Array of absorbent article packages with natural fibers

Abstract

An array of absorbent article packages is described. The array includes a first package and a second package each having a first packaging material and a second packaging material, respectively, that includes natural fibers. The first and second packages include a plurality of sheets and a plurality of seals that enclose one or more absorbent articles therein. A portion of the first packaging material exhibits a water vapor transmission rate "SCWVTR" under stress conditions of about 300 g / (m 2 *2) or less according to ASTM F1249 as modified herein. Each of the one or more absorbent articles in the second package includes an absorbent core having less superabsorbent polymer than the absorbent core of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package, and the one or more absorbent articles in the first and second packages are manufactured by or on behalf of the same manufacturer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to disposable absorbent articles and their packaging, and more particularly to recyclable packaging. Background Technology

[0002] Historically, environmentally friendly products are currently at the forefront of many consumer concerns. There is a growing focus on products from sustainable sources. For example, there is a strong market expectation for consumer products that incorporate natural, bio-based, and / or recycled materials. On the disposal side, there is a growing focus on products that are biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, reusable, and / or otherwise generate minimal landfill waste.

[0003] In the case of single-use absorbent products, especially single-use absorbent product packaging, there are packaging materials that already meet one or both of these criteria. For example, a large number of absorbent products utilize cardboard boxes as their shelf-stable packaging. Cardboard boxes, being derived from wood pulp, can meet one or both of sustainable sourcing and recyclability. Furthermore, cardboard boxes are useful when the product within the packaging itself cannot form a shelf-stable surface.

[0004] When disposable absorbent materials can be compressed and / or form a shelf-stable surface, a more flexible material, namely plastic, is typically used. Plastic is generally preferred over cardboard because, given its bending and stretching capabilities, plastic can withstand far more demanding packaging processes than cardboard. Additionally, plastic offers significantly higher moisture resistance than conventional cardboard.

[0005] In the case of absorbent articles that include the superabsorbent polymer "SAP," this high moisture resistance is particularly desirable. SAP is typically provided in the absorbent core of the absorbent article and is designed to absorb liquid effluent from the body. Unfortunately, SAP can also function well in absorbing moisture. In this case, plastic packaging is preferred to reduce the likelihood of SAP absorbing moisture from the external environment.

[0006] However, there is a growing public demand for alternatives to plastic and non-plastic-based materials. Natural-based flexible packaging materials will meet this demand. Furthermore, flexible packaging materials that are natural-based and provide a moisture-proof layer will be beneficial. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The packaging disclosed herein includes one or more disposable absorbent articles and comprises a packaging material comprising natural fibers. In one form, an array of absorbent article packaging includes a first packaging and a second packaging, each of the first and second packaging comprising a plurality of sheets and a plurality of seals encapsulating one or more absorbent articles therein. The first packaging includes a first packaging material, and the second packaging includes a second packaging material, each of the first and second packaging materials comprising natural fibers. Each of the one or more absorbent articles in the first packaging includes an absorbent core having at least 5 grams of superabsorbent polymer, more preferably at least 7 grams of superabsorbent polymer, or most preferably at least 9 grams of superabsorbent polymer. Furthermore, a portion of the first packaging material exhibits a content of approximately 300 g / (m³) according to ASTM F1249 as modified herein. 2 *day) or less, more preferably about 200g / (m 2 *day) or less, or most preferably about 150g / (m 2 *Day) or less of water vapor transmission rate (SCWVTR) under stress conditions. Each of the one or more absorbent articles in the second package includes an absorbent core having less superabsorbent polymer than the absorbent core of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package, and the one or more absorbent articles in the first package and the one or more absorbent articles in the second package are manufactured by the same manufacturer or on behalf of the same manufacturer. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of the packaging material sheet according to this disclosure.

[0009] Figure 1B It shows the folded configuration. Figure 1A A schematic diagram of the packaging material sheet.

[0010] Figure 1C This is a schematic diagram of a package in an open state according to this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 1D It is in a closed state. Figure 1C A schematic diagram of the packaging.

[0012] Figure 1E This is a schematic diagram of another package of the present disclosure shown in a closed state.

[0013] Figure 2A This is a schematic diagram showing a sheet of packaging according to the present disclosure, wherein the sheet includes a block-type seal.

[0014] Figure 2BThis is a schematic diagram illustrating a package according to the present disclosure, wherein the package includes a seal in a clamping bottom configuration.

[0015] Figure 2C This is a schematic diagram illustrating the packaging of the present disclosure, wherein the piece includes a seal in a cross configuration.

[0016] Figure 2D This is a schematic diagram of a sheet of packaging according to the present disclosure, wherein the sheet includes a seal in a block configuration having a sealing area.

[0017] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram illustrating a package constructed using a flow wrapping process according to the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram illustrating another package according to the present disclosure constructed using a flow wrapping process.

[0019] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram illustrating another package constructed according to this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 4B It is shown Figure 4A A schematic diagram of a rotated view of the packaging.

[0021] Figure 5 It is along line 5-5 Figure 1E A cross-sectional view of the packaging, showing the absorbent product inside.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the absorbent article of this disclosure, showing a partial cross-sectional view of the article.

[0023] Figure 7A A plan view of a diaper constructed according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0024] Figure 7B The section cut off at 35-35 degrees is shown. Figure 7A The cross-section of the diaper.

[0025] Figure 7C It shows a state of expansion. Figure 7B The cross-section of the diaper.

[0026] Figure 8 A plan view of an exemplary absorbent article in the form of an adhesive diaper is shown, with the surface facing the clothing towards the observer, in a planar unfolded state. Detailed Implementation

[0027] As used herein, the term "absorbent article" refers to a device for absorbing and containing excretions, and more specifically, to a device placed close to or adjacent to the wearer's body to absorb and contain various excretions from the body. Absorbent articles of this disclosure include, but are not limited to, diapers, adult incontinence briefs, training pants, diaper fasteners, diaper covers, absorbent inserts for diaper covers, menstrual pads, incontinence pads, liners, sanitary pads, tampons, durable menstrual pants, disposable swim trunks, etc. Additionally, the term "absorbent article" includes cleaning devices that can be used to clean surfaces, such as dust wipes, dust wipe refills adapted to a reusable handle, sweeping and / or mopping mats, and sweeping or mopping mat refills attachable to a reusable handle.

[0028] As used herein, the term "array" refers to a display of packaging comprising single-use articles of different sizes, which have similar article constructions (e.g., identical materials [compositionally and / or structurally]) in their absorbent cores, top sheets, side wings, graphic elements, and / or backsheets. The packages within an "array" share the same brand and / or sub-brand. A series is sold as a collection of products, typically featuring similar packaging elements (e.g., type of packaging material, film, paper, main color, design theme, etc.) that convey to consumers the message that the different individual packages are part of a larger series. Arrays often share the same brand, such as "U by Kotex". TM And they can also have the same sub-brands. For example, the brand "U by Kotex" for menstrual pads. TM Under this brand, there are several sub-brands, namely "Clean". "、 “Teen” and Within each of these sub-brands, there are multiple sizes.

[0029] Different arrays can have branding Under this brand name, adult incontinence pads and liners may exist. The aforementioned array and... Differences between arrays include additional absorption capacity for absorbing urine rather than perineum. Another array, particularly in adult incontinence spaces, may include brand names. The array may include adult incontinence pants / underwear, rather than Adult incontinence pads under the brand name.

[0030] Within the “array” is a “product-in-array,” which is an arrangement designed for products with similar or identical functions. For example, a “product-in-array” may include packaging for a first menstrual pad and packaging for a second menstrual pad. Each of the packaging for the first and second menstrual pads is manufactured by the same manufacturer and / or on behalf of the same manufacturer. As another example, a “product-in-array” may include packaging for baby diaper swimsuits and packaging for baby diapers (adhesive or trouser-style). Each of the packaging for baby diaper swimsuits and baby diapers is manufactured by the same manufacturer and / or on behalf of the same manufacturer.

[0031] Additionally, the term "array" includes "inter-product array," which is an arrangement of products designed for different functions. For example, an "inter-product array" could include packaging for a first adult incontinence product and packaging for a first menstrual product. Each of the packaging for the first adult incontinence product and the packaging for the first menstrual product is manufactured by the same manufacturer and / or on behalf of the same manufacturer. As another example, an "inter-product array" could include packaging for baby diapers (e.g., adhesive or trouser-style) and packaging for light adult incontinence pads or mini menstrual pads. Each of the packaging for baby diapers (e.g., adhesive or trouser-style) and packaging for light adult incontinence pads or mini menstrual pads is manufactured by the same manufacturer and / or on behalf of the same manufacturer.

[0032] Both "inter-product array" and "intra-product array" can include the same brand name and / or the same sub-brand name. Alternatively, both "inter-product array" and "intra-product array" can include different brand names.

[0033] As used herein, the term "online array" refers to an "array" distributed by a commonly used online source. Furthermore, the "array" is very similar to those described above in that it is manufactured by the same manufacturer and / or on behalf of the same manufacturer.

[0034] The term "crease" refers to one or more features in a fibrous web material that create a preferred bending axis of the fibrous web. Creases in this disclosure may include embossed areas, areas of lower thickness, areas of lower density, areas of lower stiffness, areas of material displacement, or combinations thereof. It is noteworthy that creases exist in the fibrous web of this disclosure prior to folding, while folds only exist after the fibrous web has been folded. As used herein, the term "transverse" or "CD" refers to a path perpendicular to the longitudinal direction in the plane of the fibrous web.

[0035] As used in this article, the term "longitudinal" or "MD" refers to the path of a material, such as a fiber web, as it moves through the entire manufacturing process.

[0036] As used herein, the term "natural fiber" refers to fibers including cellulose-based fibers, bamboo-based fibers, and the like. Natural fibers also refer to non-wood fibers such as cotton, cotton linters, sisal, yucca, kudzu, corn, sorghum, gourd, agave, loofah or sponge, coconut fiber, kapok, Manila hemp, kenaf, sedge, flax, Spanish grass, rice straw, jute, bagasse, milkweed fiber, pineapple leaf fiber, and mixtures thereof; and wood fibers, timber or pulp fibers, such as those obtained from deciduous and coniferous trees, including cork fibers, such as northern and southern cork leather fibers; and hardwood fibers, such as eucalyptus, maple, birch, and poplar. Pulp fibers can be prepared in high-yield or low-yield forms and can be pulped by any known method, including leather pulping, sulfite pulping, high-yield pulping methods, and other known pulping methods. The natural fibers of this invention can be recycled natural fibers, virgin natural fibers, or mixtures thereof. In addition, to ensure good mechanical properties, natural fibers are desirable to be relatively undamaged and mostly unrefined or only lightly refined. Fibers may have a Canadian standard freeness of at least 200, more specifically at least 300, even more specifically at least 400, and most specifically at least 500.

[0037] Unless otherwise specified, as used herein, the term "cellulose-based fiber" can include cellulose fibers (such as wood fibers), cotton, regenerated cellulose fibers (rayon or cuprammonium rayon), and high-yield pulping fibers. The term "cellulose-based fiber" also includes chemically treated natural fibers (such as mercerized pulp), chemically hardened or cross-linked fibers, or sulfonated fibers. It also includes mercerized natural fibers, regenerated natural cellulose fibers, cellulose produced by microorganisms, rayon processes, cellulose dissolving and coagulation spinning processes, and other cellulose materials or cellulose derivatives. Other cellulose-based fibers included are waste paper or recycled fibers and high-yield fibers. High-yield pulping fibers are those produced by pulping processes that provide a yield of about 65% or higher, more specifically about 75% or higher, and even more specifically about 75% to about 95%. Yield is the amount of processed fiber obtained as a percentage of the initial wood mass. These pulping processes include bleached chemothermal-mechanical pulp (BCTMP), chemothermal-mechanical pulp (CTMP), pressure / pressure thermomechanical pulp (PTMP), thermomechanical pulp (TMP), thermomechanical-chemical pulp (TMCP), high-yield sulfite pulp, and high-yield kraft pulp, all of which result in fibers with high levels of lignin but are still considered natural fibers. High-yield fibers are known for their hardness in both dry and wet states, compared to typical chemically pulped fibers.

[0038] As used herein, the terms “non-recyclable material” or “contaminant” refer to materials that are considered unsuitable for processing in natural fiber recycling processes. However, materials provided under one or both of these names in alternative recycling streams can be recyclable.

[0039] The array of packages disclosed herein provides consumers with absorbent product packaging comprising natural fibers, and at least a portion of these packages further includes moisture barrier protection, wherein each package within the array is recyclable. The array includes at least a first package and a second package, the first package and the second package comprising a first packaging material and a second packaging material, respectively. The first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise one or more layers of natural fibers, and the first packaging material further comprises one or more barrier layers. The array of this disclosure may include a plurality of first packages and / or a plurality of second packages. In such cases, the plurality of first packages may be referred to as "a first plurality of packages," and similarly, the plurality of second packages may be referred to as "a second plurality of packages."

[0040] Each package in the array of packages disclosed herein provides a flexible packaging material containing one or more absorbent articles, wherein the packaging material comprises natural fibers. The natural fibers can be formed into paper, from which the packaging material is manufactured. The composition of the packaging material will be discussed in more detail below. Each package in the array comprises multiple sheets, including consumer-facing sheets and multiple seals. Additionally, at least a portion of the packages in the array may include a barrier material that inhibits the migration of moisture through the packaging material.

[0041] The inventors have surprisingly discovered that some absorbent articles absorb moisture or humidity more readily than others. For example, absorbent articles including moisture-sensitive indicators or wetting indicators, such as diapers and / or training pants, are examples of absorbent articles that readily absorb moisture. These wetting indicators can be triggered in their packaging before use, depending on the environmental conditions in which the product is packaged. Additionally, absorbent articles with high levels of SAP (Symptom Acid) may also present problems when stored in humid environments. For example, the SAP in these absorbent articles can change color after absorbing a certain amount of moisture from the environment in the form of water vapor. Unfortunately, this color change can cause similar problems for wearers and / or caregivers. Furthermore, the inventors have discovered that although SAP regeneration is possible by placing the product in a low-humidity environment, SAP regeneration does not reverse the color change in the product. Finally, the inventors have discovered that some absorbent articles, after exposure to high humidity and temperature conditions (e.g., conditions that may be encountered during the period from the manufacturer's distribution to when the consumer uses the absorbent article), can impart an undesirable stiffness or hardness to the product, which may not be reversed again when the absorbent article is reintroduced to a low humidity and temperature environment.

[0042] Furthermore, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that while SAP effectively absorbs moisture from its environment in the form of water vapor, this absorption does not continue until the SAP's capacity is depleted. Instead, the SAP will absorb water vapor for a period of time, such as several weeks under stress conditions (described below), and approach a steady state. The steady-state amount of water vapor absorbed by the SAP is much lower than its total capacity. Therefore, the SAP within the absorbent article still retains its ability to absorb liquid contamination during use. For example, the steady-state absorption may be less than about 10% of the article's total capacity. However, even at 10%, sufficient water vapor can be absorbed to activate the wetting indicator markers before wear, resulting in a color change in the SAP and / or an increase in the article's stiffness.

[0043] Numerous factors can influence the moisture absorption of SAP in absorbent articles. For example, while the inventors do not wish to be bound by theory, it is believed that cellulose in absorbent articles does not readily absorb water vapor as readily as SAP. Theoretically, the cellulose material in absorbent articles should not absorb as much water vapor from the environment as SAP. Therefore, theoretically, absorbent articles with a high cellulose to SAP ratio by weight may not absorb as much water vapor from the environment as those with a lower cellulose to SAP ratio by weight. Similarly, theoretically, absorbent articles with a high weight or gram amount of SAP per absorbent article may absorb more water vapor than absorbent articles with a very low weight or gram amount of SAP.

[0044] For example, menstrual pads typically have significantly less SAP per product than diapers or training pants. Similarly, menstrual pads and baby diaper swim pants typically have significantly less SAP per product than adult incontinence pads and / or pants. Theoretically, absorbent products containing more than 5 grams, 7 grams, or 9 grams of SAP per product would potentially benefit from the packaging of this disclosure, including a moisture-proof layer.

[0045] Furthermore, theoretically, the permeability of the absorbent article's backing sheet can similarly contribute to or influence the amount of water vapor absorbed by SAP when the absorbent article is in packaging. For example, a non-permeable membrane can provide a high barrier to the absorption of moisture from SAP while the SAP-containing article is in packaging. However, for absorbent articles, such as diapers, trousers, and adult incontinence trousers with a permeable membrane as a backing sheet component, such permeable membranes are theoretically designed to allow moisture to pass through or diffuse between adjacent absorbent articles within the packaging. Nevertheless, the absorbent article packaging material of the present invention is believed to be particularly advantageous for absorbent articles comprising a permeable membrane as a backing sheet component.

[0046] In view of the foregoing, the first package of the array disclosed herein includes one or more absorbent articles, and the second package includes one or more absorbent articles. As previously stated, the first package includes a first packaging material comprising one or more natural fiber layers and one or more barrier layers to reduce moisture migration through the first packaging material. In contrast, the second package includes a second packaging material comprising one or more natural fiber layers and may not have one or more barrier layers.

[0047] One or more absorbent articles in the first package may include an absorbent core comprising 5 grams or more, 7 grams or more, or 9 grams or more of SAP, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. For example, one or more absorbent articles in the first package may each include an absorbent core comprising between about 5 grams of SAP and about 30 grams of SAP, more preferably about 7 grams of SAP and about 30 grams of SAP, or most preferably about 9 grams of SAP and about 30 grams of SAP, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom.

[0048] In contrast, one or more absorbent articles in the second package may include an absorbent core comprising a smaller amount of SAP than the absorbent core of the absorbent article in the first package. For example, one or more absorbent articles in the second package may include an absorbent core having 5 grams or less, 3 grams or less, or 2 grams or less of SAP, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. For example, the one or more absorbent articles may each include an absorbent core comprising between 0 grams and 5 grams of SAP, about 0 grams and about 3 grams of SAP, or about 0 grams and about 2 grams of SAP, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom.

[0049] In yet another example, one or more absorbent articles in the first package may include a wetting indicator mark. In such examples, one or more absorbent articles in the second package may have no wetting indicator mark or may not include one.

[0050] Where the second packaging material does not include one or more barrier layers, absorbent products that may be provided in the second package include menstrual pads, sanitary pads, baby diaper swimsuits, absorbent products individually wrapped in a moisture-proof layer, and absorbent products that are not breathable. In contrast, absorbent products suitable for the first package include incontinence pads for moderate and heavy use, diapers, diaper pants, adult incontinence pants, etc.

[0051] In this respect, packages including a first packaging material and packages including a second packaging material may comprise an inner product array, wherein the first package (having the first packaging material) and the second package (having the second packaging material) comprise products intended for the same purpose but under different brand names and / or sub-brands. In such examples, the first package may comprise adult incontinence pads or adult incontinence pants for heavy use, and the second package may comprise adult incontinence liners or adult incontinence pads for light use. In yet another example of an inner product array, the first package may comprise baby diapers, such as adhesive or trouser-style, while the second package comprises baby diaper swim pants. In yet another example of an inner product array, the first package may comprise adult incontinence pants, while the second package comprises baby swimming diapers.

[0052] In another example, a package including a first packaging material and a second packaging material may include an array of products, wherein the first package (having the first packaging material) and the second package (having the second packaging material) include different brand names and / or sub-brands. In such an example, the first package may include adult incontinence pads, adult incontinence pants, baby diapers, diaper pants, diaper liners, etc., while the second package may include menstrual pads or sanitary pads.

[0053] Recall that both the first and second packaging materials comprise at least one layer of natural fibers. However, as previously mentioned, the first packaging material also includes a barrier layer. The first package may be configured such that the barrier layer forms the inner surface of the package. Alternatively, the first package may be configured such that the barrier layer forms the outward-facing surface of the package. In yet another example, the barrier layer may be configured to be disposed between one or more layers of natural fibers.

[0054] One or more barrier layers in the first packaging material may include a film. It is noteworthy that films laminated, coated, or otherwise bonded to the natural fiber layer form a synergistic relationship, particularly when it is desirable for the film to constitute a small percentage of the total packaging material by weight. For example, a film comprising 5% or less of the total packaging material can be a very low basis weight for the packaging material. At such a low basis weight, it is believed that the film cannot be reliably processed without coating, laminating, or otherwise bonding to the natural material layer. Similarly, without the addition of a film, the natural material layer may not provide much (if any) inhibition of SAP-absorbed moisture within one or more absorbent articles in the package. The mass ratio of the natural fiber layer to the barrier layer will be discussed in more detail below.

[0055] An exemplary method for bonding a membrane to a natural fibrous layer is described below. The membrane layer may be a water-insoluble polymer. This polymer may be obtained from a manufacturer as a pre-formed dispersion / emulsion, or, if a pre-formed dispersion / emulsion is unavailable, a dispersion / emulsion may be formed. The aqueous polymer system is then coated onto the natural fibrous layer, and water (or other solvents, such as alcohols) may be removed via convection or diffusion drying. Sufficient heat may then be applied to form a continuous polymer layer.

[0056] Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the most important material properties of aqueous polymer systems are: a) the ability of the polymer to form an emulsion in water; b) the viscosity of the aqueous polymer system at that temperature, with higher viscosity being better for maximum differentiation / separation between layers; and c) the wetting of the aqueous polymer system on the substrate to be coated, with higher wetting being better.

[0057] Another example involves hot-extrusion coatings. Hot-extrusion coatings are used to apply non-aqueous compositions. In this method, the polymer composition can be melted in an extruder; the molten polymer composition is hot-extruded onto the surface of a natural fiber layer, and then cooled to form a packaging material.

[0058] In yet another example, the film can be applied to one or more natural fiber layers via adhesive lamination. If this is done, care should be taken regarding the type and amount of adhesive used, as this affects the overall recyclability of the packaging material. Using this arrangement, the adhesive layer can be applied directly to the natural fiber layer, followed by the preformed film layer. The polymer composition can be made into a preformed film using various methods, including solution coating, hot-cast film extrusion, and hot-blown film extrusion. In yet another example, thermal lamination can be used to adhere the polymer film layer to the natural fiber layer.

[0059] Regarding suitable polymer compositions for use in membranes, there are many biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymer compositions. Some examples of biodegradable options include aliphatic aromatic polyesters (e.g., from BASF). ), certain thermoplastic starches (e.g., MATER-BI from Novamont or from Plantic / Kuraray) ), polybutylene succinate (PBS) and their copolymers (e.g., from ShoWa Highpolymer Co. Alternatively, PBSA from Mitsubishi Chemicals, polycaprolactone, and mixtures thereof. Other suitable polymers include polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and PHA copolymers, such as poly(β-hydroxyalkanoates), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) NODAX from Danimer. TM And poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) from Kaneka. Non-limiting examples of PHA copolymers include those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,498,692. Other PHA copolymers can be synthesized by methods known to those skilled in the art, such as ring-opening polymerization of microorganisms, dehydration condensation of hydroxyalkyl acids, and dealcoholization condensation of alkyl ethers of hydroxyalkyl acids, as described in Volova, “Polyhydroxy Alkanoates Plastic Materials of the 21st Century: Production, Properties and Applications,” Nova Science Publishers, Inc., (2004), which is incorporated herein by reference. Another example is polylactic acid (PLA). Additional examples of non-biodegradable options include polyolefin materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and mixtures thereof. Examples of polyethylene may include high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, medium-density polyethylene—including all homopolymers and copolymers of those materials, and mixtures thereof. Other examples of non-biodegradable options may include various Surlyn resins; styrene-butadiene copolymers, such as acrylonitrile-butadiene; acrylic acid copolymers; acrylate copolymers (including methyl methacrylate); and acetate copolymers, including EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate). In some cases, the polymer may include filler additives such as clay (e.g., kaolin) and other mineral additives such as CaCO3 or TiO2. Other options include poly(ethylene acrylate) (EAA) and polyethylene-co-propylene-co-ethylene-norbornene copolymers.

[0060] As previously described, the first packaging material includes one or more barrier layers. For example, when viewed under a microscope, a natural fibrous layer has several gaps that allow moisture to migrate through. A first barrier film layer can be applied to help seal the gaps and create a smooth surface. Subsequently, a second barrier film can be applied over the first barrier film to create a more robust moisture-proof layer. Since the gaps / smooth surface area are created by the first barrier film, it is believed that a lower basis weight second barrier film can be utilized. In a specific example, the first barrier film may include polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), while the second barrier film includes polyethylene.

[0061] One advantage of this method is that PVA can dissolve during the recycling process and can be excluded from the total rejected material from the recycling process. And as previously mentioned, this allows for a smaller total weight percentage of packaging material that is included as part of the total rejected material. Any of the aforementioned materials that dissolve and / or disperse during the recycling process described herein can be used as a first barrier layer. The recycling process and the total rejected material will be discussed in more detail below.

[0062] Ideally, the packaging material of this disclosure would provide unrestricted protection, thereby inhibiting the absorption of moisture by SAP in the absorbent articles therein. However, as previously mentioned, adding barrier materials to the natural material layers can negatively impact the recyclability of the natural fiber layers. Therefore, barrier materials and packaging materials should be selected with care.

[0063] In addition to providing barrier properties, the addition of a film layer eliminates the need for adhesives to create multiple seals within the packaging. Eliminating adhesives to create seals can contribute to the percentage of recyclable contents in packaging materials, as will be discussed below.

[0064] As previously stated, the first packaging material provides barrier properties that inhibit moisture migration through the packaging material. The barrier properties of the first packaging material disclosed herein can be measured via ASTM F1249, specifically Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR). This test provides useful information about the moisture permeability of the packaging material; however, this test is typically performed at 23°C and 50% relative humidity. As previously stated, the inventors have discovered that at relatively low levels of absorbed moisture (e.g., approximately 6.5 grams), some absorbent articles may negatively react to moisture absorption (particularly the wetting indicator markings on diapers). Furthermore, several regions globally do not meet these conditions. Instead, temperatures in these regions are higher, and relative humidity is sometimes also higher. Based on the foregoing, the inventors conducted an ASTM F1249 WVTR test under stress conditions of 38°C and 90% relative humidity. The result of this test is the WVTR under stress conditions, or "SCWVTR".

[0065] To inhibit the migration of moisture through the first packaging material, the first packaging material may have a moisture content of approximately 300 g / (m³). 2 *day) or less, approximately 200g / (m 2 *day) or less, or about 150g / (m 2 *days) or less of SCWVTR, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. As another example, the first packaging material of this disclosure may exhibit 20 g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 300g / (m 2 *day), approximately 20g / (m 2*day) to approximately 200g / (m 2 *day), or approximately 20g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 150g / (m 2 The SCWVTR values ​​are listed between *days), specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, the first packaging material of this disclosure may exhibit less than about 100 g / (m²). 2 *day), less than approximately 95g / (m 2 *day), or less than approximately 80g / (m 2 The SCWVTR (days) specifically lists all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In another specific example, the first packaging material of this disclosure can exhibit approximately 20 g / (m²). 2 *day) to approximately 100g / (m 2 *day), 20g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 95g / (m 2 *day), or approximately 20g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 80g / (m 2 The SCWVTR is specified between *days), specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In yet another specific example, the first packaging material of this disclosure can exhibit approximately 70 g / (m²). 2 *day) to approximately 150g / (m 2 *day), approximately 70g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 120g / (m 2 *day), or approximately 70g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 110g / (m 2 The SCWVTR between *days is specifically listed, outlining all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges that arise from them.

[0066] Using the aforementioned SCWVTR, absorbent articles that are typically sensitive to moisture can withstand more extreme conditions when provided in the first packaging material. For example, for those absorbent articles that include wetting indicator marks, the wetting indicator marks can remain substantially inactive for a much longer period of time than when these articles are provided in packaging without a barrier function / layer.

[0067] Data for various materials are provided in Table 1 below.

[0068] 1 95 qualified 2 94.5 qualified 3 678 81.4 qualified 4 148 87 qualified 5 139 87 qualified 6 400 qualified 7 291 99 qualified

[0069] Table 1

[0070] Sample 1 is 84gsm brown kraft paper coated on one side, marketed under the trade name Aegis 95 / 5. TMPurchased from Mondi.

[0071] Sample 2 is 84gsm white kraft paper coated on one side, marketed under the trade name Aegis 95 / 5. TM Purchased from Mondi.

[0072] Sample 3 is a material coated on one side, under the trade name Sustainex. TM Purchased from Mondi.

[0073] Sample 4 is under the trade name Sappi Seal TM 67gsm material purchased from Sappi Group.

[0074] Sample 5 is under the trade name Sappi Seal TM 85gsm material purchased from Sappi Group.

[0075] Sample 6 is under the trade name NexPlus Advanced TM 75gsm material purchased from Koehler Paper Group.

[0076] Sample 7 is named Earth Film TM 100gsm material purchased from Sirane Group.

[0077] Recyclability

[0078] There is no universally accepted standard for determining the recyclability of packaging materials. Generally speaking, the higher the percentage yield of natural materials, the more likely the material is to be recycled. For convenience, throughout the remainder of this specification, the term "packaging material" should include both the first and second packaging materials mentioned above, unless otherwise specified. Similarly, the term "package" should include both the first and second packages, unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the term "natural fiber layer" should include one or more natural fiber layers, and similarly, the term "barrier layer" or "film layer" should include one or more barrier layers, unless otherwise specified.

[0079] The natural fiber portions of the first and second packaging materials may include any suitable natural fibers. As previously mentioned, in some examples, natural fibers may include wood pulp and / or cellulose. Additionally, in some examples, the first and / or second packaging materials of this disclosure, although recyclable, may themselves include recycled materials. Such determination can be made through visual inspection of the packaging. For example, manufacturers often advertise the use of recycled materials in an attempt to demonstrate their eco-friendly product approach. To further expand on this example, some manufacturers may utilize logos, such as leaves, and wording indicating the use of recycled materials in the packaging materials. Typically, manufacturers may also specify the percentage of recycled materials used, such as more than 50%, more than 70%, etc.

[0080] Visual inspection can be as simple as using the human eye to check packaging for signs indicating the use of recycled materials. Alternatively, visual inspection may include microscopy. For example, packaging materials, including recycled paper fibers, may look different under a microscope due to the wider range of natural fiber types available. As another example, under a microscope (likely a scanning electron microscope), recycled fibers may exhibit more fibrillation than their virgin fiber counterparts due to their processing.

[0081] Recycling processes determine the percentage of recyclable material and the amount of rejected material. Some specific examples of standards that may be useful in determining whether packaging materials are recyclable, the percentage of recyclable material, and the percentage of non-recyclable material include the PTS method and the Western Michigan method, each described in detail below. These methods relate to the recyclability of materials containing wood fibers and / or pulp fibers. These methods are discussed in more detail below.

[0082] The packaging materials disclosed herein (i.e., the first packaging material and the second packaging material) may include natural fibers that form paper. The packaging material may include at least 50% by weight of natural fibers, at least 70% by weight of natural fibers, or at least 90% by weight of natural fibers, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. As yet another example, the packaging material may include at least 95% by weight of natural fibers. The packaging materials disclosed herein may include between 50% by weight and 100% by weight of natural fibers, between 70% by weight and 99.9% by weight of natural fibers, or between 90% by weight and 99.9% by weight of natural fibers. It is noteworthy that when the weight percentage of natural fibers is less than 100%, there is room for coatings, colorants, films, and / or adhesives, if desired. In some forms, the first packaging material may have a lower weight percentage of natural fibers than the second packaging material.

[0083] To increase the recyclability of packaging materials, the total weight percentage of non-recyclable materials (e.g., adhesives, films, coatings, and / or colorants) in the packaging materials of this disclosure can be carefully selected. For example, the packaging materials of this disclosure may contain 50% by weight or less, 30% by weight or less, or about 15% by weight or less of non-recyclable materials, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. As another example, the packaging materials of this disclosure may contain about 0.1% by weight to about 50% by weight, about 0.1% by weight to about 30% by weight, or about 0.1% by weight to about 15% by weight of non-recyclable materials, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. If it is desired to increase the possibility of recycling capability, the weight percentage of non-recyclable materials may be 5% by weight or less, or between 0.1% by weight and 5% by weight, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom.

[0084] For the first packaging material, to accommodate a higher percentage yield of natural materials (e.g., wood pulp and / or cellulose), the weight percentage of the film should be smaller compared to the weight percentage of the natural fibers. For example, the film layer may comprise about 40% by weight or less, 30% by weight or less, or 20% by weight or less of the total packaging material, with all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom specifically listed. As another example, the weight percentage of the film layer may be between about 3% by weight and about 40% by weight, more preferably about 3% by weight and about 30% by weight, or most preferably about 3% by weight and about 20% by weight, with all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom specifically listed. In one specific example, the film may comprise about 5% by weight or less, more preferably about 4% by weight or less, or most preferably about 3% by weight or less of the total packaging material. In another specific example, the film may comprise between about 0.1% by weight and about 5% by weight, more preferably about 0.1% by weight and about 4% by weight, or most preferably about 0.1% by weight and about 3% by weight.

[0085] The basis weight of the film layer may be at least about 0.1 gsm. Theoretically, below this basis weight, the film layer may not be able to cover a sufficient portion of the bag to provide suitable barrier properties. However, apart from the above, the film layer may be any suitable basis weight, as long as the basis weight of the film is within the aforementioned weight percentage. The film layer may include a basis weight between about 0.1 gsm and about 25 gsm, more preferably between about 2 gsm and about 20 gsm, or most preferably between about 2 gsm and about 15 gsm, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, the film layer may include a basis weight between about 2 gsm and about 10 gsm, more preferably between about 2 gsm and about 8 gsm, or most preferably between about 2 gsm and about 6 gsm, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The total basis weight of the packaging materials (i.e., the first packaging material and the second packaging material) will be discussed in more detail herein.

[0086] As previously described, the first packaging material comprises a natural fiber layer and a barrier layer. The mass ratio of one or more natural fiber layers to one or more barrier layers may be about 7:1 or greater, more preferably about 8:1 or greater, or most preferably about 9:1 or greater, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, the mass ratio of the natural fiber layer to one or more barrier layers of the first packaging material may be about 16:1 or greater. For example, the first packaging material may comprise a mass ratio of the natural fiber layer to the barrier layer between about 7:1 and about 25:1, more preferably about 8:1 to about 22:1, or most preferably about 9:1 to about 20:1, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom.

[0087] The effectiveness of the recycling process on the packaging materials of this disclosure can be determined by the percentage of recyclability. The packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit a recyclability percentage of 60% or greater, more preferably 80% or greater, or most preferably 90% or greater, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The packaging materials of this disclosure may have a recyclability percentage of 60% to about 99.9%, more preferably about 80% to about 99.9%, or most preferably about 90% to about 99.9%, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, the packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit a recyclability percentage of about 90% to about 99.9%, more preferably about 94% to about 99.9%, or most preferably about 96% to about 99.9%, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The percentage of recyclable packaging materials disclosed herein can be determined by test PTS-RH:021 / 97 (draft October 2019) under Category II, as conducted by Papiertechnische Stiftung located at Pirnaer Strasse 37, 01809 Heidenau, Germany.

[0088] Together with the recyclability percentage, the total rejection percentage can be determined via PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) under the Category II test method. However, unlike the recyclability percentage, the total rejection percentage can be reduced to increase the likelihood of recyclability. For example, the total rejection percentage of the packaging materials of this disclosure can be 40% or less, more preferably about 20% or less, or most preferably less than about 10% or less, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. For example, the total rejection percentage of the packaging materials of this disclosure can be from 0.1% to 40%, more preferably from 0.1% to 20%, or most preferably from 0.1% to 10%, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, the total rejection percentage can be less than 6%, or between 0.1% and 6%, more preferably from 0.1% to 4%, or most preferably from 0.1% to 3%, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In some forms, the second packaging material may exhibit a lower overall rejection percentage than the first packaging material.

[0089] For clarity, the percentage of non-recyclable materials is not necessarily correlated 1:1 with the total rejection percentage. For example, this document discloses the use of soluble adhesives / soluble barrier layers. Since these materials are designed to dissolve during the recycling process, they theoretically should not affect the total rejection percentage; however, they will increase the weight percentage of non-recyclable materials in the package.

[0090] It is worth noting that the test method PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) under Category II includes a handmade paper inspection component. Trained screening personnel inspect one or more sheets of recycled packaging material handmade paper for visual defects and stickiness. If the number of visual defects is too high or if it is too sticky, the packaging material is rejected. According to the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method, if the number of visual defects is acceptable and the handmade paper is not too sticky, the packaging material is approved for further processing. During this step of the PTS method, the packaging material of this disclosure can produce acceptable levels of visual defects and stickiness.

[0091] The packaging materials disclosed herein can produce the previously mentioned percentage of recyclability and pass the handmade paper screening method. Therefore, when subjected to the recycling test method of PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) under Category II, the packaging materials disclosed herein can obtain a "pass" overall score or final result.

[0092] It is also worth noting that alternative methods exist for determining the percentage of recyclable material in the packaging materials of this disclosure. A test method called the repulpingability test, conducted by Western Michigan University, can provide the percentage yield of recyclable material. According to the repulpingability test, the packaging materials of this disclosure can achieve a percentage yield greater than about 60%, more preferably greater than about 80%, or most preferably greater than about 90%, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The packaging materials of this disclosure can have a percentage yield between 60% and 99.9%, more preferably about 80% to 99.9%, or most preferably about 90% to 99.9%, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, the packaging materials of this disclosure can exhibit a percentage yield of recyclable material between 80% and 99.9%, specifically including all values ​​within this range and any ranges arising therefrom. In such examples, the packaging materials may include a brown base color. In another specific example, the packaging materials disclosed herein may exhibit a percentage yield of recyclable material between 85% and 99.9%, specifically including all values ​​within this range and any ranges arising therefrom. In such examples, the packaging materials may include a white base color. The base color of the packaging materials is discussed in more detail herein.

[0093] It is noteworthy that when the expected recyclability percentage or percentage yield of the first packaging material disclosed herein is between 60% and 70%, a more stringent barrier to moisture can be provided. Theoretically, for this configuration, the film layer can comprise approximately 30% to 40% by weight and can exhibit approximately 30 g / (m²)2 *day) or less SCWVTR. With the expected recyclability percentage or percentage yield of the packaging material of this disclosure between 70% and 80%, the weight percentage of the film layer can be between 20% and 30% by weight. It is believed that at such levels, the packaging material of this disclosure can exhibit approximately 50 g / (m²) 2 *days) or less SCWVTR. With the expected recyclability percentage or percentage yield of the packaging material of this disclosure between 80% and 90%, the film layer may comprise 10% to 20% by weight. It is believed that at such levels, the packaging material of this disclosure can exhibit approximately 80 g / (m²) 2 *day) or less SCWVTR. Where the expected recyclability percentage or percentage yield of the packaging material of this disclosure is expected to be greater than 90%, the film layer may comprise 10% by weight or less. It is believed that at such levels, the packaging material of this disclosure can exhibit approximately 100 g / (m²) 2 *days) or less of SCWVTR.

[0094] Considering the foregoing, the first packaging material can exhibit approximately 100 g / (m³) 2 *days) or less of SCWVTR, and wherein each of the first and second packaging materials exhibits at least 90% recyclability percentage, as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method. As another example, the array of this disclosure may include a first package wherein the first packaging material exhibits between 80 g / (m³) and 90 g / (m³) of recyclable material. 2 *day) and 100g / (m 2 The SCWVTR is between *days* and 2 days, and the first and second packaging materials comprise between approximately 80% and 90% recyclable material. These same percentages of recyclability can also be applied to the percentage yield of recyclable material as determined by West Michigan testing.

[0095] It is worth noting that, given the presence of one or more barrier layers for the first packaging material, in some cases, the second packaging material may include a recycling percentage and / or a percentage yield of recyclable material that is not equal to that of the first packaging material. For example, the first packaging material may exhibit about 70% or greater of a recycling percentage, wherein the second packaging material exhibits about 80% or greater of a recycling percentage; more preferably, the first packaging material may exhibit about 80% or greater of a recycling percentage, wherein the second packaging material exhibits about 90% or greater of a recycling percentage; or most preferably, the first packaging material exhibits about 90% or greater of a recycling percentage, and the second packaging material exhibits about 95% or greater of a recycling percentage, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, the first packaging material may exhibit a recycling percentage between about 95% and about 99%, while the second packaging material may exhibit a recycling percentage between about 97% and about 99%. Both the first and second packaging materials may exhibit a percentage yield of recyclable material with respect to the recycling percentages described herein. In some forms, the recycling percentage of the second packaging material may be lower than that of the first packaging material.

[0096] Physical properties of packaging materials

[0097] Regardless of whether the packaging disclosed herein includes one or more barrier layers, the packaging material for each package in the array should be selected to withstand the harsh conditions of high-speed manufacturing and the harsh conditions of transportation and handling by workers and / or consumers. To meet these requirements, the packaging material may have a certain level of strength, tensile strength, and resilience.

[0098] There are multiple ways to specify the packaging materials of this disclosure. The measures discussed below are MD tensile strength in kN / m, CD tensile strength in kN / m, MD tensile strength at break as a percentage, CD tensile strength at break as a percentage, burst strength in kPa, thickness in μm, and J / m. 2 Energy absorption under MD stretching, expressed in J / m 2The tensile energy absorption (TEA) on MD and CD is measured in units of CD tensile energy absorption and basis weight in grams per square meter (g / m²). While all measures can be used in combination to specify the packaging material of this disclosure, it is believed that some of the measures described, alone or in combination with other measures, are sufficient to provide packaging material suitable for packaging absorbent articles. For example, burst strength is believed to be used alone or in combination with other measures to obtain packaging material sufficient for packaging absorbent articles. Similarly, tensile energy absorption (TEA) on MD and CD is believed to be used in combination with each other and, if desired, with any other combination of the measures described above to obtain packaging material suitable for packaging absorbent articles. As another example, it is anticipated that MD tensile strength at break and / or CD tensile strength at break can be used in combination with at least one of MD tensile strength or CD tensile strength, respectively, to obtain packaging material sufficient for packaging absorbent articles as described herein. Any suitable combination of measures may be used.

[0099] Regarding tensile strength, the packaging materials of this disclosure can exhibit a maximum tensile strength (MD) of at least 5 kN / m, more preferably at least 7 kN / m, or most preferably at least 8 kN / m, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The MD tensile strength can be between 5 kN / m and 8.5 kN / m, more preferably between 5.2 kN / m and 8.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 5.5 kN / m and 8.0 kN / m, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The MD tensile strength is measured using ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0100] The packaging material disclosed herein can exhibit a CD tensile strength of at least 3 kN / m, more preferably at least 4 kN / m, or most preferably at least 5.5 kN / m, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The CD tensile strength can be between 3 kN / m and 6.5 kN / m, more preferably between 3 kN / m and 6.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 3 kN / m and 6 kN / m, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The CD tensile strength is measured using ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0101] Regarding burst strength, the packaging materials of this disclosure can exhibit a burst strength of at least 200 kPa, more preferably at least 250 kPa, or most preferably at least 550 kPa, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The burst strength of the packaging materials of this disclosure can be between 200 kPa and 600 kPa, more preferably between 220 kPa and 550 kPa, or most preferably between 250 kPa and 500 kPa, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. Burst strength is measured using ISO 2758 (2014) as modified herein. It is believed that the measured burst strength includes components of strength, flexibility, and resilience. Therefore, it is believed that burst strength can be used independently of the other measures mentioned.

[0102] As previously stated, the packaging materials of this disclosure must exhibit some resilience in addition to strength. With this in mind, the packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit at least 3%, more preferably at least 4%, or most preferably at least 6% MD tensile strength at break, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit MD tensile strength at break between 3% and 6.5%, more preferably between 3.2% and 6.2%, or most preferably between 3.5% and 6%, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. MD tensile strength at break is measured using ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0103] The packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit a CD breaking tensile strength of at least 4%, more preferably at least 6%, or most preferably at least 9%, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit a CD breaking tensile strength of 4% to 10%, more preferably 4.5% to 9.5%, or most preferably 5% to 9%, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. CD breaking tensile strength is measured using ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0104] Regarding thickness, the packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit a thickness of at least 50 μm, more preferably at least 70 μm, or most preferably at least 90 μm, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The packaging materials of this disclosure may exhibit a thickness between 50 μm and 110 μm, more preferably between 55 μm and 105 μm, or most preferably between 60 μm and 100 μm, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. Thickness is measured using ISO 534 (2011) as modified herein.

[0105] Regarding TEA, the packaging material disclosed herein exhibits at least 150 J / m³. 2 More preferably greater than 170 J / m 2 Or, most preferably, at least 180 J / m 2 The MD tensile energy absorption is specifically listed, outlining all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The packaging materials disclosed herein can exhibit values ​​between 100 J / m². 2 Up to 250J / m 2 Between, more preferably between 125 J / m 2 Up to 225J / m 2 Between, or most preferably between, 150 J / m 2 Up to 200J / m 2 The MD stretching energy absorption between these ranges is specifically listed, including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges that arise from them.

[0106] The packaging material disclosed herein exhibits a strength of at least 150 J / m³. 2 More preferably at least 200 J / m 2 Or, most preferably, at least 250 J / m 2 The CD tensile energy absorption is specifically listed, outlining all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. The packaging materials disclosed herein can exhibit values ​​between 150 J / m². 2 Up to 275J / m 2 Between, more preferably between 175 J / m 2 Up to 260J / m 2 Between, or most preferably between, 200 J / m 2 Up to 250J / m 2 The stretching energy absorption between CD is listed, specifically outlining all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. TEA on MD and CD is measured via ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0107] The basis weight of packaging materials can affect how consumers "feel" the packaging. Too low a basis weight makes the packaging feel fragile, while too high a basis weight makes it feel inflexible. The packaging materials disclosed herein may have a basis weight between 60 gsm and 120 gsm, more preferably between 65 gsm and 105 gsm, or most preferably between 70 gsm and 90 gsm, with all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom specifically listed. The basis weight may be determined via ISO 536 (2019) as modified herein.

[0108] Regarding the aforementioned mechanical properties, the second packaging material may exhibit mechanical properties that are not equivalent to those of the first packaging material. For example, the first packaging material may have higher tensile strength (MD), tensile strength (CD), burst strength, tensile strength at break (MD), tensile strength at break (CD), thickness, tensile energy absorption (MD), tensile energy absorption (CD), and / or basis weight than the second packaging material. Conversely, the second packaging material may have higher tensile strength (MD), tensile strength (CD), burst strength, tensile strength at break (MD), tensile strength at break (CD), thickness, tensile energy absorption (MD), tensile energy absorption (CD), and / or basis weight than the first packaging material.

[0109] It is worth noting that the packaging material disclosed herein differs from boxboard, cardboard, and kraft paper bags from grocery stores. For example, boxboard is less flexible than the packaging material disclosed herein. Boxboard is designed and inherently stiffer than the packaging material of the present invention, and does not have the same processability as the packaging material of the present invention on high-speed changeover production lines. In addition, the basis weight of boxboard is higher than that of the packaging material of the present invention.

[0110] Similarly, cardboard differs from the packaging materials disclosed herein. Cardboard has a significantly higher basis weight than the packaging materials disclosed herein. Furthermore, cardboard is much less flexible than the packaging materials disclosed herein. Cardboard materials are typically grooved and consist of three layers of paper, thus differing structurally from the packaging materials disclosed herein.

[0111] The packaging materials disclosed herein possess several advantages over cardboard and linerboard, including the flexibility described above. However, another advantage is that the packaging materials of this disclosure occupy less space compared to their larger volume counterparts. Another advantage of the packaging materials of this disclosure is that they allow absorbent articles to be compressed within the package. This allows more product to be packed into a smaller package, which also enables efficiency. Finally, the packaging materials of this disclosure require fewer resources to manufacture than their heavier cardboard and linerboard counterparts. This means that the packaging materials of this disclosure are more environmentally friendly because they use fewer natural resources to manufacture than cardboard and linerboard.

[0112] The packaging of this disclosure differs from the kraft paper bags commonly used in grocery stores for carrying groceries. As further detailed below, the packaging material of this disclosure is sealed, enclosing one or more absorbent articles and protecting them from the external environment. More specifically, the packaging of absorbent articles according to this disclosure does not have an opening into which articles can be placed. Instead, the packaging of absorbent articles according to this disclosure is sealed to reduce the possibility of contamination of the absorbent articles during transportation, storage, and placement on store shelves. In contrast, conventional kraft paper bags, widely used in grocery stores decades ago, included openings into which articles could be placed. The sealing of the packaging of this disclosure is discussed in more detail below.

[0113] Despite having reduced flexibility compared to plastic packaging and a lower basis weight than cardboard and linerboard, the inventors were surprised to find that the packaging material of this disclosure can withstand the harsh conditions of high-speed manufacturing processes in which multiple absorbent articles are placed within the package, as well as the harsh conditions of transportation, providing protection against environmental damage during transportation and on the shelf, and providing product protection in the consumer's home.

[0114] Packaging configuration

[0115] The first and second packaging materials of this disclosure can be arranged as packages of various configurations containing absorbent articles. For example, each package may include multiple sheets encapsulating one or more absorbent articles. Each of these sheets includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface and / or inner surface of one or more sheets may include a colorant that forms brand logos, packaging information, and / or background colors, etc., on the package. Brand logos and / or packaging information related to the absorbent articles within the package may be provided on the outer surface of at least one sheet. Brand logos may include logos, product names, trademarks, icons, etc., related to the absorbent articles within the package. Brand logos can be used to inform consumers of the brand of the absorbent articles within the package. For example, brand logos for feminine hygiene pad packaging may include a brand name. Packaging information associated with absorbent articles within the package may include the size of the absorbent articles, the quantity of absorbent articles within the package, exemplary images of the absorbent articles contained in the package, recyclability markings, etc. For example, packaging information for feminine hygiene pad packages may include size indication markings, such as "Size 1".

[0116] As described, the packaging of this disclosure may include multiple pieces. For example, the packaging of this disclosure may typically be cubic in shape. A cubic packaging includes six pieces, such as a front piece, an opposite back piece, a top piece, an opposite bottom piece, a left piece, and an opposite right piece. For example, multiple creases may be used to form the multiple pieces of the packaging. To further illustrate this example, at least one crease may be provided between each of the following: (1) between the front piece and the left piece; (2) between the front piece and the right piece; (3) between the front piece and the top piece; and (4) between the front piece and the bottom piece. Additionally, at least one crease may be provided between each of the following: (1) between the back piece and the left piece; (2) between the back piece and the right piece; (3) between the back piece and the top piece; and (4) between the back piece and the bottom piece.

[0117] Packaging materials can be integral or may include discrete parts. Similar to the foregoing, regarding folds between adjacent panels, packaging materials including discrete parts may include seals instead of one or more folds. Configurations of packaging materials comprising discrete parts are discussed in more detail below.

[0118] For packages including cube-shaped items, the consumer-facing sheet can be positioned approximately perpendicular to the shelf, while the backing sheet can be approximately flat on the shelf or on top of another package. Assuming the shelf is perfectly horizontal, approximately perpendicular means the consumer-facing sheet is within ±35 degrees of the vertical direction. Again, assuming the shelf is perfectly horizontal, approximately flat means the backing sheet is within ±35 degrees of the horizontal direction. Alternatively, in some configurations, the consumer-facing sheet can be oriented approximately horizontally to the shelf and face the consumer when the consumer looks down at the package.

[0119] Consumer-facing sheets may include brand logos, packaging information, and / or background colors, as mentioned above. Additionally, other sheets on the packaging may similarly include brand logos, packaging information, and / or background colors, as well as information associated with the consumer-facing sheets.

[0120] Other packaging shapes are envisioned. Examples of such packages include flow wraps or horizontally molded-fill and sealed wraps. Such packages may include a generally cubic shape, also constructed as described above. However, in some cases, particularly where they include a small amount of absorbent article, these packages may include a consumer-facing sheet and an opposing back sheet. In such packages, as described herein, a hoop seal and an end seal are formed. In such configurations, the consumer-facing sheet may be oriented generally vertically or generally horizontally. Additionally, in such packages, there may be no fold line distinguishing the consumer-facing sheet from the back sheet. Instead, curved surfaces may be present between these sheets.

[0121] Other examples are envisioned in which packaging shapes comprising fewer than six panels are formed. Based on these examples, packages having a circular or semi-circular shape when viewed from the film are envisioned. Additionally, packages having a triangular shape when viewed from the film are envisioned. Regardless of the number of panels included in the packaging of this disclosure, the packaging includes consumer-facing panels.

[0122] As previously described, the packaging disclosed herein may also include multiple seals. A seal is a seam of packaging material that has been attached to each other. A seam is an area of ​​the packaging where at least two portions of the packaging material can overlap each other. A seal is created when the at least two portions of the packaging material are joined together at the seam. For example, a backsheet may include a seam where the ends of the packaging material overlap. An adhesive may be applied to the inner surface of a first portion of the backsheet and / or the outer surface of a second portion of the backsheet and the outer surface of a base portion of the backsheet to form one or more seals. A topsheet may include a seal where the ends of the packaging material are joined together, similar to the seal of a backsheet. Although seals may be provided on any sheet of the packaging, it is recommended that consumer-facing sheets not include seams or seals. Seams and seals may be visually unappealing to consumers.

[0123] Further regarding seams, it is worth noting that the inner surface of the first part of the packaging material and the outer surface of the second part of the packaging material can be joined together to form an overlapping seal. However, a butt seal can also be formed. A butt seal can be formed where the inner surfaces of the first and second parts of the packaging material join. Butt seals and overlapping seals will be discussed in more detail below.

[0124] It is also worth noting that while this article describes the use of adhesives to form seals, barrier layers (e.g., membrane layers) can be used alone or in combination with adhesives. For example, in the case where the membrane layer is polyethylene (PE), a seal can be created by heat-sealing the membrane layer to itself with or without an adhesive. Again, some suitable membrane materials include EAA (as previously described) and combinations of EAA and PE.

[0125] Sealing elements are important for ensuring that the packaging of this disclosure reduces the possibility of one or more absorbent articles being exposed to the external environment. As described herein, the use of sealing elements provides a sufficient seal of the packaging material, preventing the absorbent articles within the packaging from being exposed to the external environment. Simply folding or rolling up the packaging material does not create a seal and is insufficient to protect one or more absorbent articles from the external environment.

[0126] To withstand the harsh conditions of consumer transport, storage, and handling, seals must possess the necessary strength. Several variables, namely the type of seal and the compression level of one or more absorbent articles within the package, complicate the requirements for the necessary seal strength. An additional factor complicating these requirements is that adhesives and / or films are considered non-recyclable materials. However, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that by carefully selecting the type of adhesive and the weight percentage of adhesive and / or film, seal strength requirements can be met while maintaining the recyclability of the packaging material.

[0127] Regarding the type of seal, the multiple seals of the package disclosed herein may include an inlet seal, a hoop seal, and a bottom seal. Flow package packages may also be configured to include these seals. Alternatively, a flow package package may include a pair of opposing end seals and a hoop seal between the end seals. In this configuration, an inlet seal may be similarly provided.

[0128] An inlet seal may be provided as a seal for a consumer to open the package to access one or more absorbent articles within it. An inlet seal is described in detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 089661, filed October 9, 2020, entitled “Absorbent Article Packages with Natural Fibers and Opening Features.”

[0129] Hoop seals can be initial seals formed during the packaging manufacturing process. (See reference...) Figure 1A and Figure 1B The hoop seal is described in more detail. In some forms, the annular seal may include, as described above... Figure 4A and Figure 4B The aforementioned multiple seals. The bottom seal can be positioned on the base plate. See below for reference. Figures 2A-2D The bottom seal and its configuration are discussed in more detail. See below for reference. Figure 3A and Figure 3B End seals were also discussed.

[0130] Generally, the packaging of this disclosure may include seals having a tensile strength of at least 3 N / in. For example, each of the plurality of seals of the packaging of this disclosure may have a tensile strength between 3 N / in and 40 N / in, more preferably between 3 N / in and 35 N / in, or most preferably between 3 N / in and 30 N / in, specifically listing all values ​​included in these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. For packaging that includes absorbent articles that do not have significant compression (e.g., menstrual pads, mild adult incontinence pads, liner pads), packaging that has 6 or fewer absorbent articles, etc., the tensile strength of the seals of such packaging may be between 3 N / in and 25 N / in, more preferably between 3 N / in and 20 N / in, or most preferably between 3 N / in and 15 N / in, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. In a specific example, one or more seals of the plurality of seals of a first packaging exhibit a higher tensile strength than any one of the plurality of seals of a second packaging.

[0131] As described above, for packages including compressible absorbent articles, the hoop seal may have a higher tensile strength than at least one of the other seals. For example, the hoop seal may have a tensile strength between 15 N / in and about 40 N / in, more preferably about 20 N / in and about 35 N / in, or most preferably about 22 N / in and about 30 N / in, specifically listed in these ranges and all values ​​within any such range. In such packages, one or more absorbent articles may comprise diapers or adult incontinence pants or adult incontinence pads for moderate to heavy use. Additional examples are envisioned where at least one seal has a higher tensile strength than another seal. For example, the bottom seal may have a higher tensile strength than the hoop seal and / or the inlet seal. Similarly, the inlet seal may have a higher tensile strength than the hoop seal, the bottom seal, or the end seal. Again, at least one end seal may have a higher tensile strength than another end seal and / or the hoop seal.

[0132] Additionally, the inlet seal may have lower tensile strength than the hoop seal and / or any other seal. In cases where the inlet seal is positioned on the top flap of the package, there is typically less load on the hoop seal and other seals (e.g., bottom seals, end seals). It is worth noting that the inlet seal may be located on one or more of the top flap, right flap, and / or left flap. Alternatively, for flow package packages that include end seals and hoop seals, one of the end seals may serve as the inlet seal, or the inlet seal may be located on the top flap.

[0133] Alternatively, the packaging of this disclosure may be configured such that the seals have similar tensile strength. For example, each of a plurality of seals may have a tensile strength of at least 10 N / in. In such a configuration, each of these seals may have a tensile strength within 15% of the tensile strength of the remaining seals of the packaging. The tensile strength of the seals mentioned herein may be determined by a tensile testing method as described in ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0134] As previously stated, the type and amount of adhesive used in the seals of the packages disclosed herein, if present, may affect the recyclability of the packages. For example, water-soluble adhesives are particularly suitable for the packages disclosed herein during the repulping stage of the decomposition step in a recycling process. Such adhesives include starch-based adhesives, polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesives, and polyethylene oxide adhesives. A suitable example of a starch-based adhesive may be available under the trade name AP0420CR from LD Davis, Monroe, North Carolina. A suitable example of a polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesive may be available under the trade name Selvol205 from Sekisui Chemical Company, Osaka, Japan. A suitable example of a polyethylene oxide adhesive may be available under the trade name WSR N-80 from Dow Chemicals Co., Midland, Michigan.

[0135] If the adhesive is not water-soluble, a water-dispersible adhesive can be used similarly. Suitable examples of water-dispersible adhesives include thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesives and polyvinyl acetate-based adhesives. A suitable example of a thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesive is available under the trade name Yunico 491 from Actega, Blue Ash, Ohio. A suitable example of a polyvinyl acetate-based adhesive is available under the trade name Aquagrip 4419U01 from Bostik, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Another suitable example of a polyvinyl acetate-based adhesive is available under the trade name PD-0330 from HB Fuller.

[0136] Any suitable pressure-sensitive adhesive may also be used. A suitable example of a pressure-sensitive adhesive includes a product sold by Formulated Polymer Products Ltd., located in Bury, Lancashire, England, under the trade name FP2154. As a specific example, inlet seals may include pressure-sensitive adhesives.

[0137] Unbound by theory, it is believed that packaging using water-soluble adhesives may contain a higher weight percentage of such adhesives than adhesives that are only water-dispersible. For example, packaging containing water-soluble adhesives may contain a first weight percentage of adhesive, while packaging containing water-dispersible adhesives may contain a second weight percentage of adhesive. For the purpose of recycling packaging materials, it is believed that the first weight percentage may be greater than the second weight percentage.

[0138] As previously stated, the packaging disclosed herein may utilize soluble adhesives, dispersible adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, or any combination thereof. However, the choice of adhesive should be carefully considered from a weight percentage perspective. In the case of using soluble adhesives, the adhesive may include at least one of the following: starch-based adhesives, polyethylene oxide adhesives, polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesives, or combinations thereof.

[0139] It is worth noting that the sealing characteristics of the packaging components disclosed herein can depend on how the packaging material is handled. For example, absorbent product manufacturers may purchase pre-formed packaging components. In such instances, absorbent product manufacturers may receive substantially open bags from paper packaging manufacturers, the bags comprising a sheet with a hoop seal and a sheet with another seal, such as a bottom seal. The other seal, such as the bottom seal, may be configured in a block, cross, or clamp arrangement. The following discusses... Figures 2A to 4B The packaging configurations applicable to the arrays of this disclosure are discussed in more detail.

[0140] When forming the inlet seal, the absorbent product manufacturer may use the same adhesive as that used in hoop seals and / or other seals, such as bottom seals. Alternatively, the absorbent product manufacturer may use an adhesive different from that used in hoop seals and / or other seals, such as bottom seals.

[0141] Absorbent product manufacturers can also produce their own packaging. For example, an absorbent product manufacturer may have the capability to produce open-faced bags similar to those described above, then fill the open-faced bags with one or more absorbent products, and then seal the open-faced bags, without needing to purchase such bags from suppliers.

[0142] Another example of absorbent article manufacturers producing their own packaging includes flow package configurations. In such configurations, the manufacturer forms the package around one or more absorbent articles, rather than placing one or more absorbent articles in a pre-formed bag. These types of packaging disclosed herein may include end seals and clamp seals, and may additionally include an inlet seal, or one of the end seals may include an inlet seal.

[0143] In yet another example, an absorbent product manufacturer could utilize Totani... TMBags with a sealed structure. Absorbent product manufacturers can purchase these pre-formed bags using this type of design. However, they can also manufacture these bags themselves. Totani TM The bag configuration includes side seals, a pair of bottom seals, and an inlet seal. (Totani) TM The bag will be discussed in more detail below.

[0144] Whether the absorbent product manufacturer purchases prefabricated bags from a supplier or manufactures the packaging itself, the aforementioned sealing configuration can still be provided. That is, at least one seal may include an adhesive different from the other seals, or the adhesive in the seal may include the same adhesive. Alternatively, if the packaging material includes a barrier layer, the packaging disclosed herein may not include any adhesive.

[0145] It is worth noting that adhesives may be used for other reasons. For example, in cases where resealability is desired, an adhesive may be provided near the inlet sealing area to allow for resealability of the package. The ability to reseal the package helps protect the contents from contamination by the external environment and also inhibits the absorption of moisture from the environment by the contents. A suitable example of an adhesive that can be used is a pressure-sensitive adhesive. A specific example of a pressure-sensitive adhesive is available from Bostik and is marketed under the trade name... JB018 is for sale. Additionally, the packaging on one or more of these sheets may include instructions for the user to reseal the packaging when no contact with the product is required.

[0146] Paints and colorants

[0147] Each of the multiple sheets includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer and / or inner surfaces of one or more sheets may include colorants and / or coatings that form brand logos, packaging information, and / or background colors on the packaging. Brand logos and / or packaging information may be affixed to the outer and / or inner surface of at least one sheet (e.g., a consumer-facing sheet). Brand logos may include identifiers, product names, trademarks, icons, etc., associated with the absorbent product within the packaging. Brand logos can be used to inform consumers of the brand of the absorbent product within the packaging. For example, brand logos for feminine hygiene pad packaging may include the brand name.

[0148] Packaging information associated with the absorbent articles within the package may include the size of the absorbent articles, the quantity of absorbent articles within the package, exemplary images of the absorbent articles contained in the package, recyclability markings, etc. Additionally, packaging information may include information about the packaging materials themselves, such as recyclability markings, certificates from various organizations, etc. For example, packaging information for feminine hygiene pad packages may include size indications, such as "Size 1". Other pieces of the package may similarly include brand logos, packaging information and / or background colors, as well as information associated with consumer-facing pieces.

[0149] Additionally, one or more sheets of the packaging disclosed herein may include colorants and / or coatings to provide a background color to the packaging of this disclosure. To further clarify the background color, it is worth noting that the packaging material includes a base color. The base color of the packaging material is the color of the packaging material without colorants and / or coatings. For example, bleached packaging material is white, unbleached packaging material is brown, and packaging material containing recycled contents may be gray. The background color is any color that is not a base color, such as blue, red, green, yellow, purple, orange, black, or combinations thereof. However, if the background color is obtained through colorants and / or coatings, the background color may also include white, brown, or gray.

[0150] As mentioned earlier, the use of colorants and / or coatings can be considered a contaminant in recyclable streams. Therefore, the use of colorants and / or coatings should be carefully examined.

[0151] To reduce the use of colorants and / or coatings to facilitate recycling processes, the base color of the packaging material can be utilized. For example, a package is envisioned in which the consumer-facing sheet includes branding, packaging information, and / or a background color, while one or more sheets include the base color. In a specific example, the back sheet and / or the rear sheet may utilize the base color of the packaging material instead of the background color. One or more of the back sheet, top sheet, left sheet, right sheet, rear sheet, or any combination thereof may utilize the base color of the packaging material instead of the background color. As another example, the consumer-facing sheet may include the base color independently or in combination with other sheets. To further develop this example, the package may include absorbent articles comprising natural base components, such as a cotton top sheet and / or chlorine-free bleached pulp in the absorbent core. In such an example, the consumer-facing sheet may include a white base color. In the same example, the consumer-facing sheet may also include branding, a background color (associated with the branding), and / or packaging information, along with the base color. As another example, one or more sheets may include packaging information that partially includes the base color. To further develop this example, the base color can be a first color, such as white, and a background color can be applied to a piece of negative image containing packaging information such that the packaging information or a portion thereof is not covered by the background color, and the packaging information includes the base color.

[0152] For example, the seams of the packaging components disclosed herein may have a lower colorant coverage than adjacent areas on the same sheet. For instance, a part of a sheet joined to another portion of the sheet to form a seal may include a seam area. The seam area may include less colorant or even no colorant than the adjacent portions of the sheet. Each seal may include a seam area that includes less colorant or even no colorant than adjacent areas of the seal.

[0153] For example, the first sheet may have a different percentage colorant coverage than the second sheet. To further illustrate this example, the consumer-facing sheet may have a higher percentage colorant coverage than another sheet (e.g., the backing sheet) of the package. As mentioned above, absorbent articles made of natural bases without added colorants and / or fragrances, such as cotton top sheets or other components, and chlorine-free bleached cores, may rely more heavily on the base color of the packaging material. For example, such packages may include consumer-facing sheets having a percentage colorant coverage of 75% or less, more preferably 50% or less, or most preferably 40% or less, according to the colorant coverage disclosed herein. Furthermore, consumer-facing sheets may include a colorant coverage between about 10% and about 75%, more preferably about 15% to about 50%, or most preferably about 20% to about 40%, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom.

[0154] In such packages, other sheets may be configured with a higher percentage of colorant coverage, a lower percentage of colorant coverage, or a combination thereof. For example, in such configurations, the back sheet may have a lower percentage of colorant coverage. The rear, left, and / or right sheets may include a higher percentage of colorant coverage or a lower percentage of colorant coverage. These same values ​​can also be applied to the flow package configurations described herein. The percentage of colorant coverage is determined via the colorant coverage percentage measurement methods described herein.

[0155] The described natural-based products are not necessarily limited to the aforementioned colorant coverage percentages; however, a lower colorant percentage can mean a lower weight percentage of colorant, which can be beneficial from a recyclability perspective. In another example, the absorbent article packaging according to this disclosure may include consumer-facing sheets having a colorant coverage percentage of 100%, more preferably 99% or less, or most preferably 98% or less. For example, packaging according to this disclosure may include consumer-facing sheets having a colorant coverage percentage between 60% and 100%, more preferably about 60% to 99%, or most preferably about 60% to 98%. In such configurations, other sheets may include the same percentage of colorant coverage, or may include a lower percentage of colorant coverage. The colorant coverage percentage is determined via the colorant coverage percentage measurement method described herein.

[0156] While any suitable colorant can be used, it is believed that water-based colorants are generally more soluble in water during recycling processes. Therefore, water-based colorants can be advantageous for the recycling process of the packaging disclosed herein. Any suitable water-based colorant can be used. Water-based colorants are known in the art.

[0157] It is worth noting that solvent-based colorants and / or energy-curable colorants can also be used. However, using these types of colorants increases the complexity of packaging material manufacturing. For example, solvent-based colorants often release volatile organic compounds that need to be removed from the air. Additionally, solvent-based colorants may contain components that are not readily soluble in water during recycling processes, which can negatively impact the recyclability of the packaging material.

[0158] Energy-curable colorants can also be used; however, very similar to solvent-based colorants, energy-curable colorants increase the complexity of packaging material processing. Also very similar to solvent-based colorants, energy-curable colorants may contain components that are not readily soluble in water during recycling processes, which could negatively impact the recyclability of the packaging material.

[0159] Any suitable coating for packaging materials can be used. The coating can be used to protect the background color, branding, and / or packaging information. Additionally, the coating can be used to provide beneficial effects such as antistatic properties, coefficient of friction benefits, and / or aesthetic benefits (e.g., gloss, matte, satin, high gloss, etc.). Much like water-based colorants, the inventors have surprisingly found that water-based coatings (if used) can facilitate the recycling process of packaging materials. Suitable coatings include varnishes known in the art. Any suitable coating / varnish can be used.

[0160] Packaging creases

[0161] The packaging material disclosed herein includes at least one pleat to facilitate folding of the packaging material along the pleat. For clarity, a pleat is a feature provided on the packaging material that facilitates folding of the packaging material once or before the product is placed therein. The fold line associated with the pleat is generally collinear with the pleat.

[0162] Creases can be created by any suitable method. In one example, creases can be created by embossing the packaging material. In such a process, the packaging material is passed through a pair of rollers, with at least one of the rollers compressing a portion of the packaging material. This area of ​​compressed packaging material can create a hinge or preferred bending axis for subsequent fold lines. According to this disclosure, another suitable process for creating creases is displacement. For example, the packaging material may include a region of material displaced in the thickness direction. The displaced material may include creases. In such embodiments, in contrast to embossing, creases may include a region of lower density, such as the bottom surface of the crease. These creases can provide a preferred bending axis for one or more fold lines. Another suitable method includes scraping, where the crease includes a reduced thickness based on the removal of material from the crease. Again, one or more creases can be created in the packaging of this disclosure using any suitable method, such as laser or other mechanical treatments, chemical treatments, and / or combinations thereof.

[0163] Placing creases in specific areas of the packaging material provides a more complete appearance for the package. For example, the edges of the package are more defined, and the pieces of the package look more purposeful rather than random. Additionally, the inventors have discovered that the offset of the gusset plates is reduced when the package is sealed. This reduces quality interruptions, allowing more production time. Furthermore, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that packages, including those made with the packaging material of this disclosure, are easier to stack by strategically placing creases.

[0164] To create a more defined sheet for the packaging of this disclosure, a transverse crease may be positioned between one or more pairs of sheets of the packaging. For example, the transverse crease may include a first segment disposed between the consumer-facing sheet and the top sheet. The first segment may include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may extend from a fourth edge toward the center line of the consumer-facing sheet. The second portion may extend from the first edge toward the center line of the consumer-facing sheet. The first segment of the transverse crease and the first portion of the top fold line may be collinear.

[0165] The transverse crease may be positioned adjacent to the top edge of one or more absorbent articles within the package. For example, one or more absorbent articles within the package include a top edge and an opposing bottom edge, wherein the bottom edge is positioned closer to the film than the top edge. A first plane may include the transverse crease, and a second plane may include the top edge of the absorbent article, wherein the first and second planes are generally horizontal and parallel to each other. The distance between the first and second planes may be about 5 mm or less, more preferably about 3 mm or less, or most preferably about 2 mm or less, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges that result therefrom. It is worth noting that the above-described distances between the first and second planes are absolute values. Therefore, in some cases, the first plane may be closer to the film than the second plane, or vice versa.

[0166] To create a more stable display, where the packages of this disclosure are stacked one on top of another, additional creases can be used. For example, in cases where the packages of this disclosure include sealing fins (described below), additional creases—opening creases—can be used. Opening creases can be created to help the sealing fins lie flatter. The flatter the sealing fins are placed, the more stable the packages stacked on them will be.

[0167] To minimize the possibility of contamination of one or more absorbent articles within the package, sealing fins may include seals, such as those via adhesives or barrier films. Sealing fins comprise packaging material sealed together to form an inlet seal. Because sealing fins comprise multiple layers of packaging material bonded together, they can be much stiffer than single-layer packaging material. These stiffer tails resist downward folding and tend to spring back upward, effectively “kicking” the package off the top of the sealing fin. To mitigate this “kicking,” the sealing fins and / or top sheet may include creases that facilitate folding, i.e., opening creases.

[0168] Regarding the array of absorbent article packaging components disclosed herein, a first packaging component may include one or more pleats, and a second packaging component may include one or more pleats. The pleats in the first packaging component may differ from those in the second packaging component. For example, both the first and second packaging components may include open or sealed fin pleats. However, the second packaging component may also include a bottom pleat positioned between the backing sheet and the consumer-facing sheet, while the first packaging component may not include such a pleat.

[0169] The use of creases in the packaging disclosed herein is described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 227354 entitled “Sealed Absorbent Article Package with Natural Fibers,” filed on July 30, 2021.

[0170] Regardless of whether the packaging material is in rolls or pre-formed to a certain extent, the packaging components disclosed herein can all be started from paper stock. (Reference) Figures 1A to 1B The edge portions 100 and 110 of the sheet 99 can be folded over themselves and subsequently sealed to form a seam. For example, the side portions 100 and 110 of the sheet 99 can be folded and translated laterally inward toward the longitudinal centerline 90 of the sheet 99. These edge portions can overlap each other and be sealed together to form an overlapping seal. Alternatively, the edge portions 100 and 110 can be joined together on their respective inner surfaces to form a butt seal. It is worth noting that butt seals tend to be less flat than overlapping seals. Therefore, where the seal is at least partially located on the backing sheet, an overlapping seal is desirable, allowing the package to lie on a flatter backing sheet.

[0171] Now for reference Figures 1C-1E The packaging material sheet can be appropriately folded to form bag side pleats 12b and 13b, and two side pleats 12a and 13a are formed on opposite sides to form a bag structure 4 having a first surface 10, a second surface 12 and a third surface 13, and a fourth surface 14 and a fifth surface 15, respectively. The open end 48 (e.g., a bag structure with a gusset plate) is opposite the first surface 10. Each side pleat 12b, 13b is located at the corresponding second surface 12 or third surface 13. It is worth noting that in Figure 1C and Figure 1D The creases and folds shown are for packages with a block configuration or a block bottom configuration.

[0172] The bag 4 can be filled by inserting articles, such as a stack of absorbent articles, through the open end 48. When the bag 4 is filled with multiple articles, for example by inserting articles from the open end 48, the means for introducing the articles into the bag 4 along with the articles applies some tension to each of the second surface 12 and the third surface 13 of the bag 4. For example, the articles are compressed before being inserted into the bag 4. Therefore, the articles expand slightly after being introduced into the bag 4, thereby applying some tension to the second surface 12 and the third surface 13, as well as the fourth surface 14 and the fifth surface 15. This tension is applied to each of the creases 12b, 13b at the respective second surface 12 and the third surface 13, particularly along the first side crease 12a and the second side crease 13a, through which the package maintains a generally parallelepiped shape.

[0173] As from Figure 1DIt is understood that after one or more absorbent articles are inserted therein, the open end 48 opposite the first surface 10 can then be closed to form the sixth surface 11. Any suitable closure form can be used. For example, the sixth surface may include a closure gusset 11b formed by closing and sealing the edges of the bag 4 together to form a closure seal 11a and closure seal fins 11c extending from the closure seal 11a and the sixth surface 11. In yet another example, the sixth surface may include seals joined together in a block configuration or a cross configuration as discussed below.

[0174] As mentioned above, Figure 1A Bag 4 in the diagram shows the bottom configuration of the block. Figure 2A The block bottom configuration is shown in more detail below. As shown, the first surface 10 may include a block configuration comprising seals 220 and 230. The first surface 10 may include a base portion 240. A first flap 250 of the packaging material may be folded onto the base portion 240. The first flap 250 of the packaging material may be joined to the base portion 240 to form a first seal 220, for example via an adhesive and / or film. A second flap 260 of the packaging material may be folded and attached to the top of the base portion 240 and the first flap 250 of the packaging material. The second flap 260 of the packaging material may be joined to the base portion 240 and the first flap 250 of the packaging material to form a second seal 230, for example via an adhesive and / or film. A similar embodiment may be used for the sixth surface 11.

[0175] Another example of a sheet seal type that can be used with the packaging disclosed herein is a clamp-on configuration or a clamp-on bottom configuration. Figure 2B An example of a clamping configuration is shown. As shown, one of the key differences between the block bottom and clamping bottom configurations is the creases 12b and 13b. Instead of the creases on sides 12 and 13, the clamping configuration includes gusset plates 22b and 23b on the first surface 10. Additionally, in the clamping bottom configuration, the first surface 10 may include a fold line 10a, which may be absent in the block configuration.

[0176] For the sealing portion of the packaging material disclosed herein, a cross configuration is also acceptable. Figure 2C An example of a cross-bottom configuration is shown. As illustrated, a key difference between the cross configuration and the block configuration is that the corner braces 32b and 33b are oriented outwards. Conversely, in... Figure 1CIn this configuration, fold lines 12a and 13a on the second surface 12 and the third surface 13, respectively, are oriented inwards before filling the package. Due to the orientation of the gussets 32b and 33b in the cross configuration, less energy may be required to inflate the package for filling with absorbent material. For example, inwardly oriented folds, such as in a block configuration, would need to be displaced outwards before filling. Furthermore, because the gussets are oriented outwards, the likelihood of the equipment used to guide the product into the package obstructing the gussets of the cross bottom configuration is reduced. This can decrease the possibility of packaging accidents or manufacturing process stoppages due to quality issues.

[0177] Still refer to Figure 2C Similar to the block configuration, the first surface 10 of the cross configuration includes seals 320 and 330. The first surface includes a base portion 340. A first flap 350 of the packaging material is foldable and engaged to the base portion 340. A first seal 320 may be provided to engage the first flap 350 of the packaging material to the base portion 340. A second flap 360 of the packaging material is foldable onto the base portion 340 and onto the top of the first flap 350 of the packaging material. A second seal 330 may be provided to engage the second flap 360 of the packaging material to the base portion 340 and the first flap 350 of the packaging material. A similar embodiment may be used for the sixth surface (formed after the absorbent article is placed therein).

[0178] Regardless of the sealing configuration—block, cross, or clamp—these configurations are known in the art. It is worth noting that for smaller items requiring upright packaging, a block bottom or cross bottom may be necessary. However, for larger items, a clamp-down configuration may be advantageous because the large volume of absorbent article within the package forms a stable base that allows the package to stand upright. Additionally, it is noteworthy that block and cross configuration packages tend to be larger than their clamp-down counterparts. For packaging purposes, unfilled packages can be delivered to the absorbent article manufacturer in stacked form. Typically, due to their large volume, stacks of block and cross configuration packages will occupy more space than their clamp-down counterparts. The large volume of block and cross configurations makes stacking more difficult to manipulate during filling, especially when a large number of packages are produced per minute. In such instances, the large volume of these configurations may mean an increased frequency of repackaging. Therefore, for packages (unfilled) that include the same packaging material but different sealing styles (i.e., block and clamp), the block configuration will take up more space than their clamp counterparts.

[0179] Reference Figure 2D To recap, the discussion touched on colorant coverage for seams / sealants. For example... Figure 2DAs shown, the base portion 240 may include an inner edge 240A, sealing regions 241 and 242, and a colorant- and paint-free region 245. As previously described, in an attempt to save colorant weight percentage, it is envisioned that the regions of the base portion 240 located below the first flap 250 and the second flap 260 of the packaging material may be configured such that no colorant and / or paint is provided in these regions. Exposed areas of the base portion 240 may include colorant and / or paint. Sealing regions 241 and / or 242 may be constructed similarly to the colorant- and paint-free region 245. Alternatively, one or more of the sealing regions 241 and 242 may include colorant and / or paint. And although in Figure 2D The block configuration is shown, but the above can also be applied to the cross configuration.

[0180] See again Figures 1C to 1E The dimensions of bag 4 and package 1 can be appropriately selected and realized through design, folding, stacking, compression and packaging processes, so that package 1 can retain the absorbent product in it and maintain the package 1 in a simple, stable, basically parallelepiped shape, i.e. cubic shape.

[0181] The first surface 10 may include the top sheet of the package 1. Alternatively, the first surface 10 may include the bottom sheet of the package 1. It is worth noting that if the first surface 10 includes a seal, it may be desirable for the first surface 10 to include the bottom sheet. In this way, the seal can be hidden and not seen on the shelf. Similarly, when the second surface 12 and the third surface 13 may include gussets 12b and 13b respectively, they may include the left sheet and the right sheet respectively, and vice versa. This allows one of the fourth surface 14 and the fifth surface 15 to include the consumer-facing sheet. Therefore, at least one of the fourth surface 14 and / or the fifth surface 15 may include the brand logo, packaging information, and / or background color described herein. However, as previously stated, the brand logo, packaging information, and / or background color are not limited to the consumer-facing sheet. Any combination of sheets of the package disclosed herein may include the brand logo, packaging information, and / or background color.

[0182] To recap, we've discussed the configuration of mobile parcel packaging before. Figure 3A and Figure 3B The image shows some examples of mobile parcel packaging. Figure 3AAn exemplary flow package comprising a generally cubic shape is shown. Cubic packages have been previously discussed. As shown, package 301 includes a first sheet 310, a second sheet 312 and a third sheet 313 respectively opposite each other; a fourth sheet 314 and a fifth sheet 315 respectively opposite each other, and a sixth sheet 311 opposite the first sheet 310. As shown, the second sheet 312 may include an end seal 312a, and the third sheet 313 may include an end seam 313a. A clamp seal 316 may be partially disposed on the second sheet 312, the third sheet 313, and the sixth sheet 311. In this configuration, either the first sheet 310 or the fifth sheet 315 may include a consumer-facing sheet.

[0183] Figure 3B Another exemplary package 328 according to this disclosure is shown. It is very similar to... Figure 3A Package 301 and package 328 are flow wrap configurations. As shown, package 328 includes a first surface 324 and an opposing second surface 321. Rounded edges may be provided as a transition between the first surface 324 and the second surface 321. Alternatively, one or more fold lines may be provided between the first surface 324 and the second surface 321. Package 328 may also include end seals 322 and 323, and a clamp seal 326 that may be disposed on the second surface 321. In such packages, the first surface 324 may include a consumer-facing sheet.

[0184] about Figure 3A and Figure 3B Both, while the packages shown, namely 301 and 328, include butt seals for end sealing, may also use overlapping seals. For example, one or more of the end seals 312a, 313a, 322, and 323 may include overlapping seals. Similarly, hoop seals, namely 316 and 326, may include either butt seals or overlapping seals.

[0185] For example, Totani can be used. TM Totani style bag. TM The bag may include seams / seals that move more noticeably than their block bottom, clamp bottom, and / or cross bottom counterparts. (Reference) Figure 4A and Figure 4B The image shows Totani TMPackage 1400. Package 1400 may be constructed in a generally cubic shape. Package 1400 may include a first piece 1411, opposing second pieces 1412 and third pieces 1413, opposing fourth pieces 1414 and fifth pieces 1415, and a sixth piece 1410 opposite the first piece 1411. As shown, a first seal 1420 extends outward between the fourth piece 1414 and the sixth piece 1410. The first seal 1420 forms a foot for package 1400 and may contribute to its upright position. A second seal is capable of extending outward between the fifth piece 1415 and the sixth piece 1410 in a similar manner to the first seal 1420. It is worth noting that in some forms, the first piece 1411 may lie flat like the sixth piece 1410.

[0186] The first seal 1420 may extend such that a portion of the first seal 1420 is disposed on the second piece 1412, and another portion of the first seal 1420 is disposed on the third piece 1413. Similarly, a portion of the second seal may be disposed on the second piece 1412, and another portion may be disposed on the third piece 1413. The first seal 1420 and the second seal may be provided, wherein the sixth piece 1410 is formed of discrete sheets of material subsequently joined to the fourth piece 1414 and the fifth piece 1415. Of course, it is also conceivable that the sixth piece 1410 is integral with the fourth piece 1414 and the fifth piece 1415.

[0187] The third seal 1430 and the fourth seal 1440 may extend outward from the second piece 1412 and the third piece 1413, respectively. It is noteworthy that the first seal 1420, the second seal, the third seal 1430, and the fourth seal 1440 may collectively comprise the hoop seal discussed earlier. Therefore, one, all, or any combination of these seals may exhibit the tensile strength of the hoop seal as described herein.

[0188] As shown in the figure, package 1400 may further include a fifth seam 1450 and a sixth seam 1460 disposed on a sixth piece 1411. The fifth seam 1450 and the sixth seam 1460 may extend into the sealing fin 1480. It is noteworthy that package 1400 and its associated seams can be assembled as described herein with respect to adhesives, films, and / or combinations of films and adhesives. However, the construction of package 1400 is particularly suitable for forming seams by means of a film coating on the inner surface of the packaging material. In such a configuration, the film may form a barrier that reduces the likelihood of moisture penetrating the packaging material to reach the absorbent article therein, or at least reduces the amount of moisture that does reach the absorbent article through the packaging material.

[0189] A configuration is envisioned in which the second package includes a block bottom or cross bottom configuration, and the first package includes a configuration different from that of the second package. In such configurations, one or more absorbent articles within the first package may differ from one or more absorbent articles within the second package. For example, the second package may include a menstrual pad or liner, while the first package includes an adult incontinence pad, diaper, diaper pants, or adult incontinence pants. As another example, one or more absorbent articles within the second package may include an absorbent core containing SAP (Symptoms Per Amount), the SAP weighing less (in grams) than the SAP in the absorbent core of one or more absorbent articles within the first package.

[0190] The packaging disclosed herein may include multiple compressed articles, such as compressed disposable absorbent articles. For example, the packaging disclosed herein may be used to contain feminine sanitary pads. Figure 5 As shown, package 1 defines an internal space 1002 containing a plurality of absorbent articles 1004. The plurality of absorbent articles 1004 can be arranged in one or more stacks 1006. The absorbent articles can be stacked under compression to reduce the size of the package while still providing a sufficient amount of absorbent articles for each package. By encapsulating the absorbent articles under compression, caregivers can easily handle and store the packages, while also providing manufacturers with distribution savings due to the size of the packages. Despite lacking the tensile properties of conventional plastic packaging materials, the inventors have surprisingly found that the packaging material of this disclosure can withstand harsh processing and distribution conditions, as previously described, even with absorbent articles compressed within the package. This is particularly unexpected because the material of this invention does not exhibit the tensile properties of currently used conventional plastic films.

[0191] Therefore, based on the bag stacking height test described herein, the packaging of the absorbent articles of this disclosure may have a bag stacking height of less than about 150 mm, less than about 110 mm, less than about 105 mm, less than about 100 mm, less than about 95 mm, less than about 90 mm, less than about 85 mm, less than about 80 mm, less than about 78 mm, less than about 76 mm, less than about 74 mm, less than about 72 mm, or less than about 70 mm, specifically listing all 0.1 mm increments within the specified range and in all ranges formed therein or by it. Alternatively, according to the bag stacking height test described herein, the packaging of the absorbent article of this disclosure may have an bag stacking height of about 70 mm to about 150 mm, about 70 mm to about 110 mm, about 70 mm to about 105 mm, about 70 mm to about 100 mm, about 70 mm to about 95 mm, about 70 mm to about 90 mm, about 70 mm to about 85 mm, about 72 mm to about 80 mm, or about 74 mm to about 78 mm, specifically listing all 0.1 mm increments within the specified range and in all ranges formed therein or by it.

[0192] It is worth noting that the absorbent articles within the packaging of this disclosure can be arranged in various configurations. For example, the absorbent articles of this disclosure can be disposed within the packaging such that the absorbent articles are oriented vertically, or the absorbent articles can be arranged in a horizontal configuration, such as... Figure 5 As shown, a combination of horizontally and vertically oriented articles is envisioned in the packaging.

[0193] Additionally, the articles within the packaging can be oriented such that one longitudinal peripheral edge of each of the multiple articles is closer to the consumer-facing sheet than another longitudinal peripheral edge. For example, when the number of absorbent articles within the packaging is relatively high, such as more than nine, the absorbent articles can be arranged within the packaging as described above. However, when the number of absorbent articles within the packaging is less than, for example, nine, the absorbent articles can be arranged such that the top or bottom sheet of the absorbent article is closer to the consumer-facing sheet. Additional absorbent articles can be stacked behind the absorbent article closest to the consumer-facing sheet. Combinations of orientations within the packaging are envisioned. For example, at least one absorbent article can be arranged such that one longitudinal peripheral edge of its longitudinal peripheral side edge is closer to the consumer-facing sheet than another longitudinal peripheral side edge, and at least one absorbent article can be arranged such that its top or bottom sheet is closer to the consumer-facing sheet. The remainder of the absorbent articles (if any) can present any of these configurations.

[0194] Natural additives

[0195] The packaging materials disclosed herein (e.g., the first packaging material and the second packaging material) may also include optional natural additives other than natural fibers. Optional other natural additives may include those derived from vegetables or vegetable plants, wherein the vegetables or vegetable plants may include cocoa trees, coffee trees, tea trees, tea leaves, ginger, ginkgo, chamomile, tomatoes, ivy, yerba mate, rooibos tea, cucumbers, grains, the outer shell protecting cocoa beans, the membrane surrounding coffee beans, brewer's bran, wine lees, cucumber stems, tomato leaves, citrus peels, beet pulp, apple pomace, and / or mixtures or combinations thereof.

[0196] The packaging materials disclosed herein may include between about 0% by weight and 50% by weight, between 1% by weight and 40% by weight, or between 10% by weight and 30% by weight of natural additives. It is noteworthy that when the weight percentage of natural additives and natural fibers is less than 100%, there is room for coatings, colorants, films, and / or adhesives, if desired. In some embodiments of the invention, the first packaging material may have a lower weight percentage of natural additives than the second packaging material. Alternatively, in other embodiments of the invention, the first packaging material may have a higher wet percentage of natural additives than the second packaging material.

[0197] Absorbent products

[0198] As previously mentioned, there are many absorbent articles that can be packaged in the packaging materials disclosed herein. Figures 6 to 7C Two specific examples are provided. However, the packaging materials and packages disclosed herein can be used to contain multiple absorbent articles as previously described. Figures 6 to 7C This is merely an example of articles that can be contained in the packaging materials / packages disclosed herein.

[0199] exist Figure 6 An exemplary feminine panty 400 is shown in the image. The feminine panty 400 includes a top sheet 420, a bottom sheet 450, and an absorbent core 440 disposed between the top sheet 420 and the bottom sheet 450. A fluid management layer 430 may be disposed between the top sheet 420 and the absorbent core 440. The absorbent article has a wearer-facing surface 460 and a clothing-facing surface 462. The wearer-facing surface 460 primarily includes the top sheet 420, while the clothing-facing surface 462 primarily includes the bottom sheet 450. Additional components may be included in the wearer-facing surface 460 and / or the clothing-facing surface 462. For example, if the absorbent article is an incontinence pad, a pair of barrier bands extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the absorbent article 400 may also form part of the wearer-facing surface 460. Similarly, a fastening adhesive may be present on the bottom sheet 450 and form part of the clothing-facing surface 462 of the absorbent article.

[0200] The top sheet 420 can be bonded to the bottom sheet 450 by attachment methods (not shown) known in the art. The top sheet 420 and the bottom sheet 450 can be directly bonded to each other in the periphery of the article, and can also be indirectly bonded together by directly bonding them to the absorbent core 440, the fluid management layer 430, and / or an additional layer disposed between the top sheet 420 and the bottom sheet 450. Such indirect or direct bonding can be achieved by attachment methods well known in the art.

[0201] Topsheet 420 can be soft, comfortable, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Suitable topsheet materials include liquid-permeable materials that are oriented towards and in contact with the wearer's body, allowing bodily excretions to pass through quickly without allowing fluid to flow back onto the wearer's skin. While the topsheet allows fluid to pass through and be quickly transferred, it can also allow the lotion composition to transfer or migrate to the outside or inside of the wearer's skin.

[0202] The suitable top sheet 420 can be made of a variety of materials, such as woven and nonwoven materials; open-cell membrane materials, including open-cell thermoplastic membranes, open-cell plastic membranes and fiber-wound open-cell membranes; hydroformed thermoplastic membranes; porous foams; mesh foams; mesh thermoplastic membranes; thermoplastic sparse fabrics; or combinations thereof.

[0203] Suitable open-pore membrane materials for use as top sheets include those porous plastic membranes that do not absorb bodily fluids but allow bodily fluids to pass through, and ensure that fluids passing through the top sheet flow back to a minimum or not at all. Other suitable shaped films (including open-cell and non-porous shaped films) are described more fully in the following documents: U.S. Patent 3,929,135 to Thompson, December 30, 1975; U.S. Patent 4,324,246 to Mullane et al., April 13, 1982; U.S. Patent 4,342,314 to Radel et al., August 3, 1982; U.S. Patent 4,463,045 to Ahr et al., July 31, 1984; U.S. Patent 5,006,394 to Baird, April 9, 1991; U.S. Patent 4,609,518 to Curro et al., September 2, 1986; and U.S. Patent 4,629,643 to Curro et al., December 16, 1986.

[0204] Non-limiting examples of woven and nonwoven materials suitable for use as topsheets include fibrous materials made from natural fibers (e.g., cotton, including 100% organic cotton), modified natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or combinations thereof. These fibrous materials may be hydrophilic or hydrophobic, but preferably, the topsheet is hydrophobic or exhibits a hydrophobic appearance. Alternatively, portions of the topsheet may be treated to be hydrophilic using any known method for preparing a topsheet containing hydrophilic components. The nonwoven fiber topsheet 20 may be produced by any known method for manufacturing nonwoven fiber webs, non-limiting examples of which include spunbond, carding, wet web forming, air-laid web forming, meltblown, needle punching, mechanical winding, thermo-mechanical winding, and water winding.

[0205] The top sheet 420 may be formed from a combination of an open-cell membrane and a nonwoven fabric. For example, a membrane fiber web and a nonwoven fiber web may be combined as described in U.S. Patent 9,700,463. Alternatively, the membrane may be extruded onto a nonwoven material, which is believed to provide enhanced contact between the membrane layer and the nonwoven material. Exemplary processes for such combinations are described in U.S. Patents 9,849,602 and 9,700,463.

[0206] The backing sheet 450 may be positioned adjacent to the garment-facing surface of the absorbent core 440 and may be attached thereto by attachment methods such as those known in the art. For example, the backing sheet 450 may be attached to the absorbent core 440 by a uniform, continuous layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or a series of separate adhesive lines, spirals, or spots. Alternatively, the attachment method may include the use of thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, or any other suitable attachment method or combination of these methods known in the art.

[0207] The backing sheet 450 may be impermeable or substantially impermeable to liquids (e.g., urine) and may be made of a thin plastic film, but other liquid-impermeable flexible materials may also be used. As used herein, the term "flexible" refers to a material that is compliant and readily conforms to the general shape and contours of the human body. The backing sheet prevents or at least inhibits the wetting of clothing articles, such as underwear, in contact with the incontinence pad by effluent absorbed and contained by the absorbent core. However, the backing sheet may allow vapor to escape from the absorbent core (i.e., breathable), while in some cases, the backing sheet may not allow vapor to escape (i.e., non-breathable). Therefore, the backing sheet may comprise a polymer film, such as a thermoplastic polyethylene film or a polypropylene film. Suitable materials for the backing sheet are thermoplastic films having a thickness of, for example, from about 0.012 mm (0.5 mils) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mils). Any suitable backing sheet known in the art may be used in this invention.

[0208] The backing sheet 450 acts as a barrier against any absorbed bodily fluids that can pass through the absorbent core 440 to the surface of the garment, thereby reducing the risk of soiling underwear or other clothing. The preferred material is a soft, smooth, and flexible liquid and vapor permeable material that provides comfortable softness and conformability, and produces low noise so as not to cause annoying noise during movement.

[0209] Exemplary films are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,885,265 (Osborn, III.) published March 23, 1999; No. 6,462,251 (Cimini) published October 8, 2002; No. 6,623,464 (Bewick-Sonntag) published September 23, 2003; or No. 6,664,439 (Arndt) published December 16, 2003. Double or multilayer breathable films applicable herein include those exemplified in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,881,489, 4,341,216, 4,713,068, 4,818,600, EP 203,821, EP 710,471, EP 710,472, and EP 793,952.

[0210] The breathable backing sheets applicable herein include all breathable backing sheets known in the art. There are two main types of breathable backing sheets: single-layer breathable backing sheets that are breathable and liquid-impermeable, and backing sheets having at least two layers that combine breathability and liquid impermeability. Single-layer breathable backing sheets applicable herein include those described, for example, in GB A 2184389, GB A 2184390, GB A 2184391, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,591,523, 3,989,867, 3,156,242, and WO 97 / 24097.

[0211] The substrate is a nonwoven fiber web having a basis weight between about 20 gsm and about 50 gsm. For example, the substrate can be a spunbond nonwoven fiber web of relatively hydrophobic 4 denier polypropylene fibers at 23 gsm, available from Fiberweb Neuberger under the trade name F102301001. The substrate may be coated with an insoluble, liquid-swellable material as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,436,508 (Ciammaichella), published August 20, 2002.

[0212] The film has a clothing-facing side and a body-facing side. The clothing-facing side of the film includes a non-adhesive area and an adhesive area. The adhesive area can be provided by any conventional method. Pressure-sensitive adhesives are generally found to be very suitable for this application.

[0213] The absorbent core 440 may comprise any suitable shape, including but not limited to elliptical, discordant, rectangular, asymmetrical, and hourglass shapes. For example, in some forms of the invention, the absorbent core 440 may have a contoured shape, such as being narrower in the middle region than at the ends. Alternatively, the absorbent core may have a tapered shape, with a wider portion at one end of the pad and gradually tapering to a narrower end at the other end. The absorbent core may have varying stiffness on the MD and CD.

[0214] The configuration and construction of the absorbent core can be varied (e.g., absorbent core 440 may have varying thickness zones, hydrophilic gradients, superabsorbency gradients, or lower average density and lower average basis weight collection zones). Additionally, the size and absorbency capacity of absorbent core 440 can be varied to accommodate a variety of wearers. However, the total absorbency capacity of absorbent core 440 should conform to the design load and intended use of disposable absorbent articles or incontinence pads.

[0215] In some forms of the invention, the absorbent core may include multiple multifunctional layers in addition to the first and second laminates. For example, the absorbent core may include a core wrapper (not shown) for encapsulating the first and second laminates, as well as other optional layers. The core wrapper may be formed from two nonwoven materials, a substrate, a laminate, a film, or other materials. In one form, the core wrapper may consist of only a single material, substrate, laminate, or other material that at least partially surrounds itself. The absorbent core may include one or more adhesives, for example, to facilitate securing SAP or other absorbent materials within the first and second laminates.

[0216] Absorber cores with various core designs and containing relatively high SAP contents are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,599,335 to Goldman et al., EP 1,447,066 to Busam et al., WO 95 / 11652 to Tanzer et al., U.S. Patent Publication 2008 / 0312622A1 to Hundorf et al., and WO 2012 / 052172 to Van Malderen. These can be used to construct superabsorber layers.

[0217] The addition of the core disclosed herein is envisioned. Specifically, potential additions to the present multilayer absorber core are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,610,678, entitled "High-Density Absorbent Structures," issued to Weisman et al. on September 9, 1986; U.S. Patent No. 4,673,402, entitled "Absorbent Articles With Dual-Layered Cores," issued to Weisman et al. on June 16, 1987; U.S. Patent No. 4,888,231, entitled "Absorbent Core Having A Dusting Layer," issued to Angstadt on December 19, 1989; and U.S. Patent No. 4,834,735, entitled "High Density Absorbent Members Having Lower Density and Lower Basis Weight Acquisition Zones," issued to Alemany et al. on May 30, 1989. The absorbent core may also include additional layers that mimic a dual-core system, comprising a collection / dispensing core of chemically rigid fibers positioned above the absorbent storage core, as detailed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,234,423 and 5,147,345, entitled “Absorbent Article With Elastic Waist Feature and Enhanced Absorbency,” issued August 10, 1993, to Alemany et al. These are useful as long as they do not counteract or conflict with the function of the laminated absorbent core of the present invention. Additional examples of suitable absorbent cores are described in U.S. Patent Application Publications 2018 / 0098893 and 2018 / 0098891.

[0218] Any suitable fluid management layer can be used in conjunction with the feminine sanitary pad 400. The fluid management layer can be separable and independent from the absorbent system. Additionally, the fluid management layer is positioned below the top sheet and on the wearer-facing surface of the core. The fluid management layer can have a basis weight of approximately 40 gsm to approximately 100 gsm, approximately 45 gsm to approximately 75 gsm, or approximately 50 gsm to approximately 65 gsm, specifically including these ranges and all values ​​within any range arising therefrom. In some forms, the fluid management layer may comprise a homogeneous blend of fibers, while in other forms, the fluid management layer may comprise a non-homogeneous blend of fibers.

[0219] Some exemplary fluid management layers are described in U.S. Patent Application Publications 2015 / 0351976A1 and 2014 / 0343523A1; and U.S. Patent Application Serial 15 / 729704.

[0220] Another example of an absorbent article that may be included in the packaging of this disclosure is a diaper. Figure 7A The diagram shown is a plan view of an exemplary absorbent article, namely a diaper 1900 in its flat, non-shrinked state (i.e., without the shrinkage caused by elasticity), wherein a portion of the structure is cut off to more clearly show the construction of the diaper 1900 and its wearer-facing surface is toward the observer. This diaper is shown for illustrative purposes only, as the packaging of this disclosure can be used for a wide variety of diapers or other absorbent articles.

[0221] The absorbent article may include a liquid-permeable top sheet 1924, a liquid-impermeable bottom sheet 1925, an absorbent core 1928 at least partially positioned between the top sheet 1924 and the bottom sheet 1925, and a barrier leg 1934. The absorbent article may also include a liquid management system (“LMS”) 1950. Figure 6 (As shown in B), the fluid management system in the illustrated example includes a dispensing layer 1954 and a collection layer 1952, both of which will be discussed further below. In various forms, the collection layer 1952 may alternatively dispense body exudate and the dispensing layer 1954 may alternatively collect body exudate, or both layers may dispense and / or collect body exudate. The LMS 1950 may also be provided as a single layer or as two or more layers. The absorbent article may also include an elasticated liner hoop 1932, which is typically attached to the base structure 1982 of the absorbent article via a top sheet and / or a bottom sheet, and is substantially planar with the base structure of the diaper.

[0222] These figures also illustrate typical adhesive diaper components, such as a fastening system including an adhesive insert 1942 or other mechanical fastener that attaches to the rear edge of the absorbent article 1900 and mates with a landing area 1944 on the front of the absorbent article 1900. The absorbent article may also include other typical elements not shown, such as, for example, a rear elastic waistband feature (…). Figure 8 The 1936 shown) and the anterior elastic waist feature structure ( Figure 8 shown in 1937).

[0223] The absorbent article 1900 may include a front waist edge 1910, a rear waist edge 1912 longitudinally opposite to the front waist edge 1910, a first side edge 1903, and a second side edge 1904 laterally opposite to the first side edge 1903. The front waist edge 1910 is the edge of the absorbent article 1900 intended to be positioned facing the front of the user when worn, and the rear waist edge 1912 is the opposite edge. When the absorbent article 1900 is worn by the wearer, the front waist edge 1910 and the rear waist edge together form a waist opening. The absorbent article 1900 may have a longitudinal axis 1980 extending from the lateral midpoint of the front waist edge 1910 to the lateral midpoint of the rear waist edge 1912 of the absorbent article 1900 and dividing the absorbent article 1900 into two substantially symmetrical halves with respect to the longitudinal axis 1980, wherein the article is laid flat and as Figure 7A The image is shown as viewed from the surface facing the wearer. The absorbent article may also have a lateral axis 1990 extending from the longitudinal midpoint of the first side edge 1903 to the longitudinal midpoint of the second side edge 1904. The length L of the absorbent article 1900 can be measured along the longitudinal axis 1980 from the front waist edge 1910 to the back waist edge 1912. The crotch width of the absorbent article 1900 can be measured along the lateral axis 1990 from the first side edge 1903 to the second side edge 1904. The absorbent article 1900 may include a front waist area 1905, a back waist area 1906, and a crotch area 1907. The front waist area, back waist area, and crotch area each define one-third of the longitudinal length of the absorbent article. The front and back portions may also be defined on opposite sides of the lateral axis 1990.

[0224] Top sheet 1924, bottom sheet 1925, absorbent core 1928, and other article components can be assembled in various configurations, specifically by, for example, adhesive bonding or thermoforming. Exemplary diaper configurations are generally described in U.S. Patents 3,860,003, 5,221,274, 5,554,145, 5,569,234, 5,580,411, and 6,004,306.

[0225] The absorbent core 1928 may comprise absorbent material and a core envelope encapsulating the absorbent material, the absorbent material comprising 75% to 100%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% by weight of the absorbent material, specifically listing all 0.1% increments within the foregoing specified ranges and all ranges therein or formed therefrom. The core envelope may typically comprise two materials, a substrate, or nonwoven materials 16 and 16' for the top and bottom sides of the core.

[0226] The absorber core 1928 may include one or more channels, in Figure 6In A, this is represented as four channels: 1926, 1926', and 1927, 1927'. Additionally or alternatively, the LMS1950 may include one or more channels. Figures 7A to 7C These are referred to as channels 1949 and 1949'. In some forms, the channel of LMS1950 may be positioned within the absorbent article 1900 such that the channel is aligned, substantially aligned, overlaps, or at least partially overlaps with the channel of the absorbent core 1928. These and other components of the absorbent article will now be discussed in more detail.

[0227] Top sheet 1924 is a portion of the absorbent article that comes into direct contact with the wearer's skin. As is known to those skilled in the art, top sheet 1924 may be bonded to bottom sheet 1925, core 1928, and / or any other layer. Typically, top sheet 1924 and bottom sheet 1925 are directly bonded to each other at some locations (e.g., on or near the periphery of the article) and indirectly bonded together at other locations by directly bonding them to one or more other elements of the absorbent article 1900.

[0228] The backing sheet 1925 is typically a portion of the absorbent article 1900 positioned adjacent to the absorbent core 1928 on the garment-facing surface and prevents or at least inhibits the soiling of articles, such as sheets and underwear, by the absorbed and contained bodily exudates therein. The backing sheet 1925 is typically impermeable to liquids (e.g., urine, diluted diapers), or at least substantially impermeable, but permeable to vapors to allow the diaper to “breathe.” The backing sheet may be, for example, or comprise a thin plastic film, such as a thermoplastic film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm to about 0.051 mm. Exemplary backing sheet films include those manufactured by Tredegar Corporation, headquartered in Richmond, VA, and sold under the trade name CPC2 film. Other suitable backing sheet materials may include breathable materials that allow vapors to escape from the absorbent article 1900 while still preventing or at least inhibiting bodily exudates from passing through the backing sheet 1925. Exemplary breathable materials may include materials such as woven fiber webs, nonwoven fiber webs, and composite materials (such as membrane-coated nonwoven fiber webs), microporous membranes, and monomeric membranes. In a specific example, the film may include a film and a nonwoven fabric, wherein the nonwoven fabric ( Figure 8 The 1971 example shows a portion of the surface of the garment that faces the clothing.

[0229] The substrate 1925 can be attached to the top sheet 1924, absorbent core 1928, and / or any other element of the absorbent article 1900 by any attachment method known to those skilled in the art. Suitable attachment methods have been described above for methods of attaching the top sheet 1924 to other elements of the absorbent article 1900.

[0230] As used herein, the term "absorbent core" refers to a single component of an absorbent article having the maximum absorbent capacity and containing absorbent material. An absorbent core may include a core wrapper or core bag encapsulating absorbent material (hereinafter, "core wrapper"). The term "absorbent core" does not include LMS or any other component of the absorbent article that is neither integral to the core wrapper nor contained within the core wrapper. An absorbent core may include, consist substantially of, or be composed of the following: the core wrapper, the absorbent material as defined below, and adhesive encapsulated within the core wrapper. Pulp or breathable felt may also be present within the core wrapper and may form part of the absorbent material. The periphery of the absorbent core (which may be the periphery of the core wrapper) may define any suitable shape, such as, for example, a "T," "Y," "hourglass," or "dog bone" shape. An absorbent core periphery having a generally "dog bone" or "hourglass" shape may taper along its width toward the center or "groin" area of ​​the core. In this way, the absorbent core may have a relatively narrow width in the absorbent core area intended to be placed in the groin area of ​​the absorbent article.

[0231] The absorbent core 1928 of this disclosure may comprise absorbent material having a high amount of superabsorbent polymer (abbreviated herein as "SAP") encapsulated within a core envelope. SAP content may be expressed as 70% to 100% or at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 99%, or 100% by weight of the absorbent material contained in the core envelope. The SAP used in this disclosure may comprise a variety of water-insoluble but water-swellable polymers capable of absorbing large volumes of fluid. For the purpose of assessing the percentage of SAP in the absorbent core, the core envelope is not considered absorbent material. The remainder of the absorbent material in the core 1928 may be a breathable felt.

[0232] "Absorbent material" refers to materials that possess some absorption or liquid retention properties, such as SAP, cellulose fibers, and synthetic fibers. Typically, the adhesive used to prepare the absorbent core does not possess absorption properties and is not considered an absorbent material. As mentioned above, the SAP content can be greater than 80% by weight of the absorbent material contained within the core enclosure, for example, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 99%, and even up to and including 100%. This provides a relatively thin core compared to conventional cores that typically contain, for example, between 40% and 60% SAP and high contents of cellulose fibers or breathable felt. The absorbent material can contain less than 15% or less than 10% by weight of natural or synthetic fibers, less than 5% by weight, less than 3% by weight, less than 2% by weight, less than 1% by weight, or may even be substantially free of or contain no natural and / or synthetic fibers, specifically listed in the specified ranges and all 0.1% increments within or formed of these ranges. The absorbent material may contain little or no breathable felt (cellulose) fibers. Specifically, the absorbent core may contain less than 15%, 10%, 5%, 3%, 2%, or 1% breathable felt (cellulose) fibers by weight, or may even contain virtually no or no cellulose fibers, specifically listed in the specified range and all 0.1% increments in or in all ranges formed therefrom.

[0233] The absorbent core 1928 may also include a generally planar top side and a generally planar bottom side. The core 1928 may have a longitudinal axis 80' that substantially corresponds to the longitudinal axis 80 of the absorbent article, as in... Figure 6 Viewed from top in a plan view of A. The absorbent material may be distributed towards the front in greater quantity than towards the rear, as greater absorbency may be required at the front of the article of manufacture. The absorbent material may have a non-uniform or uniform basis weight in any part of the core. The core wrapping may be formed of two nonwoven materials, a substrate, a laminate, or other materials 1916, 1916', which may at least partially seal along the sides of the absorbent core. The core wrapping may at least partially seal along its front, rear, and two longitudinal sides, such that substantially no absorbent material leaks from the absorbent core wrapping. The first material, substrate, or nonwoven 1916 may at least partially surround the second material, substrate, or nonwoven 1916' to form the core wrapping. The first material 1916 may surround portions of the second material 1916' adjacent to the first side edge 1903 and the second side edge 1904.

[0234] Chips with various core designs containing relatively high amounts of SAP are disclosed in U.S. Patent 5,599,335 (Goldman), EP 1,447,066 (Busam), WO 95 / 11652 (Tanzer), U.S. Patent Publication 2008 / 0312622A1 (Hundorf), and WO 2012 / 052172 (Van Malderen).

[0235] The absorbent material may be one or more continuous layers present within the core package. Alternatively, the absorbent material may consist of a bag or strip of separate absorbent material encapsulated within the core package. In the first case, the absorbent material may be obtained, for example, by applying a single continuous layer of absorbent material. Continuous layers of absorbent material (specifically, SAP) may also be obtained by combining two or more absorbent layers having a discontinuous absorbent material application pattern, wherein the resulting layers are substantially continuously distributed in regions of absorbent granular polymer material, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2008 / 0312622A1 (Hundorf). The absorbent core 1928 may include a first absorbent layer and a second absorbent layer. The first absorbent layer may include a first material 1916 and a first layer 1961 of absorbent material, which may be 100% or less SAP. The second absorbent layer may include a second material 1916' and a second layer 1962 of absorbent material, which may be 100% or less SAP.

[0236] The fiber-reinforced thermoplastic adhesive material 1951 can at least partially contact the absorbent materials 1961 and 1962 in the landing area and at least partially contact the materials 1916 and 1916' in the bonding area. This gives the fiber layer of the thermoplastic adhesive material 591 a substantially three-dimensional structure, which itself is a substantially two-dimensional structure with a relatively small thickness compared to its dimensions in the length and width directions. Thus, the fiber-reinforced thermoplastic adhesive material can provide a cavity to cover the absorbent material in the landing area, thereby fixing the absorbent material, which may be 100% or less SAP.

[0237] The core wrapper can be made of a single substrate, material, or nonwoven fabric folded around the absorbent material, or it can comprise two (or more) substrates, materials, or nonwoven fabrics attached to each other. Typical attachments are so-called C-wrappers and / or sandwich wrappers. In a C-wrapper, the longitudinal and / or transverse edges of one substrate are folded over another substrate to form winglets. These winglets are then typically bonded to the outer surface of the other substrate by adhesive. Other techniques can be used to form the core wrapper. For example, the longitudinal and / or transverse edges of the substrates can be bonded together, then folded under the absorbent core and bonded in that location.

[0238] The core wrapper can at least partially seal all sides of the absorbent core, such that substantially no absorbent material leaks out of the core. "Substantially no absorbent material" means that less than 5%, less than 2%, less than 1%, or about 0% of absorbent material by weight escapes from the core wrapper. The term "seal" should be interpreted broadly. A seal for a core wrapper does not need to be continuous along the entire perimeter of the core wrapper, but can be discontinuous along its entirety, such as being formed by a series of sealing points spaced apart along a line. The seal can be formed by adhesive bonding and / or thermal bonding.

[0239] The core encapsulation can also be formed from a single substrate that encapsulates the absorbent material in a package and seals it along the front and back sides of the core as well as a longitudinal seal.

[0240] The absorbent article may include a pair of blocking leg cuffs 1934. Each blocking leg cuff may be formed from a single sheet of material bonded to the absorbent article, thereby extending upward from the inner surface of the absorbent article and providing improved inhibition of fluids and other bodily exudates near the junction of the wearer's torso and legs. The blocking leg cuff 1934 is defined by a proximal edge 1964 directly or indirectly bonded to the top sheet 1924 and / or the bottom sheet 1925, and a free end edge 1966 intended to contact the wearer's skin and form a seal. The blocking leg cuff 1934 extends at least partially between the front waist edge 1910 and the rear waist edge 1912 of the absorbent article on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis 1980, and is present at least in the crotch area 1907. The blocking leg cuff 1934 may be bonded to the base structure of the absorbent article at the proximal edge 1964 by an adhesive portion 1965, which may be made by a combination of adhesive, fusion bonding, or other suitable bonding processes. The adhesive portion 1965 at the proximal edge 1964 may be continuous or discontinuous. The adhesive portion 1965 of the protruding segment closest to the leg clamp 1934 defines the proximal edge 1964 of the upright segment of the leg clamp 1934.

[0241] The barrier leg cuff 1934 may be integral with the top sheet 1924 or the bottom sheet 1925, or it may be a separate material attached to the base structure of the absorbent article. The material of the barrier leg cuff 1934 may extend through the entire length of the diaper, but may be "adhesively bonded" to the top sheet 1924 toward the front waist edge 1910 and back waist edge 1912 of the absorbent article, such that in these sections, the barrier leg cuff material remains flush with the top sheet 1924.

[0242] Each barrier leg clamp 1934 may include one, two, or more elastic strands or strips 1935 of the membrane near the free end edge 1966 to provide a better seal. It is worth noting that the barrier leg clamps can be similarly applied to, as referenced... Figure 5The structure of the described pad type. Such a configuration may be desirable in adult incontinence pads. Any configuration of the leg clamp described herein can be used in adult incontinence pads.

[0243] In addition to the blocking leg cuff 1934, the absorbent article may also include a bushing cuff 1932, which engages with the base structure of the absorbent article (specifically the top piece 1924 and / or the bottom piece 1925) and may be positioned externally relative to the blocking leg cuff 1934. The bushing cuff 1932 provides a better seal around the wearer's thigh. Each bushing leg cuff may include one or more elastic bands or elastic elements 1933 located between the top piece 1924 and the bottom piece 1925 in the leg opening area of ​​the base structure of the absorbent article. All or part of the blocking leg cuff and / or bushing cuff may be treated with a lotion or skin care composition. The blocking leg cuffs may be constructed in many different configurations, including those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0277713.

[0244] In one form, the absorbent article may include a front auricle 1946 and a rear auricle 1940. The auricles may be integral parts of the basic structure, such as being formed as side pieces from a top piece 1924 and / or a bottom piece 1925. Alternatively, as... Figure 7A As shown, the ear flaps (1946, 1940) can be independent elements attached by adhesive bonding, thermoforming, and / or pressure bonding. The back ear flap 1940 can be stretchable to facilitate attachment of the tab 1942 (fastener 1943) to the landing area 1944 and to hold the adhesive diaper in proper position around the wearer's waist. The back ear flap 1940 can also be elastic or stretchable to provide a more comfortable and conformal fit to the wearer through an initial conformal fit of the absorbent article, and to maintain this fit throughout wear when the absorbent article is loaded with exudate, as the elastic ear flap allows the absorbent article to stretch and contract laterally.

[0245] One function of the LMS1950 is to rapidly collect fluid and efficiently distribute it to the absorber core 1928. The LMS1950 may include one or more layers, which may form an integral layer or remain as discrete layers that can be attached to each other. The LMS1950 may include two layers: a distribution layer 1954 and a collection layer 1952, which are disposed between the absorber core and the top sheet, but this disclosure is not limited to such a configuration.

[0246] LMS1950 may contain SAP because this slows down the collection and dispensing of fluid. In other forms, LMS may be substantially SAP-free (e.g., 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 99% SAP-free) or completely SAP-free. For example, LMS may also contain one or more of a variety of other suitable types of materials, such as open-cell foam, air-laid fibers, or carded resin-bonded nonwoven materials. Suitable exemplary LMS are described, for example, in WO 2000 / 59430 (Daley), WO 95 / 10996 (Richards), U.S. Patent 5,700,254 (McDowall), and WO 02 / 067809 (Graef).

[0247] LMS1950 may include a distribution layer 1954. Distribution layer 1954 may, for example, contain at least 50% by weight or more of cross-linked cellulose fibers. The cross-linked cellulose fibers may be pleated, twisted, or crimped, or a combination thereof (including pleated, twisted, and crimped). This type of material is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication 2008 / 0312622A1 (Hundorf).

[0248] LMS1950 may optionally include a collection layer 1952. Collection layer 1952 may, for example, be disposed between distribution layer 1954 and top sheet 1924. Collection layer 1952 may be or may include a nonwoven material, such as SMS or SMMS material, comprising spunbond layers, meltblown layers, and other spunbond layers, or alternatively, a chemically bonded nonwoven fabric carded into a web. Collection layer 1952 may include air-laid or wet-laid cellulose, cross-linked cellulose, or synthetic fibers, or blends thereof. Collection layer 1952 may include a packaged fiber web of synthetic fibers (which may be processed, for example, by solid forming to increase porosity), or a combination of synthetic fibers and cellulose fibers bonded together to form a high-loft material. Alternatively, collection layer 1952 may include absorbent open-cell foam. The nonwoven material may be latex-bonded.

[0249] The LMS1950 of the absorbent article 1900 may include channels that generally enable the absorbent article to better conform to the wearer's body structure, resulting in increased freedom of movement and reduced gaps. One or more of the channels in the LMS1950 may be configured to work in conjunction with various channels in the absorbent core 1928, as discussed above. Additionally, the channels in the LMS1950 may provide increased void space to retain and distribute urine, BM, or other bodily exudates within the absorbent article, resulting in reduced leakage and skin contact. The channels in the LMS1950 may also provide internally available markings (especially when highlighted by physical differences in texture, color, and / or pattern) to facilitate proper alignment of the absorbent article on the wearer. Thus, such physical differences may be, for example, visually and / or tactilely noticeable.

[0250] Wetting indicator mark / graphic

[0251] Regarding the inactive wetting indicator markings of packaging for one or more absorbent articles of this disclosure, it is worth discussing various types of wetting indicator markings. Firstly, a wetting indicator marking may exhibit a first color in its dry state and change to a second color when it becomes wet, wherein the first color and the second color are distinct. As more liquid is introduced into the absorbent core of the absorbent article, more wetting indicator markings change from the first color to the second color. When the absorbent article is fully saturated, the wetting indicator markings typically only display the second color. In such configurations, the wetting indicator marking may be a color-changing composition comprising a suitable pH indicator or another chemical substance that changes color upon contact with urine. Such compositions are disclosed, for example, in WO03 / 070138A2, WO2010 / 120705 (Klofta), or US2012 / 165771 (Ruman). The previously cited documents provide several examples of suitable pH indicator markers, including, for example, bromocresol green, bromocresol purple, bromophenol blue, m-cresol purple, cresol red, chlorophenol red, bromothymol blue, bromopyrogallol red, bromoxylenol blue, acridine or acridine orange, thymolphthalein, thymol blue, xylenol blue, bromochlorophenol blue, and indigo carmine. Bromocresol green, for example, can be used in compositions containing acid stabilizers such that the pH indicator marker appears yellow on dry articles and changes to a green-blue hue upon contact with urine, which typically has a pH of approximately pH 7.

[0252] The second type of wetting indicator may include a graphic that appears only after the wetting indicator has received moisture. For example, in its dry state, the wetting indicator is invisible or indistinguishable from the surrounding color of the absorbent article. In this type of wetting indicator, very similar to the first type, a color change occurs once the wetting indicator receives liquid, and this color change is visible through the wearer-facing surface and / or the clothing-facing surface of the article. Depending on the amount of liquid received by the wetting indicator, only a small portion may be activated to produce a color change. Alternatively, if a large amount of liquid is received, a larger portion or all of the wetting indicator may be activated to produce a visible color change.

[0253] The third type of wetting indicator may involve a disappearing graphic. For example, a graphic of a full cartoon character may appear in the dry state of the article. Once the article begins to absorb liquid, the cartoon character will begin to disappear, or the graphic color will change to a second color that matches the general color of the article's negative. Once the article is fully absorbed, the cartoon character may not appear at all, and in most cases, it may not appear at all. Such a disappearance signal can be provided, for example, by a composition comprising a dye that dissolves in urine and thus fades as the article becomes wet.

[0254] The fourth type of wetting indicator can also be an element capable of providing a physical feel for the level of fullness of the absorbent component. Examples of such elements are disclosed in WO2008132630 and include temperature-changing elements (cooling or heating elements), pressure-inducing elements, or foam-generating elements.

[0255] The wetting indicator mark of the present invention can be based on any wetting indicator system known in the art. The wetting indicator mark of this disclosure can include combinations of the aforementioned wetting indicator marks. For example, the wetting indicator mark can include a composition as described in WO2010 / 120705 (Klofta) and includes a colorant, a matrix, and a stabilizer. Such a matrix can include a first adhesive and a second adhesive, as detailed in WO2010 / 120705, and can be used in the wetting indicator mark composition at levels that effectively fix and stabilize the colorant, including about 5% to about 95%, about 10% to about 80%, and about 25% to about 75% by weight of the composition. The second adhesive can be selected from, but is not limited to, those second adhesives disclosed in U.S. Patent 6,904,865 to Klofta. The wetting indicator mark composition of the present invention may further include a stabilizer, as detailed, for example, in WO2010 / 120705. The color-changing composition can also be a hot-melt adhesive, which allows the composition to be easily applied to the substrate of the article, for example by a trough coating method or a printing adhesive as disclosed in, for example, US2011274834 (Brown).

[0256] Based on the foregoing discussion of wetting indicator marks, an inactive wetting indicator mark is one in which the wetting indicator mark is substantially usable for receiving and indicating the liquid level within the article. For example, in the case of a wetting indicator mark with color change or manifestation, a substantially inactive wetting indicator mark is one in which 70% or more, 85% or more, or 95% or more of the area of ​​the wetting indicator mark is (i) the original (dry) color or (ii) not yet manifested, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom. As another example, regarding vanishable graphics, a substantially inactive wetting indicator mark is one in which about 70% or more, 85% or more, or 95% or more of vanishable graphics are present, specifically listing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges arising therefrom.

[0257] See Figure 7A and Figure 8 The absorbent article 1900 of this disclosure may include a graphic 780 and / or a wetting indicator mark 800 visible from the surface 702 facing the clothing. The graphic 780 may be printed on the landing area 740, the film 1925, and / or other locations. The wetting indicator marks 800 are typically applied to the side of the film 1925 facing the absorbent core, such that they can come into contact with bodily fluids within the absorbent core 1928. In some cases, the wetting indicator marks 800 may form part of the graphic 780. For example, the wetting indicator marks may appear or disappear, and characters may be created / removed within some graphics. In other cases, the wetting indicator marks 800 may be coordinated (e.g., the same design, the same pattern, the same color) or incompatible with the graphic 780.

[0258] Contemplated Implementation :

[0259] Example A: An array of absorbent article packages including a first package and a second package, each of the first and second packages comprising a plurality of sheets and a plurality of seals encapsulating one or more absorbent articles therein, the first package comprising a first packaging material and the second package comprising a second packaging material, wherein each of the first and second packaging materials comprises natural fibers, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package comprises an absorbent core having at least 5 grams of superabsorbent polymer, more preferably at least 7 grams of superabsorbent polymer, or most preferably at least 9 grams of superabsorbent polymer, and wherein the first and second packaging materials comprise One or more natural fiber layers and wherein at least a portion of the first packaging material includes one or more barrier layers, wherein the mass ratio of the one or more natural fiber layers to the one or more barrier layers is about 7:1 or greater, more preferably about 8:1 or greater, or most preferably about 9:1 or greater, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles in the second package includes an absorbent core having less superabsorbent polymer than the absorbent core of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package, and wherein the one or more absorbent articles in the first package and the one or more absorbent articles in the second package are manufactured by the same manufacturer or on behalf of the same manufacturer.

[0260] Example A1: An array of absorbent product packaging according to Example A, wherein the natural fiber layer is the outermost layer of the first packaging.

[0261] Example A2: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A1, wherein the barrier layer is the innermost layer of the first package.

[0262] Example A3: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A2, wherein the mass ratio of the natural fiber layer to the barrier layer is between about 7:1 and about 25:1, more preferably about 8:1 and about 22:1, or most preferably about 9:1 and about 20:1.

[0263] Example A4: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A3, wherein the mass ratio of the natural fiber layer to the barrier layer is about 9.5:1.

[0264] Example A5: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A4, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material are recyclable, as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method.

[0265] Example A6: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A5, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a content of approximately 300 g / (m³) according to ASTM F1249 as modified herein. 2 *day) or less, more preferably about 200g / (m 2 *day) or less, or most preferably about 150g / (m 2 Water vapor transmission rate (SCWVTR) under stress conditions of *days or less.

[0266] Example A7: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A6, wherein the barrier layer comprises a film.

[0267] Example A8: An array of absorbent article packaging according to Example A7, wherein the film layer comprises an insoluble polymer.

[0268] Example A9: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A7 to A8, wherein the membrane layer comprises a polyolefin.

[0269] Example A10: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A9, wherein the first package is substantially adhesive-free.

[0270] Example A11: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A10, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an absorption rate of between 20 g / (m³). 2 *day) to approximately 300g / (m 2 Between *days, more preferably about 20g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 200g / (m 2 *day), or most preferably about 20g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 150g / (m 2 *day) of SCWVTR.

[0271] Example A12: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A11, wherein the first packaging material exhibits approximately 70 g / (m³) 2 *day) to approximately 150g / (m 2 *day), more preferably about 70g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 120g / (m 2 *day), or most preferably about 70g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 110g / (m 2 *day) of SCWVTR.

[0272] Example A13: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A12, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a content of less than about 100 g / (m³). 2 *day), more preferably less than about 95g / (m 2 *day), or most preferably less than about 85g / (m²) 2 *day) of SCWVTR.

[0273] Example A14: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A13, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an absorption capacity of approximately 20 g / (m³). 2 *day) to approximately 100g / (m 2 Between *days, more preferably 20g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 90g / (m 2 *day), or most preferably about 20g / (m 2 *day) to approximately 85g / (m 2 *day) of SCWVTR.

[0274] Example A15: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A14, wherein the barrier layer accounts for 5% or less, or more preferably 4% or less, of the first packaging material.

[0275] Example A16: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A15, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a density of less than 100 g / (m³). 2 The SCWVTR of the first and second packaging materials comprises at least 90% recyclable material, as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method.

[0276] Example A17: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A16, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an absorption rate of between 80 g / (m³). 2 *day) and 100g / (m 2 The SCWVTR is between *days, and the first and second packaging materials comprise at least 90% recyclable materials.

[0277] Example A18: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A17, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclable percentage of at least 60%, more preferably at least 80%, or most preferably at least 90%.

[0278] Example A19: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A18, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material are recyclable, and the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit an overall “pass” test result as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method.

[0279] Example A20: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A19, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclable percentage between 60% and 99.9%, more preferably between 80% and 99.9%, or most preferably between 90% and 99.9%.

[0280] Example A21: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A20, wherein the second packaging material exhibits a recyclable percentage that is not equal to that of the first packaging material.

[0281] Example A22: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A21, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least 50% by weight of natural fibers, more preferably at least 70% by weight of natural fibers, or most preferably at least 90% by weight of natural fibers.

[0282] Example A23: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A22, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise between 50% by weight and 100% by weight of natural fibers, more preferably between 70% by weight and 99% by weight of natural fibers, or most preferably between 90% by weight and 99% by weight of natural fibers.

[0283] Example A24: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A23, wherein the second packaging material exhibits a total rejection percentage that is not equal to that of the first packaging material.

[0284] Example A25: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A24, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of less than about 50%, more preferably less than about 30%, or most preferably less than about 10%.

[0285] Example A26: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A25, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of 0.5% to 50%, more preferably 0.5% to 30%, or most preferably 0.5% to 10%.

[0286] Example A27: An array of absorbent article packaging materials according to any one of Examples A to A26, wherein the natural fiber of the packaging material comprises at least one of the following: cellulose-based fiber, bamboo-based fiber, cotton, cotton linters, sisal, yucca, kudzu, corn, sorghum, gourd, agave, loofah or loofah sponge, coconut fiber, kapok, Manila hemp, kenaf, sedge, flax, Spanish grass, rice straw, jute, bagasse, milkweed fiber, pineapple leaf fiber, wood fiber, or pulp fiber.

[0287] Example A28: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A27, wherein the natural fiber comprises at least one of wood fiber or pulp fiber.

[0288] Example A29: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A28, wherein the packaging material comprises recycled natural fibers as determined by visual inspection.

[0289] Example A30: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A29, wherein the second packaging material does not include a barrier layer.

[0290] Example A31: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A30, wherein the first package and the second package include different brand names.

[0291] Example A32: An array of absorbent product packages according to any one of Examples A to A31, wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the first package are adult incontinence products, and wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the second package are menstrual products.

[0292] Example A33: An array of absorbent product packages according to any one of Examples A to A31, wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the first package are diapers, and wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the second package are menstrual products.

[0293] Example A34: An array of absorbent article packages according to Example A33, wherein the one or more absorbent articles in each of the first packages include substantially inactivated wetting indicator marks.

[0294] Example A35: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A34, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an MD tensile strength not equal to that of the second packaging material, as determined by ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0295] Example A36: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A35, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit MD tensile strength between 5 kN / m and 8.5 kN / m, more preferably between 5.2 kN / m and 8.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 5.5 kN / m and 8.0 kN / m, as determined by ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0296] Example A37: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A36, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a CD tensile strength that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0297] Example A38: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A37, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a CD tensile strength of at least 3 kN / m, more preferably at least 4 kN / m, or most preferably at least 5.5 kN / m.

[0298] Example A39: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A38, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a CD tensile strength between 3 kN / m and 6.5 kN / m, more preferably between 3 kN / m and 6.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 3 kN / m and 6 kN / m.

[0299] Example A40: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A39, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a tensile strength at break that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0300] Example A41: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A40, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit at least 4% or most preferably at least 6% MD breaking tensile strength.

[0301] Example A42: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A41, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit MD breaking tensile strength between 3% and 6.5%, more preferably between 3.2% and 6.2%, or most preferably between 3.5% and 6%.

[0302] Example A43: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A42, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a CD breaking tensile strength that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0303] Example A44: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A43, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit at least 4%, more preferably at least 6%, or most preferably at least 9% CD breaking tensile strength.

[0304] Example A45: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A46, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a CD breaking tensile strength between 4% and 10%, most preferably between 4.5% and 9.5%, or most preferably between 5% and 9%.

[0305] Example A46: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A45, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a thickness not equal to that of the second packaging material, as determined by ISO 534 (2011) as modified herein.

[0306] Example A47: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A46, wherein the first and second packaging materials have a thickness of at least 50 μm, more preferably at least 70 μm, or most preferably at least 90 μm as determined by ISO 534 (2011) as modified herein.

[0307] Example A48: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A47, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material have a thickness between 50 μm and 110 μm, more preferably between 55 μm and 105 μm, or most preferably between 60 μm and 100 μm.

[0308] Example A49: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A48, wherein the first packaging material has a basis weight that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0309] Example A50: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A49, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material have a basis weight between 60 gsm and 100 gsm, more preferably between 65 gsm and 95 gsm, and most preferably between 70 gsm and 90 gsm, as measured by a weight test as modified ISO 536 (2019).

[0310] Example A51: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A50, wherein the second package includes a bottom configuration comprising at least one of a block or a cross, and wherein the first package includes a different bottom configuration.

[0311] Example A52: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A51, wherein, according to the in-bag stacking height method, the one or more absorbent articles exhibit an in-bag stacking height of less than about 150 mm, more preferably less than about 100 mm, or most preferably less than about 70 mm.

[0312] Example A53: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A52, wherein the one or more absorbent articles exhibit an in-bag stacking height of about 70 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to about 100 mm, or most preferably about 70 mm to about 90 mm.

[0313] Example A54: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A53, wherein the barrier layer comprises polymeric materials, such as polyethylene materials, for example low-density polyethylene (LDPE), bio-coatings, printing varnishes, 1,4-succinic acid, fumaric acid and malic acid, 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid, 3-hydroxypropionic acid, aspartic acid, gluconic acid, glutamic acid, itaconic acid, levulinic acid, 3-hydroxybutyrolactone, glycerol, sorbitol, xylitol / arabinitol, tricarboxylic acid; and / or combinations thereof.

[0314] Example A55: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples A to A54, wherein the barrier layer comprises a basis weight of about 3 gsm to about 25 gsm, more preferably about 3 gsm to about 20 gsm, and most preferably about 3 gsm to about 15 gsm.

[0315] Example A56: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples A to A55, wherein one or both of the first packaging material or the second packaging material includes natural additives.

[0316] Example B1: An array of absorbent article packages comprising a first package and a second package, each of the first package and the second package comprising a plurality of sheets and a plurality of seals encapsulating one or more absorbent articles therein, the first package comprising a first packaging material and the second package comprising a second packaging material, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise natural fibers, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package comprises an absorbent core having at least 5 grams of superabsorbent polymer, more preferably at least 7 grams of superabsorbent polymer, or most preferably at least 9 grams of superabsorbent polymer, and wherein the absorbent article is in accordance with ASTM as modified herein. F1249, a portion of the first packaging material exhibits a water vapor transmission rate (SCWVTR) under stress of about 300 g / (m²*day) or less, more preferably about 200 g / (m²*day) or less, or most preferably about 150 g / (m²*day) or less, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles in the second package comprises an absorbent core having less superabsorbent polymer than the absorbent core of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package, and wherein the one or more absorbent articles in the first package and the one or more absorbent articles in the second package are manufactured by the same manufacturer or on behalf of the same manufacturer.

[0317] Example B2: An array of absorbent article packaging components according to Example B1, wherein the first packaging material includes an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the inner surface includes a film layer.

[0318] Example B3: An array of absorbent article packaging according to Example B2, wherein the film layer comprises an insoluble polymer.

[0319] Example B4: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B2 to B3, wherein the membrane layer comprises a polyolefin.

[0320] Example B5: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B4, wherein the first package is substantially free of adhesive.

[0321] Example B6: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B5, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an SCWVTR of between 20 g / (m2*day) and 300 g / (m2*day), more preferably between about 20 g / (m2*day) and 200 g / (m2*day), or most preferably between about 20 g / (m2*day) and 150 g / (m2*day).

[0322] Example B7: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B6, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an SCWVTR of about 70 g / (m2*day) to about 150 g / (m2*day), more preferably about 70 g / (m2*day) to about 120 g / (m2*day), or most preferably about 70 g / (m2*day) to about 110 g / (m2*day).

[0323] Example B8: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B7, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an SCWVTR of less than about 100 g / (m2*day), more preferably less than about 95 g / (m2*day), or most preferably less than about 85 g / (m2*day).

[0324] Example B9: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B8, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an SCWVTR of between about 20 g / (m2*day) and about 100 g / (m2*day), more preferably 20 g / (m2*day) and about 90 g / (m2*day), or most preferably about 20 g / (m2*day) and about 85 g / (m2*day).

[0325] Example B10: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B2 to B9, wherein the film layer accounts for 5% or less, or more preferably 4% or less, of the first packaging material.

[0326] Example B11: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B10, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an SCWVTR of less than 100 g / (m2*day), and wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least 90% recyclable material, as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method.

[0327] Example B12: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B11, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an SCWVTR between 80 g / (m2*day) and 100 g / (m2*day), and wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least 90% recyclable material.

[0328] Example B13: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B12, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclable percentage of at least 60%, more preferably at least 80%, or most preferably at least 90%.

[0329] Example B14: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B13, wherein the first and second packaging materials are recyclable, and the first and second packaging materials exhibit an overall “pass” test result as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method.

[0330] Example B15: An array of absorbent article packaging according to Examples B1 to B14, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclable percentage between 60% and 99.9%, more preferably between 80% and 99.9%, or most preferably between 90% and 99.9%.

[0331] Example B16: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B15, wherein the second packaging material exhibits a recyclable percentage that is not equal to that of the first packaging material.

[0332] Example B17: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B16, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least 50% by weight of natural fibers, more preferably at least 70% by weight of natural fibers, or most preferably at least 90% by weight of natural fibers.

[0333] Example B18: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B17, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise between 50% by weight and 100% by weight of natural fibers, more preferably between 70% by weight and 99% by weight of natural fibers, or most preferably between 90% by weight and 99% by weight of natural fibers.

[0334] Example B19: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B18, wherein the second packaging material exhibits a total rejection percentage that is not equal to that of the first packaging material.

[0335] Example B20: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B19, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of less than about 50%, more preferably less than about 30%, or most preferably less than about 10%.

[0336] Example B21: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B20, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of 0.5% to 50%, more preferably 0.5% to 30%, or most preferably 0.5% to 10%.

[0337] Example B22: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B21, wherein the natural fiber of the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprises at least one of the following: cellulose-based fiber, bamboo-based fiber, cotton, cotton linters, sisal, yucca, kudzu, corn, sorghum, gourd, agave, loofah or loofah sponge, coconut fiber, kapok, Manila hemp, kenaf, sedge, flax, Spanish grass, rice straw, jute, bagasse, milkweed fiber, pineapple leaf fiber, wood fiber, or pulp fiber.

[0338] Example B23: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B22, wherein the natural fiber includes at least one of wood fiber or pulp fiber.

[0339] Example B24: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B23, wherein the packaging material comprises recycled natural fibers as determined by visual inspection.

[0340] Example B25: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B24, wherein the second packaging material does not include a barrier layer.

[0341] Example B26: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B25, wherein the first package and the second package include different brand names.

[0342] Example B27: An array of absorbent product packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B26, wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the first package are adult incontinence products, and wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the second package are menstrual products.

[0343] Example B28: An array of absorbent product packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B26, wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the first package are diapers, and wherein the one or more absorbent products disposed in the second package are menstrual products.

[0344] Example B29: An array of absorbent article packages according to Example B28, wherein the one or more absorbent articles in each of the first packages include substantially inactivated wetting indicator marks.

[0345] Example B30: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B29, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an MD tensile strength not equal to that of the second packaging material, as determined by ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0346] Example B31: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B30, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit MD tensile strength between 5 kN / m and 8.5 kN / m, more preferably between 5.2 kN / m and 8.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 5.5 kN / m and 8.0 kN / m, as determined by ISO 1924-3 (2005) as modified herein.

[0347] Example B32: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B31, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a CD tensile strength that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0348] Example B33: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B32, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a CD tensile strength of at least 3 kN / m, more preferably at least 4 kN / m, or most preferably at least 5.5 kN / m.

[0349] Example B34: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B33, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a CD tensile strength between 3 kN / m and 6.5 kN / m, more preferably between 3 kN / m and 6.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 3 kN / m and 6 kN / m.

[0350] Example B35: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B34, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a tensile strength at break that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0351] Example B36: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B35, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit at least 4% or most preferably at least 6% MD breaking tensile strength.

[0352] Example B37: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B36, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit MD breaking tensile strength between 3% and 6.5%, more preferably between 3.2% and 6.2%, or most preferably between 3.5% and 6%.

[0353] Example B38: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B37, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a CD breaking tensile strength that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0354] Example B39: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B38, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a CD breaking tensile strength of at least 4%, more preferably at least 6%, or most preferably at least 9%.

[0355] Example B40: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B39, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a CD breaking tensile strength between 4% and 10%, most preferably between 4.5% and 9.5%, or most preferably between 5% and 9%.

[0356] Example B41: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B40, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a thickness not equal to that of the second packaging material, as determined by ISO 534 (2011) as modified herein.

[0357] Example B42: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B41, wherein the first and second packaging materials have a thickness of at least 50 μm, more preferably at least 70 μm, or most preferably at least 90 μm as determined by ISO 534 (2011) as modified herein.

[0358] Example B43: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B42, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material have a thickness between 50 μm and 110 μm, more preferably between 55 μm and 105 μm, or most preferably between 60 μm and 100 μm.

[0359] Example B44: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B43, wherein the first packaging material has a basis weight that is not equal to that of the second packaging material.

[0360] Example B45: An array of absorbent article packaging according to any one of Examples B1 to B44, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material have a basis weight between 60 gsm and 100 gsm, more preferably between 65 gsm and 95 gsm, and most preferably between 70 gsm and 90 gsm, as measured by a weight test as modified ISO 536 (2019).

[0361] Example B46: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B45, wherein the second package includes a bottom configuration comprising at least one of a block or a cross, and wherein the first package includes a different bottom configuration.

[0362] Example B47: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B46, wherein each of the first packaging material and the second packaging material is recyclable, as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (October 2019 draft) method.

[0363] Example B48: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B47, wherein, according to the in-bag stacking height method, the one or more absorbent articles exhibit an in-bag stacking height of less than about 150 mm, more preferably less than about 100 mm, or most preferably less than about 70 mm.

[0364] Example B49: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B48, wherein the one or more absorbent articles exhibit an in-bag stacking height of about 70 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to about 100 mm, or most preferably about 70 mm to about 90 mm.

[0365] Example B50: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B49, wherein the first package includes one or more pleats, and wherein the second package includes one or more pleats, and wherein at least one of the pleats of the first package is located at a different position than those of the pleats of the second package.

[0366] Example B51: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B50, wherein the array includes a first plurality of packages and a second plurality of packages.

[0367] Example B52: An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of Examples B1 to B51, wherein one or both of the first packaging material or the second packaging material includes natural additives.

[0368] Test methods

[0369] ISO 1924-3(2005) - Tensile properties (tensile strength, tensile strength, energy absorption)

[0370] The tensile properties (tensile strength, tensile strength, and energy absorption) of the sample were calculated based on the measured force and elongation values ​​obtained using a constant-rate elongation test until the sample broke. The tests were performed according to pharmacopoeia method ISO 1924-3 (2005), with modifications noted herein. Measurements were performed using a load cell on a constant-rate tensile tension tester, with the measured force ranging from 1% to 99% of the sensor's limits. Suitable instruments were those from MTS Alliance using Test Suite Software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN, or equivalent. All measurements were performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, with the test samples conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours prior to testing.

[0371] Measurements are performed on MD (longitudinal) and CD (transverse) test samples taken from raw material rolls or sheets, or from finished packaging. When cutting test samples from finished packaging, care is taken to avoid contaminating or deforming the samples during the process. The cut samples should be free of residual adhesive and taken from an area of ​​the packaging free of any seams or creases. The test samples are cut into test spans of 25.4 mm wide and 50.8 mm long. The long side of the sample is parallel to the direction of interest (MD, CD). Typically, in finished packaging, MD extends from the bottom to the top of the package, but this can be verified by determining the fiber orientation if in doubt. Ten duplicate test samples should be prepared from MD, and another ten from CD.

[0372] The tension tester is programmed as follows for a constant-rate elongation uniaxial breaking elongation test. Using calibrated gauge blocks, the gauge length (test span) is set to 50.8 mm, and the clamps are zeroed. The test sample is inserted into the clamps, with the long side centered and parallel to the central tension axis of the tension tester. The clamps are raised at a rate of 25.4 mm / min until the test sample breaks, and force (N) and elongation (mm) data are collected at 100 Hz throughout the test. A graph of force (N) versus elongation (mm) is plotted. The maximum force (N) is read from the graph and recorded as the peak force, accurate to 0.1 N, labeled MD or CD. The elongation at the point of maximum force (N) is read from the graph and recorded as the breaking elongation, accurate to 0.01 mm, labeled MD or CD. Based on the graph, the point (z) where the tangent to the curve intersects the elongation axis is determined, where the slope of the tangent is equal to the maximum slope of the curve. Now calculate the area under the force-elongation curve from point z to the point of maximum force, and report it to an accuracy of 0.1 mJ, indicating MD or CD. [See Figure 2 in ISO 1924-3 (2005) for a description of a typical force-elongation curve, where point z is marked.]

[0373] Calculate the arithmetic mean peak force for all MD replicates, then calculate the arithmetic mean peak force for all CD replicates, and record them as the average MD peak force and average CD peak force, respectively, accurate to 0.1 N. Calculate the arithmetic mean elongation at break for all MD and CD replicates, and record them as the average MD elongation at break and average CD elongation at break, respectively, accurate to 0.01 mm. Calculate the arithmetic mean area under the force-elongation curve for all MD replicates, then calculate the area under the MD curve for all CD replicates, and record them as the average area under the CD curve, respectively, accurate to 0.1 mJ.

[0374] Tensile strength was calculated by dividing the average peak force (N) by the width of the test specimen (25.4 mm). The tensile strengths of the MD and CD repeat samples were calculated and reported as MD tensile strength and CD tensile strength, respectively, accurate to 0.1 kN / m.

[0375] The breaking tensile strength is calculated by dividing the average elongation at break (mm) by the initial test length (test span) of 50.8 mm and then multiplying by 100. The breaking tensile strength of the MD and CD repeat samples is calculated and reported as MD breaking tensile strength and CD breaking tensile strength, respectively, accurate to the nearest percentage.

[0376] Calculate the tensile energy absorption (TEA) using the following formula:

[0377] TEA = (1000 * average area under the curve, mJ) / (test sample width * initial test length), where the test sample width is 25.4 mm and the initial test length (test span) is 50.8 mm. Calculate the TEA for MD and CD duplicate samples and report them as MD TEA and CD TEA respectively, accurate to J / m. 2 .

[0378] The tensile energy absorption (TEA) index is calculated using the following formula:

[0379] TEA index = (1000 * TEA) / base weight, where TEA is expressed in J / m³ 2 The unit is the basis weight in g / m³. 2 The units are J / g. Calculate the TEA index for MD and CD duplicate samples and report it as MD TEA index and CD TEA index, respectively, accurate to the nearest J / g.

[0380] ISO 2758 (2014) - Bursting strength

[0381] Bursting strength is the maximum uniformly distributed pressure that a test sample can withstand. Bursting strength is measured using the test apparatus described in pharmacopoeia method ISO 2758 (2014). A suitable instrument is the 13-60 Burst Tester for paper and foil, or an equivalent, available from Testing Machines, Inc. (New Castle, DE). The instrument is calibrated and operated according to the manufacturer's instructions. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, with the test samples conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours prior to testing.

[0382] Test samples taken from raw material rolls or sheets, or specimens obtained from finished packaging, are measured. When cutting test samples from finished packaging, care is taken to prevent contamination or deformation during the process. The test sample must be larger than the fixture used to hold it in the instrument. The test sample should be taken from an area free of creases, wrinkles, or seams.

[0383] The burst strength of a total of 10 replicate test samples was measured (using clamping pressure sufficient to prevent slippage during testing and a pumping rate of 95 ± 15 mL / min). For single-sided samples, the test sample was placed in the fixture with the side facing inwards towards the package under pressure, and 10 replicate samples were tested in this orientation. For balanced (non-single-sided) samples, 5 replicate samples were tested with pressure applied inwards towards the package and 5 replicate samples were tested with pressure applied outwards towards the package, and the results were averaged together. The burst pressure of each test sample was recorded to an accuracy of 0.001 kPa. If the burst pressure was less than 70 kPa, a multilayer test material must be used. To obtain the burst strength, the burst pressure was divided by the number of test layers. The arithmetic mean burst pressure of all replicate samples was calculated and reported as the burst strength to an accuracy of 0.001 kPa.

[0384] ISO 534 (2011) - Thickness

[0385] The thickness (caliper / thickness) of the monolayer test samples was measured under static load using a micrometer according to pharmacopoeia method ISO 534 (2011), with modifications mentioned herein. All measurements were performed in a laboratory maintained at 23 °C ± 2 °C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, with the test samples conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours prior to testing.

[0386] Thickness is measured using a micrometer equipped with a pressure foot capable of applying a stable pressure of 70 kPa ± 0.05 kPa to the test sample. The micrometer is a statically heavy instrument with readings accurate to 0.1 micrometers. A suitable instrument is the TMI digital micrometer model 49-56, available from Testing Machines Inc., Newcastle, DE, or an equivalent. The pressure foot is a flat, circular, movable surface with a diameter smaller than the sample, capable of applying the required pressure. A suitable pressure foot diameter is 16.0 mm. The test sample is supported by a horizontal, flat reference platform that is larger than and parallel to the surface of the pressure foot. The system is calibrated and operated according to the manufacturer's instructions.

[0387] Measurements are performed on single-layer test samples taken from raw material rolls or sheets, or from finished packaging. When removing test samples from finished packaging, care is taken to avoid contaminating or deforming the sample during the process. The removed sample should be free of residual adhesive and taken from an area of ​​the packaging free of any seams or creases. Ideally, the test sample should be 200 mm in diameter. 2 And it must be larger than the pressure foot.

[0388] To measure thickness, first zero the micrometer relative to a horizontal, flat reference platform. Place the test sample on the platform, with the test position centered below the pressure foot. Gently lower the pressure foot at a rate of 3.0 mm per second until full pressure is applied to the test sample. Wait 5 seconds, then record the thickness of the test sample, accurate to 0.1 micrometers. Repeat this process for a total of ten replicate test samples. Calculate the arithmetic mean of all thickness measurements and report the value as "Thickness," accurate to 0.1 micrometers.

[0389] ISO 536 (2019) - Basis Weight

[0390] The basis weight of the test sample is the mass (in grams) per unit area (in square meters) of a single material layer, and is measured according to the pharmacopoeia method ISO 536 (2019). The mass of the test sample is cut into known areas, and the mass of the test sample is determined using an analytical balance accurate to 0.0001 g. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23 °C ± 2 °C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, and the test samples are conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours prior to testing.

[0391] Measurements are performed on test samples taken from raw material rolls or sheets, or from finished packages. When removing test samples from finished packages, care is taken to avoid contaminating or deforming the sample during the process. The removed sample should be free of residual adhesive and taken from an area of ​​the package free of seams or creases. Test samples must be as large as possible to account for any inherent material variability.

[0392] Measure the dimensions of the monolayer test samples using a calibrated steel ruler or equivalent from NIST. Calculate and record the area of ​​the test samples, accurate to 0.0001 square meters. Obtain the mass of the test samples using an analytical balance and record it, accurate to 0.0001 grams. Calculate and record the basis weight by dividing the mass (in grams) by the area (in square meters), accurate to 0.01 grams per square meter (gsm). Repeat this process for a total of ten replicate test samples. Calculate and report the arithmetic mean of the basis weights, accurate to 0.01 grams per square meter.

[0393] Bag stacking height test

[0394] The following determines the stacking height inside the bags of absorbent products:

[0395] equipment

[0396] A thickness tester with a flat, rigid horizontal slide plate is used. The thickness tester is configured such that the horizontal slide plate moves freely in the vertical direction, always remaining horizontally oriented directly above the flat, rigid horizontal substrate. The thickness tester includes a device for measuring the gap between the horizontal slide plate and the horizontal substrate, accurate to within ±0.5 mm. The horizontal slide plate and the horizontal substrate are larger than the surface of the absorbent product package that contacts each plate, i.e., each plate extends beyond the contact surface of the absorbent product package in all directions. The horizontal slide plate applies a downward force of 850 g ± 1 g (8.34 N) to the absorbent product package, which is achieved by placing a suitable weight at the center of the top surface of the horizontal slide plate that is not in contact with the package, such that the total mass of the slide plate plus the added weight is 850 g ± 1 g.

[0397] Test Procedure

[0398] Prior to measurement, the absorbent product packaging was equilibrated at 23℃±2℃ and 50%±5% relative humidity.

[0399] Lift the horizontal slide and center the absorbent product package below it, such that the absorbent product inside is horizontally oriented (see Figure 3). Fold any handles or other packaging features on the surface of the package against the surface of the package to minimize their impact on the measurement. Slowly lower the horizontal slide until it contacts the top surface of the package, and then release it. Ten seconds after releasing the horizontal slide, measure the gap between the horizontal slides, accurate to ±0.5 mm. Measure five identical packages (packages of the same size and the same number of absorbent products) and report the arithmetic mean as the package width. Calculate and report “Inner Stack Height” = (Package Width / Number of Absorbent Products per Stack) × 10, accurate to ±0.5 mm.

[0400] Colorant coverage percentage measurement method

[0401] The colorant coverage percentage measurement method measures the percentage of the area covered by colorant on the packaging sheet. Images are acquired using a flatbed scanner capable of scanning at 800 dpi with at least 24 bits of color and manual color management control (a suitable scanner is the Epson Perfection V750 Pro from Epson America Inc. (Long Beach CA), or equivalent). The scanner connects via an interface to a computer running color calibration software that calibrates the scanner against a color reflectance IT8 target using a corresponding reference file conforming to ANSI method IT8.7 / 2-1993 (suitable color calibration software is Monaco EZColor or i1Studio from X-Rite Grand Rapids (MI), or equivalent). The color calibration software builds an International Color Consortium (ICC) color profile for the scanner, which is used by the image acquisition program of an application that supports the ICC profile to color-correct the output images. Then, the color-corrected image is segmented by color thresholding using color analysis software (the appropriate image color analysis software is MATLAB R2017b, purchased from The Mathworks, Inc. (Natick, MA)).

[0402] Before testing, the sample was conditioned for 2 hours at a temperature of approximately 23℃±2℃ and a relative humidity of approximately 50%±2%.

[0403] Turn on the scanner for 30 minutes before calibration and image acquisition. You can deselect any automatic color correction or color management options that may be available in the scanner software. If automatic color management cannot be disabled, the scanner is not suitable for this application. Follow the recommended procedures of the color calibration software to create and export an ICC color profile for the scanner. The color calibration software compares the acquired IT8 target image with the corresponding reference file to create and export the scanner's ICC color profile, which will be applied within the image analysis program to correct the colors of subsequent output images.

[0404] Obtain samples from packages or packaging materials that have identification tags. Select a single tag and cut it along its perimeter to remove it for testing. The tags selected for testing should not contain tears or wrinkles.

[0405] Open the scanner cover and carefully place the sample flat on the center of the scanner glass, with the stained surface facing the glass. In reflective mode, acquire a scan containing the patch area at a resolution of 800 dpi (approximately 31.5 pixels / mm) and 24-bit color. An ICC color profile is assigned to the image, generating a color-corrected sRGB image. Before analysis, save this calibrated image in an uncompressed format to preserve the calibrated R, G, B color values, such as a TIFF file.

[0406] Open the calibrated image in color analysis software. Smooth the image using a 2D Gaussian filter with σ = 3 to blur any individual points of colorant. Next, using a color thresholding procedure, select a color space for the thresholding process, such as CIELAB with three color values ​​L*, a*, and b*. Then, manually draw the boundaries of regions of interest (ROIs) within visually discernible areas containing only primary colors and no colorant to identify their color space values. Pieces with no visible primary color areas are considered to have 100% colorant coverage. The thresholding levels in all three channels of the selected color space are then manually adjusted to segment the areas of the piece containing colorant coverage from those areas of primary colors. Measure the area of ​​the piece containing colorant coverage and calculate the percentage of the area containing colorant coverage, recording it precisely to the nearest percentage.

[0407] In a similar manner, six duplicate packaging pieces were prepared, scanned, and analyzed. The arithmetic mean of the measured percentage values ​​of colorant coverage was calculated and reported, accurate to the nearest percentage.

[0408] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be construed as strictly limited to the precise numerical values ​​cited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the cited value and a range around which it is functionally equivalent. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm”.

[0409] Unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited, every reference cited herein, including any cross-references or related patents or patent applications, and any patent application or patent claiming priority to or benefiting from it, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Reference to any reference is not an endorsement of it as prior art to any disclosed or protected art herein, nor is it an endorsement of any such invention, either on its own or in combination with any one or more references. Furthermore, where any meaning or definition of a term in this invention conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in referenced documents, the meaning or definition given to that term in this invention shall prevail.

[0410] While specific embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described by way of example, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that all such changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An array of absorbent article packages comprising a first package and a second package, each of the first package and the second package comprising a plurality of sheets and a plurality of seals encapsulating one or more absorbent articles therein, the first package comprising a first packaging material and the second package comprising a second packaging material, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise natural fibers, wherein the first packaging material comprises one or more natural fiber layers and one or more barrier layers, and the one or more barrier layers in the first packaging material comprise a membrane, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package comprises an absorbent core having at least 5 grams of superabsorbent polymer, and wherein a portion of the first packaging material exhibits a value of 300 g / (m²) according to ASTM F1249 under stress conditions of 38°C and 90% relative humidity. Water vapor transmission rate (SCWVTR) under stress conditions of 1 day or less, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles in the second package comprises an absorbent core having less superabsorbent polymer than the absorbent core of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package, wherein the second package material does not include a barrier layer, and wherein the one or more absorbent articles in the first package and the one or more absorbent articles in the second package are manufactured by the same manufacturer or are manufactured by an agent of the same manufacturer.

2. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 1, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles in the first package comprises an absorbent core having at least 7 grams of superabsorbent polymer.

3. The array of absorbent product packages according to claim 1, wherein each of the one or more absorbent products in the first package comprises an absorbent core having at least 9 grams of superabsorbent polymer.

4. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 1, wherein said portion of the first packaging material exhibits a value of 200 g / (m²). SCWVTR (days) or smaller.

5. The array of absorbent article packaging according to claim 1, wherein said portion of the first packaging material exhibits a value of 150 g / (m²). SCWVTR (days) or smaller.

6. The array of absorbent article packaging components according to claim 1, wherein the first packaging material comprises an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the inner surface comprises a film layer.

7. The array of absorbent article packaging according to claim 6, wherein the membrane layer comprises an insoluble polymer.

8. The array of absorbent article packaging according to claim 6, wherein the membrane layer comprises a polyolefin.

9. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first package is substantially adhesive-free.

10. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an intensity of between 20 g / (m²) (day) up to 300g / (m2) SCWVTR between (days).

11. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 10, wherein the first packaging material exhibits 20 g / (m2) (day) up to 200g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

12. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 10, wherein the first packaging material exhibits 20 g / (m2) (day) up to 150g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

13. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material exhibits 70 g / (m2) (day) up to 150g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

14. The array of absorbent article packaging according to claim 13, wherein the first packaging material exhibits 70 g / (m2) (day) up to 120g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

15. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 13, wherein the first packaging material exhibits 70 g / (m2) (day) up to 110g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

16. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a content of less than 100 g / (m2). SCWVTR (day).

17. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 16, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a value of less than 95 g / (m²). SCWVTR (day).

18. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 16, wherein the first packaging material exhibits less than 85 g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

19. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an intensity of between 20 g / (m²) (day) to 100g / (m2) SCWVTR between (days).

20. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 19, wherein the first packaging material exhibits 20 g / (m2) (day) up to 90g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

21. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 19, wherein the first packaging material exhibits 20 g / (m2) (day) up to 85g / (m2) SCWVTR (day).

22. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the film layer accounts for 5% or less of the first packaging material by weight.

23. The array of absorbent article packaging according to claim 22, wherein the film layer accounts for 4% or less of the first packaging material by weight.

24. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material exhibits a content of less than 100 g / (m2). The SCWVTR of the first and second packaging materials comprises at least 90% recyclable material, as determined by the Percent Recyclability Test Method PTS-RH:021 / 97 of the October 2019 draft.

25. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material exhibits an intensity of between 80 g / (m²) (day) and 100g / (m2) The first and second packaging materials comprise at least 90% recyclable materials.

26. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclability percentage of at least 60%.

27. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 26, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit at least 80% recyclability.

28. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 26, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclability percentage of at least 90%.

29. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material are recyclable, and the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit an overall "pass" test result as determined by the percentage recyclability test method PTS-RH:021 / 97 of the October 2019 draft.

30. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclable percentage between 60% and 99.9%.

31. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 30, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclable percentage of 80% to 99.9%.

32. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 30, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a recyclable percentage of 90% to 99.9%.

33. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the second packaging material exhibits a recyclability percentage not equal to that of the first packaging material.

34. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least 50% by weight of natural fibers.

35. The array of absorbent article packaging materials according to claim 34, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least 70% by weight of natural fibers.

36. The array of absorbent article packaging materials according to claim 34, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least 90% by weight of natural fibers.

37. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise between 50% by weight and 100% by weight of natural fibers.

38. The array of absorbent article packaging according to claim 37, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise between 70% by weight and 99% by weight of natural fibers.

39. The array of absorbent article packaging according to claim 37, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise between 90% by weight and 99% by weight of natural fibers.

40. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the second packaging material exhibits a rejection percentage not equal to that of the first packaging material.

41. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of less than 50%.

42. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 41, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of less than 30%.

43. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 41, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of less than 10%.

44. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of 0.5% to 50%.

45. The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 44, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of 0.5% to 30%.

46. ​​The array of absorbent article packages according to claim 44, wherein the first packaging material and the second packaging material exhibit a total rejection percentage of 0.5% to 10%.

47. An array of absorbent article packaging materials according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the natural fibers of the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise at least one of the following: bamboo-based fiber, cotton, cotton linters, sisal, yucca, kudzu, corn, sorghum, gourd, agave, loofah, coconut fiber, kapok, Manila hemp, kenaf, sedge, flax, Spanish grass, rice straw, jute, bagasse, milkweed fiber, pineapple leaf fiber, wood fiber or pulp fiber.

48. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the natural fibers of the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise cellulose-based fibers.

49. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the natural fibers of the first packaging material and the second packaging material comprise loofah.

50. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the natural fiber comprises at least one of wood fiber or pulp fiber.

51. An array of absorbent article packages according to any one of claims 1, 6, 7 or 8, wherein the packaging material comprises recycled natural fibers as determined by visual inspection.

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