Absorbent article packaged in material comprising natural fibers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a singly packaged absorbent article provided in a folded configuration and comprising a wrap peelably attached to the absorbent article wherein the wrap comprises a material comprising natural fibers.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a single packaged absorbent article provided in a folded configuration and comprising a wrapper peelably attached to the absorbent article, wherein the wrapper comprises a material comprising natural fibers. BACKGROUND

[0002] Over the years, users / consumers of absorbent articles such as feminine hygiene pads have developed a variety of different expectations and preferences for such products as the products themselves have evolved. These expectations and preferences include, without being in a particular order: (1) that the absorbent article has suitable absorbent properties such that the absorbent article will readily take up, absorb, contain, isolate, and effectively retain all discharged fluids away from the user's skin and not leak during the normal period of use / wear; (2) that the absorbent article should be as thin (not bulky), flexible, and pliable as possible for comfort, adaptability to the body movements of the wearer, and privacy when worn under clothing; and (3) that the absorbent article and its wrapper allow for convenient and discreet carrying, easy opening and access to the absorbent article, and convenient disposal of the used absorbent article. More recently, consumers of absorbent articles such as feminine hygiene pads are also looking for products that contain natural materials, biologically-sourced materials, and / or recycled materials. And, in terms of disposal, consumers are looking for products that contain components or packaging that are biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, reusable, and / or otherwise help to reduce landfill waste.

[0003] Modern absorbent articles such as feminine hygiene pads are highly optimized to meet the different expectations and preferences of consumers. For example, many feminine hygiene pads are folded and compacted so that once packaged, the articles are thin and discrete for carrying in a purse. Such feminine hygiene pads are typically folded and individually wrapped with a thin, flexible wrapper that can then be used for disposal of the used product. The wrapper is typically made from plastic such as polyethylene film. Plastic is typically preferred because of its ability to withstand the harsh conditions of the manufacturing process due to its ability to flex and stretch. However, there is a growing public demand for alternatives to plastic-based and non-plastic-based wrappers. There can be challenges in replacing plastic wrapper materials with wrapper materials comprising natural fibers in existing manufacturing processes; materials comprising natural fibers can be less resistant to stresses typically encountered in such manufacturing processes.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a need to provide a single packaged disposable absorbent article in a material comprising natural fibers that can be manufactured at high speed under existing process conditions. SUMMARY

[0005] In some embodiments, a separately packaged absorbent article comprises: an absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent layer disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein an outer-facing surface of the backsheet has an adhesive disposed thereon; and a wrapper positioned adjacent to the outer-facing surface of the backsheet, wherein the wrapper comprises a sheet material having a basis weight of from about 30 gsm to about 85 gsm, wherein the sheet material comprises from about 70% to about 100% natural fibers and has a fold angle of from about 45° to about 90°, wherein the wrapper comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface comprises a primer and at least one of a release agent and a sealing aid disposed on at least a portion of the primer, wherein the absorbent article and the wrapper are folded together along at least one fold line.

[0006] In some embodiments, a separately packaged absorbent article comprises: an absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent layer disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein an outer-facing surface of the backsheet has an adhesive disposed thereon; and a wrapper positioned adjacent to the outer-facing surface of the backsheet, wherein the wrapper comprises a sheet material having a basis weight of from about 30 gsm to about 85 gsm, wherein the sheet material comprises from about 70% to about 100% natural fibers, wherein the wrapper comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface comprises a primer, a release agent, and a sealing aid, and wherein the outer surface comprises a primer and a sealing aid, and wherein the absorbent article and the wrapper are folded together along at least one fold line.

[0007] In some embodiments, a separately packaged absorbent article comprises: an absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent layer disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein an outer-facing surface of the backsheet has an adhesive disposed thereon; and a wrapper positioned adjacent to the outer-facing surface of the backsheet, wherein the wrapper comprises a sheet material having a basis weight of from about 30 gsm to about 85 gsm, wherein the sheet material comprises from about 70% to about 100% natural fibers, wherein the wrapper comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface comprises at least one of a release agent and a sealing aid, and wherein the outer surface comprises a sealing aid, and wherein the absorbent article and the wrapper are folded together along at least two fold lines, thereby forming a front section, a middle section, and a back section. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 Perspective view of a female hygiene product in an unopened state having a folded feminine hygiene pad wrapped in a wrapper;

[0009] Figure 2is a top plan view of a female hygiene product in an open state with a folded feminine hygiene pad located on an unfolded wrapper;

[0010] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a feminine hygiene pad and a wrapper in a folded configuration taken along a longitudinal centerline (L); Figure 2

[0011] Figure 3A is a top view of a wrapper indicating a fold line;

[0012] Figure 3B is a schematic side view of a feminine hygiene pad folded into four segments in a book-folded configuration with the major fold nose oriented toward the top of the figure.

[0013] Figure 3C is a schematic side view of a feminine hygiene pad folded into four segments in a book-folded configuration with the major fold nose oriented toward the top of the figure.

[0014] Figure 4 is a side view of a machine for producing creped paper.

[0015] Figure 5 is a close-up view of a portion of the machine for producing creped paper. Figure 4

[0016] Figure 6 is a top plan view of a female hygiene product in an open state with an unfolded feminine hygiene pad located on an unfolded wrapper, the top plan view showing the location of a release agent and a sealing aid disposed on a wearer-facing surface of the wrapper.

[0017] Figure 7 is a top plan view of a female hygiene product in an open state with an unfolded feminine hygiene pad located on an unfolded wrapper, the top plan view showing the location of a release agent and a sealing aid disposed on a wearer-facing surface of the wrapper.

[0018] Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view of a wrapper and one or more layers of coating applied to the wrapper.

[0019] Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of a wrapper and one or more layers of coating applied to the wrapper.

[0020] Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of a wrapper and one or more layers of coating applied to the wrapper.

[0021] Figure 8D is a cross-sectional view of a wrapper and one or more layers of coating applied to the wrapper. ​​

[0022] Figure 9A Top plan view of a female hygiene product in an open state with a folded female hygiene pad located on an unfolded wrapper, the top plan view showing where the sealing aid is disposed on the wrapper;

[0023] Figure 9B Top plan view of a female hygiene product in an open state with a folded female hygiene pad located on an unfolded wrapper, the top plan view showing where the sealing aid is disposed on the wrapper;

[0024] Figure 9C Top plan view of a female hygiene product in an open state with a folded female hygiene pad located on an unfolded wrapper, the top plan view showing where the sealing aid is disposed on the wrapper;

[0025] Figure 9D Top plan view of a female hygiene product in an open state with a folded female hygiene pad located on an unfolded wrapper, the top plan view showing where the sealing aid is disposed on the wrapper;

[0026] Figure 10 Chart of web modulus (at 1-2% strain) versus stretch (%) for eight different wrapping materials.

[0027] Figure 11 Chart showing Figure 10 Chart showing the effect of paper properties on folding angle for three paper wrapping materials.

[0028] Figures 12A to 12C Equipment used in the ultra-sensitive 3-point bending method is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Definitions

[0030] As used herein, the term "absorbent article" refers to devices that absorb and contain exudates, and more specifically refers to devices placed against or next to the body of a wearer to absorb and contain various exudates discharged from the body. Absorbent articles of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, diapers, adult incontinence briefs, training pants, diaper holders, diaper outer covers, absorbent inserts for use in diaper outer covers, feminine hygiene pads / panty-liners, incontinence pads, liners, sanitary napkins, tampons, durable feminine hygiene pants / panty-liners, disposable swim pants, and the like.

[0031] The term "renewable" is synonymous with the terms "biobased," "sustainable," "sustainably derived," or "from a sustainable source" and means "biologically derived" (derived from a renewable resource, e.g., a plant) or "non-geologically derived." "Geologically derived" means derived from, for example, petrochemicals, natural gas, or coal. Geologically derived materials are not readily replenished or regrown (e.g., as opposed to oils produced by plants or algae).

[0032] As used herein, the term "renewable component" means a component that is derived from a renewable feedstock and comprises renewable carbon. A renewable feedstock is a feedstock that is derived from a renewable resource (e.g., a plant) and is non-geologically derived. The material can be partially renewable (renewable carbon content less than 100%, renewable carbon content from about 1% to about 50%) or 100% renewable (renewable carbon content of 100%). The renewable material can be blended with a non-renewable material.

[0033] "Renewable carbon" can be assessed according to the method "Assessment of the Biobased Content of Materials" ASTM D6866.

[0034] As used herein, the term "substantially free of" or "substantially no" means that an ingredient is completely absent or only present in a minimal amount as an impurity or unintended byproduct of another ingredient. A composition that is "substantially free of / no" a component means that the composition comprises less than about 5%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.25%, 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.01% or even 0% by weight of the composition of the component.

[0035] 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, abaca, kenaf, jute, flax, papyrus, straw, jute, bagasse, milkweed filaments, and pineapple leaf fibers; and wood or pulp fibers, such as those obtained from deciduous and coniferous trees, including softwood fibers, such as northern and southern softwood kraft fibers; hardwood fibers, such as eucalyptus, maple, birch, and poplar. Pulp fibers can be prepared in high-yield or low-yield form, and can be pulped by any known chemical or mechanical pulping method, including kraft pulping methods, sulfite pulping methods, high-yield pulping methods. The natural fibers of the present disclosure can be recycled natural fibers, virgin natural fibers, or mixtures thereof. Additionally, to have good mechanical properties, it is desirable that the natural fibers are relatively undamaged and mostly unrefined or only lightly refined. Natural fiber pulp can be characterized by Canadian Standard Freeness values, which characterize the variation in drainage rate of the pulp and are widely used to indicate the variation in fiber properties during beating and refining. Canadian Standard Freeness values have been shown to be related to the surface condition and swelling of the pulp fibers, and can be used to control fiber properties by selecting the optimal level of refining energy required for a selected grade of pulp. Canadian Standard Freeness values can vary depending on fiber type, fiber morphology, and mass concentration in the fiber suspension. Canadian Standard Freeness values can be determined according to standardized test procedures, such as TAPPI T-227 om-17 (2017).

[0036] As used herein, the term "cellulose-based fibers" includes cellulose fibers such as wood fibers and cotton, regenerated cellulose fibers such as rayon or cuprammonium rayon, and high yield pulp fibers. The term "cellulose-based fibers" also includes chemically treated natural fibers such as mercerized pulp, chemically stiffened or crosslinked fibers, or sulfonated fibers. Also included are mercerized natural fibers, regenerated natural cellulose fibers, cellulose produced by microbial, rayon processes, cellulose dissolution 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 pulp fibers are those produced by pulping processes that provide yields of about 65% or greater, more specifically about 75% or greater, and still more specifically about 75% to about 95%, where yield is expressed as the resulting amount of processed fiber as a percentage of the initial wood mass. Such pulping processes include bleached chemi-thermo-mechanical pulp (BCTMP), chemi-thermo-mechanical pulp (CTMP), pressure / pressure thermo-mechanical pulp (PTMP), thermo-mechanical pulp (TMP), thermo-mechanical chemical pulp (TMCP), high yield sulfite pulp, and high yield kraft pulp, all of which result in fibers having a high level of lignin, but are still considered natural fibers. High yield fibers are well known for their stiffness in both their dry and wet states relative to typical chemical pulp fibers.

[0037] As used herein, the term "machine direction" or "MD" refers to the path followed by a material such as a web throughout the manufacturing process.

[0038] As used herein, the term "cross-machine direction" or "CD" refers to a path perpendicular to the machine direction in the plane of the web.

[0039] With respect to an absorbent article such as a feminine hygiene pad that is opened and laid flat on a horizontal plane surface, "lateral" refers to a direction perpendicular to the machine direction and parallel to the horizontal plane surface. "Width" refers to the dimension measured along the lateral direction.

[0040] With respect to an absorbent article such as a feminine hygiene pad that is opened and laid flat on a horizontal plane surface and has a length measured from its forwardmost end to its rearwardmost end, "machine direction" refers to the direction parallel to the line along which the length is measured and parallel to the horizontal plane surface. "Length" refers to the dimension measured in the machine direction.

[0041] With respect to an absorbent article such as a feminine hygiene pad, the terms "front", "back", "forward", and "rearward" relate to features or regions in the article's position when it is worn by a user, and refer to the front and back of the user's body when standing.

[0042] With respect to absorbent articles such as feminine hygiene pads, the "z-direction" refers to the direction normal to a horizontal planar surface upon which the absorbent article is opened and laid flat. When the article is being worn by a user (and thus in a curved configuration), the "z-direction" at any particular point location on the article refers to the direction normal to the wearer-facing surface of the article at the particular point location.

[0043] With respect to absorbent articles such as feminine hygiene pads, "wearer-facing" is a relative positional term that refers to a feature of a component or structure of the article being closer to the wearer than another feature of the same component or structure placed along the same z-direction when in use. For example, a topsheet has a wearer-facing surface that is closer to the wearer than an opposite, outward-facing surface of the topsheet.

[0044] With respect to absorbent articles such as feminine hygiene pads, "outward-facing" or "garment-facing" is a relative positional term that refers to a feature of a component or structure of the article being further from the wearer than another feature of the same component or structure placed along the same z-direction when in use. For example, a topsheet has an outward-facing or garment-facing surface that is further from the wearer than an opposite, wearer-facing surface of the topsheet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Absorbent feminine hygiene pad

[0046] Absorbent feminine hygiene pads can have any shape known in the art for feminine hygiene articles, including a generally symmetrical "hourglass" shape as well as a pear shape, a bicycle seat shape, a trapezoidal shape, a wedge shape, or other shape that is wider at one end than the other. Sanitary napkins and pads can also be provided with lateral extensions known in the art as "flaps" or "wings." Such extensions can serve multiple purposes, including but not limited to protecting the wearer's undergarments from soiling and holding the sanitary napkin in place. Absorbent articles have a wearer-facing side that contacts the user's body during use and an opposite garment-facing or outward-facing side that contacts the user's undergarment during use.

[0047] Figure 1 Perspective view of a disposable feminine hygiene product, and Figure 2 Top plan view of a disposable feminine hygiene product according to the present disclosure, the disposable feminine hygiene product in an open state, having an unfolded feminine hygiene pad 20 on an unfolded wrapper 80. The pad 20 (and its component layers) has a wearer-facing surface 22 and a garment-facing surface 24 opposite the wearer-facing surface 22. Figure 2 The feminine hygiene pad 20 is shown as viewed from the wearer-facing surface 22. The feminine hygiene pad 20 has a periphery 29 that defines the outermost edges of the pad 20. The feminine hygiene pad 20 has two centerlines, a longitudinal centerline L and a lateral centerline T.

[0048] Figure 3 The longitudinal centerline (L) is taken in the folded configuration. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a female sanitary pad and a wrap. The pad 20 can be arranged along the wrapping sheet 80. Figure 2 The two fold lines H shown are folded. The number of fold lines can vary depending on the size or design of the panty liner 20. For example, the number of fold lines can be one, two, three, or more, if desired. After folding, the outer surface 94 of one end of the wrapper 80 (the surface facing away from the feminine hygiene pad) is joined to the outer surface 94 of the other end of the wrapper 80 by a resealable tape 98, thereby forming a Figure 3 The soiled pad can be wrapped in the wrapper 80 and the wrapper 80 can be resealed using the resealable tape 98 for disposal of the soiled pad. Alternatively, the feminine hygiene pad 20 can be placed in a pouch formed by the wrapper in a folded or unfolded configuration. In some embodiments, the wrapper 80 can be sealed without resealing tape.

[0049] In some embodiments, the wrapper can be folded along three fold lines H, such as Figure 3A For ease of illustration, the example is shown without an absorbent article. Figures 3A to 3C However, it should be understood that the absorbent article will be folded together with the wrapper. The wrapper folded along the three fold lines H can be folded in various configurations, such as a roll fold configuration and a book cover fold configuration. Figure 3B . In the roll-folded configuration, the rear section 213 is folded over the rear center section 212 along the rear lateral fold line H; then the two sections 213 and 212 are folded together over the front center section 211 along the middle lateral fold line H; finally, the three sections 213, 212, and 211 are folded together over the front section 210 along the front lateral fold line H. The foregoing process results in a roll-folded configuration with the front section facing outward, in which the front section 210 is disposed on the outside of the folded pad configuration, as shown in FIG. Figure 3B It will be appreciated that the alternative roll-folded configuration described above can be formed by first folding the front section 210 along the front lateral fold line H and then folding it rearwardly, thereby producing a roll-folded configuration with the rear section facing outward, wherein the rear section 210 is disposed on the outside of the folded configuration. However, for user convenience, it may be desirable to Figure 3B The front section outward roll-folded configuration is shown because this provides a front to back deployment that may be more intuitive for the user. It should be understood that the front section outward roll-folded configuration or the back section outward roll-folded configuration (if desired) can be formed by steps different from those described above.

[0050] The second configuration is the book cover folding configuration, andFigure 3C In the book jacket folded configuration, the front section 210 is folded over the front middle section 211 along the front lateral fold line H; and the back section 212 is folded over the back middle section 212 along the back lateral fold line H (these two folds can occur simultaneously or one after the other in either order). Finally, the two remaining portions comprising the front section 210 folded over the front middle section 211 and the back section 213 folded over the back middle section 212 as one part are folded along the middle lateral fold line H to bring them together, thereby forming the book jacket folded configuration as Figure 3C illustrated. It should be appreciated that other folded configurations are known in the art.

[0051] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The absorbent pad 20 can include a liquid permeable topsheet 30, a liquid impermeable backsheet 40, and an absorbent layer / core 50 disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet and backsheet can be bonded together at the peripheral edges of the absorbent pad by any suitable mechanism, including but not limited to adhesive bonding, thermal / heat bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, crimp seal, or by any other suitable bonding method, thereby holding and securing the absorbent layer / core 50 in place between the topsheet 30 and the backsheet 40.

[0052] The absorbent pad 20 can include opposing flaps (not shown) extending laterally from the longitudinal side edges of the pad a relatively greater width dimension than the main portion of the pad. The flaps can be formed from lateral extensions of the material forming the topsheet 20, the backsheet 30, or both. The flaps of the absorbent pad of the present disclosure can be integrally formed as part of the topsheet. In some forms, the flaps can be integrally formed as part of the backsheet. In some forms, the flaps can be integrally formed as part of both the topsheet and the backsheet. In some forms, the flaps can be integrally formed with additional layers of the absorbent pad (described herein). In other forms, however, the flaps can be discretely formed and joined to the base structure. The outward facing surface of the backsheet forming the underside of the main portion and the outward facing surface of the flap portion can have a deposit of adhesive 70 thereon. If present, the flaps can be folded over the wearer-facing surface of the pad, and after such folding, a release film or paper can be applied to the portion of the flaps on which the adhesive is deposited to cover and protect the adhesive prior to use.

[0053] The adhesive deposits 70 can be provided so that the user can adhere the pantiliner in the crotch region of their undergarment to the inside of the underpants. The adhesive deposits 70 on the outwardly facing surfaces of the wings allow the user to secure the wings around the edges of the leg openings of the underpants and adhere them to the outside / underside of the underpants in the crotch region, providing supplemental holding support and helping to protect the leg opening edges of the underpants from soiling. When the pantiliner 20 is wrapped and folded, the adhesive deposits 70 can be covered by the wrapper 80 to shield them from contact with other surfaces until the user is ready to remove the wrapper 80 and place the pantiliner 20 for use. The adhesive deposits 70 on the wings and / or the pantiliner 20 can be covered by one or more pieces of removable release film or paper.

[0054] The topsheet 30 can be formed from any suitable liquid permeable web material. Referring back to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the topsheet 30 is positioned adjacent the wearer-facing surface of the absorbent layer 50 and can be joined to the wearer-facing surface and / or to the backsheet 40 by any suitable attachment or bonding method. The topsheet 30 and backsheet 40 can be joined directly to one another at the peripheral edges of the absorbent pad (outside of the absorbent layer 50) and / or can be indirectly joined by joining them directly to the wearer-facing surface and the outwardly facing surface, respectively, of the absorbent layer 50 or an additional optional layer included in the pantiliner.

[0055] The topsheet 30 can be formed from any liquid permeable web material that is suitably compliant, soft-feeling, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Suitable topsheet materials include liquid permeable materials that contact the wearer's body and allow rapid transfer of exudates through it. Some suitable examples of topsheet materials include films, nonwovens, and laminate structures having film / nonwoven, film / film, and nonwoven / nonwoven layers. Other exemplary topsheet materials and designs are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2016 / 0129661, 2016 / 0167334, and 2016 / 0278986.

[0056] Suitable topsheets can be made from a variety of materials, such as woven and nonwoven materials; apertured film materials including apertured formed thermoplastic films, apertured plastic films, and fiber- entangled apertured films; hydroformed thermoplastic films; porous foams; reticulated foams; reticulated thermoplastic films; thermoplastic scrims; or a combination thereof. Some suitable examples of films that can be used as topsheets are described in US 3,929,135; US 4,324,246; US 4,342,314; US 4,463,045; US 5,006,394; US 4,609,518; and US 4,629,643.

[0057] Non-limiting examples of woven and nonwoven web materials that can be suitable as a topsheet include fibrous materials made from natural fibers, modified natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or combinations thereof. Some suitable examples are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,950,264; 4,988,344; 4,988,345; 3,978,185; 7,785,690; 7,838,099; 5,792,404; and 5,665,452.

[0058] In some examples, the topsheet can include clusters as described in US 8,728,049, US 7,553,532, US 7,172,801, US 8,440,286, US 7,648,752, and US 7,410,683. The topsheet can have a pattern of discrete hair-like fibrils as described in US 7,655,176 or US 7,402,723. Additional examples of suitable topsheet materials include those described in US 8,614,365; US 8,704,036; US 6,025,535; and US 2015 / 041640. Another suitable topsheet can be formed from a three-dimensional substrate as described in detail in US 2017 / 0258647. The topsheet can have one or more layers as described in US 2016 / 0167334, US 2016 / 0166443, and US 2017 / 0258651. The topsheet can be apertured as described in US 5,628,097.

[0059] As contemplated herein, the component nonwoven web material from which the topsheet 30 is cut can be a nonwoven web material comprising cellulosic plant fibers or consisting essentially of or consisting entirely of cellulosic plant fibers, such as cotton fibers, flax fibers, hemp fibers, jute fibers, or mixtures thereof, which are naturally hydrophilic or are suitably processed to be hydrophilic (or have increased hydrophilicity) and are processed to be suitably soft. Plant-based fibers can be preferred to appeal to consumers who prefer natural products. In other examples, semi-synthetic fibers derived from cellulosic materials can be used, such as rayon (including viscose, lyocell, MODAL (a product of Lenzing AG, Lenzing, Austria), and cuprammonium rayon). In some examples, a topsheet cut from a carded nonwoven comprising or consisting essentially of or consisting entirely of cotton fibers can be preferred. In some examples, the nonwoven web material can be formed via a carding process. In some other examples, the nonwoven web material can be formed in a coform process, in which a limited length plant-based fiber is physically blended or mixed with an indefinite length stream of filaments, spun from a polymeric resin, and laid down on a forming belt to form a web, as described in, for example, US 8,017,534, US 4,100,324, US 2003 / 0200991, US 5,508,102, US 2003 / 0211802, EP 0 333 228, WO 2009 / 10938, US 2017 / 0000695, US 2017 / 0002486, US 9,944,047, 2017 / 0022643, and US 2018 / 0002848.

[0060] To limit the bulk and caliper of the guard pad, it can be desirable for the topsheet to be disposed in direct face-to-face relationship with the absorbent layer, with no intervening layers disposed therebetween. Alternatively, the guard pad includes an intervening layer positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core, such as a second topsheet and / or acquisition layer. The second topsheet and / or acquisition layer can be formed from a nonwoven web material, such as a hydroentangled nonwoven. Suitable hydroentangled nonwovens are discussed in additional detail in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0351976. In some forms, the second topsheet can include superabsorbent similar to or different from the superabsorbent in the absorbent core. The second topsheet can include a first end and an opposite second end and a pair of longitudinally opposite side edges connecting the first and second ends. The second topsheet can be asymmetric or symmetric about a longitudinal centerline.

[0061] Any suitable absorbent layer / core known in the art can be utilized. The absorbent layer / core can be any absorbent member which is generally compressible, conformable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, and capable of absorbing and retaining liquids such as urine, menses, and / or other body fluids. The absorbent layer / core can be manufactured in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, from a wide variety of liquid absorbent materials commonly used in the art, such as comminuted wood pulp which is generally referred to as airfelt. The absorbent layer / core can contain superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and less than 15%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 3%, or less than 1% airfelt, or be free of airfelt entirely. Examples of other suitable absorbent materials include creped cellulose wadding; meltblown polymers including coform; chemically stiffened, modified or cross-linked cellulosic fibers; tissue including tissue wraps and tissue laminates; absorbent foams; absorbent sponges; superabsorbent polymers; absorbent gelling materials; or any equivalent material or combinations of materials.

[0062] The configuration and construction of the absorbent layer / core can be varied (e.g., the absorbent core can have varying caliper zones, a hydropilic gradient, a superabsorbent gradient, or lower average density and lower average basis weight acquisition zones; or can include one or more layers or structures). In some forms, the absorbent layer / core can include one or more channels, such as two, three, four, five, or six channels.

[0063] The absorbent layer / core of the present disclosure can include, for example, one or more adhesives to help secure the SAP or other absorbent material within the core wrap and / or to ensure the integrity of the core wrap, especially when the core wrap is made from two or more substrates. The core wrap can extend to a greater area than is necessary to contain the absorbent material within it.

[0064] Absorbent layers / cores containing relatively high levels of SAP with various core designs are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 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 No. 2008 / 0312622 Al to Hundorf et al., and WO 2012 / 052172 to Van Malderen.

[0065] Further forms and more details regarding channels and pockets within absorbent cores that are free or substantially free of absorbent material, such as SAP, are discussed in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2014 / 0163500, 2014 / 0163506, and 2014 / 0163511, all published on June 12, 2014.

[0066] Other suitable materials for the absorbent layer / core include open-cell foams or sheets thereof. The use of foams in absorbent cores is further described in detail in U.S. Patents Nos. 6,410,820, 6,107,356, 6,204,298, 6,207,724, 6,444,716, 8,211,078, and 8,702,668.

[0067] In some forms, the absorbent layer / core structure may include a heterogeneous bulk layer, or may utilize methods or parameters such as those described in the following patent applications: U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 715,984 filed May 19, 2015, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 750,399 filed June 25, 2015, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 751,969 filed June 26, 2015, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 078,132 filed March 23, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 078,132 filed March 23, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 078,132 filed June 25, 2016 / 750,596, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 084,902 filed on March 30, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 343,989 filed on November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,273 filed on November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,294 filed on November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 704,110 filed on May 5, 2015, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 194,894 filed on June 28, 2016 No. 15 / 344,050, filed November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,117, filed November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,177, filed November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,198, filed November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,221, filed November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,239, filed November 4, 2016 U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 344,255 filed on November 4, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 464,733 filed on November 4, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 437,208 filed on December 21, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 437,225 filed on December 21, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 437,241 filed on December 21, 2016, or U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 437,259 filed on December 21, 2016. The heterogeneous bulk layer has a depth, a width, and a height.

[0068] In some forms, a combination of absorbent layer / core materials can be utilized. For example, forms are contemplated in which a first layer of the absorbent core comprises a foam material or sheet thereof, as previously described, and a second layer of the absorbent core comprises an air-laid material. Such combinations are described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0336606 and U.S. Patent No. 9,649,228.

[0069] The backsheet 40 can be positioned adjacent to the outwardly facing surface of the absorbent layer / core 50 and can be joined to the outwardly facing surface by any suitable attachment method. For example, the backsheet 40 can be secured to the absorbent layer 50 by a uniform continuous adhesive layer, a patterned adhesive layer, or an array of separate adhesive lines, spirals, or dots. An exemplary, but non-limiting adhesive includes an adhesive manufactured by H. B. Fuller Company (St. Paul, Minn., U.S.A.) and sold as HL-1358J. An example of a suitable attachment device comprising a network of open pattern adhesive filaments is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,573,986, entitled "Disposable Waste-Containment Garment", which issued to Minetola et al. on March 4, 1986. Another suitable attachment device including several rows of adhesive filaments arranged in spiral pattern is shown as an apparatus and method of attachment in U.S. Patent No. 3,911,173, issued to Sprague, Jr. on October 7, 1975; U.S. Patent No. 4,785,996, issued to Ziecker et al. on November 22, 1978; and U.S. Patent No. 4,842,666, issued to Werenicz on June 27, 1989. Alternatively, the attachment method can comprise heat bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, or any other suitable attachment mechanism or combinations thereof. In other examples, it is contemplated that the absorbent layer 50 is not directly joined to the backsheet 40. The topsheet 30 can be joined to the backsheet 40 by the attachment methods described above. The topsheet and backsheet can be directly joined to one another in the periphery of the pantiliner and / or can be indirectly joined together by being each directly joined to the absorbent core 50 by any suitable attachment method.

[0070] The backsheet 40 can be liquid (e.g., urine, menses) impermeable or substantially impermeable and can be manufactured from a thin plastic film, although other liquid impermeable, flexible materials can be used. As used herein, the term "flexible" refers to materials which are compliant and which readily conform to the general shape and contours of the human body. The backsheet 40 can prevent or at least substantially inhibit the escape of fluid absorbed and contained within the absorbent layer 50 from reaching the garment, such as underpants and outer clothing, of the wearer which can contact the absorbent pad 20. In some cases, however, the backsheet 40 can be made and / or adapted to allow the escape of vapors from the absorbent layer 50 (i.e., the backsheet can be made to be breathable), while in other cases the backsheet 40 can be made so as to not allow the escape of vapors (i.e., the backsheet can be made to be non-breathable). Thus, the backsheet 40 can comprise a polymeric film, such as a thermoplastic film of polyethylene or polypropylene. Suitable materials for the backsheet 40 are, for example, thermoplastic films having a thickness of from about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mil). Any suitable backsheet known in the art can be used in the present application.

[0071] Some suitable examples of backsheet are described in US 5,885,265, US 4,342,314 and US 4,463,045. Suitable single layer breathable backsheet for use herein include those described in, for example, GB A 2184 389, GB A 2184 390, GB A 2184 391, US 4,591,523, US 3 989 867, US 3,156,242, WO 97 / 24097, US 6,623,464, US 6,664,439 and US 6,436,508.

[0072] The backsheet can have two layers: a first layer comprising a breathable apertured formed film layer and a second layer comprising a breathable microporous film layer, as described in US 6,462,251. Other suitable examples of dual or multilayer breathable backsheet for use herein include those described in US 3,881,489, US 4,341,216, US 4,713,068, US 4,818,600, EP 203 821, EP 710 471, EP 710 472 and EP 0 793 952.

[0073] Wrapping

[0074] The absorbent pads disclosed herein are individually packaged in a wrapper. The wrapper includes a material comprising natural fibers, preferably a sheet material. Conventional wrappers are manufactured from a thin, flexible material that can be liquid impermeable. For example, conventional wrappers can be made from a plastic film or a nonwoven web. The film or nonwoven web can be coated on the inner surface (the surface facing the feminine hygiene pad) with a release agent, such as a silicone release agent, providing a releasably attached protective wrapper for the pad to protect the adhesive 70 prior to use, as shown. Figure 2 Alternatively, some conventional individually packaged pads include a release sheet (not shown) that can be attached to the inner surface of the uncoated film or uncoated nonwoven web. The release sheet can be formed from any suitable material known in the art, such as paper or plastic film. The release sheet can be coated on the inner surface (the surface facing the feminine hygiene pad) with a release agent, such as a silicone release agent. Preferably, no additional steps are required to remove the release sheet, as the release sheet is attached to the wrapper and removed from the pad simultaneously with the wrapper. A coated wrapper can be preferred as it eliminates the need for a release sheet. However, it is important to note that for both of these conventional individually packaged pads, the wrapper itself and / or the coated release sheet is generally not recyclable (paper release sheets coated with silicone release agents are generally not recyclable). Also, as noted above, there is a growing demand by the public for recyclable or otherwise minimally landfill-generating materials. Preferably, the wrapper according to the present disclosure is manufactured using recyclable and / or biodegradable materials.

[0075] The wrapper according to the present disclosure can include, consist essentially of, or consist of paper, where the term “paper” refers to a material manufactured into a sheet from pulp of wood or other fibrous material, and can include additives such as synthetic fibers or biodegradable fibers. Wrappers including paper, such as kraft paper, crepe paper, and crepe kraft paper, can be recyclable, compostable, and / or biodegradable. In fact, existing recycling infrastructure can be better positioned to accept and process used crepe paper as compared to used plastic.

[0076] The paper can be kraft paper, where “kraft paper” refers to paper produced from wood pulp by the kraft process. The kraft process removes almost all of the lignin from the wood, resulting in almost pure cellulose fibers. The kraft process is known in the art. Kraft paper is characterized by good overall strength properties and high porosity, and is thus suitable for a variety of applications.

[0077] The paper can comprise a blend of hardwood fibers and softwood fibers, preferably predominantly softwood fibers, which can provide the toughness needed to withstand the creping process and maintain sufficient strength and cohesive integrity within the fibers. The paper can comprise about 50 wt% to about 80 wt% softwood fibers. The paper can comprise about 20 wt% to about 50 wt% hardwood fibers. The hardwood fibers can be selected from the group consisting of: maple fibers, oak fibers, elm fibers, birch fibers, poplar fibers, aspen fibers, or eucalyptus fibers, and combinations thereof, preferably birch fibers. The softwood fibers can be selected from the group consisting of: pine fibers, fir fibers, spruce fibers, hemlock fibers, larch fibers, and combinations thereof, preferably northern pine fibers. The paper can contain other natural fibers from plants such as cotton, flax, bamboo, wheat straw, red algae, and / or other seaweed, and hemp. The paper can also contain recycled fibers. Preferably, the presence of other natural fibers and / or recycled fibers does not affect the recyclability of the paper. The fibers for the paper can have a Canadian Standard Freeness of at least 200 mL, more specifically at least 300 mL, still more specifically at least 400 mL, and most specifically at least 500 mL.

[0078] The paper can have an MD web modulus in the range of 1% to 2% strain of less than 600 N / cm, preferably less than 450 N / cm, to avoid variations in placement of the wrapper on the pad and variations in the folded length in the pad. The paper can have a tensile at break in MD of at least 9%, most preferably 15% or greater, calculated as MD tensile at break.

[0079] The paper can have a basis weight of about 30 gsm to about 70 gsm, preferably about 40 gsm to about 70 gsm, more preferably about 45 gsm to about 65 gsm, as determined via Test Method ISO 536 - Basis Weight as modified herein. Paper having a lower basis weight (e.g., a basis weight of less than 30 gsm) can not be sufficiently opaque based on consumer preferences.

[0080] The paper can have a water penetration time of at least 10 seconds, more preferably at least 17 seconds, according to Test Method EN 868-2:2017 EN ISO 1924-2. Because the absorbent products of the present disclosure can inadvertently come into contact with water or moisture, the wrappers of the present disclosure preferably exhibit some water repellency to prevent moisture and water from contaminating the absorbent pad within the wrapper. The presence of lignin, a hydrophobic high molecular weight natural polymer found in wood, in a sizing agent in the wax, or on the paper, can impart or enhance water repellency. Other hydrophobic components can be formulated into a water-based varnish or primer applied to the surface of the paper. Preferably, any hydrophobic coating on the paper is applied in minimal amounts and does not affect the recyclability of the wrapper comprising the paper.

[0081] In some embodiments, after the pulping process, a small amount of lignin can remain in the pulp to provide some hydrophobicity. To increase the hydrophobicity, various methods can also be used to coat the paper with lignin.

[0082] In some embodiments, a wax can be added and / or applied to the paper to increase the hydrophobicity. Waxes include natural waxes (such as carnauba wax, beeswax, candelilla wax, rice bran wax, soy wax) as well as emulsions of petroleum-based waxes (such as paraffin wax, montan wax) and food-grade synthetic waxes (such as oxidized LDPE and HDPE). The wax emulsion can be added to the pulp, or a small wax coating can be applied on the surface of the paper. The wax can be applied prior to subsequent processing, such as creping.

[0083] In some embodiments, a sizing agent can be added and / or applied to the paper to increase the hydrophobicity. Sizing agents include internal sizing agents added to the pulp during the production of the paper, and surface sizing agents applied to the paper. Internal sizing agents can include acid type internal sizing agents, such as rosin and rosin derivatives, which contain aluminum resinate and are derived from natural resins and aluminum salts. Alkaline and neutral type internal sizing agents include synthetic sizing agents, such as alkylated enone dimer (a stable hydrophobic waxy substance) and alkenyl succinic anhydride (a reactive hydrophobic oily substance). Surface sizing agents include modified starches and gelatins, which can be naturally derived, and synthetic agents, such as styrene polymers (e.g., styrene maleic anhydride, styrene acrylic acid emulsion, styrene acrylic acid, ethylene acrylic acid, and polyurethane).

[0084] As previously discussed, the paper wrap is intended to be a replacement for traditional polymeric wraps. However, in order for the paper wrap to be a viable replacement, the paper needs to have properties that allow it to withstand relatively rigorous manufacturing processes and adequately protect the absorbent articles to be contained within the wrap. One way to improve the properties of the paper is to crepe the paper. "Creping" is a mechanical process used to produce low density and increased thickness paper ("creped paper"). Figure 4The main components of the machinery used to perform the creping process are illustrated, as is well known in the art. Creping involves a rapidly rotating heated roll ("Yankee dryer" or "Yankee dryer") 102 that dries the advancing paper web (also referred to herein as sheet), and provides a platform on which creping occurs. The web is held firmly to the surface of the Yankee dryer 102 by a mixture of naturally occurring pulp products, such as lignin and hemicellulose, and applied chemicals that form a thin, tacky layer ("Yankee coating") on the Yankee dryer 102. The Yankee coating can be sprayed on the sheet or Yankee dryer by a coating sprayer 104. A fixed doctor blade ("creping blade") 106 extends along the width of the Yankee dryer 102, removes the sheet from the Yankee dryer 102, and forms the creped paper, as described in more detail below. The formed creped paper is then wound on a parent roll 108.

[0085] Figure 5 is a close-up view of a portion of the Yankee dryer 102 near the creping blade 106. Figure 5 Four stages are shown during which a crease is formed in the sheet 200. Fibers are connected to each other by hydrogen bonds. The impact of the sheet 200 against the creping blade 106 creates a large force within the sheet 200, partially breaking the inter-fiber hydrogen bonds, breaking the interface of the Yankee coating from the fibers, deforming the fibers, and forming micro- and / or macro-creases in the paper substrate. Thus, the sheet expands in the z-direction. Some fibers buckle and bend, as shown in Figure 5 According to the strength of the bonds, the expanded and buckled sheet peels away from the Yankee dryer 102 surface a small distance, as shown in stage 1. The greater the strength of the bonds, the shorter the distance. Thus, a small tissue crease or crepe is formed, after which the retained sheet is again impacted against the creping blade 106 and the process repeats.

[0086] As the sheet 200 is wound onto the parent roll 108, the finished creped paper is continuously moved away from the creped paper bag. The creping process shortens the length of the sheet 200 while increasing its thickness, so the run speed of the reel of the parent roll 108 is slower than the Yankee dryer 102. The sheet thickness is first expanded by x-direction hydrogen bond breaking, and second by the creping action. However, the crepe itself is not necessarily uniform. The crepe can be composed of large creases (macro-creases, as shown in stage 4), interspersed with many smaller creases (micro-creases, as shown in stage 3).

[0087] The crepe strips in crepe paper make it stretchable, at least in the longitudinal direction, and after being stretched, the crepe paper retains a certain degree of elasticity. Crepe paper is generally more elastic than paper that has not undergone the creping process. Therefore, its stretchability and elasticity make crepe paper a suitable alternative to plastic in the context of absorbent pad wrapping. Preferably, absorbent pads can be wrapped in crepe paper wrapping on high-speed production lines using essentially the same processes and equipment used to wrap current absorbent pads in plastic film. In other words, it would be desirable to provide such a product (e.g., a panty liner) without compromising process conditions, such as line speed.

[0088] Method for making individually wrapped absorbent articles

[0089] Methods for making individually packaged folded feminine hygiene articles are known in the art and are described, for example, in European Patent Application No. 1 941 852 A1.

[0090] Generally speaking, in existing high-speed production lines, the material of the wrapper 80 is usually provided as a continuous web. The adhesive 70 (e.g., provided on the outwardly facing surface of the backsheet 40 of the absorbent pad) can be applied in selected areas. Figure 2 The wrapper 80 may be provided directly onto the continuous web of material (as shown), and absorbent pads may then be provided onto each respective adhesive by adhering the outwardly facing side of the backsheet 40 of each absorbent pad to each respective adhesive. The continuous web of wrapper material may be folded together with the applied absorbent article or panty liner, and cut and sealed to form individually packaged articles. When the user separates the absorbent article or panty liner from the wrapper material after unfolding the package and breaking one or more seals, at least some of the adhesive remains on the outwardly facing surface of the backsheet because the corresponding surface of the wrapper is typically coated with a release agent and has less adhesion to the adhesive material.

[0091] In known high-speed processes, the wrapper material can be subjected to significant stresses to produce individually packaged absorbent articles. The stresses can be mechanical stresses and thermal stresses. The thermal stresses can be due at least in part to the adhesive material, which is typically a hot melt adhesive disposed on the wrapper in a molten state, which is at a relatively high temperature. The mechanical stresses can be due at least in part to the tension and forces exerted on the wrapper during the manufacturing process. For many years, the absorbent feminine hygiene product industry has invested in manufacturing equipment designed to run plastic wrapper materials while using highly optimized materials and processes to achieve high throughput, high accuracy, high efficiency, and low cost production. In contrast, paper used, for example, in the manufacture of conventional paper bags is processed on equipment specifically designed for converting paper and is converted at much slower speeds than used in the production of absorbent hygiene products (absorbent hygiene product conversion speeds can exceed 100 meters / minute). Moreover, conventional kraft paper (used, for example, for packaging or label release liners) cannot stretch sufficiently to withstand the wrapper folding, conveying, and sealing operations typically used to produce absorbent hygiene products without wrinkling, tearing, or having web slack, which results in lost production, increased scrap, and generally low quality wrappers.

[0092] Moreover, most existing folding processes involve some stretching of the wrapper web. Typically, to fold the wrapper, a folding surface such as fingers, bars, rollers, idlers, folding plates, etc. can be used to apply a force to the wrapper and create one or more fold lines. It should be understood that any folding surface can be one or more elements, objects, or media used to apply a force to create a similar or identical web fold. Some existing folding processes rely on equal folding path lengths between a first edge of the wrapper web and a second edge of the wrapper web running over an idler to force the formation of a fold line. This process can be used to form two or more creases in the wrapper, where the number of creases is typically related to the desired height of the pad being wrapped. Alternatively, folding processes can utilize one or more folding plates to fold the wrapper web and pad. As noted above, most existing folding processes involve some stretching of the wrapper web, and conventional kraft paper can be prone to tearing in these processes due to its lack of stretch.

[0093] Conventional kraft paper is characterized by a stretch of less than 5%, where the stretch is measured as the percent strain of the paper at its breaking point, the stretch is calculated as the MD stretch at break. As previously discussed, paper can be creped to increase the stretch, or paper can be selected based on its material properties to have stretch capabilities. With regard to creped paper, the increase in stretch is believed to be due to the micro-creases in the creped paper that can stretch open under tension. The paper wrappers according to the present disclosure preferably include paper, such as creped paper, having a stretch of at least 9%, preferably at least 10% or greater, or at least 17% or greater, in order to withstand existing folding processes.

[0094] Some folding processes, such as those that utilize equal folding path lengths and idlers to force the formation of a fold line, can require a wrapper web to have a folding angle of at least about 45°, or from about 45° to about 90°, or preferably from about 45° to about 65°. The folding angle is related to the bending stiffness of the wrapper web in the direction of folding and the thickness of the wrapper web by the following equation:

[0095] Folding Angle = arctangent ((2*9.81 N / Kg*Density*Fold WidthA3) / (Bending Modulus*ThicknessA2))

[0096] where the density of the wrapper web is calculated by measuring the basis weight of the paper in kilograms per square meter following the ISO 536 test method described herein and dividing the measured basis weight by the measured paper thickness in meters, which is measured using a Thwing-Albert ProGauge Instrument with a 50.8 mm diameter foot and a pressure of 2.00 kPa, and where the bending modulus is calculated as (0.3125* Slope) / (Compression ThicknessA3) and expressed in megaPascals, where the compression thickness measurement is obtained using a TMI 49-70 High Force Caliper with a 16 mm anvil and a pressure of 50.40 kPa, and the slope is obtained using the supersensitive 3-point bending method described below. The fold width is the distance between the fold line and the edge of the paper expressed in meters. Generally, materials with high bending stiffness and high compression thickness will be characterized by lower folding angles, which makes the materials more difficult to fold, particularly in folding processes that utilize equal folding path lengths and idlers to force the creation of a fold line.

[0097] Coating

[0098] As discussed above, the wrapper of the present disclosure is used to protect an absorbent article, and more specifically, in some embodiments, to protect the adhesive 70 on the outwardly facing surface of the backsheet 40 of an absorbent pad 20, as shown in Figure 2 Accordingly, the inner surface 92 of the wrapper and / or wrapper web (the surface facing the feminine hygiene pad) can be coated with a release agent 90, thereby providing a releasably attachable protective wrapper for the pad to protect the adhesive prior to use, as shown in Figure 6 Such a protective wrapper also inhibits the adhesive 70 from inadvertently sticking to other portions of the pad 20 prior to use.

[0099] The wrapper and / or wrapper web can have a basis weight of from about 0.5 g / m 2 to about 10 g / m 2 , or from about 1.0 g / m 2 to about 6 g / m 2or about 1.0 g / m 2 to about 4 g / m 2 or about 2 g / m 2 to about 4 g / m 2 An amount of release agent 90 is applied to the wrapper. The amount of release agent 90 will depend on the type, concentration, and effectiveness of the compounds in the release agent coating formulation that facilitate release. As shown in Figure 6 , the release agent 90 is applied to at least a portion or area of the inner surface 92 of the wrapper (rather than the entire inner surface of the wrapper), namely the area of the inner surface of the wrapper that contacts the adhesive 70 on the pad. The release agent 90 can be applied to the area of the inner surface 92 of the wrapper that contacts the adhesive 70 on the pad and / or to areas outside of the area that contacts the adhesive 70. The release agent 90 can be applied to the inner surface 92 of the wrapper such that the release agent does not extend beyond the outer periphery of the absorbent pad. The release agent 90 can be applied to the inner surface 92 of the wrapper such that the release agent extends beyond at least a portion of the outer periphery of the absorbent pad.

[0100] The wrapper also protects the absorbent pad by sealing the absorbent pad within the wrapper. In order to seal the wrapper of the present disclosure, e.g., a paper wrapper, using existing equipment designed to convert plastic film wrappers, the sealing equipment in widespread use today relies on heat and pressure to bond plastic film, a sealing aid can be applied to the wrapper. The sealing aid 95 is applied to the portion or area of the surface of the wrapper that needs to be sealed to another portion or area. For example, as exemplified in Figure 4 , the sealing aid is applied to a portion or area of the inner surface of the wrapper, namely the longitudinal side edges of the wrapper. The sealing aid 95 can be incompatible with the release agent 90, which is also applied to the inner surface of the wrapper, as shown in Figure 6 (the sealed state is shown in Figure 1 ). Thus, the area of the inner surface of the wrapper that contacts the adhesive 70 on the pad in which the release agent 90 is disposed (and optionally, beyond the area) is preferably substantially free of the sealing aid 95. Similarly, the inner surface of the longitudinal side edges of the wrapper in which the sealing aid 95 is disposed is preferably substantially free of the release agent 90. The sealing aid 95 can be substantially contiguous with the release agent 90, as exemplified in Figure 4 , or, alternatively, there can be one or more gaps 96 between the sealing aid 95 and the release agent 90, as exemplified in Figure 7 .

[0101] Seal aids include cold and hot seal adhesives. Hot seal adhesives are preferred. Seal aids also include water-based adhesives containing acrylic copolymers, ethyl vinyl acetate polymers, or blends thereof with low density polyethylene or high density polyethylene. Preferred seal aids, such as hot seal adhesives, are also water-soluble to avoid contamination in the recycling stream. Preferred seal aids, such as hot seal adhesives, also have a viscosity of 30 s to 60 s, as measured using ASTM D1084 with a Zahn EZ #3 cup, where the sample is taken from the reservoir as the adhesive is being applied to paper. Seal aids with higher viscosities can result in uneven application, inconsistent wrap opening force, and difficulty and / or noise in opening the wrap.

[0102] Seal aids generally do not adhere to surfaces coated with release agents. Thus, as discussed above, it is preferred to apply the release agent to the target area of the inner surface of the wrap, i.e., the area of the inner surface of the wrap that contacts the adhesive 70 on the pad, and optionally slightly beyond that area. Preferably, the inner surface of the longitudinal side edges of the wrap where the seal aid is applied is substantially free of release agent. It is important that targeting the release agent, particularly curable silicone release agents, to a certain area of the wrap requires specialized application and curing equipment.

[0103] Surprisingly, the wrap according to the present disclosure can utilize a release agent that can be applied using readily available and installable printing equipment, such as flexographic and gravure printers. More specifically, preferred release agents for use with the wrap according to the present disclosure are substantially free or free of silicone acrylates, cationically curable silicones, and / or polydimethylsilicones, which require nitrogen inerting equipment, ultraviolet lamps, or other specialized equipment and can contaminate the recycling stream. The release agent can also be substantially free or free of fluoropolymers. The release agent can include aliphatic modified polyurethane dispersions, hydrophobic acrylic polymers, vinyl acrylic copolymers, or mixtures thereof. Bio-based acrylic polymers made from renewable feedstocks such as vegetable oils and cellulose and other biomass-derived polymers can also be used in the formulation of the release agent.

[0104] The release agent can contain natural substances that can provide release through electrochemical interaction mechanisms. Some of these substances are used as release agents in the food industry and can be derived from lecithin, vegetable oils, or animal fats. The release agent can also contain particles such as clays, silicas, and / or ceramics (e.g., hexagonal boron nitride or zinc stearate) to further improve release by increasing the roughness of the surface to which it is applied, through dipole electrochemical interactions, or through molecular plane slippage. Preferably, the release agent is a water-based and water-soluble formulation that can be easily removed in the available paper recycling stream.

[0105] In addition, paper tends to be porous, and paper that has been creped can be even more porous. Thus, a coating applied to the paper can be absorbed through the pores of the paper, which can reduce the efficacy of the coating or require a greater amount of coating to be applied. To improve the efficacy of the coating and to minimize the amount of coating, a primer can be applied to the surface of the paper to reduce the porosity of the paper by reducing the size of the pores in the paper. The primer can also improve the appearance of printed graphics, preserving the sharpness of lines and reducing dot gain. Preferred primers are water-based and / or water-soluble. The primer can be formulated with polymeric resins such as nitrocellulose, polyamide, acrylic polymers, polyurethane, and adhesion promoters such as polyimide, silane, and aziridine. The primer formulation can also include bio-based polymers such as cellulose, starch, chitin, chitosan, xylan, other types of hemicellulose, and polyesters derived from vegetable oil. The primer formulation can also contain minerals such as clay, silica, talc, and calcium carbonate (sometimes referred to as inorganic fillers). The use of primer can be particularly useful for creped paper due to the relatively greater porosity of already creped paper. The primer can be used to reduce the porosity of the creped paper by reducing the size of the pores in the paper.

[0106] The coatings discussed herein can be applied to paper wrappers in various configurations, depending at least in part on the type of paper, the configuration of the fold, and the area of the wrapper to be sealed. In some embodiments, such as Figure 8AAs illustrated in the cross-sectional view of the wrapper 80, the wrapper 80, such as a paper wrapper, includes an inner surface 92 and an outer surface 94, such as previously discussed. The inner surface 92 of the wrapper 80 can include a seal aid 95 disposed in a first portion and a seal aid 95 disposed in a second portion. The first and second portions including the seal aid 95 can be adjacent to the outermost longitudinal edges of the wrapper 80. Additionally, a release agent 90 can be disposed on a third portion of the inner surface 92 of the wrapper 80. The release agent 90 can be disposed between the first and second portions including the seal aid 95. As previously discussed herein, the seal aid can be disposed on the area that will be used to seal the wrapper when in the folded configuration, and the release agent 90 can be used to protect the adhesive on the absorbent pad prior to use and allow for easy and quick removal of the absorbent pad from the wrapper for use. Additionally or optionally, a primer 97 can be disposed on the inner surface 92 of the wrapper 80. The primer 97 can be applied across the entire inner surface 92 of the wrapper such that the primer spans from the adjacent longitudinal edges and lateral edges of the wrapper. The primer 97 can also be disposed on certain areas of the inner surface 92 of the wrapper such that the primer does not cover the entire inner surface 92. For example, the primer can be applied to areas of the inner surface 92 where it is desired to reduce the porosity of the wrapper such that other coatings or materials can be applied to the wrapper without being adversely affected by the porosity of the wrapper. For example, the primer 97 can be applied in substantially the same areas as the seal aid 95 in the first and second portions, and / or the primer 97 can be applied in substantially the same areas as the release agent. Thus, there can be one or more gaps between zones or areas of primer.

[0107] Still referring to Figure 8A , one or more coatings can be disposed on or applied to the outer surface 92 of the wrapper 80. A primer 97 can be applied to the entire outer surface or one or more areas of the outer surface. Additionally, a seal aid 95 can be applied or disposed on the primer 97. Each of the seal aid 95 and the primer can be applied or disposed on the entire outer surface or portions of the outer surface. The seal aid 95 and the primer 97 can be applied to the same areas, different areas, or overlapping areas of the outer surface. For example, the primer 97 can be applied across the entire outer surface and the seal aid can be applied to one or more areas of the outer surface.

[0108] Figures 8B to 8D Various configurations for applying the coatings are illustrated. As Figure 8B illustrated, the wrapper 80 can not include a primer and the seal aid 95 and the release agent 90 can be applied or disposed directly on the surface of the wrapper 80. Further, it should be understood that the coatings can be applied or disposed on the surface of the wrapper 80 such that the coatings are applied along the longitudinal edges of the wrapper, or the coatings can be applied such that there is a gap between the coatings and the longitudinal edges of the wrapper. As Figure 8C and Figure 8DAs illustrated, coatings, such as a seal aid 95, can be applied or disposed on certain areas of the wrap 80. Further, certain coatings can be applied to only one side of the wrap 80. For example, a release agent 90 can be applied to only the inner surface 92 of the wrap 80.

[0109] It should also be appreciated that ink can be applied to the wrap to form one or more decorative patterns or elements. The ink can be disposed directly on the inner or outer surface of the wrap. The ink can be disposed on a primer and / or a seal aid and / or a release coating. In some embodiments, the ink can be disposed on a primer such that the porosity of the wrap becomes smaller and less ink needs to be applied to achieve the same visual intensity because the ink is not absorbed into the porosity of the wrap.

[0110] As previously discussed, the placement of the seal aid 95 can be in areas of the wrap 80 such that when the wrap is in a folded configuration, the seal aid 95 is placed in areas of the wrap that will be sealed together. Those portions of the wrap that are sealed together can be sealed by one or more techniques, such as ultrasonic bonding, pressure bonding, crimping, and / or heat bonding. As Figure 9A As illustrated, the wrap 80 can be folded along a single fold line H. The seal aid 95 can be disposed on the inner surface 92 of the wrap 80 in a continuous manner along a portion of the perimeter of the wrap 80. The portion of the wrap 80 that includes the seal aid 95 is the portion that will be sealed. It should be appreciated that the seal aid 95 can also be disposed on the back section 213 or can alternatively be disposed on the back section. As Figure 9B As illustrated, the wrap 80 can be folded along a first fold line H and a second fold line H, thereby forming a front section 210, a middle section 214, and a back section 213. The seal aid 95 can be disposed on the inner surface 92 or the outer surface 94 of the front section 210 such that when the wrap is folded, the front section 210 engages the back section 213 and the portion of the wrap in the front section 210 is sealed to the back section 213. It should also be appreciated that the seal aid 95 can also be disposed on the back section 213 or alternatively on the middle section 214. The placement of the seal aid 95 depends on the manner in which the wrap is folded. As Figure 9C As illustrated, the wrap 80 can be folded along a first fold line H, a second fold line H, and a third fold line H. The seal aid 95 can be disposed on the front section 210 and the front middle section 211, as Figure 9C As illustrated. It should also be appreciated that the seal aid 95 can be disposed on the back middle section 212 and the back section 213 and the seal aid can be disposed on at least one of the inner surface 92 and the outer surface 94. Further, as Figure 9DAs illustrated, the sealing aid 95 can be disposed on various portions of the wrapper 80 on the inner surface 92 and / or the outer surface 94. The sealing aid 95 can be applied discontinuously to the wrapper 80, thereby forming discrete areas of the sealing aid 95. The placement of the sealing aid 95 will depend on the type of fold and the area of the wrapper intended to be sealed. The sealing aid 95 allows for sealing of cellulosic wrappers, such as paper wrappers.

[0111] The wrapper of the absorbent pad is preferably easy to open and convenient to use, and the seal of the wrapper is preferably strong enough to withstand shipping, for example, within a wallet or bag. Preferably, the sealing aid creates a bond that opens at a force greater than about 0.5 N and less than about 3.0 N, preferably about 1.0 N to about 2.0 N. The strength of the bond is measured as follows: using a constant rate of extension testing machine conforming to ASTM D76-93, and following ASTM D1876-08, the bond is peeled apart in a direction perpendicular to the seal using a test speed of 300 mm / min and in a manner such that the test length is equal to the width of the seal. The values expressed above represent the peak force recorded over the test length.

[0112] To quietly and easily peel the pad from the wrapper, the peel-off force to peel the pad from the inner surface of the wrapper (coated with a release agent) is less than about 5.0 N, or from about 0.5 N to about 3.0 N, preferably less than 3.0 N, and greater than about 1.0 N. The peel-off force is measured as follows: using a constant rate of extension testing machine conforming to ASTM D76-93, following ASTM D1876-08, the pad with the wrapper is loaded into the instrument by clamping the wrapper to the movable jaw and clamping the top of the pad to the stationary jaw. The wrapper is peeled off the pad along the length of the pad using a test speed of 3000 mm / min.

[0113] The wrappers of the present disclosure can be recyclable to minimize the amount of material sent to a landfill. For recyclability of paper, there are two known industry standards: the Western Michigan University Recyclability Standard, available through the Western Michigan University Paper Technology Center, located at 4651 Campus Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49008-5441, USA; and the German Institute for Paper Technology Test Method PTS-RH 021:2012, available through PTS, located at Pliener Str. 37, Heidenau, 01809, Germany. As used herein, the term "recyclable" refers to a material that achieves a 75% yield of good pulp according to the Western Michigan University standard.

[0114] Examples

[0115] The data in Table 1 below is illustrated in graphical form in Figure 10 Table 1.Figure 10 The data in

[15] show that wrapping materials stretched less than 9% exhibited rupture and tearing, while materials with MD web modulus greater than 550 N / cm (at 1% to 2% strain) exhibited relaxation and were challenging to maintain web tension.

[0116]

[0117] Table 1 .

[0118] The data in Table 2 below are Figure 11 The following table shows an example in the form of a chart. Figure 11 The data in show that certain properties of the wrapping material (the three sample paper materials described in Table 1) affect the folding angle of the material.

[0119]

[0120] Table 2 .

[0121] Test methods

[0122] ISO 536 - Basis weight

[0123] 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 pharmacopoeial method ISO 536. Blocks of the test sample are cut into known areas, and the mass of the test sample is determined using an analytical balance accurate to 0.0001 grams. 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.

[0124] Measurements are performed on test samples taken from rolls or sheets of raw material or from finished packages. When cutting test samples from finished packages, care should be taken to avoid any contamination or deformation of the sample during the process. The cut sample should be free of adhesive residue and taken from an area of ​​the package free of any seams or folds. The test sample must be as large as possible to account for any inherent material variability.

[0125] Measure the dimensions of the single-layer test sample using a calibrated steel ruler from NIST or equivalent. Calculate the area of ​​the test sample and record it to the nearest 0.0001 square meter. Use an analytical balance to obtain the mass of the test sample and record it to the nearest 0.0001 gram. Calculate the basis weight by dividing the mass (in grams) by the area (in square meters) and record it to the nearest 0.01 gram / square meter (gsm). Repeat in a similar manner for a total of ten replicate test samples. Calculate the arithmetic mean of the basis weights and report them to the nearest 0.01 g / square meter.

[0126] ISO 1924-3 - Tensile properties (tensile strength, elongation, energy absorption)

[0127] Tensile properties (tensile strength, tensile and energy absorption) of the sample are calculated from the measured force and elongation values obtained using constant rate of elongation until the sample breaks. The test is performed according to Pharmacopoeia method ISO 1924-3 with modifications noted herein. The measurements are performed on a constant rate of elongation tensile tester using a load cell in the range of 1% to 99% of the cell limit. A suitable instrument is an MTS Alliance using Test Suite software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, Minn., or equivalent. 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.

[0128] The measurements are performed on test samples taken from the MD (machine direction) and CD (cross direction) of the roll or sheet of raw material or obtained from the finished package. When cutting test samples from the finished package, care is taken not to cause any contamination or distortion to the sample during the process. The cut samples should be free of residual adhesive and taken from an area of the package that is free of any seams or folds. The test samples are cut to a width of 25.4 mm and a length to accommodate a test span of 50.8 mm. The long edge of the sample is parallel to the direction of interest (MD, CD). In general, the MD extends from the bottom to the top of the package, but if in doubt, it can be verified by determining the fiber orientation. Ten replicate test samples are prepared from the MD and another ten replicate test samples are prepared from the CD.

[0129] The tensile tester is programmed for constant rate of elongation uniaxial elongation at break test as follows. A calibrated gauge block is used to set the gage length (test span) to 50.8 mm and the grips are zeroed. The test sample is inserted into the grips so that the long edge is centered and parallel to the central pull axis of the tensile tester. The grips are raised at a rate of 508 mm / min until the test sample breaks, and force (N) and elongation (mm) data are collected at 100 Hz throughout the test. A plot of force (N) versus elongation (mm) is prepared.

[0130] The maximum force (N) is read from the plot and recorded as the peak force to the nearest 0.1 N, noting MD or CD. The elongation at the maximum force (N) is read from the plot and recorded as the elongation at break to the nearest 0.01 mm, noting MD or CD.

[0131] The arithmetic average peak force was calculated for all MD replicate samples, then the arithmetic average peak force was calculated for all CD replicate samples, and recorded as the Average MD Peak Force and Average CD Peak Force, respectively, to the nearest 0.1 N. The arithmetic average elongation at break was calculated for all MD replicate samples and for all CD replicate samples, and recorded as the Average MD Elongation at Break and Average CD Elongation at Break, respectively, to the nearest 0.01 mm.

[0132] Tensile strength was calculated by dividing the average peak force (N) by the width of the test sample (25.4 mm). The tensile strength was calculated for MD replicate samples and for CD replicate samples, and reported as the MD Tensile Strength and CD Tensile Strength, respectively, to the nearest 0.1 kN / m.

[0133] Elongation at break was calculated by dividing the average elongation at break (mm) by the initial test length of 50.8 mm (test span) and then multiplying by 100. The elongation at break was calculated for MD replicate samples and for CD replicate samples, and reported as the MD Elongation at Break and CD Elongation at Break, respectively, to the nearest whole percent.

[0134] Web modulus in the MD: Force data (N) was taken and divided by the width of the specimen (2.54 cm in this case) to obtain force per cm. Elongation data (mm) was taken and divided by the initial test length of 50.8 mm to obtain strain (mm / mm). A plot of force per mm versus strain was constructed. The slope of the curve between the strain intervals of 1% to 2%, 2% to 3%, 3% to 4%, and 4% to 5% was calculated and reported in N / cm.

[0135] Ultra-sensitive 3-point bending method

[0136] The bending properties of the test samples were measured using a supersensitive 3-point bending test on a general purpose constant rate of extension test frame equipped with a load cell appropriate for the force being measured (a suitable instrument is an MTS Alliance using TestSuite software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN, or equivalent). The test was conducted on test specimens prepared for both MD (machine direction; parallel to the longitudinal axis of the absorbent article) bending and CD (cross direction; perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the absorbent article) bending. All testing was conducted in a room controlled at 23 °C + 3 °C and 50% + 2% relative humidity.

[0137] The ultra-sensitive 3-point bend method was designed to maximize the force signal-to-noise ratio when testing materials with very low bending forces. By using a highly sensitive load cell (e.g., 5 N), using a small span (load is proportional to the cube of the span), and using a wide specimen width (total load measured is proportional to the width), the force signal is maximized. The grips are designed such that the bending measurement is made under tension, allowing the grip mass to remain minimal. By keeping the load cell stationary to reduce mechanical vibrations and inertial effects, and by making the mass of the grips attached to the load cell as low as possible, the noise in the force signal is minimized.

[0138] Referring to Figures 12A to 12C The load cell 1001 is mounted on the fixed jaw of a universal test frame. The ultra-sensitive grips 1000 are comprised of three thin leaves of lightweight rigid material (such as aluminum or equivalent). Each leaf has a thickness of 1.0 mm, a circular edge, and a length capable of accommodating a bend width of 100 mm. Each of the leaves has cavities 1004a and 1004b (outer leaves) and 1005 (center leaf) that are cut out to form the leaf material 5 mm in height h along its horizontal edge. The two outer leaves 1003a and 1003b are mounted horizontally to the movable jaw of the universal test frame, aligned parallel to each other with their horizontal edges aligned vertically. The span s between the two outer leaves 1003a and 1003b is 5 mm ± 0.1 mm (inner edge to inner edge). The center leaf 1002 is mounted to the load cell on the fixed jaw of the universal test frame. When in place, the center leaf 1002 is parallel to the two outer leaves 1003a and 1003b and centered on the midpoint between the outer leaves 1003a and 1003b. The leaf grips include integral adapters that are adapted to mount in corresponding locations on the universal test frame and lock into place such that the horizontal edges of the leaves are orthogonal to the motion of the universal test frame crosshead.

[0139] Prior to testing, the absorbent article samples are conditioned for two hours at 23 °C ± 3 °C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity. The test specimens are taken from areas of the sample that are free of any seams and crease or fold marks. The specimens are prepared by cutting them to a size of 100 mm x 50 mm. For MD bending (i.e., bending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the article), the long edge of the test specimen is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the article. For CD bending (i.e., bending perpendicular to the lateral axis of the article), the long edge of the specimen is parallel to the lateral axis of the article. The side of the test specimen facing the absorbent article surface (or the side intended to face the finished product surface) is marked and the orientation is maintained after the specimen is cut (i.e., MD and CD). In a similar manner, five replicate test specimens are prepared for MD bending and five separate test specimens are prepared for CD bending.

[0140] The general test framework is programmed such that the movable clamp is set to move at a rate of 1.0 mm / s in a direction opposite the fixed clamp. The clamp movement starts from the point where the test specimen 1006 is laid flat on the outer blades 1003a and 1003b and not deflected, continues with the inner horizontal edge of the cavity 1005 in the center blade 1002 in contact with the surface of the test specimen 1006, and further continues for an additional 7 mm of clamp movement, then stops to end the test. The crosshead is then returned to zero. Force (N) and displacement (mm) are collected at 50 Hz throughout.

[0141] Prior to loading the test specimen 1006, the outer blades 1003a and 1003b are moved towards the center blade 1002, then past the center blade, until there is approximately a 3 mm gap c (see FIG. 10) between the inner horizontal edges of the cavities 1004a and 1004b in the outer blades 1003a and 1003b and the inner horizontal edge of the cavity 1005 in the center blade 1002. The test specimen 1006 is placed within the gap c such that the test specimen spans the inner horizontal edges of the cavities 1004a and 1004b in the outer blades 1003a and 1003b. For MD bending, the test specimen is oriented such that the CD (short side) of the test specimen is perpendicular to the horizontal edges of the blades and the article-facing surface of the test specimen faces upwards. For CD bending, the test specimen is oriented such that the MD (short side) of the test specimen is perpendicular to the horizontal edges of the blades and the article-facing surface of the test specimen faces upwards. The test specimen 1006 is centered between the outer blades 1003a and 1003b. The outer blades 1003a and 1003b are slowly moved in a direction opposite the fixed clamp until the inner horizontal edge of the cavity 1005 in the center blade 1002 contacts the top surface of the test specimen 1006. The test is started and force and displacement data are continuously collected. Figure 7 c}). The test specimen 1006 is placed within the gap c such that the test specimen spans the inner horizontal edges of the cavities 1004a and 1004b in the outer blades 1003a and 1003b. For MD bending, the test specimen is oriented such that the CD (short side) of the test specimen is perpendicular to the horizontal edges of the blades and the article-facing surface of the test specimen faces upwards. For CD bending, the test specimen is oriented such that the MD (short side) of the test specimen is perpendicular to the horizontal edges of the blades and the article-facing surface of the test specimen faces upwards. The test specimen 1006 is centered between the outer blades 1003a and 1003b. The outer blades 1003a and 1003b are slowly moved in a direction opposite the fixed clamp until the inner horizontal edge of the cavity 1005 in the center blade 1002 contacts the top surface of the test specimen 1006. The test is started and force and displacement data are continuously collected.

[0142] Force (N) is plotted versus displacement (mm). The maximum peak force is recorded to the nearest 0.001 N. The slope of the linear portion of the force versus displacement curve is determined and recorded as the slope to the nearest 0.001 N / mm. The area under the curve from the start of loading until the maximum peak force is calculated and recorded as the energy to peak to the nearest 0.001 N-mm. In a similar manner, the entire test sequence is repeated for a total of five MD bend test specimens and five CD bend test specimens.

[0143] For each test specimen type (MD and CD), the arithmetic average of the maximum peak force in like specimens is calculated to the nearest 0.001 N and reported as the MD Peak Load and CD Peak Load, respectively. For each test specimen type (MD and CD), the arithmetic average of the slope in like specimens is calculated to the nearest 0.001 N / mm and reported as the MD Slope and CD Slope, respectively. For each test specimen type (MD and CD), the arithmetic average of the energy to peak in like specimens is calculated to the nearest 0.001 N-mm and reported as the MD Energy to Peak and CD Energy to Peak, respectively.

[0144] Combination

[0145] A. A individually packaged absorbent article comprising:

[0146] An absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent layer disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein an outer-facing surface of the backsheet has an adhesive disposed thereon;

[0147] A wrap positioned adjacent to the outer-facing surface of the backsheet, wherein the wrap comprises a sheet material having a basis weight of about 30 gsm to about 85 gsm, wherein the sheet material comprises about 70% to about 100% natural fibers and has a fold angle of about 45° to about 90°, wherein the wrap comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface comprises a primer and at least one of a sealing aid and a release agent disposed on at least a portion of the primer,

[0148] wherein the absorbent article and the wrap are folded together along at least one fold line.

[0149] B. The packaged absorbent article according to paragraph A, wherein the primer comprises clay, silica, talc, calcium carbonate, or a mixture thereof.

[0150] C. The packaged absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the release agent comprises an aliphatically modified polyurethane dispersion, a hydrophobic acrylic polymer, a vinyl-acrylic copolymer, or a mixture thereof.

[0151] D. The packaged absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the release agent is substantially free of silicone acrylate, cationically curable silicone, polydimethylsiloxane, fluorine-containing polymer, or a mixture thereof.

[0152] E. The packaged absorbent article according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the release agent is substantially free of synthetic polymers.

[0153] F. The packaged absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the wrapper is recyclable.

[0154] G. A individually packaged absorbent article comprising:

[0155] an absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent layer disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein an outer-facing surface of the backsheet has an adhesive disposed thereon;

[0156] a wrapper positioned adjacent the outer-facing surface of the backsheet, wherein the wrapper comprises a sheet material having a basis weight of about 30 gsm to about 85 gsm, wherein the sheet material comprises about 70% to about 100% natural fibers, wherein the wrapper comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface comprises a primer, a release agent, and a seal aid, and wherein the outer surface comprises a primer and a seal aid, and

[0157] wherein the absorbent article and the wrapper are folded together along at least one fold line.

[0158] H. The packaged absorbent article of paragraph G, wherein the sheet material has a fold angle of about 45° to about 90°.

[0159] I. The packaged absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein each of the release agent and the seal aid is disposed on the primer on the inner surface of the wrapper.

[0160] J. The packaged absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the primer is disposed between the inner surface of the wrapper and at least one of the release agent and the seal aid.

[0161] K. The packaged absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the primer is disposed on the entire inner surface of the wrapper.

[0162] L. The packaged absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the primer is disposed on the entire outer surface of the wrapper.

[0163] M. The packaged absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the primer is disposed between the outer surface of the wrapper and the seal aid.

[0164] N. An individually packaged absorbent article comprising:

[0165] An absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent layer disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein an outer-facing surface of the backsheet has disposed thereon an adhesive;

[0166] A wrap positioned adjacent the outer-facing surface of the backsheet, wherein the wrap comprises a sheet material having a basis weight of about 30 gsm to about 85 gsm, wherein the sheet material comprises about 70% to about 100% natural fibers, wherein the wrap comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface comprises at least one of a release agent and a sealing aid, and wherein the outer surface comprises a sealing aid, and

[0167] wherein the absorbent article and the wrap are folded together along at least two fold lines, thereby forming a front section, a middle section, and a back section.

[0168] O. The packaged absorbent article of paragraph N, wherein the outer surface comprises a primer.

[0169] P. The packaged absorbent article of paragraph O, wherein the primer is disposed on at least one of the front section and the back section.

[0170] Q. The packaged absorbent article of paragraph P, wherein the sealing aid is disposed on at least a portion of the primer.

[0171] R. The packaged absorbent article of paragraph N, wherein the inner surface comprises a primer.

[0172] S. The packaged absorbent article of paragraph R, wherein at least one of the release agent and the sealing aid is disposed on the primer.

[0173] T. The packaged absorbent article of any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface of the wrap comprises an ink.

[0174] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

[0175] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any application disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or along with any other document or together with any relevant art, teaches, suggests or discloses any such application. Further, the citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any application disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or along with any other document or together with any relevant art, teaches, suggests or discloses such application. In addition, with respect to any document that has a priority date or filing date prior to the priority date or filing date of this application, the priority date or filing date of this application is used to determine the timeliness of the document's citation.

[0176] While particular embodiments of the present application have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the application. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. An individually packaged absorbent article, comprising: an absorbent article comprising a liquid permeable topsheet, a liquid impermeable backsheet, and an absorbent layer disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet, wherein an outwardly facing surface of the backsheet has an adhesive disposed thereon; and a wrap positioned adjacent the outwardly facing surface of the backsheet, wherein the wrap comprises a sheet material having a basis weight of from about 30 gsm to about 85 gsm, wherein the sheet material comprises from about 70% to about 100% natural fibers and has a fold angle of from about 45° to about 90°, wherein the wrap comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface comprises a primer and at least one of a sealing aid and a release agent disposed on at least a portion of the primer, wherein the absorbent article and the wrapper are folded together along at least one fold line.

2. The packaged absorbent article of claim 1, wherein the primer comprises clay, silica, talc, calcium carbonate, or mixtures thereof.

3. The packaged absorbent article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the release agent comprises an aliphatically modified polyurethane dispersion, a hydrophobic acrylic polymer, a vinyl acrylic copolymer, or a mixture thereof.

4. The packaged absorbent article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the release agent is substantially free of silicone acrylates, cationically curable silicones, polydimethylsiloxanes, fluoropolymers, or mixtures thereof.

5. The packaged absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the release agent is substantially free of synthetic polymers.

6. A packaged absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wrapper is recyclable.

7. The packaged absorbent article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the release agent and the sealing aid is disposed on the primer on the inner surface of the wrapper.

8. The packaged absorbent article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primer is disposed between the inner surface of the wrapper and at least one of the release agent and the sealing aid.

9. A packaged absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primer is provided on the entire inner surface of the wrapper.

10. A packaged absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primer is provided across the outer surface of the wrapper.

11. The packaged absorbent article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primer is disposed between the outer surface of the wrapper and the sealing aid.

12. The packaged absorbent article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the primer is provided on at least one of the front section and the back section.

13. The packaged absorbent article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the inner and outer surfaces of the wrapper comprises ink.

14. The packaged absorbent article of claim 13, wherein the ink is disposed on the primer.

Images