Washable absorbent underwear

Abstract

A washable absorbent underwear (1) comprising one or more fabric panels (2) and an integrated absorbent assembly (10) comprising a top layer (15) of textile material facing the wearer, a moisture barrier layer (12) facing the garment, and one or more optional intermediate layers (11, 16) between the top layer (15) and the moisture barrier layer (12). The moisture barrier layer (12) comprises a woven or knitted fabric comprising activated carbon.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to washable absorbent undergarments comprising an integral absorbent assembly, and to the absorbent assembly itself, which are intended for hygienic use in absorbing body fluids such as urine and vaginal fluids. The present disclosure particularly relates to provisions for reducing odors in such garments. Background Art

[0002] Washable absorbent undergarments can be worn for the purpose of absorbing body fluids such as urine and vaginal fluids. Such garments represent an environmentally and economically advantageous alternative to disposable sanitary napkins and disposable absorbent undergarments. Washable absorbent undergarments typically include fabric panels of woven or knitted materials. Conventionally, such washable absorbent undergarments will also include an integral absorbent assembly positioned in the crotch region of the wearer when the undergarment is worn. After use, the undergarment is washed or laundered before reuse. Washable absorbent undergarments were initially mainly used for low to medium volumes of body fluids, but there is also a need for undergarments suitable for medium to heavy body fluid flows for sustainability reasons. Examples of such washable absorbent undergarments can be found in WO 2023169665A1.

[0003] Depending on the intended use, the absorbent assembly can vary in size and construction. It can extend over a smaller or larger area of the garment, for example depending on whether it is intended for daytime or nighttime use. It can also be thicker or thinner, with additional wicking, distribution, barrier, and absorbent layers. Nevertheless, in addition to being functional from an absorption perspective, the resulting undergarment must give confidence and be comfortable to wear for extended periods without the presence or spread of any undesirable odors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure is based on the insight that there is a need for a washable absorbent undergarment and absorbent assembly that can mitigate the presence or spread of any undesirable odors that arise during use or after storage prior to washing.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a washable absorbent undergarment according to claim 1 and an absorbent assembly according to claim 14. Further embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims and the following description. Thus, the present disclosure relates to a washable absorbent undergarment comprising one or more fabric panels and an integral absorbent assembly, the washable absorbent undergarment comprising a top layer facing the wearer, a moisture barrier layer facing the clothing, and one or more optional intermediate layers between the top layer and the moisture barrier layer, wherein the moisture barrier layer comprises a woven or knitted fabric containing activated carbon. The present disclosure further relates to a washable absorbent assembly comprising a top layer facing the wearer, a moisture barrier layer facing the clothing, and one or more optional intermediate layers between the top layer and the moisture barrier layer, wherein the moisture barrier layer comprises a woven or knitted fabric containing activated carbon.

[0006] It has been found that activated carbon is particularly effective in absorbing unwanted odors, and it has been shown that the positioning of this material within the article is important.

[0007] Various forms of clothing that utilize the properties of activated carbon have been previously proposed. These have included, for example, the protective clothing disclosed in US7062788B2, which is used to filter toxic chemicals from the air to protect the wearer. Protective undergarments for counteracting flatulence have also been proposed in US5593398. The undergarment is generally impermeable, except for holes in the back region into which porous filters containing activated carbon are inserted.

[0008] As used herein, the term "absorbent undergarment" refers to a garment that is worn and intended to be placed against the skin of the wearer, having the intended function of absorbing and containing body fluids (such as urine and vaginal fluids, including menstrual fluid) without significant visible external traces. The undergarment can be, for example, an undergarment, panties, shorts, or a fabric swimsuit. The undergarment is intended for adult users, but is not excluded for use by children. The undergarment can be designed for male or female use. It will be understood that most conventional garments will have a limited degree of absorbency, but for conventional undergarments, the inhibition of body fluids is not expected, and any significant volume of accidental leakage will be externally perceived as a damp patch or discoloration that may penetrate the outer clothing.

[0009] The absorbent undergarments and absorbent components according to the present disclosure are washable, i.e., are intended to be washed or otherwise restored after use for repeated reuse as a sanitary article. "Washable" means that the absorbent undergarment can be washed by laundering. Thus, the absorbent undergarment can withstand an aqueous solution containing a detergent without loss of its structural characteristics. The aqueous solution can be heated, for example, to 30 °C or 60 °C as part of the laundering process. The term is also intended to mean that the absorbent undergarment can be washed and reused more than once. Washable can be understood as being suitable for undergoing at least 10 laundering cycles at a temperature of at least 30 °C without disintegrating. During laundering, the absorbent component releases the absorbed fluid, thereby regenerating the absorption function so that the absorbent component can be used again for the same purpose. The washable absorbent undergarment includes a woven or knitted fabric as compared to a disposable absorbent article that does not include such a fabric. The disposable absorbent article is mainly composed of nonwoven fabric, plastic film, cellulose fibers, and superabsorbent particles and is not constructed to be washable and reusable and thus is intended for single use only.

[0010] The term "fabric" as used in the present disclosure can refer to a single layer or multiple layers of a flexible planar material composed of a solution, fibers, yarns, or any combination. Fabrics include knitted or woven materials. While other terms like material, fabric, and cloth are synonyms, textile is most used in the global textile complex. A fiber is any natural or manufactured substance having a high aspect ratio, having suitable characteristics for processing into a fabric, and being the smallest component that can be removed from a fabric, and is essentially hair-like. Fibers make up most fabrics. A yarn is a group of fibers that are twisted or laid together to form a continuous strand that can be made into a textile fabric.

[0011] The moisture barrier layer comprises or consists of a woven or knitted fabric containing activated carbon. The fibers used in the weaving or knitting can be of the filament, staple, or short fiber type and can be present in any filamentous form, including fibers and yarns that can contain activated carbon filaments of any length. Such activated carbon woven or knitted fabrics can be commercially produced by chemical or thermal activation of filaments within an existing fabric.

[0012] Woven or knitted fabrics can have any suitable construction. Knitting is a method of constructing a fabric by interlocking a series of loops of one or more yarns. There are two main categories of knitting, namely warp knitting and weft knitting or filling knitting, both of which are included. Weaving is a method or process of interlacing two yarns or groups of yarns of similar material so that they cross each other at right angles to produce a woven fabric. The warp yarns extend in the length direction in the fabric and the filling yarns (weft yarns) or shuttles extend from one side to the other. Any suitable weaving can be applied, including plain weave, double weave, compound weave or the like. Jacquard is a system of weaving or knitting that utilizes a multi-functional pattern mechanism to produce complex designs by using punched cards that control the pattern produced. Jacquard knitting can be effective for circular knitting, flat knitting, warp knitting or weft knitting.

[0013] In washable absorbent garments, it has been found important that odor control not only captures dry gaseous species, but also captures odors generated by fluids and newly generated gaseous contaminants trapped in or just leaving the fluid. A woven or knitted barrier layer containing activated carbon has been shown to capture odors from both liquid and gaseous contaminants. The activated carbon in the microporous structure of the knitted or woven fabric will capture the liquid long enough to allow odor trapping in the washable absorbent article.

[0014] The moisture barrier layer (a woven or knitted fabric including activated carbon fibers) can have any suitable thickness required for its function and can have a thickness between 0.2 mm and 1.0 mm (e.g., between 0.2 mm and 0.6 mm), as measured according to ISO 5084 (1996) ""Determination of thickness of textiles and textile products"". The actual value can depend at least in part on whether the woven or knitted fabric is the sole component of the moisture barrier layer. An exemplary laminate of a woven or knitted fabric of activated carbon fabric with a moisture-impermeable material can be in the range from 0.35 mm to 0.47 mm, where the impermeable portion of the laminate is about 0.02 mm.

[0015] The moisture barrier layer can consist of or consist essentially of a woven or knitted fabric of activated carbon. Activated carbon fibers, filaments and yarns are naturally hydrophobic. Thus, a tightly woven or knitted structure can already achieve significant water resistance and may not require the further addition of anything. The moisture barrier layer can include a moisture-impermeable material laminated or coated on the woven or knitted material containing activated carbon. The moisture-impermeable material can be provided at any suitable location relative to the fabric containing activated carbon. It can be provided only on its side facing the garment. Suitable moisture-impermeable materials can include thermoplastic films, such as polyurethane or the like.

[0016] The moisture barrier layer may have a surface weight between 50 gsm and 300 gsm, preferably between 75 gsm and 200 gsm. It will be understood that in the case where the moisture barrier layer comprises an additional layer of moisture-impermeable material, the above weight applies to the combined moisture barrier layer.

[0017] The moisture barrier layer may be provided with any suitable amount of activated carbon. Generally, this will be evenly distributed over the absorbent component, although it will be understood that it is also possible to provide an increased amount of activated carbon at key locations. Apart from in the moisture barrier layer, there may be no activated carbon elsewhere in the garment.

[0018] The activated carbon may be derived from any suitable source, including natural materials or synthetic polymers. Natural raw materials may preferably be used as precursors, which are greener and more sustainable alternatives. In one embodiment, the activated carbon has a surface area greater than 800 m 2 / g and less than 2000 m 2 / g.

[0019] Although the moisture barrier layer may be impermeable to liquid water, the moisture barrier layer may have a breathability or water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of 800 g - 2000 g. The breathability or water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) is measured by the rate of water vapor passage, in grams of water vapor per square meter of fabric per 24-hour period (g / m 2 / d), usually abbreviated simply as "g", and measured by the standard method NWSP 070.5.R0 Mocon.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the absorbent component is permanently attached to at least one of one or more fabric panels. "Permanently attached" means that no part is intended to separate from the body fabric during or after use. Thus, all parts of the absorbent component are intended to be washed with the garment. The existence of protective and removable layers before the first use is not excluded.

[0021] The absorbent component may be attached to the fabric panel of the undergarment, for example, by lamination or adhesive, over its entire surface. In other embodiments, the absorbent component may not be directly bonded to the fabric panel, but may be attached to the fabric via auxiliary components such as binding strips or reinforcing patches. In certain embodiments, the absorbent component is attached to one or more fabric panels by one or more bonding members. These may include one or more of a front bonding member, a rear bonding member, and a side bonding member.

[0022] The undergarment can be in any suitable form, and the "garment" mentioned above and below is not intended to mean anything other than the undergarment, i.e., the innermost garment intended to come into contact with the user's body. The garment has a waist opening and two leg openings. However, it is not excluded that, for example, a closure element can be provided between the waist opening and the leg openings, allowing the garment to be easily removed or put on. The undergarment can have various designs, such as panties, boxers, low-rise pants, high-rise pants, string-style, Brazilian-style or other suitable and conventional undergarment designs. The fabric panels can form a front region, a back region, and an intermediate region extending between the front region and the back region, the front region and the back region being joined at the sides such that the undergarment forms a waist opening and a pair of leg openings. A central longitudinal axis of the undergarment is defined along one or more fabric panels of the undergarment from the back region and towards the front region, and a transverse crotch axis of the undergarment is defined in the direction extending between the leg openings. The transverse crotch axis can be positioned at the narrowest point of the garment and / or can be positioned at the midpoint of the central longitudinal axis. The transverse crotch axis divides the intermediate region into a front intermediate region longitudinally extending between the transverse crotch axis and the front end of each leg opening and a rear intermediate region longitudinally extending between the transverse crotch axis and the rear end of each leg opening. The transverse crotch axis is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, and the top layer, an optional intermediate layer, and the moisture barrier layer are stacked along a height axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the transverse crotch axis.

[0023] The absorbent assembly can be positioned in the intermediate region. It can also be positioned only in the intermediate region, i.e., it can not extend into the front region and the back region that together form the waist region. The absorbent assembly can be mainly positioned in the front intermediate region. Thus, more than 50% of the assembly area can be positioned in the front intermediate region, alternatively more than 60% or more than 70% or more than 80%, with the remainder positioned in the rear intermediate region behind the transverse crotch axis. The absorbent assembly can be substantially symmetric along the central longitudinal axis.

[0024] The shape and size of the reusable absorbent assembly can be such that at least the crotch section of the undergarment is covered during use. The crotch section is a surface section having dimensions and a shape that cover some or all of the user's genital area, i.e., a surface section shaped to fit between the user's legs, having a length sufficient to extend at least from the mons pubis to the perineum and a width that varies along the length. Thus, the crotch section has a width that corresponds substantially to the transverse width between the leg openings of the undergarment. Thus, the entire crotch section is protected from contamination by the reusable absorbent assembly.

[0025] The area of the garment in which the absorbent assembly is present can be adjusted according to the specific garment and the intended use. A woven or knitted material containing activated carbon can cover at least 10 cm of the garment 2 、preferably 10 cm 2between 400 cm 2 and 50 cm 2 or between 50 cm 2 and 100 cm

[0026] A woven or knitted material containing activated carbon can cover at least 10 cm 2 , preferably 10 cm 2 and 400 cm 2 or between 50 cm 2 and 100 cm 2 of the area.

[0027] The absorbent component can have any suitable shape according to the intended use and the shape of the undergarment. It can be in the shape of a dog bone, having curved sides and slightly enlarged ends. It can be four-sided, having a front edge, a rear edge and two side edges. The side edges can be positioned to coincide with the corresponding leg openings. In this context, "coincide" is intended to mean substantially aligned and adjacent to the side edges within the scope of normal manufacturing practice. The absorbent component or a part thereof can be wrapped around the side edges in the form of a seam and vice versa. The absorbent component can also end just short of the side edges and be covered by a binding strip.

[0028] The absorbent component can be rectangular. In this context, "rectangular" is intended to mean that the component has an outer contour in the shape of a four-sided figure, having two pairs of sides that are generally parallel to each other. The rectangular component or its parts can be easily cut multiple times from a primary material source (usually a large sheet or roll of fabric or foil material), where a single cutting line forms two edges of adjacent parts. Thus, using rectangular components reduces the amount of cutting and minimizes waste. In addition, cutting a rectangular profile from the primary material source allows multiple parts to be cut directly adjacent to each other without having to consider the orientation of each individual part in the production line. Thus, no energy is wasted during production to address the orientation changes of each part.

[0029] At least 75% of the total length of the edges of at least one rectangular-shaped absorbent component can be straight edges. Thus, at least 75% of the outer contour of the rectangular-shaped absorbent component conforms to a rectangular shape, thereby limiting the amount of wasted material while allowing some minimal shape variations in the layer, which are required to ensure wearing comfort and prevent the article from bulging during use.

[0030] The top layer and the moisture barrier layer can be substantially equal in size and shape and can both have an outer profile that forms the absorbent component. In this way, protection against leakage can be obtained on the same area that is also directly visible to the user, thus providing the user with a good indication of the leakage protection provided by the absorbent component. In other embodiments, the layers need not coextend. The top layer can extend beyond the moisture barrier layer, for example, to connect to a fabric panel of a garment.

[0031] The absorbent component can optionally include one or more intermediate layers. The intermediate layer can coextend with the top layer or can be smaller in area, for example, covered by the top layer. The absorbent component can include an intermediate wicking layer.

[0032] An intermediate absorbent layer can be provided. The absorbent layer can include any suitable washable absorbent material capable of receiving and holding a certain volume of body fluid intended to be absorbed by the garment. The absorbent layer can include hydrophilic fibers and / or an open-celled porous structure. In particular, the absorbent component can include both an absorbent layer and a wicking layer. The wicking layer can be positioned between the absorbent layer and the top layer.

[0033] A certain number of absorbent layers, for example, stacked together, can be provided. The first absorbent layer can have different characteristics than the second absorbent layer, such as material, thickness, and / or area. The second absorbent layer can have a greater lateral width than the lateral width of the first absorbent layer. The shape of the second absorbent layer can more closely match the shape of the top layer. The greater lateral width ensures a minimum absorbency over a greater area than that provided by the first absorbent layer. In addition, the difference in width prevents stacking of the layer edges, which otherwise could cause an undesired bulge in the absorbent component. The second absorbent layer can be positioned between the first absorbent layer and the top layer. The advantage of this order is that the absorbent component more easily follows the shape of the body and thus feels smaller in volume.

[0034] The intermediate layers can be collectively referred to as the core, which is all the layers positioned between the top sheet and the moisture barrier layer. When viewed in the lateral direction, the width of the core can be less than 95% of the corresponding width of the absorbent component. This ensures that the moisture barrier layer and the top sheet can fully cover the core, especially the edges of the core. The top sheet and the moisture barrier layer can adhere to each other around the core, effectively enclosing the core and preventing leakage at the edges.

[0035] The absorbent component can be constructed to be adapted for detachable connection to a panel of an undergarment as a liner. In addition, the absorbent component can include an adhesive layer or a hook-and-loop patch or any other suitable means of connection on its garment-facing surface. Alternatively, the garment can be provided with a suitable pocket or recess for receiving the absorbent component. Description of the Drawings

[0036] Embodiments of a washable absorbent undergarment according to the present disclosure will be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0037] Figure 1 A front view showing an exemplary absorbent undergarment including an absorbent assembly;

[0038] Figure 2 Showing Figure 1 A top view of the undergarment in a flat laid-out state, where the joint between the rear region and the front region has been removed;

[0039] Figure 3 Is Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a part of the absorbent undergarment; and

[0040] Figure 4 Is at Figure 3 In the direction of IV-IV in Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the undergarment taken through Detailed Description

[0041] The different aspects of the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the absorbent undergarments disclosed herein may be implemented in many different forms, such as different sizes and absorbency levels, and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. In all of the drawings in the following detailed description, the same reference numerals will be used to indicate the same elements.

[0042] Figure 1 An example of a variant of a washable and reusable absorbent undergarment 1 in the form of shorts is shown. However, as outlined above, the undergarment 1 proposed herein may have various designs, such as briefs, boxers, low-rise pants, high-rise pants, string, Brazilian or other suitable undergarment designs. The undergarment 1 may be designed for male or female use.

[0043] The undergarment 1 may include one or more fabric panels 2 that form a front region 3, a back region 4, and an intermediate region 7 extending between the front region 3 and the back region 4. The front region 3 and the back region 4 are joined such that the undergarment 1 forms a waist opening 5 and a pair of leg openings 6a, 6b. Thus, when the undergarment 1 is worn, the front region 3 will be visible from the front of the user, and when the undergarment 1 is worn, the back region 4 will be visible from the back of the user. Figure 1 And Figure 2The example underwear includes one fabric panel 2 that is cut to form a front region 3, a back region 4, and a middle region 7. However, in other variations, multiple fabric panels may be joined to form the front region 3, the back region 4, and the middle region 7. For example, the underwear 1 may include a front panel, a back panel, and a middle panel. The one or more fabric panels may all include the same fabric, giving the underwear a unitary appearance, or the one or more fabrics may include different fabrics, such as to provide an aesthetically pleasing underwear, including, for example, lace fabrics.

[0044] The fabric of one or more fabric panels 2 can be any suitable fabric, including natural derived fibers and mixtures thereof selected from the group consisting of: cotton, wool, silk, cellulose, regenerated cellulose, rayon, viscose, modal, lyocell, tencel, bamboo, hemp, flax, ramie, coconut shell fiber or banana. Alternatively, the fabric can be composed of synthetic fibers or mixtures thereof selected from the group consisting of: polyamide, acrylic, polyester. In addition, the fabric can be composed of a blend or mixture of natural derived fibers and / or synthetic fibers. These fibers can be recycled fibers. The fabric can include stretchable fabrics, such as elastic fibers, so that the absorbent underwear can provide a firm fit while adapting to the wearer's movements, thereby preventing any leakage that migrates through the leg openings and keeping the absorbent assembly in place. The fabric can be breathable to allow steam to escape from the wearer's skin and from the absorbent structure.

[0045] In order to join the front region 3 and the back region 4 so as to form the waist opening 5 and the leg openings 6a, 6b, a pair of side joints 17 may be provided, as in the example shown. The side joints 17 and any other joints joining one or more fabric panels 2 may be conventional joints in the art, such as seams made by conventional adhesives and / or conventional mechanical bonding (e.g., sewing techniques).

[0046] One or more fabric panels 2 along the underwear 1 define a central longitudinal axis y of the underwear 1 from the back region 4 and towards the front region 3. Thus, when the underwear 1 is Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , when the underwear 1 is viewed from the front, the central longitudinal axis y will point to the waist opening 5 of the underwear 1. However, when the underwear 1 is viewed from the back (not shown), the central longitudinal axis y will be directed away from the waist opening 5 of the underwear 1.

[0047] exist Figure 2 middle, Figure 1 The absorbent underwear 1 of FIG. 1 is shown in a flat-laid state with the side tabs 17 of the underwear 1 removed. As seen in the flat-laid state, a central longitudinal axis y is defined along one or more fabric panels 2 and in a direction from the back of the underwear 1 towards the front of the underwear 1. Figure 2In the figure, the absorbent underwear 1 is shown from the side facing the wearer of the article 1. As Figure 1 shown in the figure, one or more fabric panels 2 will have an outer side 9 facing away from the wearer and an inner side 8 facing in the direction towards the wearer. Thus, Figure 2 the underwear 1 in a flat laid-out state as seen from the inner side 8 is presented.

[0048] Further, a lateral crotch axis x of the underwear 1 is defined in the direction extending between the leg openings 6a, 6b, and in order to divide the intermediate region 7 into a front intermediate region 7a longitudinally extending between the lateral crotch axis x and the front ends 61a, 61b of each leg opening 6a, 6b and a rear intermediate region 7b longitudinally extending between the lateral crotch axis x and the rear ends 62a, 62b of each leg opening 6a, 6b. The lateral crotch axis x is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis y.

[0049] Thus, the lateral crotch axis x divides each leg opening 6a, 6b into a front portion of the leg openings 6a, 6b and a rear portion of the leg openings 6a, 6b. The front portions of the leg openings 6a, 6b are intended to extend from the crotch of the user towards the front of the underwear when the underwear 1 is worn, and the rear portions of the leg openings 6a, 6b are intended to extend from the crotch of the user towards the rear of the underwear when the underwear 1 is worn. Thus, when the underwear 1 is worn, the lateral crotch axis x is to extend above the central crotch region of the user.

[0050] The absorbent underwear 1 may include a waistband 14 arranged along the waist opening 5 of the absorbent underwear 1. Although not shown, it will be understood that the waistband may be elasticized and may be provided with a friction inner surface.

[0051] The underwear 1 further includes an absorbent assembly 10, which will be further described in the context below Figure 3 The absorbent assembly 10 includes a top layer 15 facing the wearer, and the top layer 15 visibly shows the extent of the absorbent assembly to the user. As Figure 2 seen in the figure, in the shown underwear 1, the absorbent assembly 10 is positioned on the inner side 8 of at least one fabric panel 2. The absorbent assembly 10 is arranged above the lateral crotch axis x and in order to extend in the front intermediate region 7a and in the rear intermediate region 7b.

[0052] Although in some variants, the absorbent component 10 may longitudinally extend beyond the front intermediate region 7a in the direction towards the front of the undergarment 1, in the variant shown, the absorbent component 10 does not extend more than the front intermediate region 7a in the longitudinal direction towards the front region 3 of the undergarment 1. The longitudinal extent of the absorbent component 10 into the rear intermediate region 7b may depend, for example, on the design of the undergarment 1. In some variants, such as in the variant shown, the absorbent component 10 may not extend more than the rear intermediate region 7b in the longitudinal direction towards the rear region 4 of the undergarment 1.

[0053] Thus, the absorbent component 10 can be restricted to the intermediate region 7, where the need for absorption is immediately prevalent. However, for example, for undergarments primarily intended for night use, the absorbent component 10 may extend beyond the rear intermediate region 7b of the undergarment 1 and into the rear region 4, and / or beyond the front intermediate region 7a of the undergarment 1 and into the front region 3.

[0054] As exemplified by the undergarment 1 shown, the absorbent component 10 forms a front edge 21c pointing towards the front of the undergarment 1, a rear edge 21d pointing towards the rear of the undergarment, and a pair of side edges 21a, 21b. Each side edge 21a, 21b at least partially points towards the respective leg openings 6a, 6b. Each side edge 21a, 21b thus connects the front edge 21c and the rear edge 21d.

[0055] Each side edge 21a, 21b can be at least partially arranged along the respective leg openings 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1, for example, at the leg openings 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1. In some variants, and in the example shown, the entire side edge 21a, 21b is arranged at the respective leg openings 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1, that is, the side edges 21a, 21b follow the contour of the leg openings 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1.

[0056] The shape of the absorbent component 10 can be adapted to the various absorption needs and various designs of the undergarment 1 in order to provide sufficient absorption and a satisfactory fit.

[0057] For example, as seen towards the central longitudinal axis y, the side edges 21a, 21b may include recesses. For example, as in the variant shown, the entire side edge 21a, 21b is recessed towards the central longitudinal axis y, that is, bent inwards towards the central longitudinal axis y. Thus, the absorbent component 10 can be adapted to fit between the legs of the wearer. Given the need for comfort and fit of the undergarment 1, the front edge 21c of the absorbent component can be shaped similarly. In some variants, such as in the undergarment 1 shown, the front edge can be convex from the transverse crotch axis x, that is, bent away from the transverse crotch axis x. As Figure 2As shown, at the location of the central longitudinal axis y, the front edge 21c can thus project towards the front of the undergarment 1 beyond the extent of the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. This can be beneficial for the fit of the undergarment to the body and helps to avoid unwanted wrinkles in the fabric panels.

[0058] As mentioned above, each of the side edges 21a, 21b can be at least partially disposed at the respective leg openings 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1. This means that the outer edges forming each leg opening 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1 at least partially include the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. For example, as in the illustrated variant, the outer edges forming each leg opening 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1 include the entire side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. However, in other variants, the undergarment 1 can extend laterally beyond the absorbent assembly 10 in the direction towards each leg opening 6a, 6b in at least a portion of the undergarment 1. For example, the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10 can follow the leg openings 6a, 6b in the portion of the undergarment 1 adjacent to the transverse crotch axis x, but the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10 can deviate from the leg openings 6a, 6b in a more forward region of the front of the undergarment 1. In other words, one or more fabric panels 2 can extend beyond the side edges 21a, 21b in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis y. In such a variant, the portion of the fabric panel 2 that extends beyond the side edges 21a, 21b in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis y can, for example, form the legs of the undergarment 1. Thus, the legs that extend beyond the absorbent assembly 10 can be adapted to the wearer's legs and folded towards the wearer's legs, while the absorbent assembly 10 remains unfolded between the wearer's legs.

[0059] Further, when each of the side edges 21a, 21b is at least partially disposed at the respective leg openings 6a, 6b of the undergarment 1, as in the illustrated undergarment 1, the minimum component crotch width A of the absorbent assembly, i.e., the minimum distance between the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10, can be equal to the minimum undergarment crotch width of the middle region 7 of the undergarment 1. In some undergarment designs suitable for the absorbent undergarments proposed herein, the middle region 7 presents a relatively narrow crotch that includes the transverse crotch axis line x and relatively wider front and rear portions respectively towards the front and rear of the crotch. Thus, the absorbent assembly 10 can have a minimum transverse width that is the transverse component crotch width A at the transverse crotch axis x, and the width of the absorbent assembly 10 can increase from the minimum transverse component crotch width A to the maximum front width C along the longitudinal axis towards the front of the undergarment. Moreover, the width of the absorbent assembly 10 can increase from the transverse component crotch width A to the maximum rear width along the longitudinal axis y towards the rear of the undergarment 1.

[0060] Figure 2 The absorbent assembly 10 in

[0060] is permanently attached to at least one of the one or more fabric panels 2 by a set of one or more attachment members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in at least a portion of the intermediate region 7.

[0061] The attachment members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can have any configuration suitable for permanently attaching the absorbent assembly to the one or more fabric panels 2.

[0062] Further, the attachment members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be any type of attachment member suitable for effecting a permanent attachment of the absorbent assembly 10 to the one or more fabric panels 2. As such, the set of attachment members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can include one or more adhesive attachment members, such as an adhesive layer, lines or dots and / or adhesive tapes, or one or more mechanical attachment members, such as rivets or stitches, and / or a combination of adhesive and mechanical attachment members. However, adhesive attachment members, particularly elastic bonding films, and / or conventional mechanical attachment members, such as conventional seams and stitches, may be preferred.

[0063] The set of attachment members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be applied, for example, as an attachment pattern or layer formed over the surface of the absorbent assembly 10 facing the one or more fabric panels 2. As such, the set of attachment members can include a pattern of an adhesive layer or adhesive dots or mechanical stitches spread over the area of the surface of the absorbent assembly 10 facing the one or more fabric panels 2. In another example, and as in the illustrated variant, the set of attachment members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be arranged, for example, to permanently attach the absorbent assembly 10 to at least one of the one or more fabric panels 2 along at least a portion of one or more of the side edges 21a, 21b, the front edge 21c and the rear edge 21d.

[0064] For example, as in the illustrated variant, the set of attachment members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be arranged to attach the side edges 21a, 21b, the front edge 21c and the rear edge 21d to the one or more fabric panels 2.

[0065] For example, and as in the illustrated undergarment 1, the set of attachment members can include one or more attachment lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. As can be seen in Figure 2As seen in the example, a joining line 20a, 20b can be arranged so as to extend substantially along each of the entire side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. Further, in the example shown, a joining line 20c is arranged to extend substantially along the entire front edge 21c and a joining line 20d is arranged to extend substantially along the entire rear edge 20d.

[0066] Although in the variant shown, the joining lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are arranged to extend adjacent to the respective edges 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d of the absorbent assembly 10, other variants can be envisaged, in which the joining lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d are arranged at the respective edges 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d, for example so as to extend over the respective edges 21a, 21b, 21c, 21d.

[0067] As in the example shown, one or more joining lines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be continuous joining lines, such as seams or continuous adhesive lines. However, in other variants, one or more joining lines can be intermittent joining lines.

[0068] The joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be arranged to directly attach the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2. Alternatively, the joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be arranged to indirectly attach the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2. For example, the joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be arranged to attach the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2 via auxiliary elements (such as, for example, binding strips or reinforcing patches). Optionally, one or more of the joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be arranged so as to join the layers of the absorbent assembly 10 together while attaching the absorbent assembly 10 to one or more fabric panels 2.

[0069] Optionally, one or more of the joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d can be formed as part of a seam, for example, that extends along the entire leg openings 6a, 6b of the middle part.

[0070] In the variant shown, by way of example only, the middle region 7 is provided with side edges 22a, 22b along each leg opening 6a, 6b, and the joining members 20a, 20b provided along the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10 are formed by parts of seams connecting the side edges 22a, 22b to one or more fabric panels 2 of the middle region 7.

[0071] In the front middle region 7a of the undergarment 1, the maximum front joining width B over the set of joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d may not be greater than 11 cm.

[0072] Thus, the maximum front joining width B is the maximum transverse width as measured over the set of joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in the front middle region 7a. For example, and as in the illustrated variant, the maximum front joining width B may extend over the maximum transverse distance between the joining line 20a along the first side edge 21a and the joining line 20b along the second side edge 21b.

[0073] By restricting the maximum front joining width B, one or more body panels 2 on the front side of the undergarment 1 can adapt to the wearer's body without being unnecessarily obstructed by the absorbent assembly 10, which is naturally less flexible than the one or more body panels 2 due to the number of layers. Thus, the maximum front joining width B is the maximum width in the front part of the undergarment 1 along which the body panel or body panels 2 will be limited by the ability of the absorbent assembly 10 to adapt to the wearer's body.

[0074] The maximum front joining width B may, for example, not be greater than 10 cm, for example not be greater than 9 cm. Nevertheless, the maximum front joining width B may be chosen to be large enough to achieve sufficient absorbency. For example, the maximum front joining width B may not be less than 4 cm, for example not be less than 5 cm.

[0075] For example, and as in the illustrated variant, the maximum front joining width B may be in the range from 4 cm to 11 cm, for example from 4 cm to 10 cm or from 5 cm to 9 cm.

[0076] Furthermore, and as shown by the example of Figure 2 the absorbent assembly 10 may have a front maximum width C, which is the maximum transverse width of the absorbent assembly 10 in the front middle region 7a.

[0077] As disclosed above, the set of joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d need not extend all the way to the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. Thus, the front maximum width C may be greater than the maximum front joining width B over the set of joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. This means that at the location of the maximum front joining width B, the absorbent assembly 10 may extend transversely beyond the set of joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d in a direction away from the central longitudinal axis y. However, in this case, the outermost transverse part of the absorbent assembly 10 is thus not joined to one or more fabric panels 2 and is not considered to severely limit the ability of the one or more fabric panels 2 to adapt to the wearer's body.

[0078] Thus, the maximum front width C of the absorbent assembly 10 can be greater than the maximum front joining width B. For example, compared to a maximum front joining width B of no greater than 11 cm, the maximum front width C can be no greater than 12 cm.

[0079] In some variants, as illustrated in the drawings, the difference between the maximum front joining width B and the maximum front width C can be substantially derived from the seam tolerances provided by the perimeter of the set of joining members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. For example, in some variants, the maximum front width C and the maximum front joining width B can differ by less than 1 cm, such as less than 0.5 cm or less than 0.3 cm.

[0080] However, in other variants, the maximum front joining width B can be approximately equal to the maximum front width C of the absorbent assembly. For example, when the maximum front joining width B extends above the joining line 20a at the first side edge 21a and the joining line 20b at the second side edge 21b, the maximum front joining width B and the maximum front width C can coincide.

[0081] In some variants, the maximum front width C is no greater than 11 cm, such as no greater than 10 cm, such as for example no greater than 9 cm. The maximum front width C in the front intermediate region 7a can be no less than 4 cm, such as no less than 5 cm. For example, the maximum front width C in the front intermediate region 7a can be in the range of 4 cm to 10 cm.

[0082] Furthermore, the absorbent assembly 10 has a lateral assembly crotch width A, which is the lateral width of the absorbent assembly 1 at the longitudinal location of the lateral crotch axis x.

[0083] The lateral assembly crotch width A can be no greater than the maximum front joining width B and / or the maximum front width C.

[0084] For example, the absorbent assembly 10 can have a substantially constant lateral width along the front intermediate portion 7a.

[0085] However, to improve the fit of the undergarment 1 to the body, the lateral assembly crotch width A can be less than the maximum front width C of the absorbent assembly 10. Furthermore, the lateral assembly crotch width A can be less than the maximum front joining width B of the absorbent assembly 10.

[0086] As disclosed above, in some variations, the shape of the intermediate region 7 of the undergarment 1 may deviate from the shape of the absorbent assembly 10 along the leg openings 6a, 6b, i.e., one or more body fabric panels 2 may extend towards the leg openings 6a, 6b beyond the side edges 21a, 21b of the absorbent assembly 10. Thus, the transverse undergarment crotch width of the undergarment 1 at the longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis x may be different from, e.g., greater than, the transverse assembly crotch width A of the absorbent assembly 10.

[0087] In other variations, and as in the example shown, the transverse undergarment crotch width of the undergarment 1 at the longitudinal location of the transverse crotch axis x may be substantially equal to the transverse assembly crotch width A. In variations where the intermediate portion 7 includes a relatively narrow crotch and relatively wide front and rear portions, e.g., in the variation shown, the transverse undergarment crotch width of the undergarment 1 may be the minimum transverse width of the intermediate region 7 of the undergarment 1.

[0088] For example, the transverse assembly crotch width A may be in the range of 3 cm to 8 cm.

[0089] Further, the first front length D of the absorbent assembly 10 may be defined along the longitudinal direction y from the transverse crotch axis x to the longitudinal position of the maximum front bonding width B above the set of bonding members 20a, 20B, 20c, 20D in the front intermediate region 7a. Thus, the first front length D indicates the distance between the transverse crotch axis x and the maximum front bonding width B.

[0090] The first front length D may be less than 10 cm, such that it is in the range of 4 cm to 10 cm. Thus, the shape and positioning of the absorbent assembly 10 within the undergarment 1 can be adjusted to be useful for absorbing medium to large volumes of body fluids without requiring an unnecessarily large absorbent assembly 10. In the rear intermediate region 7b, a maximum rear bonding width E may be defined, which is the maximum transverse width measured in the rear intermediate region 7b above the set of bonding members 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d. However, due to anatomical reasons, the formation of unwanted wrinkles in the undergarment 1 is less common on the rear side of the undergarment 1 than on the front side of the undergarment 1. Therefore, the rear maximum width E can be more freely selected to provide the desired absorption capacity and still provide a satisfactory body fit towards the rear side of the wearer's body. Similarly, the maximum transverse rear width, which is the maximum transverse width of the absorbent assembly 10 in the rear intermediate region 7b, can be relatively freely selected.

[0091] Thus, the maximum rear bonding width E may not be less than the maximum front bonding width B and, for many variations, may be greater than the maximum front bonding width B.

[0092] For example, and as in the illustrated variants, the absorbent assembly 10 can longitudinally extend towards the rear of the undergarment 1 by no more than the rear middle region 7B. That is to say, the absorbent assembly 10 does not extend into the rear region 4 of the undergarment 1. Thus, in these variants, the absorbent assembly 10 can be restricted to the part of the undergarment that would be most useful for absorbing body fluids.

[0093] The total longitudinal length of the absorbent assembly 10 can be configured depending on, for example, the size of the undergarment and taking into account the need for sufficient absorption.

[0094] In some variants, when the set of coupling members includes mechanical coupling members, the mechanical coupling members can be arranged so as to extend through the absorbent assembly 10 and at least one fabric panel 2. Thus, the mechanical coupling members can be visible from the outer side of the fabric panel 2.

[0095] Figure 3 Shown Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a part of the absorbent undergarment 1, showing the back region 4 and parts of the middle region 7. Figure 4 Shown along Figure 3 The view in the IV-IV direction. The absorbent assembly 10 is cut away to show that below the top layer 15 are the first core layer 11A, the second core layer 11B, the wicking layer 16, and the moisture barrier layer 12. The first core layer 11A, the second core layer 11B, and the wicking layer 16 can be referred to as the middle layers and together form the core 25. Although three middle layers are shown in the Figure 3 variant, it will be understood that a different number of layers can be provided as discussed elsewhere.

[0096] The top layer 15 includes a water-permeable material, thereby allowing body fluids to migrate to the underlying core 25. The top layer 15 can be composed of any suitable fabric, including natural-derived fibers selected from the group consisting of: cotton, wool, silk, cellulose, regenerated cellulose, rayon, viscose, modal, lyocell, tencel, bamboo, hemp, flax, ramie, coir, or banana. Alternatively, the top layer can be composed of synthetic fibers selected from the group consisting of polyamide, acrylic, polyester, or elastane, such as a mixture of polyester and elastane. Further, the top layer 15 can be composed of a mixture or blend of natural-derived fibers and / or synthetic fibers. The material used for the construction of the top layer should be soft and non-irritating to the skin and easily permeable by any body fluid. The top layer is washable and made of a textile material such as a knitted material. The top layer can include between 20% and 100% natural-derived fibers, more preferably between 40% and 100% natural-derived fibers, and most preferably between 60% and 100% natural-derived fibers. The top layer 15 can have a basis weight of 80 gsm - 200 gsm.

[0097] The wicking layer 16 can be disposed directly beneath the top layer 15. The wicking layer 16 has wicking characteristics to allow moisture to diffuse away from the wearer and into the second core layer 11B. Wicking enables the effective diffusion of moisture, allowing the moisture to be received in a wider area of one or more of the underlying core layers 11A, 11B. This feature is particularly relevant for users suffering from stress urinary incontinence, as the jet of urine may cause the core layers 11A, 11B to quickly saturate at the impact point. By diffusing the volume of fluid over a wider receiving area in the core 25, the wicking characteristics of the wicking layer 16 increase the total absorption capacity of the core 25. The wicking layer 16 can be composed of any suitable fabric, including natural-derived fibers or mixtures thereof from the group consisting of: cotton, wool, silk, cellulose, regenerated cellulose, rayon, viscose, modal, lyocell, tencel, bamboo, hemp, flax, ramie, coir or banana. Alternatively, the wicking layer 16 can be composed of synthetic fibers or mixtures thereof selected from the group consisting of synthetic fibers of polyamide, acrylic, polyester or elastane. Further, the wicking layer 16 can be composed of a blend or mixture of natural-derived fibers and / or synthetic fibers. According to the present disclosure, the wicking layer should be washable. The wicking layer 16 can include between 20% and 100% natural-derived fibers, more preferably between 40% and 100% natural-derived fibers, and most preferably between 60% and 100% natural-derived fibers. The basis weight of the wicking layer can be 180 gsm - 250 gsm.

[0098] The absorbent assembly 10 of the illustrated absorbent undergarment 1 includes two absorbent core layers 11A, 11B, each absorbent core layer being capable of absorbing and releasing liquid during laundering. The release of the absorbed liquid is beneficial as it enables the absorbent undergarment 1 to be restored for reuse. Reusable absorbent undergarments provide a more sustainable alternative to the commonly used disposable sanitary articles that are not intended for reuse.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the second core layer 11B extends generally coextensively with the wicking layer 16. The area of the wicking layer is slightly smaller than the top layer 15. The first core layer 11A is narrower than the second core layer 11B, ensuring additional absorption capacity along the central longitudinal axis y of the garment 1.

[0100] The absorbent core layer 11 includes any material capable of absorbing fluid, such as woven or non-woven microfibers or polymer knitted fabrics, fabrics formed from hydrophilic fibers, absorbent fibers or powders. The absorbent core layer 11 can be the natural or synthetic fibers as described above for the top layer 15 and the wicking layer 16, but can alternatively be polyester and polyamide.

[0101] The absorbent core layers 11A, 11B may also include materials having a porous structure with open pores, such as highly fluffed or synthetic fibers having reservoir characteristics. The core layer may include between 20% and 100% of natural-derived fibers, more preferably between 40% and 100% of fibers from natural sources, and most preferably between 60% and 100% of fibers directly from natural sources. The basis weight of each of the core layers 11A, 11B may be 200 gsm - 350 gsm.

[0102] The moisture barrier layer 12 includes a woven or knitted material that includes activated carbon in any suitable configuration to prevent liquid from migrating from the absorbent assembly 10 to the fabric panel 2. In the illustrated variant, the moisture barrier layer 12 is a tightly woven activated carbon cloth and is substantially impermeable. A suitable material is Flexzorb from Chemiviron SA. A laminate with a polymer film may also be used. The moisture barrier layer 12 may include a coating of a moisture-impermeable material on the clothing-facing surface behind the woven or knitted material containing activated carbon. The coating may be a polymer, such as a urethane wax or polyurethane, which is provided, for example, on the surface of the moisture barrier layer 12 facing away from the wearer.

[0103] The moisture barrier layer 12 is also preferably breathable to allow vapor to escape from the absorbent undergarment 1 while preventing liquid from passing through the fabric layer. The air and vapor permeability can be achieved by the woven or knitted material containing activated carbon or by an attached rate control layer attached thereto.

[0104] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Also shown in and are the bonding members 20a and 20b, whereby the absorbent assembly 10 is joined to the fabric panel 2 using an elastic bonding film wrapped around the first and second side edges 21a, 21b. It will be understood that other options for forming the bonding members may also be used.

[0105] Example - Measurement of Odorant Reduction

[0106] Samples were prepared by cutting circular pieces of different materials and stacking the materials. The prepared samples are described in Table 1.

[0107] Table 1. Samples

[0108]

[0109] The samples were placed in 500 ml Duran bottles, and then 2 ml of the test liquid was added to each sample. The test liquid contained four odorants: 2,3-butanedione, 3-methylbutanal, dimethyl disulfide, and dimethyl trisulfide. The Duran bottles were sealed. After equilibration at 35 °C for 4 h, the odorants in the headspace above the samples were sampled and analyzed by ATD-GC-MS / FID. The headspace concentrations of the odorants were determined.

[0110] For each odorant, the reduction in the headspace concentration of the odorant was calculated from the following equation:

[0111] Reduction of odorant = (1 - Ctest / Cref) × 100

[0112] where: Ctest = the headspace concentration of the test sample

[0113] Cref = the headspace concentration of the reference sample

[0114] The calculated reductions in the headspace concentrations of Samples 1 and 2 compared to Sample 0 are shown in Table 2.

[0115] Table 2. Calculated reductions in odorants compared to Sample 0

[0116] Odorant Sample 1 Sample 2 2,3 - Butanedione 100％ 100％ 3 - Methylbutanal 90％ 80％ Dimethyl Disulfide 100％ 98％ Dimethyl Trisulfide 100％ 100％

[0117] The results showed that for many odorants, a substantial reduction in odor could be achieved and maintained after washing with activated carbon.

[0118] The present disclosure may vary within the scope of the appended claims. For example, the materials and dimensions of the different layers used to form the absorbent insert may vary as described above.

Claims

1. A washable absorbent underwear (1) comprising one or more fabric panels (2) and an integral absorbent assembly (10), wherein the absorbent assembly (10) comprises a top layer (15) facing the wearer, a moisture barrier layer (12) facing the garment, and one or more optional intermediate layers (11, 16) between the top layer (15) and the moisture barrier layer (12), wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) comprises a woven or knitted fabric containing activated carbon.

2. The garment according to claim 1, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) comprises or consists of a woven or knitted fabric of activated carbon fibers.

3. A garment according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) has a thickness between 0.2 mm and 1.0 mm as measured according to ISO 5084 (1996).

4. A garment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) comprises a moisture impermeable material laminated or coated onto the woven or knitted material comprising activated carbon.

5. A garment according to claim 4, wherein the moisture impermeable material is a thermoplastic film, such as polyurethane.

6. A garment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) has a basis weight of between 50 gsm and 300 gsm.

7. The garment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the activated carbon has a density greater than 800 m 2 / g and less than 2000m 2 / g of surface area.

8. A garment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the woven or knitted material comprising activated carbon covers at least 10 cm of the garment. 2 , for example 10cm 2 With 400cm 2 Between or 50cm 2 With 100cm 2 The area between.

9. A garment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) has a moisture vapour transmission rate (WVTR) between 800 g and 2000 g as measured according to NWSP070.5.RO Mocon.

10. The garment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent assembly (10) is permanently attached to at least one of the one or more textile panels (2).

11. A garment according to claim 10, wherein the absorbent assembly (10) is attached to the one or more fabric panels (2) by one or more bonding members (20), and the one or more bonding members (20) optionally include one or more of a front bonding member, a rear bonding member and a side bonding member.

12. A garment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fabric panel (2) forms a front region (3), a back region (4) and a middle region (7) extending between the front region and the back region (3, 4), the front region (3) and the back region (4) being joined so that the underwear (1) forms a waist opening (5) and a pair of leg openings (6a, 6b), wherein the one or more fabric panels (2) along the underwear (1) define a central longitudinal axis (y) of the underwear (1) from the back region (4) toward the front region (3), and define the leg openings (6a, 6b) in a direction extending between the leg openings (6a, 6b). The underwear (1) is provided with a transverse crotch axis (x) and is arranged so as to divide the middle area (7) into a front middle area (7a) extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis (x) and the front end (61a, 61b) of each leg opening (6a, 6b) and a rear middle area (7b) extending longitudinally between the transverse crotch axis (x) and the rear end (62a, 62b) of each leg opening (6a, 6b), wherein the transverse crotch axis (x) is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis (y), and the top layer, the optional middle layer and the moisture barrier layer are stacked along a height axis (z) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (y) and the transverse crotch axis (x).

13. A garment according to claim 12, wherein the absorbent assembly (10) is positioned in the middle zone (7).

14. A washable absorbent assembly (10) comprising a top layer (15) facing the wearer, a moisture barrier layer (12) facing the garment, and one or more optional intermediate layers (11, 16) between the top layer (15) and the moisture barrier layer (12), wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) comprises a woven or knitted material containing activated carbon.

15. The assembly according to claim 14, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) comprises or consists of a braid or knit of activated carbon fibers.

16. An assembly according to claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) comprises a moisture impermeable material laminated or coated onto the woven or knitted material comprising activated carbon.

17. An assembly according to claim 16, wherein the moisture impermeable material is a thermoplastic film, such as polyurethane.

18. An assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) has a basis weight between 50 gsm and 300 gsm.

19. The assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the activated carbon has a carbon content greater than 800 m 2 / g and less than 2000m 2 / g of surface area.

20. An assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein the woven or knitted material comprising activated carbon covers at least 10 cm of the assembly. 2 , for example 10cm 2 With 400cm 2 Between or 50cm 2 With 100cm 2 The area between.

21. Assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 20, wherein the moisture barrier layer (12) has a moisture vapor transmission rate (WVTR) between 800 g and 2000 g as measured according to NWSP 070.5.RO Mocon.

22. An assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 21, wherein the absorbent assembly (10) comprises releasable fastening elements on the garment facing surface.

Images