With Additional Chemical Modifications (e.g., Paper, Chemical Pulp, Rayon, Etc.) Patents (Class 604/375)
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Publication number: 20030187414Abstract: A disposable diaper has a multi-layered diaper assembly. The disposable diaper has a first top surface exterior layer assembly comprising a non-woven material having a planar, soft, cloth-like surface layer. A second layer is provided and consists of non-chlorine bleached wood pulp. A third layer is provided having a top surface portion in contact with a bottom surface portion of the second layer. A fourth bottom surface interior layer is provided in contact with a bottom surface portion of the third layer and comprising a non-woven liquid permeable material having a planar, soft, cloth-like body contact surface portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2002Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventors: Edward Reiss, Brenda J. Schenk
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Publication number: 20030144637Abstract: An odor control system is formed by treating cellulose fibers with a partially neutralized carboxylic acid odor control agent. The odor control system absorbs odor and inhibits formation of various odor-producing bacteria. The odor control system is useful in the absorbent cores of a wide variety of personal care and medical absorbent garments.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2001Publication date: July 31, 2003Inventors: Tong Sun, Chien-Ping Hsu, Kelly M. Sedlachek
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Patent number: 6586653Abstract: An absorbent article having a pigmented cover; a pigmented apertured transfer layer; an absorbent core; and a pigmented backsheet that provides masking of synthetic menstrual fluid and discretion.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.Inventors: Robert J.. Graeme, III, H. Michael Moscherosch
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Patent number: 6582412Abstract: A disposable, one-piece swimsuit for girls includes a bodice attached to a chassis. The bodice is designed to provide upper torso coverage while the chassis can include absorbent and containment features. The upper torso coverage contributes to social decency and also protects the wearer's skin against excessive exposure to the sun. The absorbent and containment features can either be integrated within the chassis or can be in the form of a separate, pant-like, absorbent garment covered by the chassis.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2000Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Sarah L. Christoffel, Catherine M. Hancock-Cooke, Marci E. Sojka, Laurie Couture-Dorschner, Louise C. Coe
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Patent number: 6580014Abstract: An article (1) for thickening body fluids or excreta which contains a polysaccharide (10) capable of thickening in the presence of a polyvalent metal ion, the polysaccharide (10) being present in a state ready to dissolve or be dissociated in the moisture contained in body fluids or excreta.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2001Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Assignee: Kao CorporationInventors: Takao Kasai, Hiroki Minowa, Taketo Ito
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Publication number: 20030097106Abstract: An improved absorbent catamenial tampon is disclosed comprising an overwrap with both a masking region and a wicking region. The compressed absorbent member of the tampon has an inner region, an exterior surface, and an insertion end opposed to a withdrawal end. The overwrap comprises a masking region and a wicking region. The wicking region of the overwrap covers at least a portion of the exterior surface of the compressed absorbent member proximal to the withdrawal end of the compressed absorbent member. The masking region surrounds at least a portion of the exterior surface of the compressed absorbent member proximal to the insertion end of the compressed absorbent member.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2002Publication date: May 22, 2003Applicant: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Margaret Henderson Hasse, Steven Ray Gilbert
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Patent number: 6562192Abstract: Free flowing particles useful in absorbent articles are disclosed, including fibrous nits and methods of preparing fibrous nits. In one embodiment, fibrous nits are prepared from disperging cellulosic fibers in the presence of a nit conditioner which modifies nit particle size and properties for improved performance of the particles. In other embodiments, nits are prepared in multiple disperging steps or by disperging fibers under two or more conditions.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Wendy L. Hamilton, Heather A. Sorebo, William G. Reeves, Patsy A. Hansen, Emmanuelle C. Damay, Robert J. Makolin, Joseph DiPalma, Fung-Jou Chen, Jeffrey D. Lindsay
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Patent number: 6562743Abstract: Disclosed are absorbent structures including fibers bound with a polyvalent cation-containing compound and superabsorbent polymer particles. The fibers exhibit an ion extraction factor of at least 5%. Also disclosed are multi-strata absorbent structures, such as disposable absorbent articles, including the treated fibers and SAP particles. Further disclosed are methods for preparing absorbent structures including the treated fibers; structures including fibers combined with a polyvalent cation-containing compound; and methods for treating or coating SAP particles with polyvalent cation-containing compounds.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1999Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: BKI Holding CorporationInventors: Jeffery T. Cook, Robert Irvin Bell, Sonja McNeil Fields, Byron Jerry Lee Huff, Gerald Hunt Morton, Howard Leon Schoggen, David Jay Smith
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Publication number: 20030083629Abstract: An absorbent article having a pigmented cover; a pigmented apertured transfer layer; an absorbent core; and a pigmented backsheet that provides masking of synthetic menstrual fluid and discretion.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2002Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventors: Robert J. Graeme, H. Michael Moscherosch
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Patent number: 6551297Abstract: An absorbent article includes a liquid-permeable top layer, a liquid-impermeable back layer, and a liquid-retentive absorbent member interposed between the top layer and the back layer. The absorbent member is arranged such that a pair of absorbent barrier cuffs having a prescribed width are formed at respective left and right opposing side portions of the top layer in the width-wise direction thereof, and liquid-shrinkable members, which can elastically shrink upon absorption of liquid, are disposed within the barrier cuffs and extend in the longitudinal direction of the barrier cuffs.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 1999Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Assignee: Kao CorporationInventors: Masahito Tanaka, Mayumi Kimura, Hironori Kawasaki, Mitsugu Hamajima, Minoru Nakanishi, Jinko Noguchi
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Patent number: 6548732Abstract: An absorbent article that provides leakage protection and/or skin protection, as well as methods for using and preparing the absorbent article and novel compositions and composites for use in the absorbent article, is disclosed. The absorbent article comprises a permeable topsheet; a substantially impermeable backsheet; an absorbent core positioned between said permeable topsheet and said substantially impermeable backsheet; and a hydrophobic composition selectively disposed on the absorbent article to contain leakage. The hydrophobic composition is disposed at one or more leak protection zones.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2001Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Paragon Trade Brands, Inc.Inventors: Carol L. Erdman, Harry J. Chmielewski
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Patent number: 6545195Abstract: Absorbent articles, such as diapers, incontinence products, training pants, sanitary napkins, and the like, providing unexpectedly superior absorbency and methods of preparing the absorbent articles are disclosed. The absorbent articles comprise a substantially non-wicking layer disposed between a substantially impermeable backsheet and a permeable topsheet, said substantially non-wicking layer comprising foam having a density of no greater than about 0.01 g/cc and a compressional rigidity at about 10% strain of at least about 4 kPa.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Paragon Trade Brands, Inc.Inventor: Harry J. Chmielewski
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Publication number: 20030045863Abstract: A sebum absorbing paper used for applying to skin or for cleaning the skin, which contains 1 to 30 weight % of inorganic filler and which has the basis weight of 5 to 25 g/m2 as defined in JIS P-8124. Further, this inorganic filler comprises hydroxyapatite.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Toshihiro Sadaoka, Hiroaki Katsube, Yuji Takechi, Akira Takeda, Yoshio Matsumoto, Katsuji Matsumoto
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Publication number: 20030045850Abstract: A fibrous layer that includes a refined blend of crosslinked cellulosic fibers and noncrosslinked cellulosic fibers. In one embodiment, the layer includes about 85 percent by weight crosslinked fibers and about 15 percent by weight noncrosslinked fibers. An absorbent construct that includes the fibrous layer and a liquid storage layer. Personal care absorbent products that include the distribution layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventors: Peter A. Graef, Terry M. Grant, David G. Marsh, Daniel T. Bunker, Melissa D. Johnson
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Patent number: 6525240Abstract: An unitary stratified composite composed of a first stratum and a second stratum integrally connected by a transition zone is disclosed. The first stratum serves as a liquid acquisition stratum that rapidly acquires and then transfers liquid to the second stratum. The second stratum serves to withdraw liquid from the first stratum and further serves as a temporary storage stratum. Methods for forming the unitary stratified composite are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventors: Peter A. Graef, Colin Elston, Daniel T. Bunker, Fred B. Howard, Jeffrey D. Mathews, Shahrokh A. Naieni, Charles E. Miller
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Publication number: 20030034136Abstract: A modified cellulosic fiber having superabsorbent properties is described. The modified fiber of the invention has a fibrous structure substantially identical to the cellulosic fiber from which it is derived. The modified fiber is a water-swellable, water-insoluble fiber that substantially retains its fibrous structure in its expanded, water-swelled state. The modified fiber is a sulfated and crosslinked cellulosic fiber having a liquid absorption capacity of at least about 4 g/g. In one embodiment, the modified fiber is an individual, crosslinked, sulfated cellulosic fiber. In another aspects, the invention provides a rollgood that includes the modified fiber, absorbent composites and articles that include the modified fiber, and methods for making the modified cellulosic fiber.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Amar N. Neogi, Richard H. Young, Brent A. Petersen
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Publication number: 20030034137Abstract: A modified cellulosic fiber having superabsorbent properties is described. The modified fiber of the invention has a fibrous structure substantially identical to the cellulosic fiber from which it is derived. The modified fiber is a water-swellable. water-insoluble fiber that substantially retains its fibrous structure in its expanded, water-swelled state. The modified fiber is a sulfated and crosslinked cellulosic fiber having a liquid absorption capacity of at least about 4 g/g. In one embodiment, the modified fiber is an individual, crosslinked, sulfated cellulosic fiber. In another aspects, the invention provides a rollgood that includes the modified fiber, absorbent composites and articles that include the modified fiber, and methods for making the modified cellulosic fiber.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Amar N. Neogi, Richard H. Young, Brent A. Petersen
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Patent number: 6521812Abstract: A unitary stratified composite composed of a first stratum and a second stratum integrally connected by a transition zone is disclosed. The first stratum serves as a liquid acquisition stratum that rapidly acquires and then transfers liquid to the second stratum. The second stratum serves to withdraw liquid from the first stratum and further serves as a temporary storage stratum. Methods for forming the unitary stratified composite are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventors: Peter A. Graef, Colin Elston, Daniel T. Bunker, Fred B. Howard, Jeffrey D. Mathews, Shahrokh A. Naieni, Charles E. Miller
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Patent number: 6518479Abstract: A unitary stratified composite composed of a first stratum and a second stratum integrally connected by a transition zone is disclosed. The first stratum serves as a liquid acquisition stratum that rapidly acquires and then transfers liquid to the second stratum. The second stratum serves to withdraw liquid from the first stratum and further serves as a temporary storage stratum. Methods for forming the unitary stratified composite are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventors: Peter A. Graef, Colin Elston, Daniel T. Bunker, Fred B. Howard, Jeffrey D. Matthews, Shahrokh A. Naieni, Charles E. Miller
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Publication number: 20030024663Abstract: A modified cellulosic fiber having superabsorbent properties is described The modified fiber of the invention has a fibrous structure substantially identical to the cellulosic fiber from which it is derived. The modified fiber is a water-swellable, water-insoluble fiber that substantially retains its fibrous structure in its expanded, water-swelled state. The modified fiber is a sulfated and crosslinked cellulosic fiber having a liquid absorption capacity of at least about 4 g/g. In one embodiment, the modified fiber is an individual, crosslinked, sulfated cellulosic fiber. In another aspects, the invention provides a rollgood that includes the modified fiber, absorbent composites and articles that include the modified fiber, and methods for making the modified cellulosic fiber.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2002Publication date: February 6, 2003Inventors: Amar N. Neogi, Richard H. Young, Brent A. Petersen
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Patent number: 6515194Abstract: A diaper includes a diaper substrate having a peripheral edge and a centrally-located region where fluid from a user will make initial contact therewith, a fluid transport layer disposed with the diaper substrate and having a peripheral edge and a centrally-located portion disposed at the centrally-located region of the diaper substrate, and a wetness indicator on the peripheral edge of the transport layer and exposed and extending along at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the diaper substrate. The transport layer made of a fluid-permeable chromatographic medium draws fluid via capillary action from its centrally-located portion at the centrally-located region of the diaper substrate toward its peripheral edge and into contact with the wetness indicator. The wetness indicator is a material capable of eliciting a visible response to the presence of fluid.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2000Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Inventors: Ryan R. Neading, Ryan W. Cate
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Publication number: 20030023216Abstract: The present invention relates to breathable absorbent articles, such as sanitary napkins, pantiliners, nursing pads and baby diapers, having a breathable backsheet, and comprising a chitosan material. Absorbent articles are provided that deliver not only initial high performing breathability but also maintain effective breathability in use as well as high protection level while delivering also effective odor control towards odor associated with bodily fluids.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2002Publication date: January 30, 2003Applicant: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Giovanni Carlucci, Achille Di Cintio, Antonella Pesce, Alessandro Gagliardini
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Publication number: 20030018312Abstract: The present invention relates to articles, preferably disposable absorbent articles like sanitary napkins and pantiliners, which comprise a cationic polysaccharide, typically chitin-based material and/or chitosan material, and an acidic pH buffering means. Such disposable absorbent articles deliver improved odor control performance even upon prolonged wearing time of the articles.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2002Publication date: January 23, 2003Applicant: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Antonella Pesce, Adelia Alessandra Tordone, Giovanna Carlucci, Achille Di Cintio
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Publication number: 20020188264Abstract: There is provided a tampon or similar device or product in which there is disposed at least one surface active agent. A broad feature of the present invention provides a fibrous absorbent article for absorbing body fluids made up of a fibrous material defining a structure suitable for absorbing the body fluids, and disposed in or on the structure, an effective amount of at least one surface active agent, so as to adsorb malodor associated with these bodily fluids.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2002Publication date: December 12, 2002Applicant: Playtex Products, Inc.Inventors: Rosemary F. Knuth, Keith Edgett
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Publication number: 20020183711Abstract: A urinary incontinence device for alleviating female urinary incontinence is disclosed. The urinary incontinence device includes a resilient member and a non-absorbent positioned adjacent to the resilient member. The non-absorbent is constructed from a fibrous material wherein the fibers do not absorb significant quantities of moisture within the fibers. The resilient member and the non-absorbent are rolled into an elongated softwind with the resilient member located adjacent to an end thereof. The softwind has a larger diameter at one end. The softwind is then radially compressed into an elongated pledget having an insertion end, a trailing end and a uniform cross-sectional area therebetween. The resilient member is capable of expanding the insertion end of the pledget to provide a supportive backdrop for a woman's urethra when inserted into a woman's vagina.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2001Publication date: December 5, 2002Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventor: Julie Ann Moser
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Patent number: 6465710Abstract: The invention pertains to an absorbent structure (3) in an absorbent article such as a diaper (100), an incontinence protector, a sanitary napkin or the like, which structure exhibits two end portions (8, 9) and a crotch portion (6) located therebetween, wherein the absorbent structure (3) comprises superabsorbent material having a thermo-reversible liquid absorption capacity. The superabsorbent material having a thermo-reversible liquid absorption capacity is located in one or several delimited regions in the absorbent structure (3).Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 1999Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Jeanette Annergren, Lars WÅgberg
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Patent number: 6462252Abstract: Absorbent articles such as diapers, incontinence protectors, sanitary napkins, wound dressings and similar articles which are applied in contact with skin, and methods which make it possible to use an article for an extended period of time without the appearance of unwanted side-effects such as, for instance, growth of undesirable microorganisms. The absorbent body in the absorbent article comprises a pH-controlling substance in the form of a partially neutralized super-absorbent material in such a manner that the pH in the absorbent article after wetting is in the interval 3.5-4.9. Growth of undesirable strains of microorganisms is prevented and unwanted side-effects resulting from use of the article are reduced.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: SCA Hygiene Products ABInventors: Bo Runeman, Ulla Forsgren-Brusk
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Publication number: 20020143307Abstract: A fibrous layer that includes a refined blend of crosslinked cellulosic fibers and noncrosslinked cellulosic fibers. In one embodiment, the layer includes about 85 percent by weight crosslinked fibers and about 15 percent by weight noncrosslinked fibers. An absorbent construct that includes the fibrous layer and a liquid storage layer. Personal care absorbent products that include the distribution layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2001Publication date: October 3, 2002Inventors: Peter A. Graef, Terry M. Grant, David G. Marsh
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Patent number: 6459016Abstract: An absorbent structure having an absorbent element with an upper surface and a lower surface defining between therebetween a thickness. The absorbent element has an integral structure and includes a first high absorbency zone separated from a second high absorbency zone by a portion of the thickness of the absorbent element. The high absorbency zones have absorbent fibers and superabsorbent polymer particles. The portion of the absorbent element thickness separating the first and second high absorbency zones is substantially free of superabsorbent polymer particles.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1999Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.Inventors: Leonard G. Rosenfeld, Carlos Linares, Ricardo DeOliveira, Theresa Wysocki
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Patent number: 6459014Abstract: An absorbent article is provided which includes a pH control agent in an amount sufficient to maintain prolonged natural skin pH. The pH control agent can be applied in conjunction with a surfactant. Generally, the pH control agent and optional surfactant can be added to the topsheet, absorbent core, and/or any tissue layer included in the absorbent article. Particularly preferred pH control agents include citric acid and sodium citrate.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2000Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Assignee: Paragon Trade Brands, Inc.Inventors: Harry J. Chmielewski, Carol L. Erdman
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Publication number: 20020128620Abstract: The present invention provides a pre-expanded tampon pledget formed from cellulosic absorbent fibers. The fibers are not tightly compressed, thus, the pledget has a reduced fiber density. As a result, a softer, more pliable pledget is formed that not only increases user comfort during use, but also affords a user with comparable and/or increased leakage protection over conventional tampons or tampon pledgets.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2001Publication date: September 12, 2002Applicant: Playtex Products, Inc.Inventors: Dane R. Jackson, Karla E. Williams, Suzanne Pauley, Jeffrey Brown
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Publication number: 20020123727Abstract: The present invention provides a bonded cellulosic fibrous product having low creep. The product includes crosslinked cellulosic fibers and a bonding agent. Methods for forming the bonded cellulosic fibrous product and personal care absorbent products that include the bonded product are also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2001Publication date: September 5, 2002Inventors: Richard A. Edmark, Darryl T. Genest
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Publication number: 20020123728Abstract: A fibrous layer that includes a refined blend of crosslinked cellulosic fibers and noncrosslinked cellulosic fibers. In one embodiment, the layer includes about 85 percent by weight crosslinked fibers and about 15 percent by weight noncrosslinked fibers. An absorbent construct that includes the fibrous layer and a liquid storage layer. Personal care absorbent products that include the distribution layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2001Publication date: September 5, 2002Inventors: Peter A. Graef, Terry M. Grant, David G. Marsh, Daniel T. Bunker, Melissa D. Johnson
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Patent number: 6441266Abstract: 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 50 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 Dynamic Gelling Rate of at least about 0.18 g/g/sec; (b) a Performance under Pressure (PUP) capacity value of at least about 25 g/g under a confining pressure of 0.7 psi (5 kPa); and (c) when the hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer is in the form of particles, a mass median particle size of at least about 100 &mgr;m.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: John Collins Dyer, Stephen Allen Goldman, Herbert Louis Retzsch
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Publication number: 20020115971Abstract: A thin, high capacity, multi-layer absorbent material. An upper layer displays intake properties while a lower layer displays distribution properties. The upper and lower layers are both high density combinations of fluff pulp and superabsorbent material, with the lower layer having a higher density than the upper layer. The upper layer is suitably drum-formed, the lower layer is suitably air-laid, and additional layers can be either inserted between the upper and lower layers or added on top of the upper layer. The absorbent material can be used to provide discreet absorbent protection in absorbent articles, such as diapers, training pants, feminine hygiene products, incontinence products, and swim wear.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: Lori Tassone Holmes, Michael John Niemeyer, Lawrence Howell Sawyer, Robert Alan Stevens
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Publication number: 20020115968Abstract: An absorbing article for skin care and antisepsis comprises a substrate having absorbing ability for liquid and powder, and an augmentation layer made of chitosan and added to the substrate. The augmentation layer is made of powder, particle, liquid or solution of chitosan, and added to surface or inner part of the substrate, thus forming a protective layer on the substrate. The protective layer has natural biological care to skin, and has deodorization, antibiotic and sterilization effect, thus preventing bedsore.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventor: Shih-chiang Lin
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Patent number: 6433245Abstract: The present invention relates to a flushable fibrous structure that is particularly useful as a disposable tissue product and as a component (e.g., topsheets) for absorbent articles such as catamenial pads, diapers, incontinent articles and the like. The invention specifically relates to a flushable fibrous structure that has an in-use wet tensile strength of at least about 100 g/in. and a disposal wet tensile strength of not more than about 30 g/in. The invention also relates to absorbent articles comprising the fibrous structures, and methods for making the structures.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: David William Bjorkquist, Todd Leon Mansfield
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Patent number: 6433246Abstract: A tampon formed of a substantially cylindrical mass of compressed fibers substantially enclosed in a fluid-permeable cover has improved ability to prevent early leakage. This tampon has a stability of at least about 15 N, and is capable of radially expanding upon exposure to a humid environment. The radius increases by at least about 10% after 15 minutes to 90% relative humidity at 40° C.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1995Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: McNeil-PPC, Inc.Inventors: Hien Nguyen, Nicolas Martens, Glenn Garbolino
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Publication number: 20020104148Abstract: A disposable male personal hygiene product for preventing the soiling of outer clothing and undergarments and skin irritation due to urinary flow irregularities. The product consists of a urine bib having an absorbent outer layer and a moisture resistant inner layer. The urine bib is attached to the male penis during urination by placing the male penis through an opening in the bib such that an absorbent size faces outward and a moisture resistant inner layer is closely coupled to the clothing. The urine bib can be sized as a function of the height and girth of the user. The urine bib may also be treated with a medication to prevent the spread of infectious disease after use and disposal.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2001Publication date: August 8, 2002Inventor: Sidney I. Silverman
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Publication number: 20020103469Abstract: A dual-zoned, three-dimensional, resilient absorbent web is disclosed which is suitable as body-side liner for absorbent articles such as feminine pads, diapers and the like. When used as a liner in absorbent articles, the dual-zoned web combines the advantages of apertured films and soft, nonwoven cover layers in one structure while still being inherently hydrophilic. The liner comprises a web of wet-resilient, hydrophilic basesheet having a three-dimensional topography comprising elevated regions onto which hydrophobic matter is deposited or printed and a plurality of spaced apart depressed regions. In a preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic matter applied to the elevated regions of the basesheet comprises hydrophobic fibers in a contiguous nonwoven web which has been apertured or provided with slits or other openings, such that the apertures or openings overlay a portion of the depressed regions.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2002Publication date: August 1, 2002Inventors: Fung-jou Chen, Jeffrey Dean Lindsay, Richard Joseph Kamps, Andrew Michael Lake, Mark Louis Robinson
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Publication number: 20020072724Abstract: Disclosed is an absorbent article including a liquid-permeable surface member, a backsheet and an absorbent core positioned between the surface member and the backsheet. The surface member is a sheet including: first continuous filaments made of hydrophobic synthetic resin and individually extending over the entire length of the surface member; and second continuous filaments made of cellulose acetate and individually extending over the entire length of the surface member.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2001Publication date: June 13, 2002Applicant: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Kodai Furuya, Hiroo Hayashi, Takamitsu Igaue
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Patent number: 6403858Abstract: A wettable article consisting of an article with a hydrophobic surface having a coating which includes a surface free energy modifier and a surface-active agent. The hydrophobic surface may include a hydrophobic polymer. The surface free energy modifier has a surface free energy greater than that of the surface of the article, but less than the surface tension of an aqueous liquid to which the wettable coated article may be exposed. The surface free energy modifier desirably is present in an amount sufficient to substantially cover the surface of the article. The surface-active agent is present in an amount effective to lower the surface tension of the liquid to a value which is greater than the surface free energy of the surface of the article and equal to or less than the surface free energy of the surface free energy modifier. The article desirably is a film or a fibrous web, such as a nonwoven web. Methods of preparing the wettable article also are described.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1999Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Roger Bradshaw Quincy, III, Elizabeth Deibler Gadsby
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Patent number: 6395395Abstract: The blood absorbence properties, e.g., free swell blood absorbence capacity and after load blood absorbence capacity of superabsorbent materials is enhanced by combining the superabsorbent materials with enhancing agents which serve to enhance the blood absorbent properties thereof. The enhancing agents can be applied to the superabsorbent materials or they can be provided on a fibrous material to be combined with the superabsorbent materials. The enhancing agents are selected from materials that include functionalities that allow them to hydrogen bond to the superabsorbent material when the enhancing agent is applied directly thereto or combined with materials to which the enhancing agents have been applied.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 1999Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Weyerhaeuser CompanyInventors: Michael R. Hansen, Donald D. Halabisky
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Patent number: 6395955Abstract: An article to be fitted to a wearer including an agent which is available in an effective concentration to physically or chemically modify some or all of the fecal material or other bodily exudates deposited in the article. The modification of the feces may improve acceptance and/or retention of the exudates within the article to reduce the spreading of fecal material within the diaper and/or to reduce the tendency of the fecal material to adhere to the wearer's skin.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1999Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Donald C. Roe, Nicholas A. Ahr, Christopher P. Bewick-Sonntag, Mattias Schmidt, Stephen A. Goldman, John Christison, David Joseph Kenneth Goulait
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Patent number: 6392116Abstract: Improved diaper cores containing particles of multicomponent superabsorbent particles and having improved acquisition rates are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: BASF AktiengesellschaftInventors: Thomas W. Beihoffer, Michael A. Mitchell, Mark Anderson, Anthony S. Tomlin
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Publication number: 20020052587Abstract: An absorbent product which possesses two longitudinal side edges (12, 13), two transverse end edges (10, 11), a longitudinal centre line and a transverse centre line, and which comprises a liquid-permeable outer layer (2), a liquid-impermeable backing layer (3) and an absorption core (4) which is located between the outer layer (2) and the backing layer (3), with the absorption core (4) comprising a first and a second absorption layer (14, 15), with the first absorption layer (14) being arranged behind the liquid-permeable outer layer (2) and the second absorption layer (15) being arranged between the first absorption layer (14) and the liquid-impermeable backing layer (3), with the first absorption layer (14) having two longitudinal channels (16, 17), with each of the channels having an outer edge (20) closest to the corresponding longitudinal side edge (12, 13) of the product and an inner edge (21) closest to the longitudinal centre line of the product.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2001Publication date: May 2, 2002Applicant: SCA Hygiene Product ABInventors: Ing-Britt Magnusson, Lennart Nilsson
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Publication number: 20020049417Abstract: A body fluid absorbent panel including fibers containing hydrophilic fibers by 80-100% by weight and superabsorbent polymer particles contains heat-fusible fibers which are fused to intertwine the fibers and thereby to form a three-dimensional network structure wherein the high absorption polymer particles are held between respective pairs of the adjacent fibers or bonded to the fibers by means of binder, and thereby falling off of the polymer particles can be prevented and the absorption efficiency can be improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2001Publication date: April 25, 2002Inventors: Kazuaki Onishi, Masashi Nakashita
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Patent number: 6372953Abstract: Described are absorbent members useful in the containment of body liquids such as urine. These absorbent members comprise at least one osmotic absorbent (preferably a hydrogel-forming absorbent polymer) and a high surface area material, and have a high capillary suction capacity. For purposes of the present disclosure, capillary suction capacity is measured in terms of the member's ability to uptake liquid at high capillary heights, which are generally encountered when the member is positioned in an absorbent article. In particular, capillary suction capacity is measured in terms of a member's capillary sorption absorbent capacity, which is measured in accordance with the Capillary Sorption method described in the Test Methods section.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1999Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Gerald A. Young, Thomas A. Desmarais, Gianfranco Palumbo, Mattias Schmidt, Stephen A. Goldman, Arman Ashraf, James C. Horney
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Patent number: 6372952Abstract: The present invention relates in one aspect to absorbent articles that maintain or increase fluid acquisition rates when subjected to successive fluid loads. In another aspect, the invention relates to an absorbent article useful for absorbing discharges of aqueous body fluids which has a fluid pervious topsheet, a backsheet and an absorbent core, the absorbent core including at least one upper storage component in direct fluid communication with the topsheet capable of expanding in the z-direction to form a fluid acquisition zone when contacted with aqueous body fluids, the acquisition zone being at least partially surrounded by the upper fluid storage component and beneath the fluid discharge region of the core, and a fluid acquisition/distribution component having at least a portion positioned underneath and in fluid communication with the storage component and acquisition zone.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1996Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Glen Ray Lash, Fumito Furukawa, John Joseph Litchholt, Ebrahim Rezai, Mattias Schmidt
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Patent number: 6369291Abstract: Disposable underpants 1 according to the invention has an improved sealability at the crotch of user by providing a fitting elastic member 55 and has an absorbent core 7 having an improved shape retention by providing a first nonwoven fabric 73 as an intermediate layer inside the absorbent core 7 and adhering it to the upper and lower layers thereof. Since the absorbent core needs not be heated, inexpensive disposable underpants can be produced. Further, according to an inventive production method, a step of adhering elastic members to an outer sheet 2 and a step of producing inner absorbent members 6 are separately performed, and no heating treatment is performed in the absorbent core production step. Accordingly, the disposable underpants can be produced at a remarkably higher speed.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2000Date of Patent: April 9, 2002Assignee: Toyo Eizai Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kenichi Uchimoto, Iwao Matsuura