Absorbent articles

Abstract

An absorbent article (10, 20, 300, 500, 600) comprising an absorbent core (101, 501, 601) disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet (520, 620) and a liquid-impermeable backsheet (521, 621), and an acquisition distribution layer (201, 522, 622) positioned between the topsheet (520, 620) and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises at least one core-wrap substrate comprising surrounding the absorbent material, and wherein an upper layer of the core wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core wrap to form one or more channels (106) substantially free of the absorbent material, the channels (106) having a length,which extends along a longitudinal axis (48), and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a length which extends along the longitudinal axis (48), and wherein the length of the channels (106) is 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), and wherein the channels each follow a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel, characterized in that the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 80% by weight of the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622), and wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m2.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosure relates to the technical field of absorbent hygiene products. In particular, the present disclosure relates to absorbent systems comprising an absorbent core and further distribution layers (such as acquisition distribution layers and / or core-wrap layers, which typically have additional functional properties of the acquisition distribution layers) that can be used in an article for absorbing body fluids and exudates, such as urine and feces, or blood, menstrual fluid, and vaginal fluids.More particularly, the present disclosure relates to absorbent garments (or articles) such as disposable diapers or pants, disposable incontinence diapers or pants designed to collect and retain feces and prevent leakage, or sanitary napkins or panty liners designed to collect and retain blood, menstrual fluid, urine, and vaginal fluids and prevent leakage. BACKGROUND

[0002] The disclosure relates to an absorbent core for an absorbent article, in particular for hygiene articles, absorbent articles comprising the absorbent core, and methods for providing the absorbent core. In particular, cores having one or more channels therethrough.

[0003] Considerable improvements and innovations have been made to absorbent cores over time to meet needs such as improved fluid absorption and distribution, as well as comfort, and there is a need for continued improvements. Such needs are ubiquitous in today's demanding consumer environment. The following paragraphs outline some of the relevant disclosures on this topic.

[0004] EP 1077052 A1 and EP 1078617 A2 disclose a sanitary napkin that allows controlled deformation in response to lateral compression during use. The sanitary napkin has preferred bending zones extending along a longitudinal axis and formed by a perforation, slitting, cutting, or embossing process.

[0005] EP 1959903 B1 discloses an incontinence pad with a pair of fold lines that divide the absorbent core material into a central portion and a pair of longitudinally extending side portions to better adapt to the user's body. The fold lines are formed by compressing the absorbent material.

[0006] EP 2211808 B1 discloses an absorbent core comprising an upper absorbent core and a lower absorbent core. The upper absorbent core has fold marks that allow the absorbent core to assume a predetermined three-dimensional shape when subjected to pressure in the width direction. The fold marks are cuts or compression lines that may or may not extend completely through the upper core.

[0007] EP 1349524 B1 discloses a panty liner with at least one fold line defining a central region and two side regions, allowing the size of the panty liner to be adjusted by folding the panty liner along the fold line. The fold lines are embossed lines.

[0008] EP 1267775 B1 discloses a sanitary napkin that adapts to the body's shape. The sanitary napkin comprises a front wide portion and a rear narrow portion, and at least two preformed fold lines on the upper or lower surface of the narrow portion. The fold lines can be selected from mechanically pressed lines, chemically bonded components forming the lines, heat-generated lines, laser-generated lines, adhesive-generated lines, and / or mechanical vibration-generated lines.

[0009] EP1088536 A2 discloses a sanitary napkin provided with a wave arrangement that allows the sanitary napkin to be adapted to the wearer's panties.

[0010] US 5,756,039 A discloses an absorbent core with various segments that can be moved independently by a lifting element. The lifting element ensures that the topsheet conforms to the wearer's body.

[0011] US 2006 / 0184150 A1 discloses an absorbent core with varying flexibility that acts as a shaping element for improved body fit. The absorbent core may have lines of reduced flexural strength formed by removing material (e.g., in the form of openings or slits).

[0012] US 6,503,233 B1 discloses an absorbent article with a combination of downwardly deflecting fold lines and an upwardly deflecting shaping line to achieve a geometry for improved body fit. The fold lines are formed by embossing the absorbent material. The shaping line is formed by perforation or scoring.

[0013] US 2015 / 0088084 A1 discloses a method for producing an absorbent structure with a three-dimensional topography, in which at least a portion of the absorbent structure is arranged between opposing mold surfaces. At least one of the mold surfaces has a three-dimensional topography. The three-dimensional topography of the mold surface is transferred to the absorbent structure, so that the absorbent structure has a three-dimensional topography that corresponds to the three-dimensional topography of the mold surface.

[0014] EP3342386A1 discloses an absorbent core having substantially continuous zones of one or more high fluid distribution structures and discontinuous zones of fluid absorbent structures surrounding the one or more high fluid distribution structures, wherein the one or more high fluid distribution structures are arranged to distribute fluid across the absorbent core at a rate faster than the rate of fluid distribution across the absorbent core by the discontinuous fluid absorbent structures, and wherein the continuous zones extend along a path substantially parallel to at least a portion of the perimeter of the core, the portion of the perimeter of the core comprising at least a portion of the sides of the core and at least one of the ends of the core.

[0015] Although channels as described in EP3342386A1 are advantageous in terms of fluid handling, there is still a need to further improve dryness while maintaining acquisition speed.

[0016] The object of the present disclosure is to provide a novel absorbent article using a synergistic combination of a channeled core and a selected acquisition distribution layer, which is particularly designed to provide excellent acquisition speed behavior as well as exceptionally low rewetting, which gives the product an even greater user-perceived dryness. SUMMARY

[0017] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet and a liquid-impermeable backsheet, and an acquisition distribution layer positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core, wherein the absorbent core comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core comprises at least one core-wrap substrate surrounding the absorbent material, and wherein an upper layer of the core-wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core-wrap to form one or more channels free of the absorbent material, wherein the channels have a length extending along a longitudinal axis, and the absorbent core has a lengthwhich extends along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the length of the channel or channels is 10% to 95%, preferably the length of at least one of the channels is 20% to 95%, of the length of the absorbent core, and wherein the channels each follow a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel, wherein the acquisition distribution layer comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 80% by weight of the acquisition distribution layer, and wherein the acquisition distribution layer has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m, 2 has.

[0018] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet and a liquid-impermeable backsheet, and an acquisition distribution layer positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core, wherein the absorbent core comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core comprises at least one core-wrap substrate surrounding the absorbent material, and wherein an upper layer of the core-wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core-wrap to form one or more channels free of the absorbent material, wherein the channels have a length extending along a longitudinal axis, and the absorbent core has a lengthwhich extends along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the length of at least one of the channels is from 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core, and wherein the channels each follow a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel, wherein the acquisition distribution layer has a wetness retention factor of less than 11, and preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers.

[0019] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet and a liquid-impermeable backsheet, and an acquisition distribution layer positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core, wherein the absorbent core comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core comprises at least one interconnected channel free of the absorbent material, wherein the channel has a length extending along a longitudinal axis, and the absorbent core has a length extending along the longitudinal axis, and wherein the length of the channel is 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core,wherein the acquisition distribution layer comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 80% by weight of the acquisition distribution layer and wherein the acquisition distribution layer has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m, 2 Preferably, the length of at least one of the channels is from 20% to 95%, more preferably from 40% to 85%, most preferably from 50% to 80%, of the length of the absorbent core.

[0020] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent article (10, 20, 300, 500, 600) comprising an absorbent core (101, 501, 601) disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet (520, 620) and a liquid-impermeable backsheet (521, 621), wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises at least one core-wrap substrate surrounding the absorbent material, and wherein an upper layer of the core-wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core-wrap to form one or more channels (106) free of the absorbent material, wherein the Channel or channels (106) has a length orwhich extends along a longitudinal axis (48), and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a length which extends along the longitudinal axis (48), and wherein the length of the channel (106) is from 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), and wherein the channels each follow a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel, characterized in that the core wrap comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 80% by weight of the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622), and wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m. 2and that the absorbent article is free of additional layers, such as an acquisition distribution layer, between the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) and the topsheet (520, 620). Advantageously, by selecting core wraps as described, improved rewetting behavior can be achieved even without further acquisition distribution layers, thereby resulting in further cost advantages.

[0021] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to the use of a nonwoven fabric having a relative porosity of less than 9000 L / m 2 / s as an acquisition distribution layer for an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet and a liquid-impermeable backsheet, the acquisition distribution layer being positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core, the absorbent core comprising an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, the absorbent core comprising at least one interconnected channel free of the absorbent material, the channel having a length extending along a longitudinal axis, and the absorbent core having a length extending along the longitudinal axis, and the length of the channel being from 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core.

[0022] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent core having a front portion, a back portion, a middle portion positioned between the front portion and the back portion, a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the core and intersecting the front, middle, and back portions, the absorbent core having a width extending perpendicular to the length and a perimeter including at least two opposite ends and at least two opposite sides positioned between the ends, the core being a multi-layer core comprising at least a first core layer and a second core layer that are separate, disposed one above the other, a first core layer comprising a first concentration of superabsorbent polymer therein and a second core layer comprising a second concentration of superabsorbent polymer therein,wherein the first core layer and / or the second core layer comprise one or more channels, and wherein the second core layer comprises a first region of superabsorbent polymer particles on a surface thereof opposite the first core layer, the first region being arranged in a pattern that substantially follows the shape of the channel(s) at least along a plane formed by the core length and width, such that the shape of the channel(s) substantially corresponds to that of the pattern.

[0023] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent core comprising: a front portion, a back portion, a middle portion positioned between the front portion and the back portion, and a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the core and intersecting the front, middle, and back portions, wherein the absorbent core comprises a width extending perpendicular to the length and a perimeter comprising at least two opposite ends and at least two opposite sides positioned between the ends, wherein the core is a multi-layer core comprising at least two different core layers, wherein a first core layer comprises a first concentration of superabsorbent polymer therein and a second core layer comprises a second concentration of superabsorbent polymer therein, wherein the first concentration and the second concentration are different,wherein at least the first core layer comprises one or more channels, the channel(s) being continuous and connected at least along the length and width of the core such that at least two channel portions extending along the length are in fluid communication via a connecting channel portion positioned proximal to the rear portion.

[0024] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent core having a front portion, a back portion, a middle portion positioned between the front portion and the back portion, and a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the core and intersecting the front, middle, and back portions, wherein the absorbent core has a width extending perpendicular to the length and a perimeter including at least two opposite ends and at least two opposite sides positioned between the ends, wherein the absorbent core comprises one or more channels having a first shape when the absorbent core is in a dry state and a second shape when the absorbent core is in a wet state, and wherein the first shape and the second shape are different.

[0025] In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent core comprising substantially continuous zones of one or more high fluid distribution structures and discontinuous zones of fluid absorbent structures surrounding the one or more high fluid distribution structures, wherein the one or more high fluid distribution structures are arranged to distribute fluid across the absorbent core at a rate faster than the rate of fluid distribution across the absorbent core by the discontinuous fluid absorbent structures, and wherein the continuous zones extend along a path that is substantially parallel to at least a portion of the perimeter of the core, wherein the portion of the perimeter of the core comprises at least a portion of the sides of the core and at least one of the ends of the core.

[0026] In another aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent core comprising a front portion, a back portion, a crotch portion positioned between the front portion and the back portion, and a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the core and intersecting the front, crotch, and back portions, the absorbent core comprising a width extending perpendicular to the length and a perimeter comprising at least two opposite ends and at least two opposite sides positioned between the ends, the absorbent core comprising one or more substantially interconnected channels extending through at least a portion of the crotch portion along the length of the core and along at least a portion of the width of the core from one side of the core to the other, preferably wherein the one or morethe plurality of substantially interconnected channels is / are symmetrical or asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis.

[0027] In a preferred aspect, in the absorbent core, at least one of the interconnected channels, preferably each of the channels, forms a shape with a closed end in the form of a U-bend and preferably an open end in the form of two diverging ends or a funnel shape, preferably wherein the closed end is positioned proximal to the rear portion of the absorbent core and the open end is positioned proximal to the front portion of the absorbent core and distal to the closed end.

[0028] In a further aspect, the disclosure relates to an absorbent article comprising the core, preferably wherein the article is selected from disposable diapers or pants, incontinence disposable diapers or pants, sanitary napkins, or pantiliners, and typically wherein the channels in the core remain visible before and after use of the article, preferably wherein the channels are more visible after use than before use of the article.

[0029] In yet another aspect, the disclosure relates to the use of an absorbent core according to the disclosure in an absorbent article for improved liquid distribution compared to the same absorbent article having a core free of substantially interconnected channels.

[0030] In yet another aspect, the disclosure relates to the use of an absorbent core according to the disclosure in an absorbent article for providing a three-stage fluid distribution comprising a first fluid distribution at a first velocity, a second fluid distribution at a second velocity, and a third fluid distribution at a third velocity, wherein the first velocity is greater than or equal to the second velocity and the third velocity is less than the first velocity and less than or equal to the second velocity, preferably wherein the first fluid distribution is driven by the substantially interconnected channels,the second fluid distribution is driven by a three-dimensional absorbent material provided in the core and the third fluid distribution is driven by an amount of superabsorbent polymer distributed in the three-dimensional absorbent material.

[0031] In yet another aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of making an absorbent core comprising the steps of: providing a mold comprising a 3D insert therein, the 3D insert having the inverse shape of the desired channels, wherein substantially the entire surface of the mold except for the 3D insert is in fluid communication with a negative pressure source; applying a first nonwoven web to the mold; applying a three-dimensional absorbent material over at least a portion of the nonwoven fabric; applying a second nonwoven web directly or indirectly over the three-dimensional absorbent material; optionally applying a bonding step to form a laminate comprising the first nonwoven fabric, the second nonwoven fabric, and the three-dimensional absorbent material therebetween;optionally removing the laminate from the mold to form an absorbent core having channels with the inverse shape of the 3D insert; and wherein, at least for the duration of the step of applying a three-dimensional absorbent material, the negative pressure source is arranged to provide a vacuum force that forces the three-dimensional absorbent material around the 3D insert such that its surface is substantially evacuated of the three-dimensional absorbent material and forms channels that are substantially free of three-dimensional absorbent material. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS Fig. 1 shows a schematic plan view of an absorbent core according to an embodiment herein. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic plan view of an absorbent core according to an embodiment herein. Fig.Figure 3 shows a schematic plan view of an absorbent core according to an embodiment herein. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic plan view of absorbent cores according to an embodiment herein and having different geometric shapes formed by interconnected channels. Fig. 5 shows a perspective overview of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig. 6 shows a perspective overview of a product according to an embodiment herein. Fig. Figure 7 shows a plan view of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig. Figure 8 shows a plan view of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig. 9 shows a perspective overview of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig.10 shows a perspective overview of a product according to an embodiment herein. Fig. 11 shows a plan view of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig. 12 shows a plan view of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig. 13 shows a schematic view of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig. 14 shows a schematic view of an absorbent article according to an embodiment herein. Fig. 15A and Fig. 15B show illustrations of molds with a 3D insert according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 16 illustrates interconnected channels, with the width varying along the channels. Fig.17A-G illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure wherein the absorbent core is combined with an acquisition and distribution layer. Fig. 18A-B illustrate the visual appearance of a channel in a dry state ( Fig. 18A) or wet condition ( Fig. 18B). Fig. 19A-B show images of samples and a test bench for the hanging shear test method. Fig. 20A illustrates a cross-section of a core according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as that of Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 20B illustrates a cross-section of an absorbent article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure having the core of Fig. 20A. Fig. 21A illustrates a cross-section of a core according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as that of Fig. 3. Fig.Figure 21B illustrates a cross-section of an absorbent article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure having the core of Fig. 21A. Fig. 22 illustrates an absorbent article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure having protruding channels (i.e., in a wet state). Fig. Figure 23 is a photograph of two identical channeled diapers according to Example 9, the only difference being that the one labeled "D" comprises an AVS according to Sample A / A' and the one labeled "E" comprises Sample B / B'. The respective residual moisture difference is visually shown. Fig. 24A and B illustrate exemplary embodiments of the channels described herein formed by connecting regions in the form of a pattern consisting of elongated oblique elements. Fig.25 illustrates an exemplary method according to one aspect of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the disclosure of features of the disclosure, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. For further guidance, definitions are provided to better understand the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0033] In the context of the present invention, the following terms have the following meanings: As used herein, "a," "an," "the," "the," and "the" refer to both singular and plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, "a compartment" refers to one or more than one compartment.

[0034] For the purposes of the present invention, "about," when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, quantity, duration of time, and the like, is intended to encompass variations of + / - 20% or less, preferably + / - 10% or less, more preferably + / - 5% or less, even more preferably + / - 1% or less, and even more preferably + / - 0.1% or less of the stated value, to the extent such variations are appropriate in the disclosed disclosure. However, it is to be understood that the value to which the attribute "about" refers is itself also expressly disclosed.

[0035] As used herein, “comprise,” “comprising,” “comprises,” and “consisting of” are synonymous with “include,” “including,” “includes,” or “contain,” “containing,” and are inclusive or open-ended terms indicating the presence of the following, e.g., a component, and do not exclude the presence of additional, unlisted components, features, elements, members, and steps known in the art or disclosed herein.

[0036] The term “wt%” (percent by weight) here and throughout the specification, unless otherwise defined, refers to the relative weight of the respective component based on the total weight of the formulation.

[0037] The specification of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions falling within this range as well as the specified endpoints.

[0038] "Absorbent article" refers to devices that absorb and retain fluid, and more specifically, refers to devices that are placed against or near the wearer's body to absorb and retain the various exudates excreted by the body. Absorbent articles include, but are not limited to, diapers, adult incontinence briefs, training pants, diaper holders and pads, sanitary napkins, and the like, as well as surgical bandages and sponges. Absorbent articles preferably comprise a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis is typically selected in the front-to-back direction with respect to the worn article, and the transverse axis is typically selected in the left-to-right direction with respect to the worn article.Disposable absorbent articles may include a liquid-permeable topsheet, a backsheet bonded to the topsheet, and an absorbent core positioned and retained between the topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet is substantially permeable to liquids intended to be retained or stored by the absorbent article, and the backsheet may or may not be substantially impermeable or otherwise substantially impermeable to the intended liquids. The absorbent article may also include other components, such as liquid wicking layers, liquid acquisition layers, liquid distribution layers, transfer layers, barrier layers, wraparound layers, and the like, as well as combinations thereof. Disposable absorbent articles and their components may provide a body-facing surface and a garment-facing surface.

[0039] An absorbent article, such as a diaper, includes a front waistband region, a back waistband region, and an intermediate crotch region connecting the front waistband region and the back waistband region. As used herein, reference to a "front" portion refers to that part of the absorbent article that, in use, is generally located on the front of an individual, such as a child or adult. Reference to the "back" portion refers to the portion of the absorbent article that, in use, is generally located on the back of the individual, such as a child or adult, and reference to the "crotch" portion refers to the portion that, in use, is generally located between the legs of the individual, such as a child or adult.The crotch area is an area where repeated liquid surge typically occurs within the absorbent article assembly.

[0040] As used herein, "front" portions, "back or rear" portions, and "crotch" portions typically refer to portions of the absorbent core that are proximal to respective portions of the absorbent article. For example, the "front" portion of the core is the most proximal portion when worn toward the front of the individual, the "back or rear" portion is the most proximal portion when worn toward the back or rear, and the "crotch" portion of the core is the middle portion of the absorbent core between the "front" portion and the "back or rear" portion.

[0041] Preferably, a diaper comprises a liquid-pervious "topsheet," a liquid-impervious "backsheet," and an "absorbent medium" disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. The topsheet, the backsheet, and the absorbent medium may be composed of any suitable material known to those skilled in the art. The topsheet is generally located at or near the bodyfacing surface of the article, while the backsheet is generally located at or near the garmentfacing surface of the article. Optionally, in addition to the backsheet, the article may comprise one or more separate layers disposed between the backsheet and the absorbent medium. The topsheet and backsheet are bonded or otherwise conveniently associated with each other.

[0042] The "absorbent medium" or "absorbent core" or "absorbent body" is the absorbent structure disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet of the absorbent article, at least in the crotch region of the absorbent article, and capable of absorbing and retaining liquid body exudates. The size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent medium should be compatible with the size of the intended wearer and the liquid load caused by the intended use of the absorbent article. Furthermore, the size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent medium can be varied to accommodate wearers ranging from infants to adults. It can be manufactured in a variety of shapes (e.g., rectangular, trapezoidal, T-shaped, I-shaped, hourglass-shaped, etc.) and from a variety of materials.Examples of common absorbent materials include cellulose-containing fluff pulp, tissue sheets, highly absorbent polymers (so-called superabsorbent polymer particles (SAP)), absorbent foam materials, absorbent nonwovens, and the like. It is common to combine fluff pulp with superabsorbent polymers in an absorbent material.

[0043] “Mechanical connection” means an attachment between two or more elements, components, regions, or webs and may include thermal connections, pressure connections, ultrasonic connections, dynamic mechanical connections, or any other suitable non-adhesive attachment means or combinations of these attachment means as known in the art.

[0044] "Acquisition and distribution layer," "AVS," or "surge management section" refers to a backsheet, preferably a nonwoven wicking layer, beneath the topsheet of an absorbent product, which accelerates the transport and improves the distribution of fluids through the absorbent core. The surge management section is typically less hydrophilic than the retention section and has the ability to rapidly acquire and temporarily retain surges of liquid and transport the liquid from its initial entry point to other parts of the absorbent structure, particularly the retention section. This configuration can help prevent liquid from pooling and accumulating on the portion of the absorbent garment positioned against the wearer's skin, thereby reducing the wearer's wetness sensation.Preferably, the surge management section is arranged between the top layer and the retention section.

[0045] The term "bulk density" as used herein refers to the weight of a material per unit volume. Bulk density is generally expressed in units of weight / volume (e.g., grams per cubic centimeter). The bulk density of flat, generally planar materials such as nonwoven fibrous webs can be determined from measurements of the thickness and basis weight of a sample. The basis weight of the sample is determined largely in accordance with ASTM D-3776-9, but with the following modifications: 1) the sample size is cut to a 10.16 cm x 10.16 cm (4 in x 4 in) square, and 2) a total of 9 samples are weighed.

[0046] The "thickness" of substrates, layers, or other components referred to herein is determined (unless expressly stated otherwise) using a Model 49-70 Thickness Tester manufactured by TMI (Testing Machines Incorporated), Amityville, New York, USA (alternatively, a J 100 / A Portable Thickness Gauge may be used). Thickness is measured using a 6.45 cm (2 inch) diameter circular base at an applied pressure of approximately 1.38 10 3 Pa (about 0.2 pounds per square inch (psi)).

[0047] The term “specific volume” in the context of the present invention refers to the inverse bulk density of a material, which is measured in volume per unit weight and can be expressed in units of cubic centimeters per gram.

[0048] The term "mean flow pore size" as used herein refers to a measure of the average pore diameter as determined by liquid displacement techniques using a Coulter porometer and Coulter POROFILO test fluid from Coulter Electronics Limited, Luton, England. Mean flow pore size is determined by wetting a test sample with a very low surface tension fluid (i.e., Coulter POROFIL®). Air pressure is applied to one side of the sample. As the air pressure is increased, the capillary attraction of the fluid in the largest pores is eventually overcome, expelling the fluid and allowing air to pass through the sample. With further increases in air pressure, smaller and smaller holes are emptied. A flow versus pressure relationship can be established for the wet sample and compared with the results for the dry sample.The mean flow pore size is measured at the point where the curve representing 50% of the dry sample flow versus pressure intersects the curve representing the wet sample flow versus pressure. The diameter of the pores that open at a specific pressure (i.e., the mean flow pore size) can be determined using the following expression: Pore ​​diameter (μm) = (40τ) / pressure where τ = surface tension of the fluid, expressed in units of mN / M; pressure is the applied pressure, expressed in millibars (mbar); and because of the very low surface tension of the liquid used to wet the sample, it can be assumed that the contact angle of the liquid on the sample is approximately zero.

[0049] The term "adhesive" as used herein refers to any suitable hot melt, aqueous, or solvent-based adhesive that can be applied to a surface of a film layer in the desired pattern or network of adhesive regions to form the film-nonwoven laminate of the present disclosure. Suitable adhesives include, among others, conventional hot melt adhesives, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and reactive adhesives (ie, polyurethane).

[0050] In the context of the present invention, the term "adhesive bonding" refers to a bonding process in which a bond is formed by applying an adhesive. Such application of the adhesive can be achieved by various methods, such as slot coating, spray coating, and other current application methods. Furthermore, such an adhesive can be applied to a product component and then subjected to pressure, so that contact between a second product component and the adhesive-containing product component creates an adhesive bond between the two components.

[0051] For the purposes of the present invention, an "air-formed web" refers to a material comprising cellulosic fibers, such as those from fluff pulp, that have been separated, such as by a hammer mill process, and then applied to a porous surface without a substantial amount of binder fibers. A typical example of an air-formed material is airfelt materials, which are used, for example, as the absorbent core in numerous diapers.

[0052] For the purposes of the present invention, an "airlaid web" is a fibrous structure produced primarily by a process comprising depositing air-entrained fibers onto a mat, typically in the presence of binder fibers, followed by densification and thermal bonding. In addition to conventional thermally bonded airlaid structures (those formed in the presence of non-tacky binder material and substantially thermally bonded), the scope of the term "airlaid" according to the present disclosure may also include coform produced by combining air-entrained, dry, dispersed cellulosic fibers with meltblown synthetic polymer fibers while the polymer fibers are still tacky.Furthermore, an airlaid web to which binder material is subsequently added may be considered within the scope of the term "airlaid" according to the present disclosure. Binder addition to an airlaid web may be in liquid form (e.g., an aqueous solution or a melt) via spray nozzles, directional injection or impregnation, vacuum drawing, foam impregnation, etc. Solid binder particles may also be added by mechanical or pneumatic means.

[0053] For the purposes of the present invention, an "air-draft bonded" nonwoven fabric is a nonwoven structure formed primarily by a process involving the application of heated air to the surface of the nonwoven fabric. In the air-draft bonding process, heated air flows through holes in a plenum above the nonwoven fabric. Unlike hot ovens that force air through the material, the air-draft bonding process uses vacuum suction to draw the air through an open conveyor belt skirt holding the nonwoven fabric as it is pulled through the oven. By drawing air through the material, heat can be transferred quickly and evenly to minimize distortion of the nonwoven fabric. Binders used in the air-draft bonding process include crystalline binder fibers and powders that melt to form molten droplets throughout the cross-section of the nonwoven fabric.When the material cools, bonding occurs at these droplet points.

[0054] As used herein, the term "associated" includes configurations in which the topsheet is directly bonded to the backsheet by attaching the topsheet directly to the backsheet, and configurations in which the topsheet is bonded to the backsheet by attaching the topsheet to intermediate members that are in turn attached to the backsheet. The topsheet and backsheet may be directly bonded together by attachment means such as an adhesive, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, or any other attachment means known in the art. For example, a uniform continuous layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, a sprayed pattern of adhesive, or an array of separate lines, spirals, or dots of structural adhesive may be used to attach the topsheet to the backsheet.It is readily understood that the fastening means described above can also be used to connect and assemble the various other structural components of the article described here.

[0055] The terms “back portion” and “rear back portion” are used synonymously herein and refer to the area of ​​the absorbent article that is in contact with the back of the wearer when the absorbent article is worn.

[0056] The term "backsheet" refers to a material that forms the outer cover of the absorbent article. The backsheet prevents exudates contained in the absorbent structure from soaking through articles such as bedsheets and outerwear that come into contact with the disposable absorbent article. The backsheet may be a uniform layer of material or a composite layer of several juxtaposed or laminated components. The backsheet may be the same or different in different parts of the absorbent article. At least in the region of the absorbent medium, the backsheet comprises a liquid-impermeable material in the form of a thin plastic film, e.g.a polyethylene or polypropylene film, a nonwoven fabric coated with a liquid-impermeable material, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric that prevents liquid from penetrating, or a laminate of a plastic film and a nonwoven fabric. The backsheet material can be breathable, allowing water vapor to escape from the absorbent material but still preventing liquids from passing through. Examples of breathable backsheet materials include porous polymer films, nonwoven laminates of spunbonded nonwoven layers and melt-bonded nonwoven layers, and laminates of porous polymer films and nonwoven fabrics.

[0057] The terms “abdominal section” and “anterior abdominal section” are used synonymously here and refer to the area of ​​the absorbent article that is in contact with the wearer’s abdomen when the absorbent article is worn.

[0058] The term “blend” means a mixture of two or more polymers, while the term “alloy” means a subclass of blends in which the components are immiscible but have been made compatible.

[0059] For the purposes of the present invention, the "skin-facing," "body-facing," or "bodyside" surface is understood to mean the surface of the article or component intended to be positioned toward or adjacent to the wearer's body during normal use, while the "outward-facing," "outward-facing," or "garment-facing" surface is on the opposite side and intended to be positioned away from the wearer's body during normal use. Such an outward-facing surface may be arranged to be positioned toward or adjacent to the wearer's undergarments when the absorbent article is worn.

[0060] "Connected" refers to the joining, binding, connecting, fastening, or the like of two or more elements. Two elements are considered connected when they are directly or indirectly connected to each other, such as when they are each directly connected to intermediate elements.

[0061] The term “breathable” refers to films with a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of at least 300 grams / m 2 - 24 hours.

[0062] "Carded web (or carded layer(s) or carded nonwoven)" refers to webs made from staple fibers passed through a combing and carding unit that opens and orients the staple fibers in the machine direction to form a generally machine-direction oriented fiber nonwoven web. The web is then joined by one or more known joining methods.The bonding of nonwoven webs can be achieved by a number of methods: powder bonding, where a powdered adhesive or binder is distributed throughout the web and then activated, usually by heating the web and adhesive with hot air; pattern bonding, where the fibers are bonded together using heated calender rolls or ultrasonic bonding devices, usually in a localized bonding pattern, although the web can be bonded over its entire surface if desired; air-jet bonding, where air hot enough to soften at least one component of the web is passed through the web; chemical bonding, for example using latex adhesives applied to the web, for example by spraying; and consolidation by mechanical methods such as needling and hydroentangling.Carded thermally bonded nonwoven refers to a carded nonwoven where the bonding is achieved with heat.

[0063] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "cellulosic" is intended to include any material having cellulose as its main component, and in particular comprising at least 50% by weight of cellulose or cellulose derivative. Thus, the term includes cotton, typical wood pulps, non-wood-based cellulosic fibers, cellulose acetate, cellulose triacetate, rayon, thermomechanical wood pulp, chemical wood pulp, debonded chemical wood pulp, milkweed, or bacterial cellulose.

[0064] “Chassis” refers to a basic component of an absorbent article upon which the rest of the article’s structure is built or superimposed, e.g., in a diaper, the structural elements that give the diaper the shape of briefs or pants when configured for wear, such as a backsheet, a topsheet, or a combination of a topsheet and a backsheet.

[0065] "Coform," as used herein, refers to a blend of meltblown fibers and cellulose fibers formed by air-molding a meltblown polymer material while simultaneously injecting air-suspended cellulose fibers into the meltblown fiber stream. The coform material may also contain other materials, such as superabsorbent particles. The wood-fiber-containing meltblown fibers are collected on a forming surface, such as one provided by a porous belt. The forming surface may contain a gas-permeable material, such as spunbonded fiber material, applied to the forming surface.

[0066] “Compression” refers to the process or result of squeezing an object by applying force, thereby increasing the density of the object.

[0067] The term "consisting largely of" does not exclude the presence of additional materials that do not significantly affect the desired properties of a given composition or product. Examples of such materials include, without limitation, pigments, antioxidants, stabilizers, surfactants, waxes, flow improvers, solvents, particulates, and materials to enhance the processability of the composition.

[0068] The diaper may include containment flaps or barrier cuffs. It is generally believed that containment flaps are particularly well-suited for containing feces and preventing the lateral flow of liquid excreta until the liquid excreta can be absorbed by the absorbent article. Numerous designs of containment flaps are known. Such containment flaps generally include a proximal edge intended for attachment to the absorbent article and an opposite distal edge that is generally unattached to the absorbent article along at least a portion of its length.Generally, an elastic member is located adjacent to the distal edge to help keep the containment flap in an upright position and maintain a seal between the distal edge of the containment flap and the wearer's body during use. The elastic member is generally sandwiched between two layers of material so that it does not come into contact with the wearer's body. The containment flaps can be made from a variety of materials, such as polypropylene, polyester, rayon, polyamide, foams, plastic films, molded films, and resilient foams. A variety of manufacturing techniques can be used to produce the containment flaps. For example, the containment flaps can be woven, nonwoven, spunbonded, carded, cast, blown, or the like.

[0069] The diaper may include leg containment seals. Leg containment seals help prevent the leakage of body exudates when the wearer applies compressive forces to the absorbent article. In particular, the rigidity of the leg containment seals prevents twisting and bulging of the leg openings of the absorbent article, which can lead to leaks. Furthermore, the elasticity and conformability of the leg containment seals ensure that the body-facing surface of the leg containment seals provides an adequate seal against the wearer's body. The physical properties of the leg containment seals, such as thickness and stiffness, also keep the bodyside liner, outer cover, and absorbent core spaced from the wearer's body during use.Therefore, a void volume is created between the wearer's body and the bodyside liner and the absorbent core of the absorbent article to help retain body exudates.

[0070] A "continuous waistband" can be an elastomeric, cloth-like nonwoven material, such as an elastomeric stretch-bonded laminate web or an elastomeric meltblown web. By proper selection of materials, the continuous waistband can be temporarily elastically inhibited, such as by compression. After temporary elastic inhibition, the elastic material comprising the waistband can be activated, such as by heat treatment, to restore a state of elasticity.

[0071] A “conventional hot melt adhesive” is a formulation that generally comprises several components. These components typically include one or more polymers to provide cohesive strength (e.g., aliphatic polyolefins such as poly(ethylene-co-propylene) copolymer; ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers; styrene-butadiene or styrene-isoprene block copolymers, etc.); a resin or analogous material (sometimes called a tackifier) ​​to provide adhesive strength (e.g., hydrocarbons distilled from petroleum distillates; rosins and rosin esters; terpenes derived from, for example, wood or citrus, etc.); perhaps waxes, plasticizers, or other materials to modify viscosity (i.e., flow) (examples of such materials include, but are not limited to, mineral oil, polybutene, paraffin oils, ester oils, and the like) and / or other additives, including, among others:Antioxidants or other stabilizers. A typical hot melt adhesive formulation may contain from about 15 to about 35 weight percent polymer(s) for cohesive strength; from about 50 to about 65 weight percent resin or one or more other tackifiers; from more than zero to about 30 weight percent plasticizer or other viscosity modifier; and optionally less than about 1 weight percent stabilizer or other additive. It is understood that other adhesive formulations with different weight percentages of these components are possible.

[0072] The term “density” or “concentration” when referring to the absorbent material, in particular the SAP, of a layer refers to the amount of absorbent material divided by the surface area of ​​the layer over which the absorbent material is spread.

[0073] In the context of the present invention, the term "diaper" refers to an absorbent article generally worn by young children around the lower body.

[0074] The term “disposable” is used herein to describe absorbent articles that are not generally intended to be washed or otherwise reconstituted or reused as an absorbent article (i.e., they are intended to be discarded after a single connection and preferably recycled, composted, or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally sound manner).

[0075] In the context of the present invention, the term "elastic resistance" describes an elastic force that typically resists an applied tensile force, whereby the material provided with it typically contracts to an untensioned configuration in response to a stretching force.

[0076] In the context of the present invention, the terms "elastic", "elastomeric", "elasticity" or derivatives thereof are used to describe the ability of various materials and objects made thereof to reversibly deform, i.e., to stretch or extend, in at least one direction under load when a force is applied to the material, and to substantially return to their original dimensions without cracking or breaking when relaxed, i.e., when the force is removed. Preferably, it refers to a material or composite that can be stretched in at least one direction by at least 50% of its relaxed length, i.e., to at least 150% of its relaxed length, and to recover at least 40% of its elongation when the applied stress is removed.Accordingly, after the applied stress is removed, the material or composite contracts at 50% elongation to a relaxed length of no more than 130% of its original length. Examples of suitable elastomer materials include polyether-polyamide block copolymers, polyurethanes, synthetic linear ABA and AB block copolymers, blends of chlorinated rubber and EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene monomer) rubbers, EPM (ethylene-propylene monomer) rubbers, blends of EPDM / EPM / EVA, and the like.

[0077] The term “elasticized” refers to a material, layer, or substrate that is naturally inelastic but has been made elastic, for example, by being suitably bonded to an elastic material, layer, or substrate.

[0078] "Elongation" means the ratio of the expansion of a material to the length of the material before expansion (expressed as a percentage), as represented by the following: "Elongation" means the change in length of a material as a result of stretching (expressed in units of length).

[0079] In the context of the present invention, the term “stretchable” means elongatable in at least one direction, but not necessarily recoverable.

[0080] The term “textile” or “fabric” here refers to all woven and knitted webs as well as nonwoven fiber webs.

[0081] Fasteners, such as tape fasteners, are typically attached to the rear waistband of the diaper to provide a mechanism for securing the diaper to the wearer. Fasteners such as tape fasteners, snaps, pins, belts, hooks, buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., VELCRO®-type fasteners), and the like may be employed, typically attached to the lateral ends of the rear waistband of the diaper to provide a mechanism for securing the diaper around the wearer's waist in a conventional manner. Tape fasteners may be any of those well known in the art and are typically attached to the corners of the diaper. For example, adhesive fasteners, mechanical fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, pins, or buckles may be used alone or in combination.For example, the fasteners may be adhesive fasteners designed to removably adhere to a land zone piece attached to the front waistband area of ​​the diaper to provide a refastenable adhesive fastening system.

[0082] The term “finished” or “final,” when used to refer to a product, means that the product has been suitably manufactured for its intended purpose.

[0083] The term “flexible” refers to materials that are pliable and easily conform to the general shape and contours of the wearer’s body.

[0084] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "garment" refers to any type of clothing that can be worn. This includes diapers, training pants, incontinence products, surgical gowns, industrial workwear and coveralls, underwear, pants, shirts, jackets, and the like.

[0085] Many of the known superabsorbent polymer particles exhibit gel blocking. Gel blocking occurs when superabsorbent polymer particles become moistened, causing the particles to swell, inhibiting fluid transfer to other areas of the absorbent structure. Therefore, moistening of these other areas of the absorbent element occurs via a very slow diffusion process. In practice, this means that the acquisition of fluids by the absorbent structure is much slower than the rate at which fluids are expelled, particularly in surge situations. Leakage from the absorbent article can occur long before the SAP particles in the absorbent element even come close to complete saturation or before the fluid can diffuse or be absorbed past the "blocking" particles into the rest of the absorbent element.Gel blocking can be a particularly acute problem when the superabsorbent polymer particles do not have sufficient gel strength and deform under load after the particles swell with absorbed fluid.

[0086] The term "graphics" includes, but is not limited to, any type of design, image, mark, figure, code, word, pattern, or the like. For a product like sweatpants, graphics include objects commonly associated with little boys and little girls, such as colorful trucks, airplanes, balls, dolls, bows, or the like.

[0087] "Water jet entanglement" refers to the production of nonwoven webs. In this process, a series of water jets is directed at a fiber web supported on a porous belt. The water jets pass downward through the fiber mass and, upon contact with the surface of the belt, rebound and break up. The released energy causes the fiber mass to entangle.

[0088] The term "highly absorbent material" refers to materials that can absorb at least 10 times their own weight in liquid. Highly absorbent materials can include absorbent gelling materials, such as superabsorbent polymers. Superabsorbent polymers are water-swellable, water-insoluble organic or inorganic materials that can absorb up to approximately 20 times their own weight of an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent sodium chloride. Absorbent gelling materials can be natural, synthetic, and modified natural polymers and materials. Absorbent gelling materials can also be inorganic materials, such as silica gels, or organic compounds, such as cross-linked polymers.The term “crosslinked” refers to any means by which normally water-soluble materials can be rendered largely water-insoluble but swellable. Examples of such means include physical entanglement, crystalline domains, covalent bonds, ionic complexes and associations such as hydrogen bonding, and hydrophobic associations or van der Waals forces. Examples of polymers as synthetic absorbent gelling materials include the alkali metal and ammonium salts of poly(acrylic acid) and poly(methacrylic acid), poly(acrylamides), poly(vinyl ethers), maleic anhydride copolymers with vinyl ethers and alpha-olefins, poly(vinylpyrrolidone), poly(vinylmorpholinone), poly(vinyl alcohol), and blends and copolymers thereof. Other polymers suitable for use in the absorbent structure include:Natural and modified natural polymers, such as hydrolyzed acrylonitrile-grafted starch, acrylic acid-grafted starch, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, and natural gums such as alginates, xanthan gum, locust bean gum, and the like. Blends of natural and wholly or partially synthetic absorbent polymers may also be used. Synthetic absorbent gelling materials are typically xerogels, which form hydrogels upon moistening. However, the term "hydrogel" has also been commonly used to refer to both the moistened and unmoistened forms of the material. The superabsorbent material can be present in a wide variety of geometric shapes. Typically, it is preferred for the superabsorbent material to be in the form of discrete particles.The superabsorbent material may also be in the form of fibers, platelets, rods, spheres, needles, spirals or semi-spirals, cubes, rod-like shapes, polyhedra, and the like. Conglomerates of particles of superabsorbent material may also be used. The superabsorbent material may be present in the absorbent core in an amount of from about 5 to about 100 weight percent, and desirably from about 30 to about 100 weight percent, based on the total weight of the absorbent core. The distribution of the superabsorbent material in the various sections of the absorbent core may vary depending on the intended end use of the absorbent core. The superabsorbent material may be arranged in a generally discrete layer within the matrix of hydrophilic fibers.Alternatively, the absorbent core may comprise a laminate of fibrous webs and highly absorbent material or other suitable means for retaining highly absorbent material in a localized area.

[0089] A "hook-and-loop fastener" (hook-and-loop fastener) refers to complementary fasteners having a hook portion and a loop portion that are refastenable. The term "hook," as used herein, refers to any element that can engage another element, the so-called loop portion. The term "hook" is not limited to "hooks" in the normal sense, but rather encompasses all forms of engagement elements, whether unidirectional or bidirectional. The term "loop" is also not limited to "loops" in the normal sense, but also encompasses any structure that can engage a "hook" fastener. Examples of "loop" materials are fibrous structures, such as nonwoven fabrics.

[0090] The term "hydrophilic" describes fibers or fiber surfaces that are wetted by the aqueous fluids in contact with the fibers. The usability of the materials can, in turn, be described based on the contact angles and surface tensions of the fluids and materials involved. The term "wettable" refers to a fiber contacting a fluid, such as water, synthetic urine, or 0.9% aqueous saline solution, at an air contact angle of less than 90°, whereas "hydrophobic" or "non-wettable" describes fibers with contact angles equal to or greater than 90°.

[0091] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "impermeable" generally refers to articles and / or elements that are substantially impermeable to aqueous fluid under a pressure of 1.0 kPa or less throughout their entire thickness. Preferably, the impermeable article or element is impermeable to aqueous fluid under pressures of 3.4 kPa or less. An article or element that is not impermeable is permeable.

[0092] “Integral” is used to refer to various portions of an integrally formed element and not to separate structures that are joined together or placed together or near each other.

[0093] "Connecting," "connecting," "connected," or variations thereof, when used in describing the relationship between two or more elements, means that the elements may be joined together in any suitable manner, such as by heat sealing, ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, adhesives, stitching, or the like. Furthermore, the elements may be directly connected or may have one or more interposed elements, all of which are connected together.

[0094] The term "flattened state" shall refer to the article being flattened or substantially flattened into a plane and is used in contrast to any other positioning of the article, such as when the article is folded or shaped in or for use by a wearer.

[0095] “Laminate” refers to elements that are attached to each other in a layered arrangement.

[0096] The term "layer" can refer, among other things, to any type of substrate, such as a woven web, a nonwoven web, films, laminates, composites, elastomeric materials, or the like. A layer can be liquid- and air-permeable, air-permeable but impermeable to liquids, both air- and liquid-impermeable, or the like. When used in the singular, it can have the dual meaning of a single element or multiple elements.

[0097] The crotch portion of the absorbent article preferably comprises opposed longitudinal side panels comprising a pair of elasticized, longitudinally extending "leg cuffs." The leg cuffs are generally designed to fit around the legs of a wearer in use and serve as a mechanical barrier to the lateral flow of body exudates. Leg cuffs are elasticized with leg elastic bands. The diaper may further comprise a front waistband elastic and a back waistband elastic. Materials suitable for forming leg elastic are known to those skilled in the art. Examples of such materials include strands or ribbons of a polymeric, elastomeric material that are bonded to the diaper at the leg cuff in a stretched position or attached to the diaper during pleating of the diaper to impart elastic constriction forces to the leg cuff.Examples of suitable elastomer materials that can be used are polyether-polyamide block copolymers, polyurethanes, synthetic linear ABA and AB block copolymers, blends of chlorinated rubber and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubbers, EPM (ethylene propylene monomer) rubbers, blends of EPDM / EPM / EVA and the like.

[0098] “Liquid” means a non-gaseous substance and / or material that flows and is capable of assuming the internal shape of a container into which it is poured or placed.

[0099] “Longitudinal” is a direction parallel to the largest linear dimension of the article.

[0100] The term "meltblown fibers" refers to fibers formed by extruding a molten thermoplastic material through a plurality of fine, usually circular, die capillaries as molten threads or filaments into a high-velocity gas stream (e.g., air) that weakens the filaments of molten thermoplastic material to reduce their diameter, for example, to a microfiber diameter. Generally, meltblown fibers have an average fiber diameter of up to about 10 microns. After fiber formation, the meltblown fibers are carried by the high-velocity gas stream and deposited onto a collecting surface to form a web of randomly distributed meltblown fibers.

[0101] The term “non-elastic” refers to all materials that do not fall under the above definition of “elastic”.

[0102] The term "nonwoven fabric or web" refers to a sheet material with a structure of individual fibers or filaments that are interconnected, but not in a regular manner, as in knitting or weaving processes. Nonwoven fabrics or webs have been formed by numerous processes, such as meltblowing, spunbonding, and bonded carded web processes.

[0103] "Panty body" refers to a garment with an air vent and a pair of leg openings, similar to shorts, swimwear, or the like. The described garment may optionally have a manually tearable side seam.

[0104] The terms "particles," "particulate material," "particulate materials," and the like mean that the material is generally in the form of discrete units. The units may include granules, powders, spheres, pulverized materials, or the like, as well as combinations thereof. The particles may have any desired shape, such as cubic, rod-like, polyhedral, spherical or hemispherical, rounded or semi-rounded, angular, irregular, etc. This includes shapes with a high ratio of largest dimension to smallest dimension, such as needles, platelets, and fibers. The terms "particle" or "particulate material" may also include an agglomeration comprising more than one individual particle, particulate material, or the like.In addition, a particle, particulate material, or any desired agglomeration thereof may consist of more than one type of material.

[0105] The term "polymer" generally includes, but is not limited to, homopolymers, copolymers such as block copolymers, graft copolymers, random and alternating copolymers, terpolymers, etc., and blends and modifications thereof. Furthermore, the term "polymer" is intended to encompass all possible geometric configurations of the material, unless specifically limited otherwise. These configurations include, but are not limited to, isotactic, syndiotactic, and random symmetries.

[0106] The term “packaged” in the context of the present invention means that one or more absorbent articles are packaged in a single unit prior to stacking.

[0107] "Cellulose fluff" or "fluff pulp" refers to a material made from cellulose fibers. The fibers can be either natural or synthetic, or a combination thereof. The material is typically lightweight and has absorbent properties.

[0108] “Refastenable” refers to the ability of two elements to be releasably fastened, separated and then refastened without significant permanent deformation or tearing.

[0109] The "retention section" or "liquid absorption layer" is part of the absorbent medium. This section may comprise a matrix of hydrophilic fibers, such as a web of cellulosic fluff, blended with particles of superabsorbent material. In particular arrangements, the retention section may comprise a blend of superabsorbent hydrogel-forming particles and meltblown synthetic polymer fibers, or a blend of superabsorbent particles with a fibrous coform material comprising a blend of natural fibers and / or synthetic polymer fibers. The superabsorbent particles may be substantially homogeneously or non-uniformly blended with the hydrophilic fibers.For example, the concentrations of superabsorbent particles may be arranged in a non-step gradient across a substantial portion of the thickness of the absorbent structure, with lower concentrations toward the body side of the absorbent structure and comparatively higher concentrations toward the outside of the absorbent structure. The superabsorbent particles may also be arranged in a generally discrete layer within the matrix of hydrophilic fibers. Furthermore, two or more different types of superabsorbent may be selectively positioned at different locations in or along the fiber matrix.

[0110] In the context of the present invention, the term "layer" or "layer material" refers to woven fabrics, nonwoven webs, polymeric films, polymeric scrim-like materials and polymeric foam sheets.

[0111] The absorbent article may also include side pieces. The “side pieces” may have any shape, including square, rectangular, triangular, circular, and trapezoidal. They may be joined to the respective opposite side portions of the backing portion by a known method, such as heat sealing or adhesive bonding. The side pieces may also be integrally formed with the backing portion by protruding and bonding the respective topsheet and / or backsheet and / or absorbent medium in tabs having the shape of the side pieces. Preferably, the side pieces are formed by laminating a nonwoven layer, a thermoplastic film layer, and a elastic material layer. The elastic material layer may be sandwiched between the nonwoven layer and the thermoplastic film by adhesive layers.The nonwoven layer can be made of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a blend of natural and synthetic fibers. The thermoplastic film layer can be made of polyethylene or polypropylene.

[0112] The term "spunbond fibers (or spunbond sheet(s) or spunbonded fabrics)" refers to fibers formed by extruding molten thermoplastic polymers as filaments or fibers from a plurality of relatively fine, usually circular, capillaries of a spinneret and then rapidly drawing the extruded filaments through a reducing or other well-known drawing mechanism to impart molecular orientation and physical strength to the filaments. The average diameter of spunbond fibers is typically in the range of 15-60 µm or more. The spinneret can be either a large spinneret with several thousand holes per meter wide or arrays of smaller spinnerets containing, for example, only 40 holes.

[0113] The term "spunbonded, meltblown, or spunbonded nonwoven" (SMS) as used herein refers to a multilayer composite sheet comprising a web of meltblown fibers sandwiched between and bonded to two spunbond layers. An SMS nonwoven fabric may be formed in-line by sequentially depositing a first layer of spunbond fibers, a layer of meltblown fibers, and a second layer of spunbond fibers onto a moving, porous collection surface. The matched layers may be bonded by passing them through a nip between two rolls, which may optionally be heated and may be smooth or patterned. Alternatively, the individual spunbond and meltblown nonwoven layers may be preformed and, optionally, individually bonded and collected, such as by winding the nonwovens onto take-up rolls.The individual layers can be subsequently stacked and bonded together to form an SMS nonwoven fabric. Additional spunbond and / or meltblown nonwoven layers can be incorporated into the SMS nonwoven fabric, for example, spunbond - meltblown nonwoven - meltblown nonwoven - spunbond (SMMS), etc.

[0114] "Staple fibers" refers to commercially available fibers having diameters ranging from less than about 0.001 mm to more than about 0.2 mm; they come in several different forms, such as short fibers having a length in the range of about 10 to 50 mm and long fibers having a length of more than 50 mm, preferably up to 100 mm.

[0115] By "stretch" we mean that the material can expand beyond its original size in at least one dimension when subjected to a tensile force (i.e., tension) applied in the direction of that dimension, without the material breaking. An elongation of, for example, 50% means that the material with an initial length of 100 mm has reached a length of 150 mm. The stretching can be unidirectional, bidirectional, or multidirectional. The specific stretch properties of a material can vary along any of the stretch vectors. The term can include elastic materials as well as nonwovens, which may be inherently stretchable, but not necessarily in an elastic manner. Such nonwovens can be imparted elastic behavior by bonding them with elastic films.

[0116] By "channels," it is meant that the structure in question (e.g., the absorbent core) comprises recessed regions forming visible conduits or passages, typically extending along the longitudinal axis of the core and having a depth in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. By "visible," it is meant here that the channels are clearly visible to the naked eye, and typically that the channels have a width generally greater than 1 mm, and preferably from 5 mm to 50 mm, more preferably from 8 mm to 40 mm, more preferably from 10 mm to 30 mm, and even more preferably from more than 10 mm to less than 25 mm.

[0117] By “interconnected” it is meant that the structure in question (e.g., the channels) form a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel.

[0118] By "substantially" is meant at least the majority of the structure in question. For example, when referring to interconnected channels, "substantially interconnected" means that the majority of the channel is interconnected, and generally, where a direct and continuous path can be followed by starting at one end of the channel to another end of the channel, the ends (also referred to herein as terminal positions) may be distal to each other in a width direction of the core and proximal to a portion of the perimeter of the core, preferably the sides thereof.

[0119] By “directly above” is meant that the feature in question is arranged above the structure in question, so that the feature and the structure are in direct contact with each other over at least a substantial portion of the structure.

[0120] By "indirectly over" is meant that the feature in question is disposed over the structure in question, but in such a way that the feature and the structure are not in direct contact with each other over at least a substantial portion of the structure. For example, a nonwoven web applied indirectly over a three-dimensional absorbent material comprises an additional layer of material between the nonwoven web and the three-dimensional absorbent material.

[0121] The use of the term “substrate” includes, but is not limited to, woven or nonwoven webs, porous films, ink-permeable films, paper, composite structures, or the like.

[0122] Superabsorbent materials suitable for use in the present disclosure are known to those skilled in the art and may be in any functional form, such as particulate form, fibers, and mixtures thereof. Generally, the "superabsorbent material" may be a water-swellable, generally water-insoluble, hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbent material capable of absorbing at least about 15 times, suitably about 30 times, and possibly about 60 times or more, its weight in physiological saline (e.g., saline containing 0.9 wt% NaCl). The superabsorbent material may be biodegradable or bipolar.The hydrogel-forming polymeric absorbent material can be formed from organic hydrogel-forming polymer material, which can include natural materials such as agar, pectin, and guar gum; modified natural materials such as carboxymethylcellulose, carboxyethylcellulose, and hydroxypropylcellulose; and synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers. Synthetic hydrogel-forming polymers include, for example, alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl alcohol, ethylene-maleic anhydride copolymers, polyvinyl ethers, polyvinylmorpholinone, polymers and copolymers of vinylsulfonic acid, polyacrylates, polyacrylamides, polyvinylpyridine, and the like. Other suitable hydrogel-forming polymers include hydrolyzed acrylonitrile-grafted starch, acrylic acid-grafted starch, and isobutylene-maleic anhydride copolymers, and mixtures thereof.The hydrogel-forming polymers may be lightly crosslinked to render the material substantially water-insoluble. Crosslinking may occur, for example, through irradiation or the formation of covalent, ionic, van der Waals, or hydrogen bonds. The superabsorbent material may suitably be included in a designated storage or retention portion of the absorbent system and optionally employed in other components or portions of the absorbent article. The superabsorbent material may be included in the absorbent layer or other fluid storage layer of the absorbent article of the present disclosure in an amount of up to about 60 wt.%. Typically, the superabsorbent material, when present, is included in an amount of from about 5 to about 40 wt.%, based on the total weight of the absorbent layer.

[0123] "Superabsorbent polymer particles" or "SAP" refer to water-swellable, water-insoluble organic or inorganic materials that, under the most favorable conditions, can absorb at least about 10 times their weight, or at least about 15 times their weight, or at least about 25 times their weight in an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent sodium chloride. In absorbent articles, such as diapers, incontinence pads, etc., the particle size typically ranges from 100 to 800 µm, preferably from 300 to 600 µm, more preferably from 400 to 500 µm.

[0124] The term "target zone" refers to an area of ​​an absorbent core where initial contact with the largest portion of a fluid load, such as urine, menstrual fluid, or stool, is most desirable. Specifically, for an absorbent core with one or more fluid loading points during use, the loading target zone refers to the area of ​​the absorbent core extending from each loading point in both directions by a distance equal to 15% of the total length of the composite.

[0125] “Stress” includes a uniaxial force that usually causes a body to expand, or the counterbalancing force in that body that opposes expansion.

[0126] In the context of the present invention, the term “thermoplastic” is intended to describe a material that softens when exposed to heat and essentially returns to its original state when cooled to room temperature.

[0127] The term "topsheet" refers to a layer of liquid-permeable material that forms the inner cover of the absorbent article and, in use, is placed in direct contact with the wearer's skin. The topsheet is typically employed to help isolate the wearer's skin from liquids retained in the absorbent structure. The topsheet may comprise a nonwoven fabric, e.g., a spunbond, a meltblown, a carded, a hydroentangled, a wet-laid, etc. Suitable nonwoven fabrics may be made of synthetic fibers, such as polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, viscose, rayon, etc., or natural fibers, such as wood pulp or cotton fibers, or a blend of natural and synthetic fibers. The topsheet material may further consist of two fibers that may be bonded together in a bonding pattern.Other examples of topsheet materials include porous foams, apertured plastic films, laminates of nonwovens and apertured plastic films, etc. Materials suitable as topsheet materials should be soft, non-irritating to the skin, and easily penetrated by body fluid, e.g., urine or menstrual fluid. The inner cover layer may further vary in different parts of the absorbent article. The textile topsheet fabric may be composed of a substantially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material may optionally be treated with a surfactant or otherwise processed to impart a desired level of wettability and hydrophilicity.

[0128] "Training pants" are available for use by children in the potty training stage and are popular with mothers and caregivers. Training pants typically include a top layer, a back layer, an absorbent medium between the top layer and the back layer, and side seams that join sections of the side edges of the pants together to form waist and leg openings.

[0129] As used herein, the term "transverse" or "lateral" refers to a line, axis, or direction that lies in the plane of the absorbent article and is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0130] "Ultrasonic welding or joining" refers to a technique in which two materials are joined by melting them with heat generated by ultrasonic oscillation and then laminating them together so that the molten materials flow and fill the gap between the two unaffected sections of the two materials. After cooling and forming, the two materials are bonded.

[0131] “Dry state” refers to the state in which an absorbent article is not yet saturated with exudates and / or fluid.

[0132] "Wet state" refers to the state in which an absorbent article is saturated with exudates and / or liquid. Typically, at least 30 ml, preferably at least 40 ml, more preferably at least 50 ml, most preferably 60 ml to 800 ml, of exudate and / or liquid is contained in the absorbent article.

[0133] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "water-swellable, water-insoluble" refers to a material that swells to its equilibrium volume upon exposure to an excess of water, but does not dissolve in the solution. Therefore, a water-swellable, water-insoluble material generally retains its original identity or physical structure during water absorption, but in a highly expanded state, and must therefore possess sufficient physical integrity to resist flow and fusion with neighboring particles.

[0134] The term "concentration" (e.g., of a superabsorbent polymer) as used herein refers to the amount of the material in question divided by the surface area of ​​the layer in question (typically the area lying in the plane of the length and width of the core) over or in which the material in question is contained. This can be determined by standard weighing and dimensional measurement methods known in the art and expressed in g / mm 2 be expressed.

[0135] The term "substantially U-shaped" in the context of the present invention means any shape that visually has approximately the shape of a "U", such as a "V-shape", a semicircle and the like.

[0136] For the purposes of the present invention, the term "separate cellulosic fibers" refers to cellulosic fibers that are not part of a substrate (e.g., a nonwoven layer), but rather are distinct and / or physically separate from it, and typically in the form of cellulosic fibers that are held separate from, but enclosed within, the substrate. For clarity, cellulosic fibers present within a substrate (e.g., a nonwoven layer) are not included in this definition.

[0137] The term "substantially follows the shape of the channel(s)" in the context of the present invention means that the feature in question has an overlapping shape that visually corresponds to the channel(s).

[0138] The term "superabsorbent polymer fibers" as used in the present invention refers to fibers made of superabsorbent polymers (as opposed to particles thereof). Examples of suitable fibers for use herein are selected from those of Example 1, Example 2, Example 3, and / or Example 4 (page 5, lines 1-46) of EP 3190216 A1, which are hereby incorporated by reference. The fibers are typically used to form nonwoven webs or substrates according to the application in question.

[0139] Embodiments of the articles and methods according to the disclosure will now be described. It should be understood that technical features described in one or more embodiments may be combined with one or more other embodiments without departing from the spirit of the disclosure and without generalization therefrom. ABSORPTION CORE

[0140] Absorbent cores according to the present disclosure comprise absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises at least one core-wrap substrate surrounding the absorbent material, and wherein an upper layer of the core-wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core-wrap to form one or more channels (106) substantially free of the absorbent material, wherein the channels (106) have a length extending along a longitudinal axis (48), and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a length extending along the longitudinal axis (48), and wherein the length of the channels is 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core, and preferably the length of at least one of the channels (106), preferably each of the channels, is 10% to 95%, preferably 20% to 90%, more preferably 30% to 90%,even more preferably 35% to 85% of the length of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601). Typically, the channels each follow a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end (110, 111) of one channel to a second end (110', 111') of the same channel.

[0141] In any of the embodiments herein, the length of at least one of the channels (106), preferably each of the channels, in cores described herein may be 20% to 95%, preferably 25% to 90%, more preferably 30% to 90%, even more preferably 35% to 85%, even more preferably 40% to 80%, even more preferably 50% to 75%, of the length of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601).

[0142] In one embodiment, such as in the Fig. 4F and Fig.17G, the second end (110', 111') of at least one channel is spaced apart along the longitudinal axis (48) from the first end (110, 111) of at least one other channel such that at least two spaced apart channels are formed along the longitudinal axis (48) which are offset from a transverse line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48), and wherein the spacing along the longitudinal axis (48) is less than 18 mm, preferably 6 mm to 15 mm, more preferably 10 to 15 mm, preferably wherein the core has at least four channels (106) and wherein the spacing between the second and first ends (110, 111, 110', 111') of a first pair of longitudinally offset channels differs from the spacing between the second and first ends (110, 111, 110', 111') of a second pair of longitudinally offset channels wherein the first pair of channels is substantially parallel to the second pair of channels.Such a channel geometry with spacing of absorbent material kept within a very limited and specific range has the advantage of providing additional wicking of the liquid, preventing it from immediately flowing to the rear end of the core, and thus working synergistically with the acquisition distribution layer to spread the liquid over the core and thus reduce the rewetting sensation after application of force to a soiled diaper, but still allowing liquid to flow through the rear of the diaper and not acting like a dam which would otherwise lead to a greater rewetting sensation towards the front of the diaper.

[0143] As in Fig.24A-B, the upper layer of the core wrap is preferably bonded to a lower layer of the core wrap along the channels (106) at a plurality of discrete bonding regions, the bonding regions forming a pattern consisting of elongated, oblique elements (1061) having an angle α to the longitudinal axis (48), the angle α being greater than 0° and less than 90°, preferably from 15° to 75°, more preferably from 20° to 70°, and preferably wherein at least one, preferably at least 10%, more preferably at least 40%, even more preferably at least 50%, most preferably substantially all, of the elongated, oblique elements (1061) have a total length (Lo) that is at least substantially equal to, preferably greater than, the width (wc) of the channel along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48),and preferably wherein the discrete bonding regions are free of adhesive and typically comprise mechanical bonds. This advantageously allows for a permanent bond between the upper and lower layers of the core wrap, limiting the presence of additional hydrophobic substances such as adhesives therebetween while maximizing the unbonded spaces therebetween to enhance fluid flow through the channel. Without being bound by any theory, such bonds also interact synergistically with the acquisition distribution layer, enhancing its ability to be in intimate contact with the skin-facing layer of the upper core wrap and to form trenches in the dry state that become planar upon wetting as the absorbent material begins to swell and bulge.

[0144] Absorbent cores 101, 501, 601 according to the present disclosure may include: a front portion 122; a back portion 124; a middle portion 126 positioned between the front portion 122 and the back portion 124; and a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the core 101, 501, 601 and intersecting the front, middle and back portions 122, 126, 124, wherein the absorbent core 101, 501, 601 comprises a width extending perpendicular to the length and a perimeter having at least two opposite ends 102, 103 and at least two opposite sides 104, 105 positioned between the ends 102, 103, wherein the core 101, 501, 601 is optionally a multi-layer core comprising at least two different core layers 502, 503, 602, 603, wherein a first core layer 502, 602 comprises a first concentration of superabsorbent polymer 504,604 therein, and a second core layer 503, 603 may comprise a second concentration of superabsorbent polymer 504, 604 therein, wherein the first concentration and the second concentration may be different, wherein at least the first core layer 502, 602 comprises one or more channels 106, wherein the channel(s) 106 may be continuous and interconnected at least along the length and width of the core 101, 501, 601, such that at least two channel portions 107, 108 extending along the length are in fluid communication via a connecting channel portion 109 positioned proximal to the rear portion 124. This arrangement is advantageous in that synergistic and efficient fluid distribution and absorption is achieved in the core, wherein the channel shape provides immediate fluid redistribution along the core length and width, particularly from the front to the back of the article.and the multi-layer core arrangement with different concentrations of superabsorbent polymer enables more efficient absorption of fluids in several ways and reduces the risk of gel blocking.

[0145] Preferably, the channel(s) 106 do not extend to any of the edges forming the perimeter of the absorbent core 101, 501, 601, and may include leading terminal ends 110, 111, typically proximal to the leading portion 122 of the core, and corresponding trailing terminal ends 110', 111', typically proximal to the trailing portion 124 and distal from the leading portion 122. Each of the channels is preferably substantially interconnected between the leading terminal end 110, 111 and the corresponding trailing terminal end 110', 111'.

[0146] In one embodiment, the connecting channel portion 109 forms a substantially U-shaped arch, preferably with the first core layer 502, 602 comprising a single channel 106. Such a shape optimizes the fluid distribution properties of the core.

[0147] In one embodiment, the channel(s) 106 comprise(s) a single connecting channel portion 109 such that a continuous region of superabsorbent polymer (typically in the length / width plane of the core) is formed around the channel(s), and substantially no region of superabsorbent polymer is completely surrounded by portions of the channel(s) 106. This arrangement allows for optimal fluid distribution with limited risk of formation of over- and undersaturated regions in the core, as well as reducing the risk of delamination of connected layers forming the channel(s).

[0148] In one embodiment, at least one of the interconnected channels 106, preferably each of the channels 106, forms a shape with an open end in the form of two diverging ends or a funnel shape and an opposite closed end formed by the connecting channel portion 109, preferably with the open end positioned proximal to the front portion 122 of the absorbent core 101 and distal to the closed end. Advantages include, among other things, enhanced fluid distribution from the front to the back of the article.

[0149] In one embodiment, the first core layer 502, 602 comprises at least one core-wrap substrate 505, 506, 605, 606 surrounding the superabsorbent polymer therebetween, and wherein an upper layer 505, 605 of the core-wrap is bonded to a lower layer 506, 606 of the core-wrap in regions of the core comprising the channel(s) 106, preferably such that there is substantially no (i.e., less than 1 wt.%, preferably less than 0.5 wt.%, more preferably less than 0.1 wt.%, even more preferably less than 0.05 wt.%, most preferably about 0 wt.%, based on the weight of the core-wrap substrate) superabsorbent polymer 504, 604 present in the channel(s) 106. This ensures that fluids can flow quickly along the channel direction without their path being slowed by swelling / absorption.

[0150] In one embodiment, the first core layer 502, 602 further comprises separate cellulosic fibers 507, 607 blended with the superabsorbent polymer 504, 604, and the second core layer 503, 603 is free of the separate cellulosic fibers 507, 607. This arrangement allows for additional "localized" fluid distribution provided by the separate cellulosic fibers, which direct fluid to the superabsorbent polymer distributed thereby and are then absorbed and held in place by it.

[0151] In one embodiment, the second core layer 503, 603 is typically flake-free and comprises a nonwoven backing having an upper backing layer 508, 608 and a lower backing layer 509, 609 and superabsorbent polymer therebetween, wherein the superabsorbent polymer is in the form of particles immobilized in the backing, and wherein the upper backing layer 508, 608 is a carded nonwoven made of staple fibers or spunbonded meltblown spunbonded nonwoven, and wherein the lower backing layer 509, 609 is a carded nonwoven made of staple fibers or spunbonded meltblown spunbonded nonwoven (preferably wherein the upper and lower backing layers are different), preferably wherein the upper and lower backing layers are mechanically bonded together, preferably by water jet entanglement, preferably wherein the upper backing layer 508, 608 consists of staple fibers,which can be penetrated by the superabsorbent polymer particles, and the lower carrier layer 509, 609 consists of a nonwoven fabric that is water-jet entangled with the upper carrier layer 508, 608. This arrangement allows the formation of a flake-free core layer with immobilized superabsorbent particles that retain their position, thereby limiting the bulkiness of the product and maximizing the absorption and fluid fixation properties of the layer.

[0152] In one embodiment, the second core layer 503, 603 is core-wrap-free and comprises a single nonwoven carrier layer with immobilized superabsorbent polymer thereon or therein, wherein the nonwoven carrier layer is porous and the superabsorbent polymer is in the form of particles and is immobilized by mechanical means such as ultrasound, one or more adhesives, and combinations thereof. This arrangement has been found to be advantageous for further reducing bulk and starting materials of the core. In particular, by fixing particles in the substrate, e.g., by ultrasound, such immobilization can be achieved without chemical bonding treatments, thus also reducing the risk of chemical contamination and / or the need for multiple / additional layers to wrap the particles.

[0153] The second concentration of superabsorbent polymer 504, 604 may be greater than the first concentration of superabsorbent polymer 504, 604, preferably with the second concentration being at least 1.5 times, preferably 2 times, greater than the first concentration. This provides advantages such as a reduced risk of gel blocking.

[0154] In one embodiment, the second core layer 503, 603 is positioned beneath the first core layer 502, 602, and wherein the second core layer 503, 603 comprises a first region of superabsorbent polymer particles 504 on a surface thereof opposite the first core layer 502, 602, wherein the first region is arranged in a pattern that substantially follows the shape of the channel(s) 106 at least along a plane formed by the core length and width, such that the shape of the channel(s) 106 substantially corresponds to that of the pattern. Typically, the first region of superabsorbent polymer particles is the only region of the second core layer 503, 603 comprising superabsorbent polymer particles, preferably wherein the second core layer 503, 603 comprises superabsorbent polymer fibers except in the first region, wherein the first region is free of superabsorbent polymer fibers.This arrangement enables the dual property of maximizing absorption effects across the core surface as well as providing a multisensory (e.g., visual and active) signal that the core is saturated.

[0155] Typically, the second core layer 503, 603 is free of cellulosic fibers and comprises, and preferably consists of, superabsorbent fibers or a blend of superabsorbent fibers (as described herein) and synthetic fibers.

[0156] In one embodiment, the second core layer 503, 603 is smaller than the first core layer 502, 602 in a plane corresponding to the core length and width. This enables an optimization between performance requirements and raw material usage and costs.

[0157] Absorbent cores 101 according to the present disclosure may comprise: a front portion 122; a back portion 124; a middle portion 126 positioned between the front portion 122 and the back portion 124; and a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the core 101 and intersecting the front portion, crotch portion, and back portion 122, 126, 124, wherein the absorbent core 101 comprises a width extending perpendicular to the length and a perimeter comprising at least two opposite ends 102, 103 and at least two opposite sides 104, 105 positioned between the ends 102, 103, wherein the absorbent core 101 comprises one or more, optionally substantially interconnected, channels 106 having a first shape when the absorbent core 101 is in a dry state and a second shape when the absorbent core is in a wet state,and wherein the first and second shapes are different. In the course of the invention, it has been found that this arrangement makes it possible to provide a more effective alternative to standard visual wetness indicators, which use a simple color change to provide such an indication. Indeed, the change in channel shape under dry / wet conditions provides not only an immediate visual indication, but also a tactile indication, so that the two senses combine to provide a unique warning to the caregiver that the absorbent article should be replaced.

[0158] In one embodiment, the first shape and the second shape are visually distinguishable and arranged to provide a visual and / or tactile indication that the core is saturated with exudates.

[0159] Preferably, the absorbent core comprises a single substantially interconnected channel 106 in the dry state and more preferably a plurality (typically two) separate channels 206 in the wet state.

[0160] In one embodiment, the interconnected channel 106 comprises a U-bend proximal to the back end of the absorbent article and a first / second terminal end 110, 111 proximal to the front of the absorbent article, generally in the dry state, and in the wet state (i.e., when saturated with exudates and / or liquid), the channel is separated into a plurality (preferably two) separate channels 206, wherein the separate channels 206 are typically free of the U-bend.

[0161] In a preferred embodiment, as in Fig.As shown in Figure 18A, the interconnected channel 106, in the dry state, comprises the first / second terminal ends 110, 111, which are arranged to diverge to form an open and / or funnel-shaped end opposite a closed end formed by the U-bend. An advantage of this shape is to increase the velocity, particularly of fluid distribution and the early stages of excretion.

[0162] When wet, the channel described above is arranged to change its shape as shown in Fig.18B, wherein the single interconnected channel becomes a plurality (preferably two) discontinuous channels substantially free of the U-bend. Preferably, the shape of the channels in the wet state is the same as the shape in the dry state, except that the U-bend is absent, so that one channel (in the dry state) becomes two channels (in the wet state). This typically occurs by breaking the connection forming the U-bend channel portion as the absorbent material expands upon absorbing liquid.

[0163] Such a change in shape can be achieved in a number of ways, which are described below as preferred but non-limiting embodiments.

[0164] In one embodiment, the core comprises at least one core-wrap substrate surrounding one or more absorbent materials therein, wherein the absorbent material is preferably selected from the group consisting of superabsorbent polymers, cellulosic fibers, and combinations thereof, and wherein an upper layer of the core-wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core-wrap to form one or more interconnected channels 106 that are free of the absorbent material (generally in a dry state). Typically, regions where the upper and lower layers are unbonded include absorbent material therebetween (generally separating the upper layer from the lower layer), and regions where the upper and lower layers are bonded are substantially free of absorbent material to form channels with the absorbent material of the core.Preferably, the bonded topsheet and backsheet of the core wrap comprise a first bond in at least two separate regions of the channel(s) 106 and a second bond in at least one other region of the channel(s) 106 connecting the at least two separate regions, and wherein the second bond is arranged to break upon liquid saturation and / or expansion of the absorbent material, while the first bond is arranged to remain intact upon liquid saturation and / or expansion of the absorbent material, preferably wherein the other region is the U-bend of the channel(s). More preferably, the channel is arranged such that in the dry state, one or more, preferably a single, interconnected channels 106 are visible, and in the wet state, a plurality, preferably two, separate channels 206 are visible.However, it will be apparent that a core wrap (although preferred) is not necessary to achieve this effect and rather other means could be provided, such as by bonding a topside layer directly or indirectly to a backside layer in a similar manner without the need for a core wrap (thus the same features as described above can be present / replaced by a topside layer / backside layer instead of the core wrap).

[0165] The first bond and the second bond may comprise a first adhesive and a second adhesive, respectively. The first adhesive and the second adhesive are different; for example, the second adhesive is selected to be soluble in contact with liquid at body temperature (about 37°C), such as low-melting-point hot melt pressure-sensitive adhesives (i.e., a melting point of about 40°C) such as 3798LM, marketed by 3M Company. The first adhesive may be selected from hot melt adhesives that retain adhesive strength even in contact with liquid at body temperature (i.e., having a melting point greater than 60°C, preferably greater than 70°C, even more preferably greater than 90°C), such as Technomelt DM Cool 110 Dispomelt (also known as Dispomelt Cool 110), marketed by Henkel AG & Co. KGaA; or VV290F, marketed by Savare' Specialty Adhesives.In the above arrangement, the second adhesive may be applied in the U-bend area, while the first adhesive may be applied in all other areas of the channel.

[0166] In an alternative embodiment, the same adhesive can be used throughout the entire channel, but in areas that should be dispensed in a wet state, a lower pressure is applied between substrates when providing bonding force. For example, the pressure applied to the U-bend can be lower (preferably less than half) than the pressure applied to all other areas of the channel.

[0167] While the above two embodiments are examples of how different channel shapes can be achieved in dry / wet conditions, other means of achieving the inventive arrangement are also contemplated, and the application should not be limited thereto. For example, the first joint and the second joint can provide a first joint strength and a second joint strength, respectively, with the first joint strength being greater than the second joint strength. The joint strength is preferably defined as "peel strength" in the context of the present invention.

[0168] Typically, the first bond has a peel strength of greater than 5 g / mm, preferably greater than 6 g / mm, even more preferably from 7 g / mm to 50 g / mm and the second bond has a peel strength of less than 5 g / mm, preferably from 0.1 g / mm to 4 g / mm, more preferably from 0.2 g / mm to 3.5 g / mm, even more preferably from 0.3 g / mm to 3 g / mm, wherein the peel strength is generally determined according to ASTM Designation: D1876-72, "Standard Test Methods for Peel Resistance of Adhesives (T-Peel Test)", which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

[0169] In a preferred embodiment, the first compound has a first hanging shear value and the second compound has a second hanging shear value, wherein the first hanging shear value is greater than the second hanging shear value, wherein the hanging shear value is determined according to the hanging shear test described herein. Preferably, the first hanging shear value is greater than 14 minutes (min) and is preferably 15 min to 40 min, more preferably 20 min to 35 min, even more preferably 22 min to 29 min. Preferably, the second hanging shear value is less than 14 min and is preferably 0.5 min to 10 min, more preferably 1 min to 5 min.

[0170] Absorbent cores 101 according to embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise: a front portion 122; a back portion 124; a crotch portion (also referred to herein as a "mid-portion") 126 positioned between the front portion 122 and the back portion 124; and a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the core 101 and intersecting the front portion, crotch portion, and back portion 122, 126, 124, wherein the absorbent core 101 comprises a width extending perpendicular to the length and a perimeter comprising at least two opposing ends 102, 103 and at least two opposing sides 104, 105 positioned between the ends 102, 103, wherein the absorbent core 101 comprises one or more substantially interconnected channels 106 extending through at least a portion of the crotch portion 126 (preferably comprising at least 60%more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80% of a section length substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis) along the length of the core and along at least a portion of the width of the core, typically along and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and from one side of the core [e.g., a first side 104] to the other [e.g., a second side 105], wherein the one or more substantially interconnected channels 106 are preferably symmetrical or asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis. An advantage of such an arrangement with interconnected channels is that it allows for a faster, immediate distribution of fluid across the core compared to a core devoid of such interconnected channels or cores having only discontinuous channels.This contributes to limiting core oversaturation in the fluid excretion area. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that by distributing the fluid over the core and immediately away from the fluid excretion site, the individual experiences a sensation of dryness and skin comfort, as well as a perception of prolonged dryness in the user.

[0171] The longitudinal axis of the core referred to here may be largely parallel to the longitudinal direction 48 and may be used synonymously here (as for example in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12), and the width of the nucleus or the latitudinal axis of the nucleus referred to here may be largely parallel to the lateral direction 49 (also referred to here as the transverse axis) and may be used synonymously here (as for example in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 illustrates).

[0172] In one embodiment, the one or more interconnected channels are shaped to effectively direct fluid away from a discharge region, typically by forming a shape having a distance gradient between opposing surfaces of the interconnected channels, preferably by forming a funnel-shaped profile.

[0173] In one embodiment, the channels form a geometric shape across the absorbent core and along a plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core, wherein the geometric shape is selected from the group consisting of semi-hourglass, V-shaped, U-shaped, pie-shaped, and combinations thereof, wherein “semi-hourglass” is understood to mean an hourglass shape with only a single end; exemplary shapes are shown in Fig. 4 shown.

[0174] In one embodiment, the channels comprise, and preferably consist of, a first nonwoven web bonded to a second nonwoven web with one or more adhesives (or an upper and a lower layer of a core wrap bonded to each other with one or more adhesives). Preferably, the adhesive is applied in zones across the width of the channels to form zones, preferably alternating zones, of different bond strength between the nonwoven web laminate. For example, the first nonwoven web may be bonded to the second nonwoven web in at least three zones along the width of the channel. Such an arrangement may comprise a first adhesive zone, a second adhesive zone, and a third adhesive zone, the second adhesive zone being located between the first and third adhesive zones along the width of the channel (e.g.on an axis parallel to the core width and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core), wherein the bond strength of the second adhesive zone is greater than the bond strength of the first and third adhesive zones. Examples of ways of achieving such greater bond strength in the second zone include using larger amounts of adhesive in that zone, applying greater mechanical pressure to that zone, or using a different type of adhesive; other ways are also contemplated, provided that stronger adhesion between nonwoven webs results in such a region.

[0175] In one embodiment, the bond strength in the first and third zones is less than the tensile force created by the absorbent material proximal to the channel upon wetting, such that the first and second nonwoven webs in the zones can separate; and wherein the bond strength in the second zone is greater than the tensile force created by the absorbent material proximal to the channel upon wetting, such that the first and second nonwoven webs in the zone cannot separate upon wetting and typically swelling of the absorbent material and rather remain firmly bonded together. An advantage of this arrangement is that under dry conditions, a noticeable channel is visible from the topsheet side of the article and / or core, providing wide channels that are further useful for channeling more fluid, particularly during initial / early discharge.This arrangement then further allows the bond in the first and third zone to fail, for example, upon swelling of the SAP, so that more volume becomes available for its expansion (and prevents early saturation or suboptimal absorption), with typically the second zone resisting such expansion and thus ensuring channel integrity even in a wet state.

[0176] In a preferred embodiment, the first nonwoven web and / or the second nonwoven web, preferably the second nonwoven web, are elastic nonwovens (e.g., containing an elastic material such as Vistamaxx resin from ExxonMobil or other suitable polymers capable of imparting elasticity to a nonwoven web). An advantage of this embodiment is that the nonwoven web wraps better and more easily around the 3D insert upon application of a vacuum and allows subsequent bonding to the first nonwoven web at a location corresponding to a position of the base of the 3D insert (opposite a protruding tip thereof). This has the advantage of limiting the formation of fluid collection basins or depressions in the channels.

[0177] The cores here have a largely straight perimeter, as in Fig. 1 and Fig.2, or may comprise symmetrical concave sections in the central portion thereof, as in Fig. 3. In the latter embodiment, the concave portions may be aligned with and / or positioned within a crotch portion of the absorbent article to provide better ergonomics and a better fit along a wearer's leg. In each of these core shape embodiments, it is preferred that the cores be symmetrical at least about their longitudinal axis. Regardless of the core geometry, it is understood herein that the same or similar channels as described herein may be used interchangeably.

[0178] In one embodiment, with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig.3, at least one, and preferably each substantially interconnected channel 106 comprises: a first channel portion 107 extending substantially along the longitudinal axis proximal to a first side 104 of the core 101; a second channel portion 108 extending substantially along the longitudinal axis proximal to a second side 105 of the core 101; and at least one, preferably only one, interconnecting channel portion 109 in fluid communication with the first and second channel portions 107, 108. An advantage of this arrangement is the rapid liquid distribution along more than one axis of the absorbent core, typically both the longitudinal and width axes thereof, to maximize the absorbent capacity of the absorbent core over its entire surface.In addition, such a geometry improves the folding of the core and thus allows for a better and tight fit to the individual's skin (with or without the addition of additional elastics proximal to the channel sections).

[0179] In this case, the connecting channel section (109) forms at least one of the interconnected channels, wherein the connecting channel section is in fluid communication with the first and second channel sections (107, 108), preferably the closed end in the form of a U-bend, preferably wherein the first and second channel sections (107, 108) diverge away from the longitudinal axis at least along a section of the connecting channel (106) typically emerging from the U-bend and thereby at least partially form a funnel-shaped interconnected channel in the vicinity of the closed end.

[0180] The first and second channel sections may be substantially linear or have a substantially curved profile, preferably selected from concave or convex, or comprise a combination of the linear and curved profiles. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second channel sections are concave in shape and generally symmetrical about at least the longitudinal axis.

[0181] The first and second channel portions may extend through at least a majority, preferably all, of the length of the crotch portion along the longitudinal axis and typically run parallel to the sides of the core that form its perimeter.

[0182] In a preferred embodiment, each interconnected channel herein comprises only a single connecting channel section 109, which typically forms a tip of the interconnected channel. An advantage of this embodiment is rapid fluid distribution throughout the core while simultaneously limiting the risk of clogging that might otherwise occur if clusters of moistened areas are formed.

[0183] Preferably, the connecting channel part 109 extends substantially along the width of the core 101 and preferably forms a closed end in a surface of the core 101 along a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis and is preferably positioned opposite an open end formed by a first and second terminal position 110, 111, which are not connected, of the interconnected channel 106, preferably the first and second channel sections 107, 108, respectively, wherein typically the first and second terminal positions 110, 111, which are not connected, are distal to each other and proximal to the first and second sides 104, 105, respectively, of the core 101, wherein the terminal positions 110, 111 are even more preferably facing away from each other, so that a funnel-shaped geometric opening is formed therebetween.Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that such a geometry helps to "channel" and collect more fluid when needed and effectively distribute it away from the collection area.

[0184] In one embodiment, and preferably in combination with the previous embodiment, the interconnected channel comprises a first (110) and a second (111) terminal position which are not connected, wherein the first terminal position (110) extends to a first side (104) of the core and / or the second terminal position (111) extends to a second side (105) of the core, as shown for example in Fig. 3. The entire width of the absorbent core can be covered by the channel, ensuring better fluid distribution.

[0185] In one embodiment, the closed end is substantially curvilinear in shape, preferably forming a convex shape between the first and second channel sections 107, 108, or substantially linear in shape, preferably forming a straight or triangular shape between the first and second channel sections 107, 108. The closed end may be formed by the connecting channel part 109. An advantage of such a shape is the increase in the contact surface with adjacent regions of three-dimensional absorbent material to better promote the absorption of the distributed liquid after removal from regions of typically high saturation.

[0186] In one embodiment, a first distance (d1) between the first channel section 107 and the second channel section 108, a second distance (d2) between the first channel section 107 and the second channel section 108, wherein the first distance (d1) is proximal to the front section 122 of the core 101 and the second distance (d2) is proximal to the rear section 124 of the absorbent core 101, and wherein the first distance (d1) is greater than the second distance (d2), preferably wherein the first distance (d1) is at least 1.5 d2, more preferably 1.8 d2 to 3 d2. One advantage here is the rapid and effective fluid distribution from areas of typically high saturation to areas of typically lower saturation.

[0187] In one embodiment, the core comprises a first nonwoven web, typically in the form of a backsheet; a second nonwoven web, typically in the form of a topsheet; and a three-dimensional absorbent material positioned between the first and second nonwoven webs to form an absorbent core laminate, typically wherein the three-dimensional absorbent material comprises a fibrous web, typically comprising airlaid fibers, and preferably comprising a predetermined amount of superabsorbent polymer dispersed therein.

[0188] In a highly preferred embodiment, the interconnected channel 106 is substantially free of three-dimensional absorbent material and preferably also free of superabsorbent polymer. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that absorbent materials retard fluid distribution relative to the effectiveness of such channels; indeed, upon absorbing fluid, the absorbent materials swell and / or saturate, effectively reducing the amount of fluid that could flow therethrough. By eliminating such materials from the channels, a highly efficient fluid distribution system can be maintained that operates substantially independently of the fluid acquisition / absorption mechanism of the adjacent regions.

[0189] In a preferred embodiment, the core comprises a plurality of substantially interconnected channels, which are preferably arranged substantially concentrically, an example of which is shown in Fig. 4E. One advantage is the exponential effectiveness of fluid distribution and channel formation, especially as adjacent areas become more saturated or swell.

[0190] In one embodiment, as in Fig. 4C and Fig.As shown in Figure 4D, the core further comprises one or more discontinuous channels, preferably a portion of which is arranged concentrically around the substantially interconnected channel. One advantage is the effective additional local, uniform fluid distribution. Furthermore, it is believed that upon saturation, as the regions adjacent to the channels swell, visual patterns can be formed, more clearly conveying the perception of the effectiveness of the entire core surface for fluid absorption.

[0191] Preferably, the substantially interconnected channels 106 have a regular or irregular depth, wherein the depth is measured on an axis perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis and the axis along the width of the core 101, preferably wherein the cross-section of the channels 106 is selected from the group consisting of curved, polygonal, or combinations thereof.

[0192] In a preferred embodiment, as in Fig. 16, the width of the interconnected channel(s) (106) may vary along the channel. Preferably, the width of the channel decreases from the terminal positions (110, 111) to the connecting channel section (109). This is shown in Fig.16, wherein the width (210a) of the channel (106) near the first terminal position (110) and the width (210b) of the channel (106) near the second terminal position (111) are greater than the width (211a) of the channel (106) in the first channel section (107) and the width (211b) of the channel (106) in the second channel section (108), which are greater than the width (212) of the channel (106) in the connecting channel section (109). Such a variation in the width of the channel sections results in faster distribution. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that the variation in width utilizes capillary effects to better promote liquid transport from the front to the back of the absorbent article.

[0193] It is understood that a number of alternative forms may be used for channels described here, examples of which are given in Fig. 4 and Fig.16 without departing from the embodiments of the disclosure described herein.

[0194] In one embodiment, the absorbent core 101 may comprise substantially continuous zones of one or more high fluid distribution structures 112 and continuous or discontinuous zones of fluid absorbent structures 113, 114 surrounding the one or more high fluid distribution structures 112, wherein the one or more high fluid distribution structures 112 are arranged to distribute fluid across the absorbent core 101 at a velocity that is faster than the velocity of fluid distribution across the absorbent core by the discontinuous fluid absorbent structures 113, 114, and wherein the continuous zones extend along a path that is substantially parallel to at least a portion of the perimeter of the core 101, wherein the portion of the perimeter of the core includes at least a portion of the sides 104, 105, preferably at least a portion of both the sides 104, 105,of the core 101 as well as one of the ends 102, 103 of the core 101 (preferably only one end 103), preferably the end 103 proximal to the rear portion 124. Advantageous in this embodiment is the separation of absorbent regions of the core with fluid distribution regions that distribute fluid uniformly over the core surface using a mechanism as described above and provide a visual perception of effectiveness.

[0195] In one embodiment, the fluid distribution structures are shaped to effectively direct fluid away from a discharge region, typically by forming a shape with a distance gradient between opposing surfaces of the structures, preferably forming a funnel-shaped profile substantially defined by one or more fluid absorption structures.

[0196] In one embodiment, the high fluid distribution structures form a geometric shape across the absorbent core and along a plane extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core, wherein the geometric shape is selected from the group consisting of semi-hourglass, V-shaped, U-shaped, pie-shaped, and combinations thereof. "Semi-hourglass" is understood to mean an hourglass shape with only a single end, such as in Fig. 4B shown.

[0197] In a preferred embodiment, the one or more high fluid distribution structures comprise, and preferably consist of, at least two nonwoven webs bonded together (for example, with an adhesive), and the zones of fluid absorption structures comprise a three-dimensional absorbent material (such as cellulosic flakes and / or fibrous web typically comprising air-laid fibers, typically of the cellulosic type) and / or a superabsorbent polymer (typically in the form of a plurality of discrete particles distributed in the three-dimensional absorbent material or directly agglomerated in one or more pockets between at least two nonwoven webs).

[0198] Preferably, the fluid distribution structures comprise substantially interconnected channels as described in the previous embodiments and the fluid absorption structures comprise a three-dimensional absorbent material and / or superabsorbent polymer as described in the previous embodiments. ABSORBENT ARTICLES

[0199] Absorbent articles 10, 20, 300, 500, 600 according to the present disclosure comprise a core 101, 501, 601 disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet 520, 620 and a liquid-impermeable backsheet 521, 621, and typically an acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 as described herein positioned between the topsheet 520, 620 and the core 101, 501, 601. Preferably, the backsheet comprises a print or graphic visible from the garment-facing side of the article and substantially conforming to the shape and / or contour of the channel(s) 106. The latter has the advantage of further emphasizing the visual perception of the presence of such a channel and its location within the absorbent article.

[0200] In embodiments having a plurality of core layers, a first portion of the second core layer 503, 603 preferably swells upon saturation with exudates, forming one or more protrusions 525 visible from a garment-facing side of the article, the protrusions having a shape substantially corresponding to the shape of the one or more channels 106, thereby providing the caregiver with an indication that the absorbent article is saturated and should be replaced. One advantage is that a truly multisensory warning is provided that the absorbent article should be replaced.

[0201] In one embodiment, the print or graphic comprises a plurality of color shades, with the darkest shade positioned such that when the article 10, 20, 300, 500, 600 is in the wet state, the darkest shade is located at a tip of each of the one or more protrusions 525. One advantage is that a graduated warning is provided; as the protrusions increase in size upon swelling, the darker shade becomes more (visually) obvious until the fully saturated / expanded state.

[0202] In one aspect of the disclosure, an absorbent article may comprise a core 101 as described above, wherein the article is preferably selected from disposable diapers or pants, disposable incontinence diapers or pants, sanitary napkins, or pantiliners, and typically wherein the channel(s) in the core remain(s) visible both before and after use of the article and have(s) a first shape when the absorbent core 101 is in a dry state and a second shape when the absorbent core is in a wet state, wherein the first and second shapes are different. Preferably, the channel(s) is / are visible when viewed from a garment side and / or skin-facing side of the article, preferably when viewing a backsheet of the article from its garment side.Preferably, the channels in the core remain visible both before and after use of the article, preferably with the channels being more visible after use than before use of the article.

[0203] In one embodiment, the absorbent article comprises a topsheet and a backsheet directly or indirectly surrounding the core, wherein the backsheet and / or the topsheet comprise(s) a color different from the color of the core, preferably wherein the backsheet has a color different from the color of the topsheet and the core, so that the channels can be visually distinguishable from the topsheet side of the article. ACQUISITION AND DISTRIBUTION LAYER

[0204] A particular component preferably used in absorbent articles herein is an acquisition and distribution layer (ADL). The ADL can be positioned on a body-facing side of the absorbent core, between the topsheet and the absorbent core of the absorbent article, and more preferably in close proximity to or even in good contact (most preferably in direct contact) with the body-facing side of the absorbent core. The use of an ADL in combination with the fluid distribution structures and / or interconnected channels of the present invention results in an extremely good distribution of fluids from a waste area to the entire absorbent core while maintaining excellent perceived dryness performance.

[0205] In one embodiment, the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 for use herein comprises a spunbonded nonwoven layer and / or carded, preferably a carded thermally bonded, nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 80% by weight of the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 and wherein the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m 2 , preferably from 15 to 40 g / m 2 , more preferably from 18 to 35 g / m 2 , even more preferably from 20 to 30 g / m 2 , most preferably from 21 to 25 g / m 2 has.

[0206] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 has a specific volume of less than 11.4 cm 3 / g, preferably less than 11.3 cm 3 / g, more preferably 5.5 cm 3 / g up to 11.2 cm 3 / g, even more preferably from 8.5 cm3 / g up to 11.17 cm 3 / g. Advantageously, a specific volume within these ranges allows for the limitation of sponge-like rewetting disadvantages, but still ensures fast acquisition rates when combined with channeled cores as described here.

[0207] Preferably, the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 90% by weight, preferably from 95% to 100%, based on the weight of the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622.

[0208] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 is made of synthetic fibers and is preferably free of cellulose fibers. More preferably, the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 is treated, such as with a surfactant, to render the layer 522, 622 hydrophilic. Preferably, the synthetic fibers comprise and are preferably made of polypropylene fibers. Advantageously, the perceived dryness is improved by further eliminating cellulose fibers from the AVS.

[0209] In one embodiment, the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 is a, preferably single-layer, spunbonded or carded nonwoven fabric, or the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 consists of a, preferably single-layer, spunbonded or carded nonwoven fabric, and the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 is free of air-bonded, air-laid and / or meltblown nonwoven layers.

[0210] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 has an average flow pore size of 15 µm to 200 µm, preferably from 30 µm to 150 µm, more preferably from 45 µm to 130 µm, even more preferably from 55 µm to 110 µm, even more preferably from 60 µm to less than 100 µm, even more preferably from 65 µm to 95 µm, even more preferably from 70 µm to 90 µm. Without being bound by any theory, if the pore size is too small, the nonwoven will retain more liquid therein and have reduced liquid wicking performance; on the other hand, if the pore size is too large, the nonwoven will not have desirable wicking properties to still provide acceptable liquid distribution throughout the core.

[0211] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 has a first center position C AD and the absorbent core 101, 501, 601 has a second central position C cand wherein the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 is positioned asymmetrically over the absorbent core 101, 501, 601, so that the first center position C ADL and the second middle position C c are offset at least along the longitudinal axis 48, preferably with the acquisition distribution layer 522, 622 positioned so that it does not overlap with a portion of the channel 106 that extends in the width direction along an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 48. This arrangement has the advantage of raw material cost savings by ensuring that the AVS is positioned where it is most needed, and also by ensuring that a portion of the channel remains exposed (particularly the U-bend of the channel) without compromising the front-to-back velocity of fluid flow through the channel.

[0212] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a relative porosity of less than 9000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 1000 L / m 2 / s up to 8000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 2000 L / m 2 / s up to 7000 L / m 2 / s, more preferably 3000 L / m 2 / s up to 5000 L / m 2 / s, especially preferably 3500 L / m 2 / s up to 4500 L / m 2 / s. Advantageously, nonwovens with a relative porosity within these ranges enable reduced spongy behavior while providing good fluid distribution performance.

[0213] In the course of the invention, it has been found that the fluid distribution in embodiments of the absorbent article according to some aspects of the present disclosure comprising an AVS may depend on the relative size and positioning of the AVS with respect to the fluid distribution structure and in particular the channels of the absorbent core.

[0214] The Fig. 17A-G illustrate embodiments with an AVS (201) and its relative size and position with respect to interconnected channels (106). Fig. Figure 17A shows an embodiment wherein the AVS (201) completely covers the channel(s) (106). Such an arrangement already represents an improvement over prior art arrangements, since the combined effects of the AVS and the interconnected channels lead to a significant improvement in the distribution of fluids throughout the entire absorbent core. Nevertheless, it has been found in the course of the invention that certain arrangements provide even greater improvements in the distribution of liquids, and these arrangements are shown in the Fig. 17B-G and are discussed further below.

[0215] Fig.Figure 17B illustrates a preferred embodiment wherein the AVS (201) is narrower than at least a portion of the channel (106) and is positioned such that the first (110) and second (111) terminal positions extend beyond the side edges (202, 203) of the AVS.

[0216] Fig. 17C and Fig. 17E illustrate a preferred embodiment wherein the AVS (201) is positioned such that the connecting channel portion (109) or ends of the channel(s) (106) extend proximal to the rear of the core beyond the rear edge (204) of the AVS. The connecting channel portion (109), if present, comprises a U-bend or has the shape of a U-bend.

[0217] Fig. 17D and Fig.17F illustrate a preferred embodiment wherein the AVS (201) is narrower than at least a portion of the channel(s) (106) and is positioned such that the first (110) and second (111) terminal positions extend beyond the side edges (202, 203) of the AVS, and wherein the AVS (201) is positioned such that the connecting channel portion (109) or opposing edges of the channel(s) extend proximal to the rear of the core beyond a rear edge (204) of the AVS. The connecting channel portion (109) preferably comprises or has the shape of a U-bend.

[0218] Fig. Figure 17G illustrates another preferred embodiment with more than two channels (106), wherein the AVS is positioned so as not to overlap a portion of at least one, preferably at least two, of the channels. This portion is preferably proximal to the rear of the core.

[0219] These arrangements, which are contained in the Fig.17B-G have in common that certain ends of the interconnected channel(s) (106), particularly the terminal positions (110, 111) (typically the terminal positions proximal to the backside of the core) and / or the connecting channel portion (109), if present, are not covered by the AVS and are thus more intimately exposed to the wearer. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that these ends are particularly advantageous in the functioning of the interconnected channel (106) in distributing fluids from the waste region to regions of the absorbent core that are not typically exposed, at least not directly, to fluid waste. It is believed that by ensuring that the AVS does not cover some or all of these ends, fluid inflow and / or outflow for the interconnected channels is maximized.Furthermore, these embodiments allow the use of a smaller AVS and thus less starting material in the absorbent article.

[0220] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned so that it does not overlap with a portion of at least one of the channels (106), the portion being located at a position proximal to the back (124) of the core and distal to the front (122) of the core.

[0221] In one embodiment, the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises a plurality of layers, and wherein at least one of the layers, preferably each of the layers, consists of spunbonded nonwoven fabric and / or carded nonwoven fabric, and wherein at least the layer (101, 501, 601) most distal from the body-facing side of the absorbent core consists of spunbonded nonwoven fabric and / or carded nonwoven fabric, preferably wherein both the most distal layer and the layer most proximal to the body-facing side (also referred to herein as the "skin-facing" side) (101, 501, 601) consist of spunbonded nonwoven fabric and / or carded nonwoven fabric.

[0222] In a highly preferred embodiment, the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is bonded to the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) at one or more bonding zones, wherein the one or more bonding zones are positioned outside and / or inside the channel(s) (106) such that the bonding zones do not substantially overlap the channel(s) (106), wherein the bonding zones preferably comprise one or more adhesives. This advantageously allows for better promotion of initial fluid transport from the AVS to the channels (and along the core) by limiting hydrophobicity between the channel regions and the AVS, which further helps to reduce perceived wetness upon application of pressure and / or weight when the absorbent article is soiled, but at the same time keeps the AVS in close contact with the core so that liquid can be effectively distributed throughout the core.

[0223] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a thickness of less than 0.5 mm, preferably from 0.1 to 0.4 mm, more preferably from 0.15 to 0.3 mm, according to the method described herein. Advantageously, limiting the thickness of the AVS reduces spongy behavioral effects that can lead to perceived rewetting, but too small a thickness negatively impacts the fluid distribution capabilities of the AVS.

[0224] Preferably, the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a wetness retention factor of less than 11, preferably less than 10.5, preferably from 1 to 10, more preferably from 2 to 9, even more preferably from 2.5 to 8, most preferably from 3 to 7.5, according to the method described herein. The wetness retention factor essentially determines the ability of the AVS to retain liquid therein and thus its sponge-like properties. The higher the wetness retention factor, the greater the perceived rewetting will be. When using cores with channels, choosing AVS with a wetness retention within the above ranges advantageously helps to limit the perceived rewetting without appreciably affecting the fluid handling properties of the channels.

[0225] In a preferred embodiment, the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises at least two layers, wherein a first layer is positioned proximal to the topsheet (520, 620) and wherein the second layer is positioned proximal to the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) and distal to the topsheet (520, 620), wherein the first layer is more hydrophobic than the second layer, preferably wherein the first layer consists of a perforated film layer and / or wherein the second layer consists of a fibrous layer, typically consisting of a spunbonded or carded nonwoven fabric. The first layer can generally have a first contact angle of greater than 120°, preferably from 120° to 135°, and the second layer can have a second contact angle of 90° or less.Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that such an arrangement enables an increase in the rate at which the liquid is forced from the upper layer to the lower layer and a subsequent limitation of the perceived rewetting. MANUFACTURING PROCESSES AND USES

[0226] Referring to Fig.25, the present disclosure further relates to a method of making an absorbent article having one or more channels, which method may comprise the following steps: i. providing a mold comprising a non-porous insert therein, the insert having the inverse shape of the channel(s), the mold, with the exception of the insert, being in fluid communication with a negative pressure source; ii. applying a first nonwoven web (700) to the mold; iii. applying a three-dimensional absorbent material (701) (also referred to herein as absorbent material), typically comprising cellulosic fibers and superabsorbent polymer(s) (generally in the form of superabsorbent polymer particles), over at least a portion of the nonwoven web; iv.Removing the absorbent material (701) from regions of the nonwoven web corresponding to the insert, such as by arranging the negative pressure source so that a vacuum force forces the absorbent material around the insert to substantially evacuate a contacting surface of the nonwoven web of the absorbent material, or by mechanical means such as using a brush; v. Applying a second nonwoven web (702) directly or indirectly over the absorbent material or folding the first nonwoven web such that the absorbent material is disposed between an upper and a lower layer of the nonwoven web(s); vi. Joining the upper and lower layers at least in the regions of the nonwoven web corresponding to the insert to form an absorbent core having one or more channels having the inverse shape of the insert; vii.Bonding an acquisition distribution layer (201) to the absorbent core, typically a skin-facing surface of the topsheet; viii. Optionally, laminating the absorbent core and the acquisition distribution layer between a liquid-permeable topsheet and a liquid-impermeable backsheet; wherein step vii. comprises the step of applying an adhesive pattern to the acquisition distribution layer (typically the garment-facing side thereof, i.e., the side opposite the skin-facing surface thereof) or a skin-facing surface of the topsheet of the core and laminating the acquisition distribution layer to the absorbent core, wherein the adhesive pattern is positioned inside and / or outside the channel(s) such that substantially no adhesive pattern contacts the channel(s).overlaps the channels, and wherein the acquisition distribution layer comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer. It has surprisingly been found that by using spunbonded and / or carded nonwovens and bonding them tightly and / or directly to the core in such a way that no adhesive is present in the channel areas, not only is the rewetting performance of the product improved by limiting sponge-like effects, but the high fluid drainage performance of the channels is also maintained.

[0227] Preferably, the pattern is in the form of a plurality of stripes or spirals spaced apart along a transverse axis (49) and extending along the longitudinal axis (48). Such patterns have been found to be particularly effective in ensuring good coverage for secure bonding of the layers, while simultaneously allowing their positioning while largely avoiding overlap with the channels.

[0228] In one embodiment, step vii comprises the step of selectively applying pressure to the acquisition distribution layer and the absorbent core in the channel(s) such that the acquisition layer is pressed into contact with the top layer of the nonwoven web(s), preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer is arranged to be in contact with the top layer in the dry state, so that one or more trenches are formed, and to be free to move away from the top layer in the wet state. Advantageously, this arrangement enables rapid transfer of liquid to the channel at an initial stage and then, as the absorbent material swells, the acquisition distribution layer moves away from the channel, promoting better dryness and allowing the absorbent material to absorb the collected liquid.The selective pressure may be performed with a pressure roller (703) profiled with one or more projections (704) to selectively apply pressure in the channels, but it would be apparent to one skilled in the art that similar results can be achieved by other means such as using a compliant material, such as silicone, coated pressure rollers and adjusting the pressure to be applied.

[0229] In an embodiment not shown, the acquisition distribution layer (201) may first be bonded to a liquid-permeable topsheet and then to the top layer of the core wrap of the absorbent core.

[0230] The mold cavities may be provided in plurality and arranged along a circumference of a rotating drum (705). The adhesive may be applied to the respective substrates via one or more adhesive applicators (706), which may be arranged such that adhesive is sprayed onto the respective substrates or applied by slot coating.

[0231] In one embodiment, the method of manufacturing an absorbent core 101 may include the following steps: i. providing a mold including a three-dimensional (i.e., 3D) insert therein, the 3D insert having the inverse shape of the desired channels, wherein substantially the entire surface of the mold except for the 3D insert is in fluid communication with the vacuum source; ii. Applying a first nonwoven web to the mold; iii. applying a three-dimensional absorbent material over at least a portion of the nonwoven fabric; iv. Applying a second nonwoven web directly or indirectly over the three-dimensional absorbent material; v. optionally applying a bonding step to form a laminate comprising the first nonwoven fabric, the second nonwoven fabric and the three-dimensional absorbent material therebetween; vi. optionally removing the laminate from the mold to form an absorbent core having channels with the inverse shape of the 3D insert; andwherein, at least for the duration of step iii, the negative pressure source is arranged to provide a vacuum force forcing the three-dimensional absorbent material around the 3D insert so that its surface is substantially evacuated of the three-dimensional absorbent material and forms channels substantially free of three-dimensional absorbent material. Such a process has been found to be more effective in producing channels substantially free of three-dimensional absorbent material compared to processes using embossing (i.e.Creation of channels of high density / packed three-dimensional absorbent material) or material removal processes, in which three-dimensional absorbent material is removed from a preformed core structure, which inevitably results in the presence of some three-dimensional absorbent material that may impair effective / uniform fluid distribution upon saturation of the material, are effective.

[0232] Fig. 15A and Fig. 15B illustrate an example of a mold with a 3D insert as described herein.

[0233] In one embodiment, the mold comprises a plurality of perforations or openings across its surface, typically forming channels arranged to be in fluid communication (preferably air communication) with the vacuum source. Preferably, the 3D insert is positioned above and / or over the mold surface having a plurality of the perforations or openings, and the 3D insert is free of the perforations or openings and consists of a solid component that is not in fluid communication with the vacuum source.

[0234] Preferably, the 3D insert has a cross-sectional shape from the group consisting of square, rectangular, oval, semicircular and combinations thereof.

[0235] Further preferably, the 3D insert has the same or varying thickness across its perimeter.

[0236] In one embodiment, the 3D insert is 3D printed, preferably from a material selected from alumide, or from metal, and is formed by milling or casting.

[0237] In a preferred embodiment, the bonding step comprises applying an adhesive to a surface of the second nonwoven web and bonding the web to the first nonwoven web and / or the three-dimensional absorbent material, wherein the adhesive is preferably applied in continuous or discontinuous spaced stripes aligned with the channels such that the resulting core laminate has adhesive-rich and adhesive-poor regions, the adhesive-rich regions being located substantially along the channels and the adhesive-poor regions being located in regions of the core different from the channels. An advantage of this embodiment is that the risk of bonding of absorbent material in the channels is limited and, rather, the topsheet and backsheet nonwovens are directly bonded to each other at these channel locations.

[0238] In one embodiment, the adhesive is applied in zones across the width of the channels to form zones, preferably alternating zones, of different bond strengths between the laminate. For example, the first nonwoven web may be bonded to the second nonwoven web at at least three zones along the width of the channel. Such an arrangement may comprise a first adhesive zone, a second adhesive zone, and a third adhesive zone, wherein the second adhesive zone is disposed between the first and third adhesive zones along the width of the channel (e.g., on an axis parallel to the core width and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the core), the bond strength of the second adhesive zone being greater than the bond strength of the first and third adhesive zones.Examples of ways to achieve such greater bond strength in the second zone include using larger quantities of adhesive in that zone, applying greater mechanical pressure to that zone, or using a different type of adhesive; other ways are also envisaged, provided that stronger adhesion between nonwoven webs is achieved in such an area.

[0239] In one embodiment, the bond strength in the first and third zones is less than the tensile force created by the absorbent material proximal to the channel upon wetting, such that the first and second nonwoven webs in the zones can separate upon wetting; and wherein the bond strength in the second zone is greater than the tensile force created by the absorbent material proximal to the channel upon wetting, such that the first and second nonwoven webs in the zone cannot separate upon swelling of the absorbent material and rather remain firmly bonded. An advantage of this arrangement is that under dry conditions, a noticeable channel is visible from the topsheet side of the article and / or core, providing wide channels that are further useful for channeling more fluid, particularly during initial / early discharge.This arrangement then further allows the bond in the first and third zone to fail, for example, upon swelling of the SAP, so that more volume becomes available for its expansion (and prevents early saturation or suboptimal absorption), with typically the second zone resisting such expansion and thus ensuring channel integrity even in a wet state.

[0240] In a preferred embodiment, the first nonwoven web and / or the second nonwoven web, preferably the second nonwoven web, are elastic nonwovens (e.g., containing an elastic material such as Vistamaxx resin from ExxonMobil). An advantage of this embodiment is that the nonwoven web wraps better and more easily around the 3D insert upon application of a vacuum and allows subsequent bonding to the first nonwoven web at a location corresponding to a position of the base of the 3D insert (opposite a protruding tip thereof). This has the advantage of limiting the formation of fluid collection basins or depressions in the channels.

[0241] More preferably, the channels are formed essentially only by vacuum force and without additional mechanical action such as embossing.

[0242] In one embodiment, the adhesive is applied such that, upon lamination, the first and second nonwoven webs being bonded are substantially flush with the unbonded portions of the second nonwoven fabric at the channel locations, thus limiting the formation of fluid retention pockets in the resulting laminated core. An advantage of this embodiment is that it prevents the formation of fluid pockets that can reduce the individual's comfort.

[0243] The mold described above can be contained within the perimeter of a rotary drum apparatus, with the drum apparatus typically having a plurality of the molds along its perimeter. The drum apparatus can be integrated into existing absorbent core laminate forming apparatus. An advantage of such a simple arrangement is that it enables the formation of such new absorbent cores in a simple and effective manner without significant capital investment for a substantial remodeling of large portions of existing core forming facilities.

[0244] The disclosure also relates to the use of an absorbent core as described in the preceding sections herein for improved liquid distribution as compared to the same absorbent article having a core that is free of substantially interconnected channels.

[0245] The disclosure further relates to the use of an absorbent core described in the preceding sections herein in an absorbent article described above for providing a three-stage fluid acquisition, typically comprising a first fluid distribution at a first velocity, a second fluid distribution at a second velocity, and a third fluid distribution at a third velocity, wherein the first velocity is greater than or equal to the second velocity and the third velocity is less than the first velocity and less than or equal to the second velocity, preferably wherein the first fluid distribution is driven by the substantially interconnected channels,The second fluid distribution is driven by a three-dimensional absorbent material provided in the core, and the third fluid distribution is driven by an amount of superabsorbent polymer distributed in the three-dimensional absorbent material. Without being bound by any theory, it is believed that the novel cores described here, with the described new arrangement of interconnected channels, make it possible to obtain a unique and entirely novel fluid distribution and absorption system, wherein, firstly, the channels ensure rapid fluid distribution / evacuation from the excretory area,then a further distribution from adjacent surfaces of the channels to other sections of the core takes place via the three-dimensional absorbent material and finally the superabsorbent polymer distributed in the three-dimensional absorbent material, upon confrontation with liquid, begins to absorb the liquid and swell, so that the three-dimensional absorbent material can spread and transfer a larger amount of the fluid to the superabsorbent polymer. Hanging shear test procedure:

[0246] A core (unused, ie in dry state) with a channel as described here is cut into several samples with a size of approximately 5 cm × 10 cm, as in Fig.19A (as shown in the figure, sample 3 represents the U-bend section of the channel, and samples 1 and 2 represent other sections of the channel). Each sample is then conditioned under room conditions (generally in an oven at a temperature of 25 °C and 40% RH for a period of at least 12 h).

[0247] For each sample, the upper substrate and the lower substrate are peeled / separated from it up to (but not including) the position of the channel (place where the upper and lower substrates are connected to each other), after which the lower substrate is fixed to a stationary clamp and the upper substrate is fixed to a second clamp to which weights totaling 109 g are attached to each sample (as in Fig. 19B).

[0248] Then, the time from the moment the weights are inserted until complete rupture occurs between the upper and lower substrates (i.e., the weights fall to the ground) is measured. This latter time represents the hanging shear value.

[0249] The disclosure is further described by the following non-limiting examples, which further illustrate the disclosure but are neither intended nor interpreted to limit the scope of the disclosure. The examples provided herein provide further embodiments and structural features that may be incorporated (isolated or combined) into absorbent articles according to the present disclosure. However, it is understood that alternative structural features of the absorbent article may be employed without departing from the inventive scope of the present disclosure. Acquisition time test procedure:

[0250] The following test is performed to determine the acquisition time of a diaper.

[0251] The diaper core is loaded with a weight of 8 kg. Using a special type of funnel, a defined amount of NaCl solution is poured onto the diaper, and the absorption time is measured. This procedure is repeated four times, waiting 5 minutes after each injection.

[0252] Solutions to be used: demineralized water (conductivity < 5 µS / cm); colored NaCl solution (0.9%) [9 g sodium chloride, NaCl pa, are to be dissolved in 991 g demineralized water and colored with salt-free food coloring].

[0253] Equipment to be used: foam plastic mat covered with hook material; 8 kg weight with attached funnel (base area 100 mm × 300 mm; approx. 0.4 psi); electronic stopwatch (accuracy 1 s per 20 min); balance (accuracy ± 0.01 g); filter paper according to Hy-Tec (100 mm × 300 mm; Schleicher & Schuell Type 604); beaker.

[0254] Sample preparation: At least four unused diapers are tested. The weight of each sample is determined and recorded. Weighted filter paper (10 pieces) for leakage over the backing layer is placed on the foam mats, after which the samples are secured. The stress point is marked on the diaper according to gender: in the center of the entire diaper for girls, 2.5 cm toward the front for unisex, and 5 cm toward the front for boys. The filter paper is then positioned with its center on the stress point.

[0255] Procedure: The diaper is placed on the foam mat above the filter paper for leakage via the backsheet. The 8 kg weight is placed on the absorbent core so that the mark on the side is aligned with the mark on the diaper. The NaCl solution (4 × 70 ml) is poured onto the diaper through the funnel. The time it takes for the liquid to penetrate the topsheet is measured and recorded. After the liquid has been absorbed by the diaper, a stopwatch is started to measure a waiting time. After a waiting time of 5 minutes, the same amount of liquid is poured onto the diaper a second time, and the absorption time is again measured and recorded. This procedure is repeated four times in total. After the fourth waiting period of 5 minutes, the weight is removed from the diaper, and any liquid remaining on the baseplate is wiped away.

[0256] For the tested products, the mean value and standard deviation of the absorption time (in seconds) after the fourth liquid addition are recorded as the average acquisition time. Test procedure for assessing surface dryness (rewetting):

[0257] The following test is performed to determine the surface dryness of a diaper surface.

[0258] A defined amount of NaCl solution is poured onto the diaper in one go using a measuring cylinder. Once the liquid is absorbed, the time is recorded.

[0259] Two minutes after injection, rewetting under a weight of 580 g shall be determined using filter paper weighed before and after the test, and the values ​​recorded.

[0260] Solutions to be used: demineralized water (conductivity < 5 µS / cm); colored NaCl solution (0.9%) [9 g sodium chloride, NaCl pa, are to be dissolved in 991 g demineralized water and colored with salt-free food coloring].

[0261] Equipment to be used: plastic container (37 cm × 26 cm × 17 cm); metal plate and magnets; Plexiglas plate (25 (±1) cm × 20 (±1) cm; 580 ± 2 g); electronic stopwatch (accuracy 1 s per 20 min); balance (accuracy ± 0.01 g); filter paper according to Hy-Tec (100 mm × 300 mm; Schleicher & Schuell type 604); measuring cylinder (capacity ≥ 100 ml).

[0262] Sample preparation: Diapers (at least 5 samples each) are placed in a transparent container in a curved shape and secured to the edges of the container with metal clips. The core should be completely contained within the container, with the edges not folded over the container walls.

[0263] Procedure: The measuring cylinder is filled with 100 ml of NaCl solution and positioned over the center of the diaper. The liquid is poured onto the diaper in one quick pour, after which the timer is started. One minute after pouring the liquid, the diaper is placed flat on a metal plate using four magnets on the corners of the diaper. After a total of two minutes, the previously weighed filter paper and the Plexiglas plate are placed in the center of the diaper. The stack of filter paper and Plexiglas plate remains on the diaper for 5 seconds. The filter paper is then weighed again. The difference in the weight of the filter paper before and after the test corresponds to the rewetting in grams. Rewetting is calculated using the following formula: Rewetting [g] = WA - WB where WB = weight of filter paper before the test and WA = weight of filter paper after the test.

[0264] Then the average rewetting is given as the average of all tested samples (values ​​in g). Test procedure for air permeability:

[0265] The following test procedure is performed to measure the air permeability (or “relative porosity” as referred to herein) of nonwoven substrates.

[0266] Equipment to be used: Air permeability tester model FX 3300 LABOTESTER III (from Textest AG) with a test head with part number FX 3300-20 (from Textest AG).

[0267] Procedure: Each nonwoven sample is placed as an obstacle in an air stream (using the appropriate clamp holder in the device). Due to hydraulic losses, a pressure difference Δp develops (between the top and bottom of the nonwoven sample). The pressure difference is recorded with a manometer. The standard assessment (according to EN ISO 9237:1995) is performed under the following conditions: clamping area 20 cm 2 , pressure difference 200 Pa. The measured value can be expressed as air velocity in liters per square meter per second (L / m 2 / s) must be specified. Test procedure for moisture retention factor:

[0268] The following test procedure is performed to measure the moisture retention factor of nonwoven substrates.

[0269] The acquisition distribution layer of a diaper is carefully removed using an ice spray (such as ice spray from Auxynhairol Distribution) to deactivate any adhesive bonding layers of the diaper. This procedure typically begins with peeling off the topsheet, followed by peeling off the immediately adjacent acquisition distribution layer.

[0270] After removing the acquisition distribution layer (AVS) from the diaper, each AVS is weighed individually on a scale (accuracy ± 0.01 g) and the dry weight (DW) is recorded under room conditions.

[0271] Each AVS is then immersed for 2 minutes in saline solution according to the following composition. Typically, a plastic container (37 cm × 26 cm × 17 cm) is filled with such a solution for immersing the AVS, but other sizes can also be used.

[0272] Solution to be used: demineralized water (conductivity < 5 µS / cm); colored NaCl solution (0.9%) [9 g sodium chloride, NaCl pa, are to be dissolved in 991 g demineralized water and colored with salt-free food coloring].

[0273] Each AVS is removed from the solution, clamped at one end, and allowed to hang under the influence of gravity for 3 minutes. Then, the AVS is removed from the clamp and weighed again, and the wet weight (WW) is recorded under room conditions.

[0274] By subtracting the wet weight (NG) from the dry weight (TG) for each AVS sample, the moisture retention (WR) in grams is obtained (i.e., WR = NG-TG).

[0275] Then, the moisture retention factor (WRF) is obtained as the moisture retention (WR) divided by the dry weight (TG) of each AVS sample (i.e., WRF = WR / TG).

[0276] It should be noted that to determine the moisture retention factor, typically at least 3 samples of each AVS are tested and the average dry weight and average moisture retention are calculated, but this test can also be performed on a single AVS sample without the need to calculate average values. Contact angle measurement method:

[0277] The contact angle is determined according to TAPPI method T558PM-95 (1995) taking into account the following points: - i. The materials to be tested should be acclimatized to 23 °C and 50% relative humidity for a suitable period of time (at least 4 hours) prior to measurement. The measurement is carried out in a climatic chamber (23 °C, 50% relative humidity). - ii. The materials to be tested should be applied to a standard sample holder using double-sided adhesive tape, for example, as recommended by the manufacturer. - iii. Suitable parameters for measurement are: - a) liquid water for analysis - b) Drop volume 5 µl - c) Number of drops to be measured to average the results: 25 - d) In the hypothetical case that neither T558PM-95 nor these commentaries address specific measurement conditions, default values ​​recommended by the test instrument manufacturer may be used. Names of suppliers of suitable test instruments can be found in the bound set of TAPPI test methods or may be available from the TAPPI Information Resource Center.

[0278] Preferred instruments are manufactured by Fibro System AB, Stockholm, and marketed under the trademark FibroDat®, such as the contact angle tester FibroDat 1100. - iv. For those materials (e.g. hydrophilic, absorbent materials) where the contact angle varies with time, the measurement is taken 0.05 s after the drop has been deposited. - v. If it is indicated that the materials to be tested result in very high contact angles, it may be necessary to vary the force used to eject the drop from the syringe to prevent the drop from rolling off. EXAMPLESExample 1:

[0279] The Fig. 5-8 representatively illustrate an example of a disposable diaper, as indicated generally at 20, in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0280] As in the Fig.5-7, the diaper 20 defines a front waist region 22, a back waist region 24, a crotch region 24 extending between and connecting the front waist region 22 and the back waist region 24, a pair of laterally opposed side edges 28, an inner surface 30, and an outer surface 32. The front waist region 22 comprises the portion of the diaper 20 that, when worn, is positioned on the front of the wearer, while the back waist region 24 comprises the portion of the diaper 20 that, when worn, is positioned on the back of the wearer. The crotch region 26 of the diaper 20 comprises the portion of the diaper 20 that, when worn, is positioned between the wearer's legs and covers the wearer's lower torso.

[0281] The diaper 20 includes an outer cover 34, an absorbent chassis 36, and a fastening system 50. The absorbent chassis 36 is configured to contain and / or absorb any body exudates exuded by the wearer. The outer cover 34 and the fastening system 50, on the other hand, are configured to hold the diaper 20 around the wearer's waist, conceal the absorbent chassis 36, and provide a garment-like appearance. The diaper 20 may further include leg elastics 96 and 98 and containment flaps 100 and 102. It should be understood that the individual components of the diaper 20 may be optional depending on the intended use of the diaper 20.

[0282] As in the Fig.As representatively illustrated in Figures 5-8, the laterally opposite side edges 28 of the diaper 20 are generally defined by the side edges of the outer cover 34, which further define leg openings that may be curvilinear. The waist edges of the outer cover 34 also define a waist opening configured to encircle the wearer's waist when worn.

[0283] As in the Fig.5-8, the absorbent chassis 36 of the diaper 20 is suitably joined to the outer cover 34 to provide the disposable diaper 20. The absorbent chassis 36 may be joined to the outer cover 34 in ways well known to those skilled in the art. For example, the absorbent chassis 36 may be joined to the outer cover 34 using adhesive, thermal, or ultrasonic bonding techniques known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, the absorbent chassis 36 may be joined to the outer cover 34 using conventional fasteners such as buttons, hook-and-loop fasteners, adhesive tape fasteners, and the like. The other components of the diaper 20 may be suitably joined together using similar means.

[0284] Desirably, the absorbent chassis 36 is joined to the outer cover 34 only at or adjacent the waist edges of the outer cover 34, thereby creating a front attached portion, a rear attached portion, and an unattached portion extending between and connecting the attached portions. The unattached portion of the absorbent chassis 36 remains substantially unattached to the outer cover 34 and is generally configured to fit between the wearer's legs and, in use, at least partially cover the wearer's lower torso. As a result, the unattached portion is generally the portion of the absorbent chassis 36 that is configured to initially contain the wearer's body exudates during use.

[0285] In this manner, the absorbent chassis 36 is connected to the outer cover 34 such that the chassis 36 is secured in position, but the movement of the outer cover 34 during use is not adversely restricted. Alternatively, the absorbent chassis 36 may be secured to the outer cover 34 along the entire longitudinal length of the absorbent chassis 36, any portion thereof, or only along the outer periphery of the absorbent chassis 36.

[0286] As in the Fig. 5-8, the absorbent chassis 36 according to the present disclosure may include a backsheet 38, a topsheet 40 joined in superimposed relationship to the backsheet 38, and an absorbent core 42 located between the topsheet 40 and the backsheet 38.

[0287] The absorbent chassis 36 is generally conformable and capable of absorbing and retaining body exudates. The absorbent chassis 36 may have any of a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, the absorbent chassis 36 may be Fig. 5-8, may be rectangular, I-shaped, or T-shaped. The size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent chassis 36 should be compatible with the size of the intended wearer and the fluid load caused by the intended use of the diaper 20.

[0288] The top layer 40 of the absorbent chassis 36, as shown in the Fig. 5-8, suitably has a body-facing surface intended to be worn adjacent to the wearer's body and which is compliant, soft to the touch, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin.

[0289] Further, the topsheet 40 may be less hydrophilic than the absorbent core 42 to present a relatively dry surface to the wearer, and may be sufficiently porous to be liquid permeable so that liquid can readily penetrate its thickness. A suitable topsheet 40 may be made from a wide variety of web materials, such as porous foams, cross-linked foams, apertured plastic films, natural fibers (e.g., wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (e.g., polyester or polypropylene fibers), or a combination of natural fibers and synthetic fibers. The topsheet 40 may be suitably employed to help insulate the wearer's skin from fluids retained in the absorbent core 42 of the absorbent chassis 36.

[0290] The topsheet 40 and the backsheet 38 are generally bonded together to form a pocket within which the absorbent core 42 is located to provide the absorbent chassis 36. The topsheet 40 and the backsheet 38 may be directly bonded together around the outer periphery of the absorbent chassis 36 by any means known to those skilled in the art, such as adhesive bonds, sonic bonds, or thermal bonds. For example, a uniform continuous layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, a sprayed or meltblown pattern of adhesive, or an array of separate lines, spirals, or dots of adhesive may be used to secure the topsheet 40 to the backsheet 38. It should be understood that both the topsheet 40 and the backsheet 38 need not extend completely to the outer periphery of the absorbent chassis 36.For example, the backsheet 38 may extend to the outer periphery of the absorbent chassis 36, while the topsheet 40 may be attached to the backsheet 38 within the outer periphery of the absorbent chassis 36 or more toward the longitudinal centerline of the diaper 20.

[0291] As in the Fig.5-8, the absorbent core 42 is positioned between the topsheet 40 and the backsheet 38 to form the absorbent chassis 36. The absorbent core 42 is desirably conformable and capable of absorbing and retaining body exudates. The absorbent core 42 may have any of a variety of shapes and a generally discrete layer within the matrix of hydrophilic fibers. Alternatively, the absorbent core 42 may comprise a laminate of fibrous webs and superabsorbent material or other suitable means for retaining a superabsorbent material in a localized area.

[0292] As in the Fig.5-8, the absorbent chassis 36 of the disposable diaper 20 may include a pair of containment flaps 100 and 102 configured to provide a barrier to the lateral flow of body exudates. The containment flaps 100 and 102 may be located along laterally opposite side edges of the absorbent chassis 36. Each containment flap defines a secured edge 104 and an unsecured edge 106. Each of the containment flaps 100 and 102 may also include at least one elongated elastic member 108 bonded to the unsecured edge 106 of the containment flap 100 and 102 and configured to receive the unsecured edge 106 and form a seal against the wearer's body in use.The containment flaps 100 and 102 may extend longitudinally along the entire length of the absorbent chassis 36 or extend only partially along the length of the absorbent chassis 36. When the containment flaps 100 and 102 have a shorter length than the absorbent chassis 36, the containment flaps 100 and 102 may be selectively positioned anywhere along the side edges 38 of the absorbent chassis 36. In a particular aspect of the disclosure, the containment flaps 100 and 102 extend the entire length of the absorbent chassis 36 to better contain body exudates.

[0293] Each containment flap 100 and 102 is attached to the side edges 38 of the absorbent chassis 36 such that the containment flaps 100 and 102 provide a barrier against the lateral flow of body exudates. The attached edge 104 of each of the containment flaps 100 and 102 is attached to the side edges 38 of the absorbent chassis 36, while the unattached edge 106 remains unattached to the absorbent chassis 36 in at least the crotch region 26 of the diaper 20. The attached edge 104 of the containment flaps 100 and 102 may be attached to the absorbent chassis 36 in any of a variety of ways well known to those skilled in the art. For example, the attached edge 104 of the flaps 100 and 102 may be ultrasonically bonded, thermally bonded, or adhesively bonded to the absorbent chassis 36.In a particular aspect, the unattached edge 106 of each of the containment flaps 100 and 102 remains unattached to the side edges 38 of the absorbent chassis 36 along substantially the entire length of the unattached edge 106 to provide improved performance.

[0294] As in the Fig. 4-7, the containment flaps 100 and 102 may alternatively be integral with the backsheet 38 or the topsheet 40 of the absorbent chassis 36.

[0295] Each containment flap 100 and 102 is also configured such that the unattached edge 106 of the containment flaps 100 and 102 is typically positioned spaced from the absorbent chassis 36 in a generally upright and perpendicular configuration, particularly in the crotch region 26 during use. As shown in the Fig.5-8, the unattached edge 106 of each containment flap 100 and 102 is desirably spaced from the absorbent chassis 36 in use, thereby providing a barrier to the lateral flow of body exudates. Desirably, the unattached edge 106 of each containment flap 100 and 102 remains in contact with the wearer's body while the absorbent chassis 36 may be spaced from the wearer's body in use. Typically, an elastic member 108 is attached to the unattached edge 106 of each containment flap 100 and 102 to maintain the spacing between the unattached edge 106 and the absorbent chassis 36.For example, the elastic member 108 may be secured in an elastically contractible state such that the unsecured edge 106 of the containment flap 100 and 102 is received or contracted and shortened by the contraction of the elastic member 108.

[0296] The disposable diaper 20 of the various aspects of the present disclosure may further include elastics at the waist edges and side edges 28 of the diaper 20 to further prevent leakage of body exudates and to support the absorbent chassis 36. For example, the diaper 20 of the present disclosure may be Fig.5-8, include a pair of leg elastic members 96 and 98 connected to the opposite side edges 28 in the crotch region 26 of the diaper 20. The leg elastics 96 and 98 are generally configured to fit around the legs of a wearer in use to maintain positive contact with the wearer to effectively reduce or eliminate leakage of body exudates from the diaper 20.

[0297] The Fig. 9 to Fig.The absorbent article illustrated in Figure 12 generally represents training pants. The absorbent article 10. The longitudinal direction 48 extends generally from the front of the absorbent article to the back of the absorbent article. Opposite the longitudinal direction 48 is a transverse direction 49. The absorbent article 10 includes a chassis 12 consisting of a front portion 22, a back portion 24, and a crotch portion 26. An absorbent core 28 is positioned in the crotch portion 26 and extends from the front portion 22 to the back portion 24.

[0298] The absorbent article 10 defines an inner surface configured to be placed adjacent the body when worn. The absorbent article 10 also includes an outer surface opposite the inner surface. The front and back portions 22 and 24 are those portions of the article that, when worn, partially cover or surround the waist or mid-lower torso of the wearer. The crotch portion 26, on the other hand, is generally positioned between the wearer's legs after donning the absorbent article.

[0299] As in Fig. 9, the absorbent article further includes a first side region 30 and a second side region 34. The side regions 30 and 34 connect the front section 22 to the back section 24. The side regions 30 and 34 may also help define the leg openings and the waist opening.

[0300] In one embodiment, the side panels 30 and 34 may be made of a stretchable or extensible material. For example, in one embodiment, the side panels 30 and 34 are made of an elastic material. The side panels serve to form a snug yet comfortable fit around the wearer's body. The side panels 30 and 34 may also allow for adjustment to different body sizes.

[0301] As shown, each of the side portions 30 and 34 may be made up of multiple stretchable pieces. For example, the side portions 30 and 34 in the Fig.9, each consists of two pieces. As shown, the side portion 30 includes a first piece 31 and a second piece 33. Similarly, the second side portion 34 includes a first piece 35 that is attached to a second piece 37. The pieces 31 and 33 of the first side portion 30 are attached to each other to form a first vertical attachment portion 41, while the pieces 35 and 37 of the second side portion 34 are attached to each other along a second vertical attachment portion 43. The attachment between the pieces can be permanent or detachable and reattachable. If the pieces are detachably attached to each other, for example, any suitable mechanical fastener can be used.For example, in one embodiment, the pieces may be removably attached to each other using any adhesive fastener, cohesive fastener, mechanical fastener, or the like. Suitable mechanical fasteners may be provided by interlocking geometrically shaped materials, such as hooks, loops, bulbs, mushrooms, arrowheads, balls on stems, pin-and-hole fitting components, buckles, snap fasteners, and the like.

[0302] In the Fig.In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 9-12, the pieces 31 and 33 making up the first side region 30 and the pieces 35 and 37 making up the second side region 34 are joined using a fastening system 80 including laterally opposed first fastening components 82 configured for refastenable engagement with corresponding second fastening components 84. For example, in one embodiment, a front or outer surface of each of the fastening components 82, 84 includes a plurality of engagement elements. The engagement elements of the first fastening components 82 are configured to repeatedly engage and disengage from the corresponding engagement elements of the second fastening components 84 to releasably secure the absorbent article in its three-dimensional configuration.

[0303] For example, in one embodiment, the first fastening components 82 include loop fasteners and the second fastening components 84 include complementary hook fasteners. Alternatively, the first fastening components 82 may include hook fasteners and the second fastening components 84 may include complementary loop fasteners. In another aspect, the fastening components 82 and 84 may be similar interlocking surface fasteners or adhesive or co-adhesive fasteners, such as an adhesive fastener and an adhesive-receptive land zone or land material.

[0304] As described above, in an alternative embodiment, the pieces that make up the side portions may be permanently attached to each other. For example, with reference to Fig.10 shows an alternative embodiment of an absorbent article 10. The same reference numerals have been used to designate the same or similar elements. As shown, the absorbent article 10 in Fig.10 a first side region 30 made up of pieces 31 and 33 and a second side region 34 made up of pieces 35 and 37. The first side piece 30 defines a first vertical attachment region 41 in which the pieces 31 and 33 are permanently connected to each other. Similarly, the second side region 34 defines a second vertical attachment region 43 in which the pieces 35 and 37 are permanently connected to each other. In this embodiment, the vertical attachment regions comprise seams. The seams may, for example, be constructed in any suitable manner. For example, the vertical seam may comprise a felled seam, a butt seam, or any other suitable configuration. These seams may be formed by attaching the pieces to each other using any suitable method or technique.For example, the pieces can be permanently attached to each other using ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, adhesive bonding, and / or pressure bonding. In yet another alternative embodiment, the separate pieces can be sewn together.

[0305] As in the Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, when the side panels 30 and 34 are in the attached position, the front and rear sections 22 and 24 are joined together to define a three-dimensional pant configuration having a waist opening 50 and a pair of leg openings 52. Thus, when the absorbent article 10 is worn, the side panels 30 and 34 include the portions of the article that are positioned on the wearer's hips and, in one embodiment, define the upper edge of the leg openings 52.

[0306] As described above, in one embodiment, the chassis 12 may include an outer cover 40 and a top sheet 42, as particularly shown in FIGS. Fig. 11 and Fig.12. Depending on the embodiment, the outer cover 40 and the topsheet 42 may comprise a unitary single piece of material or multiple pieces of material bonded together. The topsheet 42 may be bonded to the outer cover 40 in an overlying manner, for example, using adhesives, ultrasonic bonds, thermal bonds, pressure bonds, or other conventional techniques. The topsheet 42 may be suitably bonded to the outer cover 40 along the perimeter of the chassis 12 to form a front waist seam 62 and a back waist seam 64. The topsheet 42 may also be bonded to the outer cover 40 to form a pair of side seams 61. The topsheet 42 may be generally configured, i.e., positioned relative to the other components of the absorbent article 10, so that it is disposed toward the wearer's skin during donning.As described above, the chassis 12 also includes the absorbent core 28 disposed between the outer cover 40 and the topsheet 42 for absorbing body exudates secreted by the wearer.

[0307] According to the present disclosure, the absorbent article 10 further includes one or more expandable waistbands intended to enhance the appearance of the product, improve fit, and / or make the product feel more like actual underwear. For example, as shown in the figures, the absorbent article 10 may include a back waistband 56, a front waistband 54, or both a front waistband and a back waistband. As shown, for example, the back waistband 56 extends across the entire rear portion 24 of the chassis 12 and terminates at each end of the side panels 30 and 34.

[0308] It is intended that the present disclosure is not limited to any embodiment described above, and some modifications may be added to the presented manufacturing example without re-evaluating the appended claims. Although in the above example, reference is made to the embodiments of Fig. 5 to Fig. 8, for example, similar structures may be used in other embodiments, as in Fig. 9 to Fig. 12, and other feminine hygiene products such as those from Fig. 13 and Fig. 14. Although the example and figures include baby diapers and pants, the same also applies to adult incontinence diapers and pants, albeit with some structural changes that are readily apparent to a person skilled in the art. Example 2:

[0309] With reference to Fig. 13 and Fig.14 The absorbent articles may be of the sanitary napkin or panty liner type.

[0310] The structure of the sanitary napkin or panty liner may vary in construction as long as a core is used as described herein. Such a sanitary napkin or panty liner generally comprises a laminate with a backsheet, an absorbent core (with or without a three-dimensional absorbent material), and optionally a fluid distribution layer (FDL) positioned between the topsheet and the absorbent core.

[0311] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 14, the interconnected channels 106 may be plural and substantially concentric with one another, and may have an inverse shape about an axis parallel to the width of the core. While such a pattern is illustrated as an example for use in a core for a sanitary napkin or pantiliner 300, such a shape may equally be applied to cores for diapers and pants (whether for babies or adult incontinence) and is encompassed within the teachings herein. Example 3:

[0312] Reference - Commercially available baby diapers (junior size) with a core, free of channels, comprising a blend of fluff and SAP (marketed by Ontex bvba under the name FlexFit) are tested according to the "Acquisition Time" procedure specified above. A total of five diaper samples are tested, each with an acquisition distribution layer (AVS) corresponding to Sample AC below. The mean acquisition time and standard deviation (STD) are given in Table 1 below. Sample A - Air-bonded nonwoven layer with a basis weight of 50 g / m 2 (commercially available from TWE Meulebeke bvba and distributed as DryWeb T28) Sample B - Spunbonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 21 g / m 2 (available commercially from Fitesa Italy Srl. and distributed under the article code ISEW-100 021 FA-S) Sample C - Carded thermally bonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 30 g / m 2 (available commercially from Union Industries SpA and distributed under the article code T3000PIWT) Table 1: Example 3 Average acquisition time (s) STD acquisition time (s) Sample A 106 12 Sample B 346 103 Sample C 262 60

[0313] The results in Table 1 show that for conventional diapers without channels, the average acquisition time using AVS is very long, according to Samples B and C. Levels above 200 s are considered unacceptable in the industry (e.g., Hy-Tec target values ​​for baby diapers 01-2019), whereas levels below 200 s are considered acceptable (especially for sizes Junior / Junior+, Maxi / Maxi+, and XL / XL+). The latter has led to a move away from the use of such AVS in modern high-performance diapers. Example 4:

[0314] Baby diapers (junior size) with a core containing a single U-shaped channel without absorbent material, comprising a blend of fluff and SAP, are tested according to the above-mentioned procedure for the "Acquisition Time" method. A total of five diaper samples are tested, each with an acquisition distribution layer (AVS) corresponding to Sample A'-C' below. The average acquisition time and standard deviation (STD) are given in Table 2 below. Sample A' - Air-bonded nonwoven layer with a basis weight of 50 g / m 2 (commercially available from TWE Meulebeke bvba and distributed as DryWeb T28) Sample B' - Spunbonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 21 g / m 2 (available commercially from Fitesa Italy Srl. and distributed under the article code ISEW-100 021 FA-S) Sample C' - Carded thermally bonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 30 g / m 2 (available commercially from Union Industries SpA and distributed under the article code T3000PIWT) Table 2: Example 4 Average acquisition time (s) STD acquisition time (s) Sample A' 19 3 Sample B' 47 9 Sample C' 36 2

[0315] The results in Table 2 show that the introduction of a channel core allows a significant reduction in acquisition time, with AVS according to samples B' and C' now showing very acceptable performance (particularly according to the Hy-Tec thresholds discussed in Example 3). Example 5:

[0316] Reference - Commercially available baby diapers (junior size) with a channel-free core containing a blend of fluff and SAP (marketed by Ontex bvba under the name FlexFit) are tested according to the "Surface Dryness (Rewetting)" procedure specified above. A total of six diaper samples are tested, each with an acquisition distribution layer (AVS) corresponding to Sample AC below. The mean acquisition time and standard deviation (STD) are given in Table 3 below. Sample A - Air-bonded nonwoven layer with a basis weight of 50 g / m 2 (commercially available from TWE Meulebeke bvba and distributed as DryWeb T28) Sample B - Spunbonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 21 g / m 2 (available commercially from Fitesa Italy Srl. and distributed under the article code ISEW-100 021 FA-S) Sample C - Carded thermally bonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 30 g / m 2 (available commercially from Union Industries SpA and distributed under the article code T3000PIWT) Table 3: Example 5 Average rehydration (g) STD Rehydration (g) Sample A 0,22 0,03 Sample B 0,03 0,01 Sample C 0,02 0,01

[0317] The results in Table 3 show poorer rewetting performance of diapers containing AVS of Sample A. Example 6:

[0318] Baby diapers (junior size) with a core containing a single U-shaped channel without absorbent material, comprising a blend of fluff and SAP, are tested according to the above-mentioned procedure for the "Surface Dryness (Rewetting)" method. A total of six diaper samples are tested, each with an acquisition distribution layer (AVS) corresponding to Sample A'-C' below. The mean acquisition time and standard deviation (STD) are given in Table 4 below. Sample A' - Air-bonded nonwoven layer with a basis weight of 50 g / m 2 (commercially available from TWE Meulebeke bvba and distributed as DryWeb T28) Sample B' - Spunbonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 21 g / m 2 (available commercially from Fitesa Italy Srl. and distributed under the article code ISEW-100 021 FA-S) Sample C' - Carded thermally bonded nonwoven layer with 100% polypropylene (PP) fibers and a basis weight of 30 g / m 2 (available commercially from Union Industries SpA and distributed under the article code T3000PIWT) Table 4: Example 6 Average rehydration (g) STD Rehydration (g) Sample A' 0,12 0,02 Sample B' 0,03 0,01 Sample C' 0,03 0,01

[0319] The results show that by introducing AVS according to Samples B / B' and C / C' into diapers with channeled cores, an optimal balance of acquisition time performance (Example 4) and rewetting performance (Example 6) is surprisingly achieved. The penalty in acquisition time performance in diapers with channels (Example 4) is much smaller when choosing Samples B / B' and C / C' than in diapers without channels (Example 3), and this penalty is more than offset by the significant rewetting improvement to maintain excellent perceived dryness. This leads to a sweet spot in terms of overall diaper performance in a cost-effective manner. Example 7:

[0320] The AVS according to samples A / A', B / B', C / C' of Examples 3 to 6 are further tested according to the bulk density test described herein; the results are given in Table 5. Table 5: sample Bulk density (g / cm 3 ) Specific volume (cm 3 / G) A / A' 0,087 11,43 B / B' 0,100 10,03 C / C' 0,089 11,17 Example 8:

[0321] The AVSs according to samples A / A', B / B', and C / C' of Examples 3 to 6 are further tested for liquid retention. The test comprises the following steps: each sample is cut to a size of 245 mm × 80 mm; the dry weight of the sample is measured and recorded; each sample is immersed in a bath of saline solution (the same solution as described / used in Examples 3 to 6) and left submerged for 2 minutes; the sample is removed from the bath, after which excess liquid is allowed to drain off by clamping one end of the sample in a cantilever jig and allowing it to hang under the influence of gravity for 3 minutes under ambient conditions; then the weight is measured again. The difference in weight from the dry state to the state after the immersion test provides the liquid retention weight.The test is repeated for at least 3 samples for each of samples A / A', B / B', C / C' of Examples 3 to 6. The results are given in Table 6. Table 6: sample Fluid retention (g) STD (g) A / A' 12,4 1,0 B / B' 3,1 0,1 C / C' 4,7 1,0

[0322] The results in Table 6 show that AVS according to sample A / A' retain a significantly greater amount of liquid than samples B / B' and C / C'. Without being bound by any theory, it is assumed that one of the reasons for the higher perceived wetness is due to this sponge-like behavior of the AVS. Example 9:

[0323] Diapers according to Examples 3 to 6 with AVS according to Sample A / A' and B / B' are tested for visual inspection of residual wetness. This is measured according to the following procedure: 150 mL of tap water is poured in one go into the diaper placed in a tray on a table; a waiting time is measured, and the liquid to be absorbed is left in the diaper for the duration of the waiting period of 90 seconds; a softshell wipe (water-repellent hydrophobic wipe, 100% polyester) is applied to the topsheet of the skin-facing side of the diaper, after which a 4 kg weight is applied for 5 seconds; the softshell wipe is removed and visually inspected for signs of wetness. Fig. Figure 23 shows the difference in the visual appearance of wetness, with the diaper using the AVS of sample A / A' showing a significantly higher level of residual wetness than the same diaper using the AVS of sample B / B'. Example 10:

[0324] AVS according to samples A / A', B / B', C / C' are tested for relative porosity according to the air permeability test method described here.

[0325] 3 replicates of each of the samples A / A', B / B', C / C' are cut out and trimmed to fit the clamping area of ​​20 cm 2 as described in the test method described here (and according to ISO 9237:1995), the average relative porosity and the corresponding standard deviation (STD) are calculated, and the results are given in Table 7. Table 7: sample Relative porosity (L / m 2 / s) STD (L / m 2 / s) A / A' 9027 17 B / B' 4043 83 C / C' 4433 295

[0326] The results in Table 7 show significantly higher relative porosity values ​​for sample A / A' compared to samples B / B' and C / C'. Without being bound by any theory, the higher relative porosity promotes capillary action to such an extent that a sponge-like behavior results in use, which influences perceived wetness after exudate events in use. Example 11:

[0327] AVS according to samples A / A', B / B', C / C' are tested for relative porosity according to the air permeability test method described here.

[0328] Three replicates of each of the samples A / A', B / B', and C / C' are measured for the moisture retention factor (WRF) according to the procedure described here. The results are presented in Table 8. Table 8: sample WRF A / A' 11,3 B / B' 6,8 C / C' 7,2 QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 1077052 A1

[0004] EP 1078617 A2

[0004] EP 1959903 B1

[0005] EP 2211808 B1

[0006] EP 1349524 B1

[0007] EP 1267775 B1

[0008] EP 1088536 A2

[0009] US 5,756,039 A

[0010] US 2006 / 0184150 A1

[0011] US 6,503,233 B1

[0012] US 2015 / 0088084 A1

[0013] EP 3342386A1 [0014, 0015] EP 3190216 A1

[0138] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] Hy-Tec target values ​​for baby diapers 01-2019

[0313] ISO 9237:1995

[0325]

Claims

[1] An absorbent article (10, 20, 300, 500, 600) comprising an absorbent core (101, 501, 601) disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet (520, 620) and a liquid-impermeable backsheet (521, 621), and an acquisition distribution layer (201, 522, 622) positioned between the topsheet (520, 620) and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises at least one core-wrap substrate surrounding the absorbent material, and wherein an upper layer of the core wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core wrap to form one or more channels (106) substantially free of the absorbent material, the channels (106) having a lengthwhich extends along a longitudinal axis (48), and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a length which extends along the longitudinal axis (48), and wherein the length of the channels (106) is 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), and wherein the channels each follow a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel, , characterized by in that the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 80% by weight of the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) and wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m2. [2] An absorbent article (10, 20, 300, 500, 600) comprising an absorbent core (101, 501, 601) disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet (520, 620) and a liquid-impermeable backsheet (521, 621), and an acquisition distribution layer (201, 522, 622) positioned between the topsheet (520, 620) and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymer particles, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises at least one core wrap substrate surrounding the absorbent material, and wherein an upper layer of the core wrap is bonded to a lower layer of the core wrap to form one or more channels (106) substantially free of the absorbent material,wherein the channels (106) have a length extending along a longitudinal axis (48), and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a length extending along the longitudinal axis (48), and wherein the length of at least one of the channels (106) is from 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), and wherein the channels each follow a substantially continuous path, such as from a first end of a channel to a second end of the same channel, characterized by that the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a wetness retention factor (WRF) of less than 11 and preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers. [3] Absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned on a body-facing side of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) and preferably in close proximity to or in contact with the body-facing side of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601). [4] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned in good contact with the body-facing side of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601). [5] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned in direct contact with the body-facing side of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601). [6] An absorbent article according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one of the channels (106) extends both along the longitudinal axis (48) and along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48) to form a shape that is substantially U-shaped. [7] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a specific volume of less than 11.4 cm 3 / g, preferably less than 11.3 cm 3 / g, preferably 5.5 cm 3 / g up to 11.2 cm 3 / g, more preferably 8.5 cm 3 / g up to 11.17 cm 3 / g. [8] Absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 90% by weight, preferably from 95% to 100%, based on the weight of the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622). [9] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is made of synthetic fibers and is preferably free of cellulosic fibers, further preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is treated, such as with a surfactant, to render the layer (522, 622) hydrophilic. [10] Absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the synthetic fibers comprise, preferably consist of, polypropylene fibers. [11] Absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is a, preferably single-layer, spunbonded or carded nonwoven and is free of air-bonded, air-laid and / or meltblown nonwoven layers. [12] Absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a basis weight of 15 to 40 g / m 2 , preferably from 18 to 35 g / m 2 , preferably from 20 to 30 g / m 2 , most preferably from 21 to 25 g / m 2 , has. [13] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carded nonwoven layer is a carded thermally bonded nonwoven layer. [14] Absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has an average flow pore size of 15 µm to 200 µm, preferably from 30 µm to 150 µm, more preferably from 45 µm to 130 µm, more preferably from 55 µm to 110 µm, more preferably from 60 µm to less than 100 µm, more preferably from 65 µm to 95 µm, more preferably from 70 µm to 90 µm. [15] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a first central position (C ADL ) and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a second central position (Cc), and wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned asymmetrically over the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) such that the first central position (C ADL ) and the second central position (Cc) are offset at least along the longitudinal axis (48), preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned so that it does not overlap with a portion of the channel (106) extending in the width direction along an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48). [16] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a relative porosity of less than 9000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 1000 L / m2 / s up to 8000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 2000 L / m 2 / s up to 7000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 3000 L / m 2 / s up to 5000 L / m 2 / s, most preferably 3500 L / m 2 / s up to 4500 L / m 2 / s. [17] The absorbent article of any preceding claim, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned so as not to overlap a portion of at least one of the channels (106), the portion being located at a position proximal to the backside (124) of the absorbent core and distal to the frontside (122) of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601). [18] Absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises a plurality of layers and wherein at least one of the layers, preferably each of the layers, consists of spunbonded nonwoven fabric and / or carded nonwoven fabric and wherein at least the layer (101, 501, 601) most distal from the body-facing side of the absorbent core consists of spunbonded nonwoven fabric and / or carded nonwoven fabric, preferably wherein both the most distal layer and the layer most proximal to the body-facing side of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) consists of spunbonded nonwoven fabric and / or carded nonwoven fabric. [19] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second end (110', 111') of at least one channel is spaced apart along the longitudinal axis (48) from the first end (110, 111) of at least one other channel such that at least two spaced apart channels are formed along the longitudinal axis (48) that are offset from a transverse line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48), and wherein the spacing along the longitudinal axis (48) is less than 18 mm, preferably from 6 mm to 15 mm, preferably wherein the core comprises at least four channels (106) and wherein the distance between the second and first ends (110, 111, 110', 111') of a first pair of longitudinally offset channels is different from the distance between the second and first ends (110, 111, 110', 111') of a second pair of longitudinally offset channels,wherein the first pair of channels is substantially parallel to the second pair of channels., [20] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upper layer of the core wrap is joined to a lower layer of the core wrap along the channels (106) at a plurality of discrete joining regions, the joining regions forming a pattern consisting of elongate, oblique elements (1061) having an angle α to the longitudinal axis (48), the angle α being greater than 0° and less than 90°, preferably from 15° to 75°, more preferably from 20° to 70°, and preferably wherein at least one, preferably at least 10%, more preferably at least 40%, even more preferably at least 50% of the elongate, oblique elements (1061) have a total length (Lo) which is at least substantially equal to, preferably greater than, the width (wc) of the channel along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48),and preferably wherein the discrete connecting regions are free of adhesive and typically comprise mechanical connections. [21] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is bonded to the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) at one or more bonding zones, the one or more bonding zones being positioned outside and / or inside the channel(s) (106) such that the bonding zones do not substantially overlap the channel(s) (106), the bonding zones preferably comprising one or more adhesives. [22] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a thickness of less than 0.5 mm, preferably from 0.1 to 0.4 mm, more preferably from 0.15 to 0.3 mm, according to the method described herein. [23] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a wetness retention factor of less than 10.5, preferably from 1 to 10, more preferably from 2 to 9, even more preferably from 2.5 to 8, most preferably from 3 to 7.5, according to the method described herein. [24] An absorbent article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises at least two layers, wherein a first layer is positioned proximal to the topsheet (520, 620) and wherein the second layer is positioned proximal to the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) and distal to the topsheet (520, 620), wherein the first layer is more hydrophobic than the second layer, preferably wherein the first layer consists of a perforated film layer. [25] An absorbent article (10, 20, 300, 500, 600) comprising an absorbent core (101, 501, 601) disposed between a liquid-permeable topsheet (520, 620) and a liquid-impermeable backsheet (521, 621), and an acquisition distribution layer (201, 522, 622) positioned between the topsheet (520, 620) and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises an absorbent material selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, superabsorbent polymers, and combinations thereof, wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has at least one connected channel free from the absorbent material, wherein the channel (106) has a length extending along a longitudinal axis (48), and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a length extending along the longitudinal axis (48),and wherein the length of the channel (106) is 10% to 95% of the length of the absorbent core (101, 501, 601), , characterized by in that the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) comprises a spunbonded and / or carded nonwoven layer comprising synthetic fibers, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 80% by weight of the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) and wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a basis weight of 10 to 50 g / m2. [26] The absorbent article of claim 25, wherein the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) comprises a single interconnected channel (106). [27] An absorbent article according to any one of claims 25 and 26, wherein the connected channel (106) extends both along the longitudinal axis (48) and along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48) to form a shape that is substantially U-shaped. [28] An absorbent article according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a specific volume of less than 11.4 cm 3 / g, preferably less than 11.3 cm 3 / g, preferably 5.5 cm 3 / g up to 11.2 cm 3 / g, more preferably 8.5 cm 3 / g up to 11.17 cm 3 / g. [29] Absorbent article according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the synthetic fibers are provided in an amount of more than 90% by weight, preferably from 95% to 100%, based on the weight of the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622). [30] An absorbent article according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is made of synthetic fibers and is preferably free of cellulosic fibers, more preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is treated, such as with a surfactant, to render the layer (522, 622) hydrophilic. [31] Absorbent article according to any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the synthetic fibers comprise, preferably consist of, polypropylene fibers. [32] Absorbent article according to one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) consists of a, preferably single, spunbonded or carded nonwoven layer and is free of air-bonded, air-laid and / or meltblown nonwoven layers. [33] Absorbent article according to one of claims 25 to 32, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a basis weight of 15 to 40 g / m 2 , preferably from 18 to 35 g / m 2 , preferably from 20 to 30 g / m 2 , most preferably from 21 to 25 g / m 2 , has. [34] The absorbent article of any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein the carded nonwoven layer is a carded thermally bonded nonwoven layer. [35] Absorbent article according to one of claims 25 to 34, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has an average flow pore size of 15 µm to 200 µm, preferably from 30 µm to 150 µm, more preferably from 45 µm to 130 µm, more preferably from 55 µm to 110 µm, more preferably from 60 µm to less than 100 µm, more preferably from 65 µm to 95 µm, more preferably from 70 µm to 90 µm. [36] An absorbent article according to any one of claims 25 to 35, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a first central position (C ADL ) and the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) has a second central position (Cc), and wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned asymmetrically over the absorbent core (101, 501, 601) such that the first central position (C ADL ) and the second central position (Cc) are offset at least along the longitudinal axis (48), preferably wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) is positioned so that it does not overlap with a portion of the channel (106) extending in the width direction along an axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (48). [37] An absorbent article according to any one of claims 25 to 36, wherein the acquisition distribution layer (522, 622) has a relative porosity of less than 9000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 1000 L / m 2 / s up to 8000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 2000 L / m 2 / s up to 7000 L / m 2 / s, preferably 3000 L / m 2 / s up to 5000 L / m 2 / s, most preferably 3500 L / m 2 / s up to 4500 L / m 2 / s.

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