the present invention can have inner regions that delaminate upon the application of a certain force (e.g., swelling of superabsorbent particles), as well as perimeter regions that do not substantially delaminate upon the application of the same force.