Abstract: Absorbent members useful in the containment of body fluids such as urine, that have at least one region containing hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer in a concentration of from about 60 to 100% by weight and providing a gel-continuous fluid transportation zone when in a swollen state. This hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer has: (a) a Saline Flow Conductivity (SFC) value of at least about 30.times.10.sup.-7 cm.sup.3 sec/g; (b) a Performance under Pressure (PUP) capacity value of at least about 23 g/g under a confining pressure of 0.7 psi (5 kPa); and (c) a basis weight of at least about 10 gsm. In addition, the region where this hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer is present has, even when subjected to normal use conditions, sufficient wet integrity such that the gel-continuous zone substantially maintains its ability to acquire and transport body fluids through the gel-continuous zone.

Abstract: An absorbent member comprises an absorbent core, a liquid permeable covering sheet and a reticulated sheet interposed between the absorbent core and the covering sheet 11, wherein the reticulated sheet has a relatively higher open ratio over at least an inwardly facing surface of the absorbent core than over any of oppsite side regions and opposite end regions thereof.

Abstract: Provided are absorbent sanitary protection products for direct attachment to the skin and hair of a user. The products comprise an absorbent core, a barrier layer coupled to one side of the core and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer on the side of the core that faces the body of a user. The pressure sensitive adhesive has sufficient adhesive strength to enable the product to adhere securely to the skin and hair of the user and yet to be removed without pain or trauma. Products described include those that are restricted to covering and adhering to the perineal area as well as those having ancillary structures to attach to body structures beyond the perineal area. Additionally disclosed is a packaged arrangement of the products of the invention for which little or no release paper is required.

Abstract: Relatively thin, collapsed, i.e. unexpanded, polymeric foam materials that, upon contact with aqueous body fluids, expand and absorb such fluids, are disclosed. A process for consistently obtaining such relatively thin, collapsed polymeric foam materials by polymerizing a specific type of water-in-oil emulsion, commonly known as High Internal Phase Emulsions or "HIPE", is also disclosed.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a generally thin, flexible sanitary napkin with a topsheet, backsheet and absorbent core is provided. The absorbent article has a means for directional fluid distribution such as a fluid directing strip positioned between the topsheet and absorbent core, and an absorbent strip positioned between the topsheet and fluid directing strip. The relationships between the sizes of the fluid directing strip and the absorbent strip are such that the width of the fluid directing strip is greater than that of the absorbent strip and the length of the absorbent strip in greater than that of the fluid directing strip, so that bodily exudates may be directed toward the ends of the absorbent core even when the sanitary napkin assumes a body-conforming shape or is otherwise distorted during use.

Abstract: A shaped nonwoven fabric comprises continuous spunbond filaments made by directly forming the spunbond filaments into a web in a single process. The fabric has an array of discrete surface features such as apertures or projections, or both. The spunbond filaments are bonded together with an adhesive polymeric component so that the shape of the fabric is retained. The fabric can be engineered to have particular fluid handling properties, strength properties, abrasive properties and aesthetic properties. Articles such as personal care products, garments, medical products and cleaning products are also disclosed.

Abstract: A breathable diaper, feminine hygiene, or like disposable sanitary product construction includes a plurality of materials comprising, from the skin-facing side outwardly a topsheet of liquid- and vapor-permeable hydrophilic material. A core of highly absorbent material disposed outwardly of the topsheet for absorbing fluid received through said topsheet. The core has an inner surface in fluid communication with the topsheet, an outer surface and two lateral side surfaces. A barrier is formed of a multilayer non-woven material which is hydrophobic and vapor-permeable for limiting the outward escape of fluid therethrough while enabling the outward escape of heat and water vapor therethrough, such as a two-layer spunbond-meltblown or a three-layer spunbond-meltblown-spunbond.

Abstract: An absorbent article having a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, an absorbent member interposed between the topsheet and backsheet, and a moisture absorbent material, wherein the amount of moisture absorption per unit area of the absorbent article is not less than 7.2.times.10.sup.-4 g/hr.cm.sup.2, and a total amount of moisture absorption of the absorbent article is not less than 0.10 g/hr in an environment of 35.degree. C./75% RH.

Abstract: Prebent, anatomically shaped, self-aligning absorbent products comprising a fluid permeable body facing cover, an absorbent element, a central, partially longitudinally disposed core, and a flexible, moisture barrier having partially longitudinally disposed permanent creases proximate to the longitudinal edges of the moisture barrier, are provided. Such products generally have a convex shape in the approximate center portion of the body facing surface which shape allows the product to conform to the body and more closely approximate the source of fluid discharge thereby reducing unwanted movement or misalignment which may result in leakage. Such products further generally have an hourglass shape which complements the general contour of the inside surfaces of the thighs.

Abstract: A polymeric fabric treated with a composition for increasing the resistance to removal by an aqueous liquid of surfactants from the fabric. The fabric is made of fibers having a plurality of fiber-fiber interstices at junctions of two or more fibers. The composition includes water, a first surfactant, and a second surfactant which is structurally dissimilar to and less soluble in water than the first surfactant. One of the first and second surfactants has a solubility in water at 20.degree. C. no greater than about 5 percent by weight, based on the weight of the water. The first and second surfactants are adapted to preferentially locate in the fiber-fiber interstices and resist removal therefrom by aqueous liquid. The preferential location of the surfactants in the fiber-fiber interstices of the fabric is accomplished by working the fabric after application of the composition to the fabric.

Abstract: Thermally bonded absorbent structures for catamenial products, in particular catamenial pads, that provide improved ability in acquiring, distributing and storing aqueous body fluids, especially menstrual fluids, as well as better fit and comfort for the user of the products. These structures comprise an optional thermally bonded secondary topsheet, a thermally bonded absorbent core having a relatively higher capillary suction primary fluid distribution layer, an optional but preferred relatively lower capillary suction secondary distribution layer, a storage layer having absorbent gelling material, and an optional fibrous "dusting" layer. These thermally bonded absorbent structures are particularly useful with catamenial pads having a primary fluid pervious topsheet selected from apertured formed film topsheets and high loft nonwoven topsheets.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to an absorbent composite suitable for use in a disposable absorbent garment. The absorbent composite includes means for containing a superabsorbent material and a superabsorbent material contained by said containment means. The superabsorbent material has a Pressure Absorbency Index of at least 100 and a 16-hour extractable level of less than about 13 weight percent; a Pressure Absorbency Index of at least 100 and a Vortex Time of less than about 45 seconds; or a Pressure Absorbency Index of at least about 110. The superabsorbent material is present in said containment means in an amount of from about 30 to about 100 weight percent based on total weight of the containment means and the superabsorbent material. In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a disposable absorbent garment including an outer cover, a body-side liner, and an absorbent composite such as that described above.

Abstract: The present invention relates to absorbent structures for disposable absorbent articles containing absorbent hydrogel particles. Particularly, the invention relates to absorbent structures having the absorbent hydrogel particles distributed such that essentially only particles of less than 105 micrometers are distributed in a dusting layer which, in a disposable absorbent article is adjacent the backsheet side of the absorbent article, and particles of 105 micrometers or larger are distributed in a primary layer.

Abstract: Absorbent members useful in the containment of body fluids such as urine, that have at least one region containing hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer in a concentration of from about 60 to 100% by weight and providing a gel-continuous fluid transportation zone when in a swollen state. This hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer has: (a) a Saline Flow Conductivity (SFC) value of at least about 30.times.10.sup.-7 cm.sup.3 sec/g; (b) a Performance under Pressure (PUP) capacity value of at least about 23 g/g under a confining pressure of 0.7 psi (5 kPa); and (c) a basis weight of at least about 10 gsm. In addition, the region where this hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer is present has, even when subjected to normal use conditions, sufficient wet integrity such that the gel-continuous zone substantially maintains its ability to acquire and transport body fluids through the gel-continuous zone.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a first, liquid-permeable carrier layer and at least a second carrier layer. A carrier attaching mechanism secures together the carrier layers to provide substantially attached zones and a multiplicity of substantially unattached zones thereof. The substantially unattached zones provide a plurality of pocket regions, and high-absorbency material is located within the pocket regions to provide an absorbent laminate having a laminate length and a laminate width. A selected plurality of the pocket regions can, for example, be configured with an elongate shape having a major axis length and a relatively shorter minor axis width. The selected plurality of elongate pocket regions is included within a dispersed pocket array having a non-contiguous, labyrinth configuration of pockets.

Abstract: A technique to preserve absorbent core integrity in a disposable article is described.Columns which protrude from the backing sheet of an absorbent disposable article or personal wear garment and which project into the fibrous mass of an absorbent core overlaid onto a liquid impervious backing sheet are disclosed. A top sheet which is pervious to liquids overlies the core of fibrous material encapsulating the absorbent core in cooperation with the backing sheet. The top sheet also may carry similar columns. These columns act to restrict the movement of the fibers in the absorbent core and, more particularly, to enhance and maintain the integrity of the absorbent core whenever wet and/or placed under stress. These columns serve to resist and to diminish any disintegration of the absorbent core.

Abstract: A method and corresponding product whereby hydrophobic polyolefin-containing nonwoven materials are provided with sustainable hydrophilic properties for rewet purposes by incorporation into the appropriate spin melt composition an effective amount of an alkoxylated fatty amine in optional combination with up to 60% by weight of primary fatty acid amide.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of producing a barrier fabric having stretch and recovery properties. The method includes the steps of heating at least one nonwoven web containing meltblown non-elastic thermoplastic polymer fibers to a temperature at which the peak total energy absorbed by the nonwoven web of meltblown fibers is at least about 250 percent greater than the amount absorbed by the nonwoven web of meltblown fibers at room temperature; applying a tensioning force to neck the heated nonwoven web; and cooling the necked nonwoven web so that the nonwoven web has at least the same hydrostatic head and/or particulate barrier properties as the nonwoven web before necking. Also disclosed is a stretchable barrier fabric composed of a nonwoven web of meltblown non-elastomeric thermoplastic polymer fibers, the nonwoven web being heat treated so that it is adapted to stretch at least about 10 percent more than an identical untreated nonwoven web of meltblown non-elastomeric thermoplastic polymer fibers.

Abstract: A multilayered absorbent structure is disclosed. The absorbent structure has a plurality of absorbent planar regions defined by decreasing pore size with increasing depth into the region. Generally, each planar region has an absorbent layer having relatively large average pore sizes at the top, body facing surface, and relatively small average pore sizes at the bottom, garment facing surface. A subsequent absorbent region has a top body facing surface with an average pore size which is larger than the bottom, garment facing surface of the previous absorbent region. The top surface of each subsequent planar region is in fluid communication with the lower surface of the planar region above.

Abstract: A process for producing an apertured nonwoven fabric combines one or two outer nonwoven layer(s) with a layer of polymeric material having a lower melting temperature and a property of shrinking when melted. Heat and pressure are applied through a calendar roll such that the polymeric material becomes bonded to the fibers of the nonwoven layer(s) and simultaneously shrinks and takes back the fibers away from the calendaring points, thereby generating apertures through the nonwoven fabric. Preferably, the fibers are polyethylene or polypropylene fibers, and the layer of polymeric material is a thin plastic film of polyethylene stretch-wrap, elastomeric, or heat shrink material. One outer nonwoven layer may be combined with the plastic film layer to form a bi-laminate product, or two outer nonwoven layers may be combined with an intermediate plastic film to form a tri-laminate product. Low denier polypropylene/polyethylene bi-component fibers or a blend of higher and lower melting fibers may also be used.

Abstract: Absorbent members useful in the containment of body fluids such as urine, that have at least one region containing hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer in a concentration of from about 60 to 100% by weight and providing a gel-continuous fluid transportation zone when in a swollen state. This hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer has: (a) a porosity of at least about 0.15; (b) a Performance under Pressure (PUP) capacity value of at least about 23 g/g under a confining pressure of 0.7 psi (5 kPa); (c) a basis weight of at least about 10 gsm; and (d) optionally, but preferably, a Saline Flow Conductivity (SFC) value of at least about 30.times.10.sup.-7 cm.sup.3 sec/g. In addition, the region where this hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer is present has, even when subjected to normal use conditions, sufficient wet integrity such that the gel-continuous zone substantially maintains its ability to acquire and transport body fluids through the gel-continuous zone.

Abstract: The present invention provides a distinctive article which includes at least one absorbent, fibrous web layer which is substantially non-hydroentangled. The fibrous web layer can have a basis weight of at least about 60 gsm, and a density of not more than about 0.25 gm/cc. The fibrous web layer can further have a peak geometric mean tensile strength of at least about 250 grams-force per centimeter of width, and can have a fiber content in which at least about 90 wt % of the fibers are composed of fibers having a fiber length of not more than about 0.4 inch (about 1 cm). In particular configurations, the article includes a backsheet layer, and a liquid permeable topsheet layer which is disposed in facing relation with the backsheet layer. An absorbent structure is interposed between the backsheet layer and the topsheet layer, and the absorbent structure has an overall absorbent capacity of at least about 300 grams of saline.

Abstract: An absorbent article, e.g. or a diaper, is disclosed which comprises a composite structure of a "two-dimensional" or very flat, apertured film or nonwoven layer, in combination with a fluid transferring layer and a superabsorbent polymer-containing laminate, and an absorbent core below the laminate to achieve superior dryness. The superabsorbent polymer-containing laminate, which contains airlaid fibrous components and superabsorbent polymers, swells to at least three times its dry caliper upon fluid introduction in order to achieve movement of the coverstock away from the absorbent core which permits the coverstock to remain relatively dry and avoids rewetting.

Abstract: A process for making an absorbent structure having a capillary substrate and regions of osmotic absorbent on the capillary substrate. The osmotic absorbent is cured from a liquid precursor applied to the capillary substrate. The capillary substrate has regions of topographically different elevations, taken normal to the plane of the capillary substrate. The capillary substrate is passed through a gap between a transfer roll and an anvil roll in a printing apparatus. The transfer roll has a liquid precursor on its periphery. The liquid precursor is applied to only the topographically elevated regions of the capillary substrate which contact the periphery of the transfer roll. By changing the topography of the capillary substrate, the liquid precursor can be applied to the capillary substrate in different pattern, without changing the transfer roll.

Abstract: An absorbent composite having a porous absorbent macrostructure and a substrate. The porous macrostructure has interconnected absorbent gelling particles that are surface crosslinked with cationic, preferably polymeric, amino-epichlorohydrin adducts. Upon contacting liquids such as water or body exudates (e.g., urine), the porous absorbent macrostructure can swell and imbibe the liquids. The composite is useful in absorbent articles such as diapers, adult incontinence pads, and sanitary napkins are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses flushable compositions and flushable products, such as flushable personal hygiene articles, flushable medical, hospital and surgical supplies, and flushable household wipes and packaging material that have sufficient wet tensile strength for their intended use, particularly prolonged or extended use, in the presence of body waste fluids, but which disintegrate and disperse in the presence of ordinary tap water so as to be flushable in a conventional toilet and disposable in municipal or private sewage systems without obstructing or clogging the toilet or sewage system.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved process for preparing a highly water absorbent resin having a superior suction power and excellent gel strength, which consists essentially of:(1) neutralizing acrylic acid to a neutralization degree ranging from 50 to 100% based on the total number of moles of the acid employed and polymerizing it by a reverse phase suspension polymerization to provide a neutralized polymer;(2) dehydrating the polymer until its water content reaches 25% by weight or less based on the weight of the polymer through an azeotropic distillation thereof in the presence of a lipophilic solvent;(3) crosslinking the dehydrated polymer in the presence of a hydrophilic crosslinking agent containing at least two epoxy groups in an amount ranging from 0.05 to 5.0% by weight and water added in an amount ranging from 7.0 to 25.

Abstract: A multilayered absorbent structure is disclosed. The absorbent structure has a plurality of absorbent planar regions defined by decreasing pore size with increasing depth into the region. Generally, each planar region has an absorbent layer having relatively large average pore sizes at the top, body facing surface, and relatively small average pore sizes at the bottom, garment facing surface. A subsequent absorbent region has a top body facing surface with an average pore size which is larger than the bottom, garment facing surface of the previous absorbent region. The top surface of each subsequent planar region is in fluid communication with the lower surface of the planar region above.

Abstract: A liquid-absorbent composite comprises (a) a water-absorbent polymer, (b) a water-insoluble inorganic material and (c) a water-insoluble hydrophilic fibrous material at a weight ratio between (a), (b) and (c) in the range of 100:5-1200:5-1200. It is very useful as the absorbent component for a sanitary napkin and a medical pad.

Abstract: An absorbent structure having both osmotic and capillary absorbing capabilities. The substrate has a topography comprising two different elevations. The osmotic absorbent structure may include superabsorbents and is preferentially applied to the high elevation regions of the substrate. This arrangement provides for better acquisition of liquids without gel blocking. The absorbent structure is suitable for use in the cores of disposable absorbent articles.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a diaper, sanitary napkin, adult incontinence device which has absorbent components comprised of blends of different types of fibers is provided. The absorbent components are arranged in structures that provide improved core integrity and liquid processing. The absorbent article preferably comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheet, an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet, and an acquisition layer overlying the absorbent core. The absorbent core comprises a blend of cellulosic fibers, absorbent gelling material, and fibers such as crimped synthetic fibers that form liquid stable bonds with adjacent layers. The acquisition layer also comprises at least some fibers that form liquid stable bonds with adjacent layers. The fibers that form liquid stable bonds in the absorbent core and the acquisition layer are bonded to liquid stable components.

Abstract: A wound dressing product is provided which includes a wound dressing laminate having a plurality of layers including a backing layer which forms a first side of the wound dressing laminate and a hydrogel layer which forms a second side of the wound dressing laminate. The wound dressing laminate is spirally wrapped about a center axis such that the wound dressing laminate terminates at a leading end and the first side of the wound dressing laminate forms the outer surface of the wound dressing product.

Abstract: A disposable cover for a patient support surface which allows absorption of body fluids from the patient and prevents contamination of the support surface. The ends of the cover are provided with pockets to contain the cover in a rolled up condition prior to use and after-use for disposal. The pockets are reverse folded to contain the ends of the support surface when the pad is in its use position.

Abstract: A spunbonded elastic nonwoven fabric comprises a web of bonded thermoplastic filaments of a thermoplastic elastomer. The spunbonded fabrics of the invention are prepared in a slot draw spunbonding process operated at a rate of less than about 2000 meters per minute. The elastic fabric is used in absorbent products, such as disposable diapers, adult incontinence pads, sanitary napkins and the like, and as coverstock for absorbent personal care products.

Abstract: Absorbent products and components for use in absorbent products are disclosed. These absorbent products comprise pressure-sensitive adhesive microfibers and thermoplastic polymer microfibers, that when incorporated into absorbent products provide good liquid transport properties, resiliency, and attachment systems; and further mask odors associated with bodily fluids.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin having an absorbent core with three longitudinally oriented trisections, a central trisection flanked by two outboard trisections. The absorbent core is formed of a single layer of tissue. The single layer of tissue is folded on itself to provide a two-ply thickness at each of the outboard trisections and a single thickness at the central trisection. The two plies of the outboard trisections are preferably adhered together. Absorbent gelling materials are disposed in each of the outboard trisections. The central trisection is substantially free of absorbent gelling materials. The sanitary napkin also preferably comprises a secondary topsheet intermediate the topsheet and the absorbent core. The secondary topsheet is also substantially free of absorbent gelling materials.

Abstract: The present invention provides graft copolymers that are highly absorbent to aqueous electrolyte solutions.

Abstract: An absorbent article, such as a disposable diaper, adult incontinent pad, sanitary napkin, and the like, is disclosed which has a rapid acquiring, multiple layer absorbent core. The absorbent article may be in an improved shape that can be worn in the wearer's usual undergarments. The absorbent article of the present invention comprises a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet, and a multiple layer absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the backsheet. The multiple layer absorbent core comprises at least one rapid acquiring acquisition/distribution layer and at least one storage layer positioned subjacent each acquisition layer. The acquisition/distribution layers have a fluid acquisition/distribution rate of at least about 2 cubic centimeters of synthetic urine per second when tested under a pressure of about 28 grams per square centimeter.

Abstract: There is provided a nonwoven fabric having durable wettability comprising fibers formed from polyolefin blended with hydrophilic additives of the formula; ##STR1## wherein x is an integer from 1 to 15 and R is an alkane or alkene with up to 18 carbon atoms, A, B, and C are integers equal to or greater than one arranged in any order or repetitive series, z is an integer at least equal to one, and wherein the fibers which have been formed are polyolefin provided with hydrophilic additives prior to fiberization. Such fabrics have been found to provide surprisingly durable wettability.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a first, liquid-permeable carrier layer and at least a second carrier layer. A water sensitive attaching mechanism secures together the carrier layers to provide substantially attached zones and substantially unattached zones thereof. The substantially unattached zones provide a plurality of pocket regions, and a high absorbency material is located within the pocket regions to provide an absorbent laminate. A secondary attaching mechanism secures together the carrier layers along selected secondary attachment regions and provides a substantially water-insensitive connection therebetween. The secondary attachment regions are substantially restricted to locations spaced from the pocket regions.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a first, liquid-permeable carrier layer and at least a second carrier layer. A carrier attaching mechanism, such as a water-sensitive adhesive, secures together the carrier layers to provide substantially attached zones and a multiplicity of substantially unattached zones thereof. The substantially unattached zones provide a plurality of pocket regions, and a high-absorbency material is located within the pocket regions to provide an absorbent laminate. Matrix fibers are dispersed within the high-absorbency material in the pocket regions, and the matrix fibers are present in a selected amount which, in particular aspects of the invention, can be within the range of about 0.1-10 weight percent, as determined with respect to the total weight of the absorbent material contained in the pockets.

Abstract: The invention relates to an absorbent article, such as a sanitary napkin, a panty guard or an incontinence guard, comprising an absorbent pad enclosed in a casing (1, 2). The invention is characterized in that the absorbent body (3) comprises a first absorbent layer (5) which includes a mixture of hydrophilic fibers and superabsorbent material, and a second absorbent layer (6) of liquid-absorbent fiber material which is highly compressed and thereby has good liquid-spreading ability. The first absorbent layer (5) is placed on that side of the article which is intended to face towards the wearer in use, and the second absorbent layer (6) is in direct connection with the first absorbent layer (5) on that side of the article which is distal from the wearer in use.

Abstract: An absorbent core for use in an absorbent product suitable for placement in a wearer's garment, and absorbent products utilizing the core, are disclosed. The core comprises an absorbent batt folded upon itself along a pair of generally parallel longitudinal fold lines to form a middle, body-facing panel and two side panels, which three panels are substantially equivalent in width at the central transverse axis of the batt. In various preferred embodiments, one or more of the panels are embossed with patterns that serve to direct fluid transport in the product.

Abstract: Liquid impervious, biodegradable films are disclosed. In particular, the films comprise a blend of an interpenetrated network of destructurized starch with ethylene/acrylic acid copolymers or ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymers, and an aliphatic polyester such as polycaprolactone. Diapers, sanitary napkins, pantiliners, and the like, containing backsheets prepared from the foregoing materials are also disclosed.

Abstract: An absorbent article comprises a first, liquid-permeable carrier layer and at least a second carrier layer. A water sensitive attaching mechanism secures together the carrier layers to provide substantially attached zones and substantially unattached zones thereof. The substantially unattached zones provide a plurality of pocket regions, and a high absorbency material is located within the pocket regions to provide an absorbent laminate.

Abstract: A technique to preserve absorbent core integrity in a disposable article is described.Columns which protrude from the backing sheet of an absorbent disposable article or personal wear garment and which project into the fibrous mass of an absorbent core overlaid onto a liquid impervious backing sheet are disclosed. A top sheet which is pervious to liquids overlies the core of fibrous material encapsulating the absorbent core in cooperation with the backing sheet. The top sheet also may carry similar columns. These columns act to restrict the movement of the fibers in the absorbent core and, more particularly, to enhance and maintain the integrity of the absorbent core whenever wet and/or placed under stress. These columns serve to resist and to diminish any disintegration of the absorbent core.

Abstract: Relatively thin, collapsed, i.e. unexpanded, polymeric foam materials that, upon contact with aqueous body fluids, expand and absorb such fluids, are disclosed. A process for consistently obtaining such relatively thin, collapsed polymeric foam materials by polymerizing a specific type of water-in-oil emulsion, commonly known as High Internal Phase Emulsions or "HIPE", is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article having a liquid pervious topsheet, a liquid impervious backsheet joined to the topsheet, and an absorbent core positioned therebetween, in which the absorbent core is enveloped by a primary core integrity layer comprising a continuous mesh of meltblown material which is joined to the topsheet. The primary core integrity layer is particularly useful for improving the wet integrity of absorbent cores comprising an upper acquisition/distribution layer and a lower storage layer.

Abstract: A water-decomposable non-woven fabric comprises a water-dispersible fiber layer, each fiber of which is bound with one another using a water-soluble binder comprising an unsaturated carboxylic acid/unsaturated carboxylic acid ester copolymer in which 1 to 60 mole % of the repeating units derived from the unsaturated carboxylic acid is in the form of a salt and which is soluble in tap water but is insoluble in an aqueous solution containing not less than 0.5% by weight of a neutral inorganic salt comprising a monovalent ion; the water-dispersible fiber layer being composed of a mixture of 40 to 90% by weight of fibers having a crimp number of 19/inch or less, 10 to 60% by weight of fibers having a crimp number of 20/inch to 25/inch, and not more than 10% by weight of fibers having a crimp number of 26/inch or more; and a content of the binder in the non-woven fabric being 1 to 30% by weight relative to the total weight of the non-woven fabric.

Abstract: An improved topsheet for use in absorbent articles such as sanitary pads. The topsheet comprises a three-dimensional hydrophilic formed film having a plurality of openings leading from a surface of the topsheet to an absorbent core. The topsheet presents a more comfortable and dryer surface which contacts the wearer and a clean, dry appearance to the wearer. The clean, dry appearance is obtained by employing an opacifying agent in the film. The openings comprise tapered capillaries having a base in the surface plane of the topsheet and an apex remote from the surface plane of the topsheet. Each apex is in intimate contact with the absorbent core. In a preferred arrangement, the hydrophilic polymer film topsheet comprises Nylon 6, Nylon 6 and polyetheramide, or other resins having chemistries similar to nylon.