Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent structure comprising first and second surge management layers and an absorbent layer located between said first and second surge management layers. The first surge management layer comprises synthetic polymeric fibers and the second surge management layer comprises hydrophilic fibers. The density of the absorbent layer is greater than the density of the first and second surge management layers.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a duo-functional nonwoven composite having a support layer with a top surface and a bottom surface separated by a thickness. On the bottom surface of the support layer is a fibrous nonwoven web with all or a portion of the fibers being formed from a material which is soluble in a fluid such as water. At least a portion of the fibers extend through the thickness of the support layer from the bottom surface and project beyond the top surface to give the top surface a cloth-like appearance. Upon wetting the top surface of the support layer by a fluid such as water, urine or menses, the soluble fibers begin to shrink and dissolve until all or a portion of the filaments have retracted back into and through the thickness of the support layer. In so doing, the applied fluid is transported substantially away from the top surface of the composite.