Recyclable absorbent item packaging material

Abstract

A package for one or more absorbent articles is described. The package has a packaging material including natural fibers. The package has a plurality of panels, including one facing the consumer, and is sealed so that one or more absorbent articles are completely enclosed within it. The packaging material has a basis weight of between 50 g / m² and 120 g / m², more preferably between 60 g / m² and 105 g / m², or most preferably between 70 g / m² and 90 g / m², as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein. The packaging material is recyclable. Abstract figure: Figure 1D

Description

Title of the invention: Recyclable absorbent material packaging material FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to disposable absorbent articles and their packaging, more particularly a packaging material for disposable absorbent articles which is recyclable.

[0002] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Environmentally friendly products are at the forefront of many consumers' concerns at this stage in our history. There is a growing emphasis on products made from sustainable sources. For example, there is strong market interest in creating consumer products incorporating natural materials, bio-based materials, and / or recycled materials. On the disposal side, there is a growing emphasis on products that are biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, reusable, and / or otherwise generate minimal landfill waste.

[0004] In the context of disposable absorbent articles, particularly the packaging of disposable absorbent articles, there are packaging materials that already satisfy one or two of these criteria. For example, there are countless absorbent articles that use cardboard as shelf packaging. Cardboard, being derived from wood pulp, can be either from a sustainable source or a recyclable source. And when the products within the packaging cannot form a stable shelf surface, cardboard is useful.

[0005] In cases where disposable absorbent articles are likely to be compressed and / or form a stable surface on the shelf, a more flexible material is often used, namely plastic. Plastic is generally preferred to cardboard because it can withstand the rigors of a packaging process much better than cardboard, given plastic's ability to flex and stretch. However, there is a growing public demand for alternatives to both plastic and non-plastic materials. Flexible packaging materials that are based on natural materials would meet this demand. Summary of the invention

[0006] The packagings of this description comprise one or more absorbent articles inside them and include a packaging material comprising natural fibers. Each of the packagings comprises a plurality of panels, including one panel facing the consumer, and in which the packaging The packaging is sealed in such a way that one or more absorbent items are enclosed within the packaging material. Furthermore, the packaging described herein is recyclable.

[0007] In an embodiment of packaging for one or more absorbent articles, the packaging comprises a packaging material made of natural fibers. The packaging comprises a plurality of panels, including one panel facing the consumer, and in which the packaging is sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed within it. The packaging material comprises a surface mass of between 50 g / m² and 120 g / m², more preferably between 60 g / m² and 105 g / m², or more preferably between 70 g / m² and 90 g / m², as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and wherein the packaging material is recyclable.

[0008] In another embodiment of packaging for one or more absorbent articles, the packaging comprises a packaging material comprising natural fibers. The packaging comprises a plurality of panels, including one panel facing the consumer, in which at least two of the plurality of panels comprise a seal, such that one or more absorbent articles are sealed inside it. The packaging material comprises a surface mass of between 50 g / m² and 120 g / m², more preferably between 60 g / m² and 105 g / m², or more preferably between 70 g / m² and 90 g / m², as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and the packaging material is recyclable.

[0009] In another embodiment of packaging for one or more absorbent articles, the packaging comprises a packaging material, including natural fibers. The packaging further comprises a plurality of panels, including a panel facing the consumer, an opposite rear panel, a bottom panel, an opposite upper panel, and opposite left and right panels. The packaging comprises a plurality of seals associated with one or more of the plurality of panels. The packaging material comprises a surface mass of between 50 g / m² and 120 g / m², more preferably between 60 g / m² and 105 g / m², or more preferably between 70 g / m² and 90 g / m², as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and the packaging material is recyclable.

[0010] In another embodiment of packaging for one or more absorbent articles, the packaging comprises a packaging material comprising natural fibers. The packaging further comprises a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel, an opposite rear panel, a bottom panel, an opposite upper panel, and opposite left and right panels, wherein at least one of the bottom or rear panels comprises a seal, wherein at least one The upper panel, left panel and / or right panel includes an access joint. The packaging material has a surface mass of between 50 g / m² and 120 g / m², more preferably between 60 g / m² and 105 g / m² or more preferably between 70 g / m² and 90 g / m², as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and the packaging material is recyclable. Brief description of the drawings

[0011] The [Fig. 1 A] is a schematic representation of a sheet of packaging material according to this description.

[0012] Fig.1B is a schematic representation showing the packaging material sheet of Fig.1A in a folded configuration.

[0013] The [Fig.1C] is a schematic representation of a conditioning according to the present description in an open state.

[0014] The [Fig.1D] is a schematic representation of the conditioning of the [Fig.1C] in a closed state.

[0015] Fig. 1E is a schematic representation of another conditioning of the present description illustrated in a closed state.

[0016] Fig. 2A is a schematic representation showing a panel of a packaging of the present description, in which the panel includes joints in a block-type configuration.

[0017] Fig. 2B is a schematic representation showing a conditioning of the present description, in which the conditioning includes seals in a pinched bottom configuration.

[0018] Fig. 2C is a schematic representation showing a conditioning of the present description, in which the conditioning includes seals in a cross-type configuration.

[0019] Fig. 2D is a schematic representation showing a panel of a package of the present description, in which the panel includes seals in a block-type configuration with identified sealing areas.

[0020] Fig. 3A is a schematic representation showing a package according to the present description constructed by means of a tubular envelope process.

[0021] Fig. 3B is a schematic representation showing another packaging according to the present description constructed with a tubular envelope process.

[0022] The [Fig.4A] is a schematic representation showing another conditioning according to the present description constructed according to the present description.

[0023] Fig. 4B is a schematic representation showing a rotating view of the conditioning of Fig. 4A.

[0024] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the packaging of Fig. 1E showing absorbent articles inside it.

[0025] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of an absorbent article of the present description showing a partially cut-out view of the article.

[0026] Fig. 7A shows a plan view of a layer constructed in accordance with this description.

[0027] Fig. 7B shows a cross-section of the baby diaper of Fig. 7A taken along lines 35-35.

[0028] Fig. 7C shows a cross-section of the baby diaper of Fig. 7B in an unfolded state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] The term "absorbent article" as used herein refers to devices that absorb and contain exudates, and, more specifically, refers to devices that are placed against or near the wearer's body to absorb and contain the various exudates excreted by the body. Absorbent articles in this description include, but are not limited to, baby diapers, adult incontinence briefs, training pants, baby diaper covers, baby diaper outer liners, absorbent inserts for baby diaper outer liners, menstrual pads, incontinence pads, liners, panty liners, tampons, durable menstrual panties, disposable swim pants, and the like.

[0030] The term "transverse direction of the machine" or "ST", as used here, refers to the trajectory that is perpendicular to the direction of the machine in the plane of the sheet.

[0031] The term "machine direction" or "MDR", as used here, refers to the path that the material, such as a sheet, follows through a manufacturing process.

[0032] The term “colorant”, as used here, refers to inks, dyes, pigments, or the like, used to create color in a substrate.

[0033] The term “natural fibers,” as used herein, refers to fibers that include cellulose-based fibers, bamboo-based fibers, and the like. Natural fibers also refer to non-woody fibers, such as cotton, abaca, Java jute, Chinese alpine rush, flax, esparto grass, straw, hemp jute, bagasse, milkweed fibers, and pineapple leaf fibers; and woody fibers, such as wood or paper pulp fibers, such as those obtained from Broadleaf and softwood fibers, including softwood fibers such as northern and southern softwood kraft fibers; and hardwood wood fibers such as eucalyptus, maple, birch, and aspen. Pulp fibers may be prepared in high-yield or low-yield forms and may be reduced to pulp by any known process, including high-yield kraft pulping, sulfite pulping, and other known pulping processes. The natural fibers of this description may be recycled natural fibers, virgin natural fibers, or mixtures thereof. Furthermore, for good mechanical properties in natural fibers, it may be desirable for the natural fibers to be relatively undamaged and largely unrefined or only slightly refined.Fibres can have a "Canadian Standard" drainage index of at least 200, more specifically at least 300, more specifically at least 400, and most specifically at least 500.

[0034] The term “cellulose-based fibers,” as used herein, may include cellulose fibers such as wood fibers, cotton, regenerated cellulose fibers such as viscose, lyocell, rayon, or cupro-ammonia rayon, and high-yield pulping fibers, unless otherwise specified. The term “cellulose-based fibers” also includes chemically treated natural fibers, such as mercerized pulp, chemically stiffened or crosslinked fibers, or sulfonated fibers. Also included are mercerized natural fibers, regenerated natural cellulosic fibers, cellulose produced by microbes, the rayon process, cellulose dissolution and coagulation spinning processes, and other cellulosic materials or cellulosic derivatives. Other cellulose-based fibers included are broken paper or recycled fibers and high-yield fibers.High-yield pulp fibers are those fibers produced by pulping processes that provide a yield of approximately 65% ​​or more, more specifically approximately 75% or more, and even more specifically from approximately 75% to approximately 95%. Yield is the resulting quantity of processed fiber expressed as a percentage of the initial wood mass. Such pulping processes include bleached chemothermal pulp (BCTMP), chemothermal pulp (CTMP), pressure / pressure thermomechanical pulp (PTMP), thermomechanical pulp (TMP), chemical thermomechanical pulp (TMCP), high-yield sulfite pulp, and high-yield Kraft pulp, all of which leave the resulting fibers with high levels of lignin but are still considered natural fibers.High-performance fibers are well known for their stiffness in both dry and wet states. compared to typical fibers reduced to paper pulp by chemical means.

[0035] The terms "non-recyclable material" or "impurity," as used herein, refer to materials considered unsuitable for processing in the natural fiber recycling process. However, in alternative recycling streams, materials bearing one or both of these designations may be recyclable.

[0036] The packaging materials described herein offer flexibility for the consumer, particularly during disposal. These packaging materials can be recycled or composted, thereby minimizing the amount of material sent to landfills. The packaging materials described herein include natural fibers. These packaging materials can be processed to form packaging comprising one or more absorbent items.

[0037] The packaging material of this description can be arranged as packaging in a myriad of configurations containing one or more absorbent articles. For example, the packaging may comprise a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel. The consumer-facing panel is the side of the packaging, when on the shelf, that faces the consumer. Generally, the consumer-facing panel includes information about the product name and / or packaging, each of which is described in more detail here. Also, each of the plurality of panels comprises an inner surface and an outer surface.

[0038] Packaging of the present description may include a generally cuboid shape. Thus, in addition to the panel facing the consumer, the packaging of the present description may further include a rear panel opposite the panel facing the user, a left panel arranged between the panel facing the consumer and the rear panel, a right panel opposite the left panel, a lower panel arranged between the panel facing the consumer and the rear panel and an opposite upper panel.

[0039] The packaging material may be in one piece. For example, several folds may be used to form the plurality of panels of the packaging. To further elucidate the example where the packaging is cuboid in shape, at least one fold may be arranged between each of: (1) the panel facing the consumer and the left panel; (2) between the panel facing the consumer and the right panel; (3) between the panel facing the consumer and the top panel; and (4) between the panel facing the consumer and the bottom panel. In addition, at least one fold may be arranged between each of: (1) the back panel and the left panel; (2) between the back panel and the right panel; (3) between the back panel and the top panel; and (4) between the panel rear and lower panel.

[0040] As an alternative to the above, the packagings of this description may include a packaging material comprising a plurality of distinct parts. Such configurations are described in more detail herein.

[0041] For packaging that includes a cuboid shape, the consumer-facing panel may generally be positioned perpendicular to a store shelf, while the lower panel may generally rest flat on the shelf or on top of another package. Generally perpendicular, assuming the store shelf is perfectly horizontal, means that the consumer-facing panel is at approximately 35 degrees from a vertical orientation. Generally flat, again assuming the store shelf is perfectly horizontal, means that the lower panel is at approximately 35 degrees from a horizontal orientation. Alternatively, in certain configurations, the consumer-facing panel may be oriented generally horizontally to the store shelf and faces the consumer when the consumer looks down at the bottom of the packaging.

[0042] Other forms of packaging are envisaged. Examples of such packaging include a tubular or horizontally shaped envelope and a sealed envelope. Such packaging may include a generally cuboid shape also configured as described above. However, in some cases, particularly where a small number of absorbent articles are included, this packaging may include a consumer-facing panel and an opposite rear panel. In such packaging, a ring seal may be formed, as described here, as well as end seals. In such configurations, the consumer-facing panel may be oriented generally vertically or generally horizontally. Furthermore, in such packaging, there may be an absence of fold lines distinguishing the consumer-facing panel from the rear panel.Instead, there may be a curved surface between these panels.

[0043] Additional examples are considered when packaging shapes comprising fewer than six panels are formed. Based on these examples, packaging having a circular or semi-circular shape when viewed from a lower panel is considered. Furthermore, packaging having a triangular shape when viewed from the lower panel is considered. Regardless of the number of panels in the packaging described herein, the packaging includes one panel facing the consumer.

[0044] Upon receipt of one or more absorbent articles, the packaging material described herein, in addition to natural fibers, may also include adhesives, coatings, dyes, and / or other materials, for example, barrier materials. The adhesives and / or barrier material, for example, film, may be used to create seals in the packaging material that seal one or more absorbent articles inside it. Creating seals reduces the likelihood of contamination of one or more absorbent articles within the packaging. The coatings and / or dyes may also be used to provide information about the labeling, background color, and / or packaging on one or more panels.Unfortunately, the addition of adhesives, coatings, colorants, and / or other materials can be considered non-recyclable in the recycling process. The use of adhesives, coatings, colorants, and other materials, such as barrier materials, is discussed in more detail below.

[0045] It should be noted that when a barrier material is used, the barrier material can be chosen in such a way that the use of adhesives can be reduced and possibly eliminated. A suitable example of a barrier material is a polyethylene film that can be coated onto an internal surface of the packaging material. Polyethylene can be used to form the seals rather than an adhesive or possibly in conjunction with an adhesive.

[0046] Furthermore, the barrier material may at least partially inhibit the migration of water vapor through the conditioning material. The barrier material may comprise a water-soluble material that may not interfere with a recycling process. The barrier material may be easily separable from the rest of the conditioning materials through a recycling process, for example, by having different water solubility, density, or other physical characteristics compared to the rest of the conditioning materials.

[0047] However, certain forms are envisaged when the barrier material includes a plastic film. In such cases, the weight percentage of the barrier material can influence the recyclability of the packaging material. For example, when the barrier material includes a plastic film, the barrier material may be considered non-recyclable in the natural fiber recycling process. An example of a plastic film that can be used as a barrier material is polyethylene film. However, as previously stated, polyethylene film can eliminate the need for an adhesive to create the seals of the packaging described herein. Furthermore, since the barrier material may not be recyclable in the same stream as the other packaging materials, the weight percentage of the barrier material may conform to this description. Regarding the percentages of non-recyclable material discussed here, it should be noted that the barrier material can be recycled through other recycling methods, for example, the recycling of plastic films and plastic bags.

[0048] There is currently no universal standard for determining whether a natural material is recyclable. In general, the higher the content of natural material, for example, natural fibers, and the lower the content of non-recyclable material, the higher the probability of being recyclable. Some specific examples of standards that may be useful for determining whether packaging material is recyclable include the PTS process and the Western Michigan process, and each is described in more detail below. These processes relate to the recyclability of materials that include wood fibers and / or pulp fibers.

[0049] The conditioning materials of this description may comprise natural fibers (e.g., wood fibers and / or pulp fibers) that form a paper. The conditioning material may comprise at least 50 percent by weight of natural fibers, more preferably at least 70 percent by weight of natural fibers, or more preferably at least 90 percent by weight of natural fibers, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and any of the ranges created therefrom. As yet another example, the conditioning material may comprise 99.9 percent by weight of natural fibers.The packaging materials described herein may comprise between 50 percent by weight and 100 percent by weight of natural fibers, more preferably between 70 percent by weight and 99.9 percent by weight, or most preferably between 90 percent by weight and 99.9 percent by weight of natural fibers. It should be noted that where the percentage by weight of natural fibers is less than 100 percent, the remaining percentage by weight may be occupied by coatings, dyes, adhesives, and / or other materials, for example, barrier materials, if desired.

[0050] In order to increase the likelihood that the packaging material is recyclable, the total weight percentage of non-recyclable material, for example adhesives, films, coatings, and / or colorants, in the packaging material of this description may be carefully chosen. For example, the packaging material of this description may comprise 50 percent by weight or less, more preferably 30 percent by weight or less, or most preferably about 15 percent by weight or less of non-recyclable material, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. By way of further example, the packaging materials of this description Description may include from approximately 0.1 percent to approximately 50 percent by weight, more preferably from approximately 0.1 percent to approximately 30 percent by weight, or most preferably from approximately 0.1 percent to approximately 15 percent by weight of non-recyclable material, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. If an increased probability of recyclability is desired, the percentage by weight of non-recyclable material may be 5 percent by weight or less, or from 0.1 percent to 5 percent by weight, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom.

[0051] The efficiency of the recycling process on the packaging material of this description can be determined by means of a recyclable percentage. The packaging material of this description may have recyclable percentages of 70 percent or more, more preferably 80 percent or more, or most preferably 90 percent or more, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The packaging material according to this description may have a recyclable percentage between 70 and 99.9 percent, more preferably from about 80 percent to about 99.9 percent, or most preferably from about 90 percent to about 99.9 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom.In a specific example, the packaging material according to the present invention may have a recyclable percentage of approximately 95 percent to approximately 99.9 percent, more preferably approximately 97 percent to approximately 99.9 percent, or most preferably approximately 98 percent to approximately 99.9 percent, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The recyclable percentage of the packaging material of this description can be determined by means of the PTS-RH:021 / 97 test (draft Oct. 2019) under Category II, as performed by Papiertechnische Stiftung located at Pirnaer Strasse 37, 01809 Heidenau, Germany.

[0052] In parallel with the recyclable percentage, the total rejection percentage can be determined by means of PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft Oct. 2019) under the Category IL test procedure. However, unlike the recyclable percentage, in order to increase the probability of recyclability, the total rejection percentage can be decreased. For example, the total rejection percentage of the packaging material of the present invention can be 30 percent or less, more preferably about 20 percent or less, or most preferably less than about 10 percent or less, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. For example, the total rejection percentage of the packaging material of the present description can be from 0.1 percent to 30 percent, plus preferably from 0.1 percent to 20 percent, or most preferably from 0.1 percent to 10 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created as a result. In a specific example, the total rejection percentage could be less than 5 percent, or between 0.1 percent and 5 percent, more preferably between 0.1 and 3 percent, or most preferably between 0.1 and 2 percent, specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created as a result.

[0053] For the sake of clarity, the percentage of non-recyclable material does not necessarily have a 1:1 correlation with the total percentage of rejection. For example, the use of soluble adhesives is described here. Since these adhesives are designed to dissolve during the recycling process, it is assumed that these adhesives would not have an impact on the total percentage of rejection; however, they would contribute to the percentage by weight of non-recyclable material.

[0054] It should be noted that the test process PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft Oct. 2019) under Category II includes a mold inspection component. Driven screens inspect one or more molds of recycled packaging material for visual imperfections and stickiness. If the number of visual imperfections is too high or if it is too sticky, then the packaging material is rejected. If the number of visual imperfections is acceptable and the mold is not too sticky, in accordance with the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft Oct. 2019) process, then the packaging material is approved for further processing. The packaging material of this description can exhibit an acceptable level of visual imperfections and stickiness during this step of the PTS process.

[0055] The packaging material of this description can achieve the recyclable percentages mentioned above and pass the mold screening process. Therefore, the packaging material of this description can achieve an overall rating or final result of "pass" when submitted to PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft Oct. 2019) under Category II, Recycling Test Process.

[0056] It should also be noted that there is an alternative method for determining the recyclable percentage of the packaging material of this description. The test method performed by Western Michigan University, called the pulping test, can provide a percentage yield of recyclable material. The packaging material of this description can achieve a percentage yield, according to the pulping test, that is greater than about 70 percent, more preferably greater than about 80 percent, or most preferably greater than about 90 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The packaging material according to the present invention can have a percentage yield between 70 and 99.9 percent, more preferably from about 80 to about 99.9 percent, or most preferably from about 90 to about 99.9 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. In a specific example, the packaging material of this description may have a recyclable material yield percentage that is between 80 and 99.9 percent, specifically including all values ​​within this range and any ranges created therefrom. In such an example, the packaging material may have a brown base color.In another specific example, the packaging material described herein may have a recyclable material yield percentage ranging from 85 percent to 99.9 percent, specifically including all values ​​within that range and any ranges created from it. In such an example, the packaging material may have a white base color. The base colors of packaging materials are discussed in more detail here.

[0057] It is envisaged that the packaging material of this description, while being recyclable, will itself comprise recycled material. Such a determination can be made from a visual inspection of the packaging material. For example, manufacturers typically advertise the use of recycled materials in an attempt to demonstrate their environmentally friendly packaging method. To further develop this example, some manufacturers may use a logo, for example, a leaflet, in addition to text to indicate packaging that includes recycled material. Often, manufacturers may also specify the percentage of recycled material used, for example, more than 50 percent, more than 70 percent, etc.

[0058] A visual inspection can be as simple as using the human eye to inspect packaging for recycled material logos. In addition, or as an alternative, a visual inspection can include microscopy techniques such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, or other suitable techniques known in the art. For example, packaging material containing recycled paper fibers might appear different under a microscope due to the presence of a much wider range of natural fiber types than if the packaging material contained 100% non-recycled paper. As another example, under a microscope, potentially a scanning electron microscope, recycled fibers, due to their processing, may appear more fibrillated than their virgin fiber counterparts.

[0059] Packaging seals

[0060] As previously indicated, the packaging of the present of the Descriptions may also include a plurality of seams. Seams are areas of the packaging material where at least two parts of the packaging material have the ability to overlap. Seams are created when at least two parts of the packaging material in the seam are joined to each other, for example, by means of an adhesive. For example, a bottom panel may include seams where the ends of the packaging material overlap. An adhesive may be provided on an inner surface of one part of the bottom panel and / or on an outer surface of a second part of the bottom panel, as well as on an outer surface of a base part of the bottom panel, to create one or more seams.The top panel may include seams where the ends of the packaging material are joined together, similar to the seams on the bottom panel. While seams may be provided on any panel of the packaging, it is recommended that a panel facing the consumer not include any seams or joints. Seams and joints can be visibly unappealing to consumers.

[0061] It should be noted that the seams may include overlapping areas of the packaging material as described above. Namely, an adhesive may be applied to an internal surface of a first part of the packaging material and / or an external surface of a second part of the packaging material. The first and second parts may then be joined together to create an overlap joint. However, butt joints may also be created. Butt joints may be created where an adhesive is applied to the internal surface of a first part of the packaging material and / or the internal surface of a second part of the packaging material. The internal surfaces of the first and second parts may be joined to form a butt joint. Butt joints and overlap joints are discussed in more detail below.

[0062] Seals are important to ensure that the packaging described herein reduces the likelihood of exposing one or more absorbent articles inside the packaging to the environment outside the packaging material. The use of seals, as described herein, can provide adequate sealing of the packaging material so that the absorbent articles within the packaging are not exposed to the external environment. Simply folding or rolling the packaging material does not form a seal as described herein.

[0063] In order to withstand the rigors of shipping, storage, and handling by the consumer, the seals must have the required strength. This complicates the requirement. Several variables determine the required sealing strength, namely the type of seal and the level of compression of one or more absorbent materials within the packaging. A further complication is that adhesives are generally considered non-recyclable. Nevertheless, inventors have surprisingly discovered that with careful selection of the adhesive type and / or other sealing mechanism, such as a polyethylene film, along with its weight percentage, the seal strength requirements can be met while maintaining the recyclability of the packaging material.

[0064] Regarding the types of seals, the plurality of seals in the packaging described herein may include an access seal, a ring seal, and a bottom seal. Tubular packaging may also be designed to include these seals. Alternatively, tubular packaging may include a pair of opposing end seals and a ring seal between the end seals. In this configuration, an access seal may similarly be provided.

[0065] The access seal can be provided as a seal that is opened by the consumer to access one or more absorbent articles within the packaging. The ring seal can be the initial seal created in the packaging manufacturing process. The ring seal is described in more detail with regard to Figures IA and IB. A further variant of the ring seal, namely where the ring seal includes one or more side seals, is described with regard to Figures 4A and 4B. The bottom seal can be located on the bottom panel. The bottom seal and its configuration are discussed in more detail below with regard to Figures 2A to 2D. The end seals are also discussed below with regard to Figures 3A and 3B.

[0066] In general, the packaging of the present description may include seals that have a tensile strength of at least 3 N / in. For example, each of the plurality of seals in the packaging of the present invention may have a tensile strength from 3 N / in. to about 40 N / in., more preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 35 N / in., or most preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 30 N / in., specifically citing all values ​​included within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. For packaging comprising absorbent articles that do not involve a large amount of compression, e.g., sanitary napkins, adult light incontinence pads, liners, packaging containing 6 or fewer absorbent articles, and the like, the tensile strength of the seals in this packaging may be from about 3 N / in. to about 25 N / in., more preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 20 N / in., or most preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 15 N / in., in . specifically citing all the values ​​within these ranges and all the ranges created as a result.

[0067] For packages comprising compressed absorbent articles, the ring seal may have a higher tensile strength than at least one of the other seals. For example, the ring seal may have a tensile strength of between 15 N / in. and about 40 N / in., more preferably from about 20 N / in. to about 35 N / in., or most preferably from about 22 N / in. to about 30 N / in., specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. In such packages, one or more absorbent articles may include adult incontinence pads or adult incontinence pads for moderate to heavy use. Additional examples are envisaged in which at least one seal has a higher tensile strength than another seal.For example, the bottom joint may have a higher tensile strength than the ring joint and / or the access joint. In another example, the access joint may have a higher tensile strength than the ring joint, the bottom joint, or the end joints. In yet another example, at least one end joint may have a higher tensile strength than the other end joint and / or the ring joint.

[0068] In addition, the inventors have surprisingly found that the access seal can have a lower tensile strength than the ring seal and / or any other seal. In some cases, when the access seal is located on the upper panel of the packaging, it is generally not subjected to as much load as the ring seal and other seals, for example, a bottom seal or an end seal. It should be noted that the access seal can be located on one or more of the following panels: the upper panel, the right panel, and / or the left panel. Or, for tubular packaging that includes end seals and a ring seal, one of the end seals can serve as the access seal.

[0069] According to another possibility, the packagings of this description can be configured such that the seals have similar tensile strengths. For example, each of the plurality of seals may have a tensile strength of at least 10 N / in. In such configurations, each seal may have a tensile strength that is plus or minus 15% of the tensile strength of the remaining seals in the packaging. However, as previously stated, since adhesives and / or other sealing mechanisms, for example, polyethylene film, are considered non-recyclable materials, their use should be carefully considered to ensure that the packaging material retains its recyclability. The tensile strengths of the aforementioned seals here can be determined by the tensile test procedure described in ASTM F88-06 as modified here.

[0070] As previously stated, the type and quantity of adhesive used for the seals of the packaging described herein can influence the packaging's recyclability. By way of example, adhesives that can dissolve in water during the pulping step of the disintegration step of the recycling process may be particularly suitable for the packaging described herein. Such adhesives include starch-based adhesives, polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesives, and polyethylene oxide-based adhesives. A suitable example of a starch-based adhesive is available from LD Davis, located in Monroe, North Carolina, under the brand name AP0420CR. A suitable example of a polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesive is available from Sekisui Chemical Company, located in Osaka, Japan, under the brand name Selvol 205.A suitable example of a polyethylene oxide-based adhesive is available from Dow Chemicals Co., located in Midland, Michigan, under the brand name WSR N-80.

[0071] If the adhesive is not water-soluble, then water-dispersible adhesives can be used similarly. Suitable examples of water-dispersible adhesives include thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesives and polyvinyl acetate-based adhesives. A suitable example of a thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesive is available from Actega, located in Blue Ash, Ohio, under the brand name Yunico 491. A suitable example of a polyvinyl acetate-based adhesive is available from Bostik, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, under the brand name Aquagrip 4419U01. Another suitable example of a polyvinyl acetate-based adhesive is available from HB Fuller under the brand name PD-0330.

[0072] Any suitable pressure-sensitive adhesive may also be used. A suitable example of pressure-sensitive adhesives includes those sold by Formulated Polymer Products Ltd., located in Bury, Lancashire, England, and sold under the brand name FP2154. As a specific example, the access seal may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0073] Without being bound by any theory, it is thought that packaging of the present description that uses water-soluble adhesives may comprise a higher weight percentage of such adhesives than adhesives that are only water-dispersible. For example, packaging comprising water-soluble adhesives may comprise a first weight percentage of adhesive, whereas packaging comprising water-dispersible adhesives may comprise a second weight percentage of adhesive. It is thought that the first weight percentage may be greater than the second weight percentage. with the aim of recycling the packaging material. Data concerning appropriate weight percentages of adhesive are provided below in Table 1.

[0074] The following samples are shown in Table 1. Samples 1 to 4: Available from BillerudKorsnas™ under the brand name Axello Zap.

[0075] [Tables 1] Sample No. Paper Surface Mass (g / m²) Adhesive Type Paper Weight Percentage (%) Adhesive Weight Percentage (%) Sample 1 80 Thermoplastic Elastomer 98 2 Sample 2 80 Polyvinyl Acetate Strips 97 3 Sample 3 80 Polyvinyl Acetate 86 14 Sample 4 80 Starch 86 14

[0076] Table 2 below shows the recyclability data according to the PTS process and the Western Michigan test mentioned above. It is assumed that the recyclable percentages obtained via the PTS process would be similar to the percentage yield of recyclable material determined by the Western Michigan test for samples 1 and 2, which were tested only according to the PTS process.

[0077] [Tables2] Sample No. Fiber Yield (in percent) Western Mich (%) Recyclable Percentage PTS (%) PTS Form Inspection PTS Score Sample 1 N / A 99 Pass Pass Sample 2 N / A 99.1 Pass Pass Sample 3 99.2 99.8 Fail Fail Sample 4 100 100 Pass Pass

[0078] As previously stated, the packaging of this description may use a soluble adhesive, a dispersible adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, or any combination thereof. However, the choice of adhesives should be carefully considered from the point of view of the percentage in weight. When soluble adhesives are used, the adhesive may contain at least one of the following: starch-based, polyethylene oxide-based, polyvinyl alcohol-based, or combinations thereof. Sample 4 illustrates that even at 14 percent by weight, the soluble adhesive (starch-based) passed the PTS procedure described here, whereas polyvinyl acetate at the same weight percentage failed the PTS test.

[0079] Where dispersible adhesives are desired, as with those mentioned above, care must be taken to ensure that the packaging material retains its recyclability. Where an adhesive, such as a polyvinyl acetate-based adhesive, is desired, the percentage by weight may be about 12 percent by weight or less, more preferably about 10 percent by weight or less, specifically stating all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. For example, polyvinyl acetate-based adhesives may be used in an amount from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 12 percent by weight, more preferably from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 10 percent by weight, or most preferably from 0.5 percent by weight to about 7 percent by weight, specifically stating all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom.

[0080] It is believed that the preceding weight percentages are applicable for achieving a total rejection rate of less than 5 percent in accordance with the PTS process mentioned herein and for passing the tray inspection. As the data demonstrate, while 14 percent by weight of polyvinyl acetate failed the PTS process, it passed the Western Michigan process. It is believed that higher weight percentages of polyvinyl acetate can be used in certain packaging materials of this description and still meet the recyclability requirements of certain jurisdictions, for example, Western Michigan.For example, the weight percentage of polyvinyl acetate-based adhesives for the Western Michigan test is thought to be within the ranges of 0.5 to about 20 percent by weight, 0.5 to about 15 percent by weight, or most preferably about 0.5 to about 10 percent by weight, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom.

[0081] However, it should be noted that when the dispersible adhesive is a thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesive, different weight percentages may apply. For example, when the dispersible adhesive comprises a thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesive, the weight percentage may be about 7 percent by weight or less, more preferably about 5 percent by weight or less, or most preferably about 4 percent by weight or less, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. Furthermore, in this For example, the percentage by weight may be from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 7 percent by weight, more preferably from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or most preferably from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom.

[0082] Similar to polyvinyl acetate adhesive, the preceding weight percentages are thought to be applicable for achieving a total rejection percentage of less than 5 percent, as well as for dummy inspection in accordance with the PTS process mentioned herein. Higher weight percentages of thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesive are thought to be usable while still meeting the recyclability requirements of certain jurisdictions, for example, Western Michigan. For example, the weight percentage of thermoplastic elastomer-based adhesives for the Western Michigan test is thought to be within the ranges of 0.5 to about 15 percent by weight, 0.5 to about 12 percent by weight, or most preferably about 0.5 to about 7 percent by weight, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom.

[0083] The inventors have discovered, surprisingly, that dispersible adhesives, such as thermoplastic elastomer and polyvinyl acetate adhesives, can provide high sealing strength while also being extremely flexible in terms of application. For example, when heat sealing is already used in an existing manufacturing process, these adhesives offer the same flexibility, i.e., they are heat-sealable. As another example, these adhesives could be printed onto the packaging material, thus simplifying manufacturing. As yet another example, these adhesives can be applied via a patterned or partial coating. Building on this example, these adhesives allow the seal strength to be manipulated to achieve a desired result. These adhesives can be applied in patterns, for example, stripes, dots, etc.In this way, these adhesives can provide the desired amount of sealing strength in the desired location. Due to the flexibility of application of these adhesives to the packaging material described herein, the sealing strengths can be easily adjusted.

[0084] With regard to the application of adhesive, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that patterned adhesive application can provide higher sealing strength than a full, i.e., solid, coating of adhesive. While a solid adhesive coating can still be used to achieve the sealing strength values ​​described herein, striped patterns can provide the same level of tensile strength while having the added advantage of using less of adhesive. As an example, the inventors surprisingly discovered that adhesive applied in horizontal bands (parallel or perpendicular to the longest dimension of the joint), as well as in angled and cross-hatched patterns, provided sealing strengths similar to full-coat applications while using less adhesive. Therefore, packaging of the present description that includes discontinuous application of adhesive in at least one joint is envisaged.

[0085] It should be noted that the characteristics of the seals of the packaging described herein may depend on how the packaging material is processed. For example, a manufacturer of absorbent articles may purchase the packaging pre-formed. In such cases, the absorbent article manufacturer may receive from a paper packaging manufacturer essentially an open bag comprising one side with a ring seal and one side with another seal, for example, a bottom seal. The other seal, for example the bottom seal, may be configured in a block type, a cross type, or a pinch-type arrangement. Such configurations are discussed in more detail below with reference to Figures 2A to 2D.

[0086] When creating an access seal, the absorbent article manufacturer may use the same adhesive used in the ring seal and / or another seal, for example, a bottom seal. Alternatively, the absorbent article manufacturer may use an adhesive that is different from that of the ring seal and / or the other seal, for example, the bottom seal.

[0087] It is also possible for the absorbent product manufacturer to produce the packaging itself. For example, an absorbent product manufacturer may have the option of producing the open bag, similar to the one described above, and subsequently filling it with one or more absorbent products and then sealing it without needing to purchase such bags from a supplier.

[0088] Another example where a manufacturer of absorbent articles produces the packaging itself includes the tubular pouch configuration. In such a configuration, the manufacturer forms the packaging around one or more absorbent articles as opposed to placing one or more absorbent articles in a pre-formed bag. These types of packaging in this description may include end seals and a ring seal and may further include an access seal, or one of the end seals may include the access seal.

[0089] Regardless of whether a manufacturer of absorbent articles purchases pre-made bags from a supplier or produces the packaging themselves, the previous sealing configurations can always be provided. Namely, at less one joint may include a different adhesive than the other joints, or the adhesive in the joints may include the same adhesive.

[0090] Some examples envisaged include packaging where the ring seal and other seals, for example a bottom seal, one or more end seals, comprise a soluble adhesive and where the access seal or end seal comprises a dispersible adhesive. Another example envisaged is where the ring seal and other seals, for example the bottom seal, the end seal(s), comprise a soluble adhesive and where the access seal or end seal comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Another example envisaged is where all the seals comprise dispersible adhesives. Another example is where all the seals comprise soluble adhesives. Yet another example is where all the seals comprise the same adhesive, for example, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, a soluble adhesive, or a dispersible adhesive.Yet another example is the case where at least one of the plurality of seals includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0091] Coatings and Dyes

[0092] Each of the plurality of panels comprises an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer and / or inner surface of one or more panels may include dyes and / or coatings, which create a marking on the packaging, packaging information, and / or a background color, etc. Labeling and / or packaging information may be provided on an outer and / or inner surface of at least one panel, for example, the panel facing the consumer. The labeling may include logos, brands, trademarks, icons, and the like, associated with the absorbent items within the packaging. A marking may be used to inform a consumer of the brand of the absorbent items within the packaging. By way of example, the labeling for a package of feminine hygiene pads may include the Always® brand name.

[0093] Packaging information may include the size of the absorbent items, the number of absorbent items in the package, a representative image of the absorbent items contained in the package, recyclability logos, and similar information associated with the absorbent items in the package. In addition, packaging information may include information about the packaging material itself, for example, recyclability logos, certifications from various organizations, or similar information. By way of example, packaging information for a package of feminine hygiene napkins may include a size indicator, for example, "Size 1." Other parts of the packaging may similarly include the name, packaging information, and / or background color, etc. parallel to those associated with the panel facing the consumer.

[0094] In addition, one or more sections of the packaging described herein may include dyes and / or coatings to provide a background color to the packaging described herein. To further clarify the background color, it should be noted that the packaging material includes a base color. A base color of the packaging material is the color of the packaging material without dyes and / or coatings. For example, bleached packaging material is white, unbleached packaging material is brown, and packaging material that includes recycled content may be gray. A background color is any color that is not a base color, for example, blue, red, green, yellow, purple, orange, black, or combinations thereof.However, the background color may also include white, brown, or grey, if the background color is obtained through dyes and / or coatings.

[0095] As previously stated, the use of dyes and / or coatings can be considered as impurities in the recyclability stream. Therefore, the use of dyes and / or coatings should be carefully considered.

[0096] In order to reduce the use of dyes and / or coatings, for the beneficial effect of the recycling process, a base color of the packaging material may be used. For example, packaging is envisioned where the consumer-facing panel includes markings, packaging information, and / or a background color, while one or more panels include a base color. In one specific example, the bottom panel and / or the back panel may use the base color of the packaging material instead of a background color. One or more of the bottom panel, top panel, left panel, right panel, back panel, or any combination thereof may use the base color of the packaging material instead of a background color. In another example, the consumer-facing panel, independently or in conjunction with other panels, may include a base color.To further develop this example, the packaging may include absorbent items that comprise natural components, for example, a cotton topsheet and / or chlorine-free pulp in an absorbent core. In such examples, the consumer-facing panel may have a white base color. In this same example, in addition to the base color, the consumer-facing panel may also include markings, a background color (associated with the product name), and / or packaging information. In yet another example, one or more panels may include... Conditioning information, which in part includes a base color. To further develop this example, the base color can be a primary color, for example white, and a background color can be applied to a panel with a negative image of the conditioning information, such that the conditioning information, or part of it, is not covered by the background color, and the conditioning information includes the base color.

[0097] In further examples, the seams of the packaging described herein may include less dye coverage than adjacent areas on the same panel. For example, a portion of a panel that is joined to another portion of the panel to form a seam may include a seam area. The seam area may include less dye or even no dye than the portion of the panel adjacent to it. Each seam may include a seam area that includes less dye or even no dye than an area adjacent to the seam.

[0098] In other examples, a first panel may have a different percentage of dye coverage than a second panel. To further clarify this example, the panel facing the consumer may have a higher percentage of dye coverage than another panel of the packaging, for example, the bottom panel. As noted, absorbent articles that are naturally based, for example, cotton top sheets or other components, unbleached cores, no added dye, and / or no added fragrance, may rely more heavily on the base colors of the packaging material. By way of example, such packaging may include a consumer-facing panel with a dye coverage of 75 percent or less, more preferably 50 percent or less, or most preferably 40 percent or less.In addition, the consumer-facing panel may include a colour coverage of between about 10 percent and about 75 percent, more preferably about 15 percent and about 50 percent, or most preferably about 20 percent and about 40 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom.

[0099] In such packaging, other panels may be configured with a higher percentage of dye coverage, a lower percentage, or a mixture thereof. For example, in such configurations, a bottom panel may have a lower percentage of dye coverage. A back panel, a left panel, and / or a right panel may have a higher percentage of dye coverage or, more preferably, a lower percentage of dye coverage. These same values ​​may also apply to the tubular envelope configurations described herein. The percentage of dye coverage is determined by means of the dye coverage measurement method described herein

[0100] . Naturally based products as described are not necessarily limited to the preceding dye coverages; however, a lower percentage of dye may mean a lower percentage by weight of dye, which may be beneficial from a recyclability standpoint. In another example, absorbent article packaging according to this description may include a consumer-facing panel having a dye coverage of 100 percent, more preferably 99 percent or less, or most preferably 98 percent or less.For example, packaging conforming to this description may include a consumer-facing pane with a colorant coverage percentage between 60 percent and 100 percent, more preferably between approximately 60 percent and approximately 99 percent, or most preferably between approximately 60 percent and approximately 98 percent. In such configurations, other panes may include the same percentage of colorant coverage or, more preferably, may include a lower percentage of colorant coverage. The percentage of colorant coverage is determined by means of the colorant coverage measurement method described herein.

[0101] While any suitable dye can be used, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that water-based dyes typically dissolve more readily in water during the recycling process. Thus, water-based dyes can facilitate the recycling process of the packaging described herein. Any suitable water-based dye can be used. Water-based dyes are well known in the art.

[0102] It should be noted that solvent-based dyes and / or energy-cured dyes can also be used. However, the use of these types of dyes can add complexity to the manufacturing of the packaging material. For example, solvent-based dyes generally release volatile organic compounds that must be removed from the air. In addition, solvent-based dyes may contain components that do not readily dissolve in water during the recycling process, which could negatively affect the recyclability of the packaging material.

[0103] Energy-curable dyes can also be used; however, like solvent-based dyes, energy-curable dyes can add complexity to the processing of the packaging material. And like solvent-based dyes, energy-curable dyes may include components that are not readily soluble in water during the recycling process, which could negatively affect the recyclability of the packaging material.

[0104] Any suitable coating used for the packaging material may be employed. Coatings may be used to protect the background color, labeling, and / or packaging information. In addition, coatings may be used to provide beneficial antistatic effects, beneficial coefficient of friction effects, and / or beneficial appearance effects (e.g., gloss, matte, satin, high gloss, etc.). Similar to water-based colorants, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that water-based coatings, when used, can facilitate the recycling process of the packaging material. Suitable coatings include varnishes that are well known in the art. Any suitable coating / varnish may be used.

[0105] In order to withstand the rigors of a manufacturing process in which a plurality of absorbent articles are arranged within the packaging, to withstand the rigors of shipping, to provide protection against environmental stresses during shipping and while on the store shelf, and to ensure product protection in the consumer's home, the packaging material may have a certain level of strength, tensile strength, and resilience. By way of example, the packaging material of this description may have a tensile strength in the SM of at least 4.7 kN / m, more preferably at least 7 kN / m, or more preferably at least 8 kN / m, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom.The tensile strength in the SM may be between 4.7 kN / m and 8.5 kN / m, or more preferably between 5.2 kN / m and 8.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 5.5 kN / m and 8.0 kN / m, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The tensile strength in the SM is measured using ISO 1924-3 as modified herein.

[0106] By way of further example, the conditioning material of this description may have a tensile strength in the ST of at least 2.7 kN / m, more preferably at least 4 kN / m, or most preferably at least 5.5 kN / m, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. The tensile strength in the ST may be between 2.7 and 6.5 kN / m, more preferably between 2.7 and 6.2 kN / m, or most preferably between 2.7 and 6 kN / m, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. The tensile strength in the ST is measured using ISO 1924-3 as modified herein.

[0107] By way of further example, the packaging material of this description may have a burst strength of at least 185 kPa, more preferably at least 250 kPa, or most preferably at least 550 kPa, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created from this The burst strength of the packaging material described herein may be between 185 and 600 kPa, more preferably between 220 and 550 kPa, or most preferably between 250 and 500 kPa, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. Burst strength is measured using ISO 2758 as modified herein.

[0108] By way of further example, the conditioning material of this description may have a stretch at break in the SM, more preferably of at least 3 percent, or more preferably of at least 6 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The conditioning material of this description may have a stretch at break in the SM of between 3 and 6.5 percent, more preferably between 3.2 and 6.2 percent, or more preferably between 3.5 and 6 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The stretch at break in the SM is measured using ISO 1924-3 as modified herein.

[0109] By way of further example, the conditioning material of this description may have a stretch at break in the ST of at least 4 percent, more preferably at least 6 percent, or most preferably at least 9 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The conditioning material of this description may have a stretch at break in the ST of 4 to 10 percent, more preferably 4.5 to 9.5 percent, or most preferably 5 to 9 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The stretch at break in the ST is measured using ISO 1924-3 as modified herein.

[0110] By way of yet another example, the basis weight of the packaging material can affect the "feel" of the packaging to the consumer, in addition to affecting the strength and resilience of the packaging material. Too low a basis weight and the packaging may seem too fragile. Too high a basis weight and the packaging may seem too inflexible. The packaging material according to this description may have a basis weight of between 50 and 120 g / m², more preferably between 60 and 105 g / m², or most preferably between 70 and 90 g / m², specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. The basis weight may be determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein.

[0111] It should be noted that the lower surface mass of 50 g / m² may require certain precautions during processing. For high-speed packaging processes, a surface mass of 50 g / m² may not provide the level of Desired reliability. It is believed that high-speed packaging processes can induce deformation in the packaging material that slower packaging processes cannot. Thus, from a high-speed manufacturing perspective, 60 g / m² may be the lowest desirable surface mass of the packaging material. When manual or low-speed packaging processes are used, 50 g / m² may be sufficient as the lowest surface mass of the packaging material.

[0112] Regarding size, the packaging material of this description may have a size of at least 50 µm, more preferably at least 70 µm, or most preferably at least 90 µm, specifically stating all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. The packaging material of this description may have a size between 50 and 110 µm, more preferably between 55 and 105 µm, or most preferably between 60 and 100 µm, specifically stating all values ​​within these ranges and any ranges created therefrom. Size is measured using ISO 534 as modified herein.

[0113] It should be noted that the packaging material described herein differs from cardboard and brown paper bags. For example, cardboard is not as flexible as the packaging materials described herein. Cardboard is designed and is inherently more rigid than the packaging materials described herein and may be more difficult to process on converting lines due to its rigidity. Furthermore, cardboard has a higher unit density than the packaging materials described herein.

[0114] Similarly, cardboard also differs from the packaging materials described herein. Cardboard has a much higher density per unit area than the packaging materials described herein. Furthermore, cardboard is much less flexible than the packaging materials described herein. Cardboard materials are commonly corrugated and comprise three layers of a paper material and, as such, are structurally different from the packaging materials described herein. Moreover, the packaging material described herein has a much lower density per unit area than cardboard.

[0115] Some advantages that the packaging material of the present invention has over cardboard include flexibility, as discussed herein. However, another advantage is that the packaging materials of the present description take up less space than their bulkier cardboard counterparts. Another advantage of the packaging materials of the present description is that they allow the Absorbent articles are compressed within the packaging. This allows more products to fit into a smaller volume package, thus increasing yield. An additional advantage is that a single layer (one stratum) of the packaging materials described herein can form the packaging described herein. The inventors have discovered that, due at least in part to the flexibility, strength, and resilience properties of the packaging materials, the packaging described herein can be formed from a single layer (one stratum) of the packaging materials described herein.

[0116] Regarding the brown paper bags that were common in stores for transporting groceries, the packaging described herein is also different. As discussed in more detail here, the packaging material of the present invention is sealed in such a way that the absorbent articles are enclosed and protected from the external environment by the packaging material. More specifically, the absorbent packaging according to this description has no opening where articles can be placed. Instead, the absorbent packaging according to this description is sealed to reduce the likelihood of contamination of the absorbent articles during shipping, storage, and placement on store shelves.In contrast, conventional brown paper bags, widely used in grocery stores for decades, include an opening into which items can be placed.

[0117] Despite having less flexibility compared with plastic packaging and a lower surface mass than cardboard, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that the packaging material of the present description can withstand the rigors of a manufacturing process where a plurality of absorbent articles are placed within the packaging as well as the rigors of being shipped, providing protection against environmental aggressions during shipping, and while on the store shelf, and ensuring protection of the product in the consumer's home.

[0118] It should also be noted that the conditioning material of this description, in addition to being free from the high stretch properties of conventional plastic conditioning film, may not provide the barrier properties of conventional plastic conditioning film. For example, the conditioning material of this description may not include a functional barrier layer such as a layer of metal foil, plastic, or the like. However, as described herein, forms are envisaged where the conditioning materials of this description include a film disposed on an internal surface of the Packaging material. This film can act as a barrier to the transmission of humid vapor through the packaging material.

[0119] Furthermore, examples are envisaged where the absorbent article's backing sheet is in direct contact with the inner surface of the packaging material. Packages of this description including baby diapers may be configured in this way. Feminine hygiene products, including menstrual pads, liners, adult incontinence pads, and the like, may be individually wrapped to protect the panty-fastening adhesive on their respective backing sheets. In packages with these articles, the individually wrapped article may be in direct contact with the inner surface of the packaging material. Forms are envisaged where the packaging that encloses the individual articles may include natural fibers as described herein. In addition, such packaging may be recyclable, as described herein.

[0120] As previously stated, absorbent product manufacturers may purchase the packaging material already pre-formed in open bags or may purchase rolls of packaging material. Regardless of whether the packaging material is on rolls or pre-formed to some extent, the packagings described herein begin with a paper stock. With reference to Figures IA to IB, the edge portions 100 and 110 of a sheet of paper stock 99 may be folded over themselves and subsequently joined together to form a seal. For example, the side portions 100 and 110 of the sheet 99 may be folded or simply translated transversely inward toward a longitudinal midline 90 of the sheet 99. These edge portions may overlap and be joined together to form an overlap seal.Alternatively, edge sections 100 and 110 can be joined together on their respective inner surfaces to form a butt joint. It should be noted that butt joints tend not to be as flat as overlap joints. Therefore, where the joint is located, at least partially, on a lower surface, an overlap joint may be preferable so that the packaging rests on a flatter lower surface. The joining of edge sections 100 and 110 is called a ring joint.

[0121] With reference now to Figures IC to 1E, the packaging material sheet can be folded appropriately to form lateral bag pleats 12b and 13b and two lateral folds 12a and 13a on opposite sides, to form the bag structure 4 having a first surface 10, a second and a third surface 12, 13, respectively, and a fourth and fifth surface 14, 15. An open end 48 (e.g., a gusset bag structure) ) opposes the first surface 10. Each lateral pleat 12b, 13b is located at the level of the second or third respective surface 12, 13. It should be noted that in Figures IC and 1D, the pleat and folds shown are for packaging having a block configuration or a lower block configuration. Gussets and fold lines for a pinch-bottom bag are discussed in more detail in [Fig. 2B].

[0122] The bag 4 can be filled by inserting items such as a stack of absorbent material through the open end 48. When the bag 4 is filled with a plurality of items, for example by pushing items in from the open end 48, the device used to introduce the items into the bag 4, together with the items themselves, can exert a certain tension on each of the second and third surfaces 12, 13 of the bag 4. For example, the items may be compressed before being inserted into the bag 4. Therefore, the items may expand slightly after being introduced into the bag 4 and thus exert a certain tension on the second and third surfaces 12, 13 as well as the fourth surface 14 and the fifth surface 15.Tension is exerted on each of the folds 12b, 13b at the level of the second and third respective surfaces 12, 13, particularly along the first and second lateral folds 12a, 13a with which the conditioning can maintain an essentially parallelepiped shape.

[0123] As can be seen in [Fig. 1D], the open end 48 opposite the first surface 10 can then be closed to form the sixth surface 11. Any suitable style of closure can be used. By way of example, the sixth surface can include closure gussets 11b by joining the edges of the bag 4 and tying them together to form a closure seam 1la and a closure seam wing 1le extending from the closure seam 1la and the sixth surface 11. In yet another example, the sixth surface can include seams that are joined together in a block-type configuration or in a cross-type configuration, as discussed below.

[0124] An example of a block-type configuration is shown in [Fig. 2A]. As shown, the first surface 10 may comprise a block-type configuration including joints 220 and 230. The first surface 10 may include a base portion 240. A first flap of conditioning material 250 may be folded over the base portion 240. An adhesive may be provided to attach the first flap of conditioning material 250 to the base portion 240, thereby forming the first joint 220. A second flap of conditioning material 260 may be folded and adhesively attached to the base portion 240 and to the top of the first flap of conditioning material 250. An adhesive may be provided to attach the second flap of conditioning material 260 to the base portion 240 and to the first flap of packaging material 250 thereby forming the second seal 230. A similar execution can be used with regard to the sixth surface 11. Again for the sake of clarity, an adhesive may not be required when a film is provided on an internal surface of the packaging material.

[0125] Another example of a pan sealing style that can be used with the packagings of this description is the pinch-type or pinch-bottom configuration. An example of a pinch-type configuration is shown in [Fig. 2B]. As shown, one of the key differences between the block bottom and the pinch-bottom configuration is the pleats 12b and 13b. Instead of pleats on sides 12 and 13, a pinch-type configuration includes gussets 22b and 23b on the first surface 10. In addition, in the pinch-bottom configuration, the first surface 10 includes a fold line 10a, which may be absent in the block-type configuration.

[0126] Cross-type configurations are also acceptable for sealing portions of the packaging material described herein. An example of a cross-type configuration is shown in [Fig. 2C]. As shown, one of the key differences between the cross-type and block-type configurations is that the gussets 32b and 33b are oriented outwards. In contrast, the fold lines 12a and 13a on the second surface 12 and the third surface 13, respectively, in [Fig. 1C] are oriented inwards before filling the packaging. Due to the orientation of the gussets 32b and 33b in the cross-type configuration, filling the packaging with absorbent articles may require less energy to expand the packaging for filling.For example, inward-facing pleats, such as those in a block-type configuration, would require the pleats to be moved outward before filling the packaging. Furthermore, the equipment used to guide the product into the packaging will have a reduced probability of interfering with the gussets in the cross-bottom configuration due to their outward orientation. This can reduce the likelihood of packaging incidents or manufacturing process stoppages due to quality issues.

[0127] With further reference to [Fig. 2C], similar to the block-type configuration, the first surface 10 of the cross-style configuration includes joints 320 and 330. The first surface includes a base portion 340. A first flap of conditioning material 350 can be folded and adhesively attached to the base portion 340. The first joint 320 can be provided to attach the first flap of conditioning material 350 to the base portion 340. A second flap of conditioning material 360 can be folded over the base portion 340 and over the first flap of conditioning material 350. The second joint 330 can be provided to join the second flap of conditioning material 360 to the base part 340 and to the first flap of conditioning material 350. A similar embodiment can be used with respect to the sixth surface (formed after the absorbent articles have been placed inside).

[0128] Regardless of the sealing configuration, i.e., block, cross, or pinch, these configurations are known in the art. It should be noted that for less bulky items where the stability of the packaging is desired, a block or cross bottom may be preferable. However, for bulky items, pinch-type bags can be beneficial because the bulky absorbent material inside them can form a stable base for the packaging to stand upright. Furthermore, it should be noted that block and cross-type packaging tend to be bulkier than their pinch-type counterparts. For packaging purposes, unfilled packages may be delivered in stacks to a manufacturer of absorbent material.In general, stacks of block-type and cross-type packaging will take up more space, due to their bulk, than their pinch-type counterparts. The bulk of block and cross-type configurations can make the stacks more difficult to handle during the filling process, particularly when a large number of packages are created per minute. In such cases, the bulk of these configurations may mean a higher frequency of stack replenishment. Therefore, for (unfilled) packages containing the same packaging material but a different sealing type—i.e., block and pinch—the block-type configuration will take up more space than its pinch-type counterparts.

[0129] With regard to [Fig. 2D], recall that the dye coverage concerning the seams / joints has been mentioned. As shown in [Fig. 2D], the base portion 240 may include internal edges 240A, sealing areas 241 and 242, and areas free of dye and coating 245. As previously stated, in an attempt to save on the percentage by weight of dye, it is envisaged that areas of the base portion 240 that are disposed under the first flap of conditioning material 250 and the second flap of conditioning material 260 may be configured such that no dye and / or coating is provided in these areas. The exposed areas of the base portion 240 may include dyes and / or coatings. The sealing areas 241 and / or 242 can be configured similarly to the colorant and coating-free areas 245.Or, one or more of the sealing zones 241 and 242 may include a dye and / or a coating. And while a block-type configuration is shown in [Fig. 2D], the above may... can also be applied to cross-type configurations.

[0130] With further reference to Figures IC to 1E, the bag 4 and the packaging 1 can be appropriately chosen and made through design, folding, stacking, compression and packaging processes so that the packaging 1 retains the absorbent articles inside it and maintains a pure, stable, essentially parallelepiped shape, i.e., a cuboid shape of the packaging 1.

[0131] The first surface 10 may include the upper panel of the packaging 1. Or the first surface 10 may include a lower panel of the packaging 1. It should be noted that if the first surface 10 includes seals, it may be desirable for the first surface 10 to include the lower panel. In this way, the seals can be concealed on the store shelf. Similarly, the second and third surfaces 12 and 13, since they may include gussets 12b and 13b, respectively, may include the left and right panels, respectively, or vice versa. This leaves one of the fourth and fifth surfaces 14 and 15 to include the panel facing the consumer. Therefore, at least one of the fourth and / or fifth surfaces 14, 15, may include markings, packaging information, and / or a background color as described herein.However, as previously stated, markings, packaging information, and / or background colors are not limited to the consumer-facing panel. Any combination of packaging panels described herein may include markings, packaging information, and / or background colors.

[0132] Recall that the configuration of tubular envelope packaging has also been discussed so far. Some examples of tubular envelope packaging are shown in Figures 3A and 3B. Figure 3A shows a tubular envelope packaging given by way of example, which generally has a cuboid shape. Cuboid-shaped packaging has been discussed so far. Packaging 301, as shown, comprises a first panel 311, opposing second and third panels 312 and 313, respectively; opposing fourth and fifth panels 314 and 315, respectively; and a sixth panel 310 opposite to the first panel 311. As illustrated, the second panel 312 may include an end seal 312a, and the third panel 313 may include an end seam 313a. A ring joint 316 can be disposed partly on the second face 312, the third face 313, and the sixth face 310.In such configurations, either the first pan 311 or the fifth pan 315 may include the pan facing the consumer.

[0133] Fig. 3B shows another 321 conditioning system given as an example in accordance with the packagings in this description. Like packaging 301 in [Fig. 3A], packaging 321 is a tubular-casing configuration. As shown, packaging 328 comprises a first surface 324 and a second opposing surface 328. Rounded edges may be provided as a transition between the first surface 324 and the second surface 328. Alternatively, one or more fold lines may be provided between the first surface 324 and the second surface 328. Packaging 321 may further include end seals 322 and 323, and a ring seal 326 that may be disposed on the second surface 328. In such packagings, the first surface 324 may include the pan facing the consumer.

[0134] With regard to Figures 3A and 3B, while the packagings shown, i.e. 301 and 321, include butt joints for the end joint, overlap joints may also be used. For example, one or more of the end joints 312a, 313a, 322, and 323 may include an overlap joint. Similarly, the ring joint, i.e., 316 and 326, may include either a butt joint or an overlap joint.

[0135] In yet another example, a Totani™ type bag may be used. The Totani™ type of bag may include seams / joints that move over their block bottom, pinch bottom, and / or cross-bottom counterparts. With reference to Figures 4A and 4B, a Totani™ type 1400 packaging is shown. The 1400 packaging may generally be configured in a cuboid shape. The 1400 packaging may include a first panel 1411, opposing second and third panels 1412 and 1413, opposing fourth and fifth panels 1414 and 1415, and a sixth panel 1410 opposite the first panel 1411. As shown, between the fourth panel 1414 and the sixth panel 1410, a first joint 1420 extends outward. The first seal 1420 forms a kind of foot for the packaging 1400. A second seal can extend outwards between the fifth pan 1415 and the sixth pan 1410 in a manner analogous to the first seal 1420.It should be noted that in some forms, the first panel 1411 can be laid flat just like the sixth panel 1410.

[0136] The first joint 1420 can be extended such that part of the first joint 1420 is on the second face 1412 and another part of the first joint 1420 is disposed on the third face 1413. Similarly, part of the second joint can be disposed on the second face 1412 and another part can be disposed on the third face 1413. The first joint 1420 and the second joint can be provided where the sixth face 1410 is formed from a separate piece of material which is subsequently joined to the fourth face 1414 and the fifth face 1415. Of course, some forms where the sixth panel 1410 is integral with the fourth panel 1414 and the fifth panel 1415 are also considered.

[0137] A third joint 1430 and a fourth joint 1440 may extend outwards from the second face 1412 and the third face 1413, respectively. It should be noted that the first joint 1420, the second joint, the third joint 1430, and the fourth joint 1440 may collectively comprise the ring joint discussed herein. Thus, one, all, or any combination of these joints may exhibit the tensile strength of the ring joint as described herein.

[0138] As shown, the packaging 1400 may further include a fifth seam 1450 and a sixth seam 1460, which are arranged on the sixth panel 1411. The fifth seam 1450 and the sixth seam 1460 may extend into a sealing fin 1480. It should be noted that the packaging 1400 and its associated seams may be assembled as described herein with respect to adhesives, films, and / or combinations of films and adhesives. However, the construction of the packaging 1400 is particularly well suited for creating seams by means of film coating on an internal surface of the packaging material. In such configurations, the film can form a barrier that reduces the likelihood, or at least the amount, of water vapor passing through the packaging material to the absorbent articles inside it.The packaging described herein may contain a plurality of compressed items, for example, compressed disposable absorbent items. For instance, packaging described herein may be used to hold feminine hygiene pads. As illustrated in [Fig. 5], packaging 1 defines an internal space 1002 in which a plurality of absorbent items 1004 are located. The plurality of absorbent items 1004 may be arranged in one or more stacks 1006. The absorbent items may be packaged under compression to reduce the size of the packaging, while still providing an adequate quantity of absorbent items per package. By packaging the absorbent items under compression, healthcare providers can easily handle and store the packaging, while also providing distribution savings for manufacturers due to the smaller packaging size.Despite the lack of stretch properties of conventional plastic packaging materials, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that the packaging materials described herein are capable of withstanding the rigors of processing and dispensing, as mentioned herein, even with absorbent articles compressed within the packaging. This is particularly unexpected given that the materials of the present invention do not exhibit the stretch properties of conventional plastic films currently in use.

[0139] Accordingly, the packaging of absorbent articles of this description may have a bag pile height of less than about 150 mm, less than about 110 mm, less than about 105 mm, less than about 100 mm, less than about 95 mm, less than about 90 mm, less than about 85 mm, less than about 80 mm, less than about 78 mm, less than about 76 mm, less than about 74 mm, less than about 72 mm, or less than about 70 mm, specifically citing all increments of 0.1 mm within the specified ranges and all ranges formed within them, or as a result, according to the bag pile height test described herein.Alternatively, the packaging of the absorbent articles in this description may have a bag stack height ranging from about 70 mm to about 150 mm, from about 70 mm to about 110 mm, from about 70 mm to about 105 mm, from about 70 mm to about 100 mm, from about 70 mm to about 95 mm, from about 70 mm to about 90 mm, from about 70 mm to about 85 mm, from about 72 mm to about 80 mm, or from about 74 mm to about 78 mm, specifically citing all increments of 0.1 mm within the specified ranges and all ranges formed within them, or as a result, according to the bag stack height test described herein.

[0140] It should be noted that the absorbent articles within the packagings of this description can be arranged in a myriad of configurations. For example, the absorbent articles of this description can be arranged within the packaging so that they are oriented vertically, or the absorbent articles can be arranged so that they are arranged horizontally, for example as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. Forms are envisaged where a combination of vertically and horizontally oriented articles is provided in the packaging.

[0141] Furthermore, the items within the packaging can be oriented such that one longitudinal peripheral edge of each of the plurality of items is more proximal to the consumer-facing panel than another longitudinal peripheral edge. For example, when the number of absorbent items within the packaging is relatively high, for example, more than nine, the absorbent items can be arranged in the packaging as described so far. However, where the number of absorbent items within the packaging is lower, for example, less than nine, the absorbent items can be arranged such that a top sheet or a bottom sheet of an absorbent item is more proximal to the consumer-facing panel. Additional absorbent items can be stacked behind the absorbent item that is closest to the consumer-facing panel.Shapes are considered when there is a combination of orientations within the packaging. For example, at least one absorbent item can be arranged in such a way. such that one of its longitudinal peripheral lateral edges is more proximal to the consumer-facing panel than the other, and at least one absorbent item can be arranged so that its top sheet or bottom sheet is more proximal to the consumer-facing panel. The remaining absorbent items, if any, can take either of these configurations.

[0142] Absorbent articles

[0143] As previously stated, there are many absorbent articles that can be packaged within the packaging material of this description. Two specific examples are given in Figures 6 to 7C. However, the packaging material and containers of this description can be used to contain a multitude of absorbent articles as described above. Figures 6 to 7C are only examples of articles that can be contained with the packaging material / containers of this description.

[0144] Figure 6 illustrates a feminine hygiene napkin 400 given by way of example. The feminine hygiene napkin 400 comprises a top sheet 420, a backing sheet 450, and an absorbent core 440 disposed between the top sheet 420 and the backing sheet 450. A fluid-supporting layer 430 may be disposed between the top sheet 420 and the absorbent core 440. The absorbent article has a wearer-facing surface 460 and an opposite-clothing-facing surface 462. The wearer-facing surface 460 mainly comprises the top sheet 420, while the clothing-facing surface 462 mainly comprises the backing sheet 450. Additional components may be included in either the wearer-facing surface 460 and / or the clothing-facing surface 462.For example, when the absorbent article is a urinary incontinence pad, a pair of barrier-forming flaps, which generally extend parallel to a longitudinal axis L of the absorbent article 400, may also form part of the wearer-facing surface 460. Similarly, a fixing adhesive may be present on the backing sheet 450 and form part of the garment-facing surface 462 of the absorbent article.

[0145] The top sheet 420 can be joined to the bottom sheet 450 by attachment methods (not shown) such as those well known in the art. The top sheet 420 and the bottom sheet 450 can be joined directly to each other at the periphery of the article and can be joined indirectly by joining them directly to the absorbent core 440, the fluid support layer 430, and / or additional layers disposed between the top sheet 420 and the bottom sheet 450. This indirect or direct joining can be accomplished by attachment methods that are well known in the art.

[0146] The top sheet 420 may be flexible, soft to the touch, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Suitable top sheet materials include a fluid-permeable material that is oriented towards and comes into contact with the wearer's body, allowing bodily excretions to penetrate rapidly through it without allowing fluid to flow back through the top sheet to the wearer's skin. The top sheet, while capable of allowing rapid fluid transfer through it, may also ensure the transfer or migration of the lotion composition to an external or internal part of the wearer's skin.

[0147] A suitable 420 topsheet can be made of various materials such as woven and non-woven materials; perforated film materials including perforated formed thermoplastic films, perforated plastic films and perforated films with interwoven fibers; hydroformed thermoplastic films; porous foams; crosslinked foams; crosslinked thermoplastic films; thermoplastic muslins; and combinations thereof.

[0148] Perforated film materials suitable for use as a topsheet include those perforated plastic films that are non-absorbent and permeable to bodily exudates and provide minimal or no backflow of fluids through the topsheet. Non-limiting examples of other suitable formed films, including perforated and non-perforated formed films, are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135, issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975; U.S. Patent No. 4,324,246, issued to Mullane et al. on April 13, 1982; U.S. Patent No. 4,342,314, issued to Radel et al. on August 3, 1982; U.S. Patent No. 4,463,045, issued to Ahr et al. on July 31, 1984; U.S. Patent No. 5,006,394, issued to Baird on April 9, 1991; US ​​Patent No. 4,609,518, issued to Curro et al. on September 2, 1986; and US Patent No. 4,629,643, issued to Curro et al. on December 16, 1986.

[0149] Non-limiting examples of suitable woven and non-woven materials for use as a topsheet include fibrous materials made from natural fibers, for example cotton, including 100 percent organic cotton, modified natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or combinations thereof. These fibrous materials may be either hydrophilic or hydrophobic, but it is preferable for the topsheet to be hydrophobic or made hydrophobic. Optionally, portions of the topsheet may be made hydrophilic, using any process known to manufacture topsheets containing hydrophilic components. The non-woven fibrous topsheets 20 may be produced by any procedure known to manufacture non-woven webs, including non-limiting examples such as spunbond, carding, the wet process, the air jet process, molten blowing, needle punching, mechanical entanglement, thermo-mechanical entanglement, and hydraulic entanglement.

[0150] The top sheet 420 can be formed from a combination of a perforated film and a nonwoven material. For example, a film mat and a nonwoven mat can be combined as described in US Patent No. 9,700,463. Alternatively, a film can be extruded onto a nonwoven material that is believed to provide improved contact between the film layer and the nonwoven material. Exemplary methods for such a combination are described in US Patent Nos. 9,849,602 and 9,700,463.

[0151] The base sheet 450 can be positioned adjacent to a surface facing the absorbent core garment 440 and can be attached to it by attachment methods such as those well known in the art. For example, the base sheet 450 can be bonded to the absorbent core 440 by a continuous uniform layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or a network of separate lines, spirals, or dots of adhesive. Alternatively, the attachment methods may include the use of thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, or any other suitable removal method or combinations thereof as known in the art.

[0152] The backing sheet 450 may be impermeable, or substantially impermeable to liquids (e.g., urine), and may be made from a thin plastic film, although other flexible, liquid-impermeable materials may also be used. As used here, the term "flexible" refers to materials that are supple and readily conform to the general shape and contours of the human body. The backing sheet may prevent, or at least inhibit, the absorbed exudates contained in the absorbent core from wetting articles of clothing that are in contact with the incontinence pad, such as underwear. However, the backing sheet may allow vapors to escape from the absorbent core (i.e., is permeable to air), whereas in some cases the backing sheet may not allow vapors to escape (i.e., is impermeable to air).Thus, the base sheet can comprise a polymer film such as thermoplastic polyethylene or polypropylene films. A suitable material for the base sheet can be a thermoplastic film having a thickness ranging from approximately 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to approximately 0.051 mm (2.0 mils), for example. Any suitable base sheet known in the art can be used with the present invention.

[0153] The base sheet 450 acts as a barrier to any absorbed bodily fluid that may pass through the absorbent core 440 to the surface of the This garment is made from a material that reduces the risk of staining underwear or other clothing. A preferred material is soft, smooth, supple, fluid, and vapor-permeable, ensuring comfort and adaptability, and producing low noise so that movement does not cause unwanted sounds.

[0154] Example backing sheets are described in US patents no. 5,885,265 (Osborn, III) issued March 23, 1999; 6,462,251 (Cimini) issued October 8, 2002; 6,623,464 (Bewick-Sonntag) issued September 23, 2003; or US patent no. 6,664,439 (Amdt) issued December 16, 2003. Suitable double- or multilayer air-permeable backing sheets usable here include those exemplified in US patent no. 3,881,489 and US patent no. 4,341,216 and US patent no. 4,713,068 and US patent no. 4,818,600, patent EP 203,821, patent EP 710,471, patent EP 710,472, and patent EP 793,952.

[0155] Suitable air-permeable backing sheets usable here include all air-permeable backing sheets known in the art. In principle, there are two types of air-permeable backing sheets: single-layer air-permeable backing sheets, which are air-permeable and liquid-impermeable, and backing sheets having at least two layers, which, in combination, provide both air permeability and liquid impermeability. Suitable single-layer air-permeable backing sheets usable here include those described, for example, in GB A 2,184,389, GB A 2,184,390, GB A 2,184,391, US Patent No. 4,591,523, and US Patent No. 3,989,867. 3 156 242 and application WO 97 / 24097.

[0156] The backing sheet may be a nonwoven fabric having a surface mass of between approximately 20 g / m² and approximately 50 g / m². By way of example, the backing sheet may be a relatively hydrophobic spunbond nonwoven fabric of 23 g / m² of 4-denier polypropylene fibers available from Fiberweb Neuberger, under the designation F102301001. The backing sheet may be coated with a non-soluble material capable of swelling upon contact with liquid as described in US Patent No. 6,436,508 (Ciammaichella) issued on August 20, 2002.

[0157] The liner has one side facing the garment and an opposite side facing the body. The garment-facing side of the liner comprises a non-adhesive area and an adhesive area. The adhesive area can be provided by any conventional means. Pressure-sensitive adhesives have been commonly found to work well for this purpose.

[0158] The absorbing core 440 may comprise any suitable shape, including but not limited to an oval, a discorectangle, a rectangle, an asymmetrical shape, and an hourglass. For example, in certain forms of the present invention, the absorbing core The absorbent core 440 may have a contoured shape, for example, narrower in the middle region than in the end regions. As another example, the absorbent core may have a tapered shape, having a wider portion in one end region of the towel that tapers to a narrower end region in the other. The absorbent core may have varying stiffness in the middle and middle sections.

[0159] The configuration and construction of the absorbent core may vary (for example, the absorbent core 440 may have areas of varying sizes, a hydrophilic gradient, a superabsorbent gradient, or a lower average density and collection areas with a lower average surface density). Furthermore, the size and absorbency capacity of the absorbent core 440 may also vary to accommodate a diversity of wearers. However, the total absorbency capacity of the absorbent core 440 should be consistent with the intended design load and the intended use of the disposable absorbent article or the incontinence pad.

[0160] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the absorbent core may comprise a plurality of multifunctional layers that are in addition to first and second laminates. For example, the absorbent core may comprise a core sheath (not shown) useful for enveloping the first and second laminates and other optional layers. The core sheath may be formed of two nonwoven materials, substrates, laminates, films, or other materials. In one embodiment, the core sheath may comprise only a single material, a substrate, a laminate, or another material at least partially wrapped around itself. The absorbent core may include one or more adhesives, for example, to help immobilize the PSA or other absorbent materials within the first and second laminates.

[0161] Absorbent cores comprising relatively high amounts of PSA with various core designs are described in US patent no. 5,599,335 of Goldman et al., EP patent 1,447,066 of Busam et al., WO application 95 / 11652 of Tanzer et al., US Publ. patent no. 2008 / 0312622A1 of Hundorf et al., and WO application 2012 / 052172 of Van Malderen. These can be used to configure superabsorbent diapers.

[0162] Additions to the core of the present description are envisaged. In particular, potential additions to the current multi-layered absorbent core are described in US patent no. 4,610,678, entitled "High-Density Absorbent Structures," issued to Weisman et al., the September 9, 1986; US patent no. 4,673,402, entitled "Absorbent Articles With Dual-Layered Cores" (in French, "Articles absorbants avec âmes à double"). layer"), issued to Weisman et al., on June 16, 1987; US patent no. 4,888,231, entitled "Absorbent Core Having A Dusting Layer," issued to Angstadt on December 19, 1989; and US patent no. 4,834,735, entitled "High Density Absorbent Members Having Lower Density and Lower Basis Weight Acquisition Zones," issued to Alemany et al. on May 30, 1989. The absorbent core may further comprise additional layers that mimic the dual-core system containing a chemically stiffened fiber collection / distribution core positioned on an absorbent storage core as detailed in US patent no.5,234,423, entitled "Absorbent Article With Elastic Waist Feature and Enhanced Absorbency" (in French, "Article absorbent avec un élément de ceinture élastique et une absorbance améliorée"), issued to Alemany et al. on August 10, 1993; and in US Patent No. 5,147,345. These are useful insofar as they do not negate or conflict with the effects of the laminates described below of the absorbent core of the present invention. Additional examples of suitable absorbent cores are described in US Patent Application Publications Nos. 2018 / 0098893 and 2018 / 0098891.

[0163] Any suitable fluid-holding layer may be used in conjunction with the 400 feminine hygiene napkin. The fluid-holding layer may be separate from and outside the absorbent system. Furthermore, the fluid-holding layer is disposed beneath the top sheet and on the surface facing the wearer of the core. The fluid-holding layer may have a surface mass of approximately 40 g / m² to approximately 100 g / m², approximately 45 g / m² to approximately 75 g / m², or approximately 50 g / m² to approximately 65 g / m², specifically including all values ​​within these ranges and all ranges created therefrom. In some forms, the fluid-holding layer may comprise a homogeneous mixture of fibers, while in other forms, the fluid-holding layer may comprise a heterogeneous mixture of fibers.

[0164] Certain fluid support layers given by way of example are described in the US patent application publications no. 2015 / 0351976 Al and 2014 / 0343523 Al; and US patent application serial no. 15 / 729704.

[0165] Another example of an absorbent article that can be included in the packaging of the present invention is baby diapers. As shown in [Fig. 7A], a plan view of an absorbent article given by way of example, which is a 1900 baby diaper in its flattened, uncontracted state (i.e., with induced elastic contraction removed), with parts of the structure seen in cutaway to more clearly show the construction of the 1900 baby diaper, with its surface facing the observer. This baby diaper is shown for illustrative purposes only, as the packaging of the present invention can be used for a wide variety of baby diapers or other absorbent articles.

[0166] The absorbent article may include a liquid-permeable top sheet 1924, a liquid-impermeable bottom sheet 1925, an absorbent core 1928 positioned at least partially between the top sheet 1924 and the bottom sheet 1925, and barrier leg flaps 1934. The absorbent article may also include a liquid handling system (“LMS”) 1950 (illustrated in [Fig. 7B]), which, in the example shown, includes a distribution layer 1954 and a collection layer 1952, both of which will be discussed in more detail below. In various forms, the collection layer 1952 may instead distribute bodily exudates and the distribution layer 1954 may instead collect bodily exudates, or both layers may distribute and / or acquire bodily exudates. The LMS 1950 can also be supplied as a single layer or two or more layers.The absorbent article may also include elasticated sealing flaps 1932 attached to the absorbent article frame, typically through the top sheet and / or the bottom sheet, and essentially flat with the baby diaper frame.

[0167] The figures also show typical components of a tape diaper such as a fastening system including adhesive tabs 1942 or other mechanical fastening elements attached towards the rear edge of the absorbent article 1920 and cooperating with a receiving area 1944 on the front of the absorbent article 1920. The absorbent article may also include other typical elements, which are not shown, such as a rear elastic waistband element and a front elastic waistband element, for example.

[0168] The absorbent article 1920 may include a front waistband edge 1910, a rear waistband edge 1912 longitudinally opposite the front waistband edge 1910, a first side edge 1903, and a second side edge 1904 laterally opposite the first side edge 1903. The front waistband edge 1910 of the article is the absorbent edge 1920, which is intended to be positioned toward the front of the wearer when worn, and the rear waistband edge 1912 is the opposite edge. Together, the front waistband edge 1910 and the rear waistband edge form a waistband opening when the absorbent article 1920 is put on a wearer. The absorbent article 1920 may have a longitudinal axis 1980 extending from the lateral midpoint of the front belt edge 1910 to a lateral midpoint of the rear belt edge 1912 of the absorbent article 1920 and dividing the absorbent article 1920 into two essentially sy halves metric with respect to the longitudinal axis 1980, with the article placed flat and observed from the surface facing the bearer as illustrated in [Fig.7A]. The absorbent article may also have a lateral axis 1990 extending from the longitudinal midpoint of the first lateral edge 1903 to the longitudinal midpoint of the second lateral edge 1904. The length L of the absorbent article 1920 may be measured along the longitudinal axis 1980 from the front waistband edge 1910 to the rear waistband edge 1912. The crotch width of the absorbent article 1920 may be measured along the lateral axis 1990 from the first lateral edge 1903 to the second lateral edge 1904. The absorbent article 1920 may include a front waistband region 1905, a rear waistband region 1906, and a crotch region 1907. The front waistband region, the rear waistband region, and the crotch region each define 1 / 3 of the longitudinal length of the absorbent article.The front and rear parts can also be defined on opposite sides of the lateral axis 1990.

[0169] The top sheet 1924, the bottom sheet 1925, the absorbent core 1928, and the other components of the article can be assembled in a variety of configurations, particularly by gluing or thermal embossing, for example. Examples of baby diaper configurations are described in general terms in US Patent No. 3,860,003, US Patent No. 5,221,274, US Patent No. 5,554,145, US Patent No. 5,569,234, US Patent No. 5,580,411, and US Patent No. 5,580,411. no. 6 004 306.

[0170] The absorbent core 1928 may comprise an absorbent material comprising 75% to 100%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99%, all by weight, of the absorbent material, specifically citing all 0.1% increments within the ranges specified above and all ranges formed within or by virtue of them, and a core casing enclosing the absorbent material. The core casing may typically comprise two materials, substrates, or nonwoven materials 16 and 16' for the upper and lower sides of the core.

[0171] The absorbing core 1928 may comprise one or more channels, shown in [Fig. 7A] as the four channels 1926, 1926' and 1927, 1927'. In addition, or alternatively, the LMS 1950 may comprise one or more channels, shown in Figures 7A to 7C as channels 1949, 1949'. In certain configurations, the channels of the LMS 1950 may be positioned within the absorbing article 1920 such that they are aligned with, essentially aligned with, overlap, or at least partially overlap with, the channels of the absorbing core 1928. These and other components of the absorbing articles will now be discussed in more detail.

[0172] The 1924 top sheet is the part of the absorbent article that is in direct contact with the wearer's skin. The 1924 top sheet may be attached to the sheet of base 1925, to the core 1928 and / or any other layer as is known in the technique. Usually, the top sheet 1924 and the base sheet 1925 are joined directly to each other at certain locations (for example, on or near the periphery of the article) and are joined indirectly to each other at other locations by joining them directly to one or more other absorbent 1920 article elements.

[0173] The backing sheet 1925 is generally that part of the absorbent article 1920 positioned adjacent to the garment-facing surface of the absorbent core 1928 and which prevents, or at least inhibits, the absorbed bodily exudates contained within it from soiling articles such as bed sheets and underwear. The backing sheet 1925 is typically impermeable, or at least substantially impermeable, to liquids (e.g., urine, leaking feces), but permeable to vapors to allow the baby diaper to "breathe." The backing sheet may, for example, be or comprise a thin plastic film such as a thermoplastic film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm to about 0.051 mm. Examples of backing sheet films include those manufactured by Tredegar Corporation, based in Richmond, VA, and sold under the film brand CPC2.Other suitable backing sheet materials may include air-permeable materials that allow vapors to escape from the absorbent article 1920 while preventing, or at least inhibiting, bodily exudates from passing through the backing sheet 1925. Examples of air-permeable materials may include materials such as woven sheets, non-woven tapes, and composite materials such as film-coated non-woven sheets, microporous films, and monolithic films.

[0174] The base sheet 1925 can be joined to the top sheet 1924, the absorbent core 1928, and / or any other element of the absorbent article 1920 by any attachment method known in the art. Suitable attachment methods are described above in relation to methods for attaching the top sheet 1924 to other elements of article 1920.

[0175] As used herein, the term "absorbent core" refers to the individual component of the absorbent article having the greatest absorbency capacity and comprising an absorbent material. The absorbent core may include a core sheath or a core bag (hereinafter "core sheath") enclosing the absorbent material. The term "absorbent core" does not include the LMS or any other component of the absorbent article that is not either an integral part of the core sheath or placed within the core sheath. The absorbent core may include, consist essentially of, or be composed of, a core sheath, an absorbent material as defined below, and adhesive enclosed within The core sheath. Paper pulp or aerated felt may also be present within the core sheath and may form part of the absorbent material. The periphery of the absorbent core, which may be the periphery of the core sheath, can define any suitable shape, such as a "T," "Y," "hourglass," or "dog bone" shape, for example. An absorbent core periphery with a shape typically resembling a "dog bone" or "hourglass" may taper along its width toward the middle or "crotch" region of the core. In this way, the absorbent core can have a relatively narrow width in an area of ​​the core intended to be placed in the crotch region of the absorbent article.

[0176] The absorbent core 1928 of this description may comprise an absorbent material with a high amount of superabsorbent polymers (hereinafter referred to as "PSA") enclosed within a core casing. The PSA content may represent 70% to 100% or at least 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 99%, or 100% by weight of the absorbent material contained in the core casing. The PSA useful with this description may include a variety of water-insoluble polymers that swell in water and are capable of absorbing large quantities of fluids. The core casing is not considered an absorbent material for the purpose of assessing the percentage of PSA in the absorbent core. The remainder of the absorbent material in the core 1928 may be aerated felt.

[0177] “Absorbent material” means a material that has a certain absorbency property or certain liquid-retaining properties, such as PSA, cellulose fibers, and synthetic fibers. Typically, the adhesives used in the manufacture of absorbent cores have no absorbency properties and are not considered absorbent materials. The PSA content can be higher than 80%, for example, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 99%, and even up to and including 100% of the weight of the absorbent material contained within the core casing, as indicated above. This provides a relatively thin core compared to conventional cores typically containing 40-60% PSA, for example, and a high content of cellulose fibers or loose-fill felt.The absorbent material may comprise less than 15% or less than 10% by weight of natural or synthetic fibers, less than 5% by weight, less than 3% by weight, less than 2% by weight, less than 1% by weight, or may even be essentially free of, or free from, natural and / or synthetic fibers, specifically citing all increments of 0.1% within the specified ranges and all ranges formed within or by virtue of them. The absorbent material may comprise little or no air-felt (cellulose) fibers; in particular, the absorbent core may comprise less than 15%, 10%, 5%, 3%, 2%, or 1% air-felt (cellulose) fibers by weight, or may even be essentially free from, or . free from, cellulose fibres, specifically citing all increments of 0.1% within the specified ranges and all ranges formed within or as a result of them.

[0178] The absorbent core 1928 may also include a generally flat upper side and a generally flat lower side. The core 1928 may have a longitudinal axis 80' corresponding essentially to the longitudinal axis 80 of the absorbent article, as viewed from above in a plan view such as in [Fig. 7A]. The absorbent material may be distributed in a greater quantity towards the front side than towards the rear side, since more absorbance may be required at the front, particularly for articles. The absorbent material may have a non-uniform surface mass or a uniform surface mass throughout any part of the core. The core sheath may be formed of two nonwoven materials, substrates, laminates, or other materials, 1916, 1916', which may be at least partially sealed along the sides of the absorbent core.The core casing can be at least partially sealed along its front side, its rear side, and its two longitudinal sides so that essentially no absorbent material leaks from the absorbent core casing. The first material, substrate, or nonwoven 1916 can at least partially surround the second material, substrate, or nonwoven 1916' to form the core casing. The first material 1916 can surround a portion of the second material 1916 near the first and second lateral edges 1903 and 1904.

[0179] Cores comprising a relatively high amount of PSA with various core designs are described in US patent no. 5,599,335 (Goldman), EP patent 1,447,066 (Busam), WO application 95 / 11652 (Tanzer), US patent Publ. no. 2008 / 0312622A1 (Hundorf), and WO application 2012 / 052172 (Van Malderen).

[0180] The absorbent material may be one or more continuous layers present within the core envelope. Alternatively, the absorbent material may consist of individual pockets or strips of absorbent material embedded within the core envelope. In the first case, the absorbent material may be obtained, for example, by applying a single continuous layer of absorbent material. The continuous layer of absorbent material, in particular of PSA, may also be obtained by combining two or more absorbent layers having a discontinuous pattern of absorbent material application, in which the resulting layer is distributed essentially continuously throughout the area of ​​absorbent particulate polymer material, as described in US Dem. Publ. No. 2008 / 0312622A1 (Hundorf), for example. The absorbent core 1928 may comprise a first absorbent layer and a second absorbent layer.The first absorbent layer may include the first material 1916 and a first layer 1961 of material. absorbent, which may be 100% or less of PSA. The second absorbent layer may comprise the second material 1916' and a second layer 1962 of absorbent material, which may also be 100% or less of PSA.

[0181] The fibrous thermoplastic adhesive material 1951 can then be at least partially in contact with the absorbent material 1961, 1962 in the bearing surfaces and at least partially in contact with the materials 1916, 1916' in the junction areas. This gives a practically three-dimensional structure to the fibrous layer of the thermoplastic adhesive material 591, which is itself practically a two-dimensional structure of relatively small thickness, compared to its dimensions in the length and width directions. As a result, the fibrous thermoplastic adhesive material can provide cavities to cover the absorbent material in the bearing surfaces, and thereby immobilizes this absorbent material, which may be 100% or less of PSA.

[0182] The core casing may consist of a single substrate, material, or nonwoven fabric folded around the absorbent material, or it may comprise two (or more) substrates, materials, or nonwoven fabrics that are attached to one another. Typical attachments are the so-called C-casing and / or sandwich casing. In a C-casing, the longitudinal and / or transverse edges of one of the substrates are folded over the other substrate to form flaps. These flaps are then bonded to the outer surface of the other substrate, typically by gluing. Other techniques may be used to form a core casing. For example, the longitudinal and / or transverse edges of the substrates may be bonded together and then folded under the absorbent core and bonded in that position.

[0183] The core casing can be at least partially sealed along all sides of the absorbent core so that essentially no absorbent material leaks from the core. By "essentially no absorbent material" is meant that less than 5%, less than 2%, less than 1%, or about 0% by weight of absorbent material escapes from the core casing. The term "seal" should be understood in a broad sense. The seal for the core casing need not be continuous along the entire periphery of the core casing but may be discontinuous along part or all of it, such as formed by a series of sealing points spaced in a line. A seal may be formed by bonding and / or thermal bonding.

[0184] The core envelope can also be formed by a single substrate which can enclose the absorbent material as in a package envelope and be sealed along the front and rear sides of the core and a longitudinal seal.

[0185] The absorbent article may include a pair of 1934 barrier leg flaps. Each barrier leg flap may be formed from a piece of material that is bonded to the absorbent article so that it can extend upwards from the inner surface of the absorbent article and provide improved containment of fluids and other bodily exudates approximately at the junction of the wearer's torso and legs. The barrier leg flaps 1934 are delimited by a proximal edge 1964 joined directly or indirectly to the top sheet 1924 and / or the bottom sheet 1925 and a free terminal edge 1966, which is intended to come into contact with and form a seal against the wearer's skin. The barrier leg flaps 1934 extend at least partially between the front waistband edge 1910 and the rear waistband edge 1912 of the absorbent article on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis 1980 and are present at least in the crotch area 1907.The barrier leg flaps 1934 are joined at the proximal edge 1964 to the absorbent article frame by a bond 1965 which may be made by gluing, fusion bonding, or a combination of other suitable bonding methods. The bond 1965 at the proximal edge 1964 may be continuous or intermittent. The bond 1965 closest to the raised section of the leg flaps 1934 delimits the proximal edge 1964 from the raised section of the leg flaps 1934.

[0186] The barrier leg flaps 1934 may be integral with the top sheet 1924 or the bottom sheet 1925 or may be a separate material attached to the frame of the absorbent article. The barrier leg flap material 1934 may extend the entire length of the baby diapers but is "adhesively bonded" to the top sheet 1924 towards the front waistband edge 1910 and the rear waistband edge 1912 of the absorbent article so that in these sections the barrier leg flap material remains flush with the top sheet 1924.

[0187] Each barrier leg cuff 1934 may include one, two, or more elastic threads or film strips 1935 near this free terminal edge 1966 to provide a better seal. It should be noted that the barrier leg cuffs may be applied in a manner similar to a type of pad as described with regard to [Fig. 6]. Such configurations may be desirable in a urinary incontinence pad. Any configuration described here for the barrier leg cuffs may be used for adult urinary incontinence pads.

[0188] In addition to the barrier leg cuffs 1934, the absorbent article may include sealing cuffs 1932, which are attached to the frame of the absorbent article, in particular to the top sheet 1924 and / or the bottom sheet 1925, and are positioned externally to the barrier leg cuffs 1934. The sealing cuffs 1932 may provide a better seal around the wearer's thighs. Each sealing leg cuff may include one or more elastic cords or elastic elements included in the frame of the absorbent article. between the top sheet 1924 and the bottom sheet 1925 in the leg opening area. All or part of the barrier leg flaps and / or sealing flaps can be treated with a lotion or skin care composition. The barrier leg flaps can be constructed in a number of different configurations, including those described in US Dem. Publ. patent no. 2012 / 0277713.

[0189] In one form, the absorbent article may include front tabs 1946 and rear tabs 1940. The tabs may be an integral part of the frame, such as being formed from the top sheet 1924 and / or the bottom sheet 1925 as a side panel. Alternatively, as shown in [Fig. 7A], the tabs (1946, 1940) may be separate elements attached by gluing, heat embossing, and / or pressure bonding. The rear tabs 1940 may be stretchable to facilitate the attachment of the tabs 1942 to the receiving area 1944 and to hold the band-on baby diapers in place around the wearer's waistband.The 1940 rear tabs can also be elastic or stretchable to provide a more comfortable and snug fit by initially conforming the absorbent item to the wearer and maintaining this fit throughout the wearing time well after the absorbent item has become saturated with exudates, since the elasticated tabs allow the sides of the absorbent item to expand and contract.

[0190] One function of the LMS 1950 is to rapidly collect the fluid and efficiently distribute it to the absorbent core 1928. The LMS 1950 may comprise one or more layers, which may form a single layer or remain as separate layers that can be bonded together. The LMS 1950 may comprise two layers: a distribution layer 1954 and a collection layer 1952 disposed between the absorbent core and the top sheet, but the present description is not limited to such a configuration.

[0191] The LMS 1950 may include PSA, as it can slow down the collection and distribution of the fluid. In other forms, the LMS may be substantially free (for example, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 99% free of) or completely free of PSA. The LMS may also include one or more of a variety of other suitable types of materials, such as open-cell foam, air-jet applied fibers, or carded resin-bonded nonwoven materials, for example. Suitable examples of LMS are described in applications WO 2000 / 59430 (Daley), WO 95 / 10996 (Richards), US patent no. 5,700,254 (McDowall), and application WO 02 / 067809 (Graef), for example.

[0192] The LMS 1950 may include a distribution layer 1954. The distribution layer 1954 may include at least 50% or more by weight of crosslinked cellulose fibers, for example. The crosslinked cellulose fibers may be curled, twisted, or curled, or any combination thereof, including crimped, twisted and curled. This type of material is described in US patent Publ. no. 2008 / 0312622 A1 (Hundorf).

[0193] The LMS 1950 may alternatively or further comprise a collection layer 1952. The collection layer 1952 may be disposed, for example, between the distribution layer 1954 and the top sheet 1924. The collection layer 1952 may be or may comprise a nonwoven material, such as an SMS material or SMMS material, comprising a spunbond layer, a meltblown layer, and another spunbond layer, or alternatively, a chemically bonded carded nonwoven. The collection layer 1952 may comprise cellulosic fibers, cross-linked cellulosic fibers, or synthetic fibers, or wet or dry blends thereof. The 1952 collection layer may include a roll sheet of synthetic fibers (which may be treated to increase void space, such as by solid-state formation), or a combination of synthetic and cellulosic fibers, bonded together to form a bulky bulking material.Alternatively, the 1952 collection layer may include an absorbent open-cell foam. The non-woven material may be latex-bonded.

[0194] The LMS 1950 of the absorbent article 1920 may include channels that can generally allow for better conformation of the absorbent article to the wearer's anatomy, leading to increased freedom of movement and reduced gap formation. One or more of the channels in the LMS 1950 may be configured to work in conjunction with various channels in the absorbent core 1928, as discussed above. In addition, channels in the LMS 1950 may also provide increased empty space to retain and distribute urine, feces, or other bodily exudates within the absorbent article, resulting in reduced leakage and skin contact. The channels in the LMS 1950 may also provide usable internal indications, especially when highlighted by physical differences in texture, color, and / or pattern, to facilitate achieving correct alignment of the absorbent article on a wearer.Thus, such physical differences can be, for example, visually and / or tactilely perceptible.

[0195] Packaging assembly

[0196] With the packaging material of this description, it is envisaged that a wide variety of packaging networks can be provided to address the concerns of a variety of consumers. By way of example, the packaging of this description can be used with absorbent articles that have more natural components or contain natural components. For example, the packaging of this description can be used with absorbent articles that include a cotton top sheet and / or a layer of Fluid handling or cotton-based collection layer. In addition, or as an alternative, the packaging described herein may be used with absorbent articles that are unscented and / or have unbleached pulp in their absorbent cores.

[0197] While some of the absorbent article offerings may be in the packaging described herein, the other absorbent article offerings may be in conventional packaging. However, in an attempt to encourage more sustainable manufacturing practices, it is envisaged that, for absorbent articles offered by a single absorbent article manufacturer on a shelf, at least 20 percent will comprise recyclable packaging as described herein, more preferably at least 40 percent, or most preferably at least 50 percent, specifically citing all values ​​within these ranges or all ranges created therefrom.For example, when a manufacturer of absorbent products has 5 absorbent product offerings on a store shelf, e.g. 2 sizes of baby diapers, 3 sizes of feminine hygiene pads, at least one of the packages for a single size of baby diaper or a single size of feminine hygiene pad may include recyclable packaging as described here.

[0198] Sets are envisaged when the packaging material of this description is used for two different absorbent articles and the packages have different sealing configurations. For example, a first package may include a plurality of feminine hygiene napkins and include at least one panel having a block-type configuration. A second package may include a plurality of baby diapers and include at least one panel having a pinch-type or cross-type configuration.

[0199] Combinations considered:

[0200] Example A: Packaging according to one or more absorbent articles, the packaging comprising a packaging material, wherein the packaging material comprises natural fibres, wherein the packaging comprises a plurality of panels, including one panel facing the consumer, wherein at least two of the plurality of panels comprise a seal, so that one or more absorbent articles are sealed inside it, wherein the packaging material comprises a surface mass of between 50 g / m2 and 120 g / m2, more preferably between 60 g / m2 and 105 g / m2 or more preferably between 70 g / m2 and 90 g / m2, as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and wherein the packaging material is recyclable.

[0201] Example A1: The packaging of Example A, further comprising an opposite rear panel, a lower panel, an opposite upper panel, and left and right panels opposites.

[0202] Example A2: Packaging according to one or more absorbent articles, packaging comprising a packaging material, wherein the packaging material comprises natural fibres, wherein the packaging further comprises a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel, an opposite rear panel, a bottom panel, an opposite top panel, and opposite left and right panels, wherein the packaging comprises a plurality of seals associated with one or more of the plurality of panels, and wherein the packaging material comprises a surface mass of between 50 g / m2 and 120 g / m2, more preferably between 60 g / m2 and 105 g / m2 or more preferably between 70 g / m2 and 90 g / m2, as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and wherein the packaging material is recyclable.

[0203] Example A3: Packaging according to one or more absorbent articles, packaging comprising a packaging material, wherein the packaging material comprises natural fibres, wherein the packaging further comprises a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel, an opposite rear panel, a bottom panel, an opposite top panel, and opposite left and right panels, and wherein the packaging material comprises a surface mass of between 50 g / m2 and 120 g / m2, more preferably between 60 g / m2 and 105 g / m2 or more preferably between 70 g / m2 and 90 g / m2, as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and wherein the packaging material is recyclable.

[0204] Example A4: Packaging of examples A to A3, wherein the packaging material has a recyclable percentage of at least 70 percent, more preferably at least 80 percent, or most preferably at least 90 percent, as determined by process PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft Oct. 2019), under category II.

[0205] Example A5: Packaging according to any one of Examples A to A4, in which the packaging material is recyclable, and the packaging material has an overall test result of 'pass', as determined via the PTS-RH:021 / 97 process (Draft Oct. 2019), under Category II.

[0206] Example A6: Packaging according to any one of examples A to A5, wherein the packaging material has a recyclable percentage of between 70 percent and about 99.9 percent, more preferably from about 80 percent to about 99.9 percent, or most preferably from about 90 percent to about 99.9 percent.

[0207] Example A7: Packaging according to any one of Examples A to A6, wherein the packaging material comprises at least 50 percent by weight of natural fibers, more preferably at least 70 percent by weight of natural fibers, or more preferably at least 90 percent by weight of natural fibers.

[0208] Example A8: Packaging according to any one of examples A to A7, wherein the packaging material comprises between 50 and 100 percent by weight of natural fibres, more preferably between 70 and 99 percent by weight of natural fibres, or most preferably between 90 and 99 percent by weight of natural fibres.

[0209] Example A9: Packaging according to any one of Examples A to A8, wherein the natural fibers of the packaging material comprise at least one of the following: cellulose-based fibers, bamboo-based fibers, abaca, Javanese jute, Chinese alpine rush, flax, esparto grass, straw, hemp jute, bagasse, milkweed fibers and pineapple leaf fibers.

[0210] Example A10: Packaging according to any one of examples A to A9, wherein the natural fibres include at least one of wood fibres or pulp fibres.

[0211] Example A1: Packaging according to any one of examples A to A10, wherein the packaging material comprises recycled natural fibres as determined by visual inspection.

[0212] Example A12: Packaging according to any one of examples A to A11, wherein at least one of the plurality of panels includes a background color, a brand mark and / or packaging information as determined by means of a dye detection process.

[0213] Example A13: The packaging according to Example A12, wherein at least one of the plurality of pans comprises a percentage of dye coverage of between 10 percent and 75 percent, more preferably between 15 percent and 50 percent, or most preferably between about 20 percent and about 40 percent as measured according to the dye coverage process.

[0214] Example A14: The packaging of examples A to A13, wherein the consumer-facing panel includes a background colour, marking and / or packaging information.

[0215] Example A15: The conditioning of examples A to A14, wherein at least one of the plurality of panels includes a base colour.

[0216] Example A16: The packaging of example A15, in which the base color is white.

[0217] Example A17: The packaging of example A16, in which the panel facing the consumer includes a base color.

[0218] Example A18: The packaging of example A17, in which one or more absorbent articles comprise naturally based absorbent articles.

[0219] Example A19: The packaging of examples A to A18, in which the pan facing the consumer comprises a first percentage of dye coverage which is greater than a percentage of dye coverage of another pan of the packaging.

[0220] Example A20: The conditioning of examples A through A19, wherein at least one of the plurality of joints has a higher tensile strength than another of the plurality of joints as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0221] Example A21: The conditioning of examples A to A19, wherein each of the plurality of joints comprises the same tensile strength as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0222] Example A22: The conditioning of examples A to A21, wherein each of the plurality of joints has a tensile strength of at least 3 N / in. as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0223] Example A23: The conditioning of Examples A through A22, wherein each of the plurality of joints has a tensile strength between 3 N / in. and about 40 N / in., more preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 35 N / in., or most preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 30 N / in. as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0224] Example A24: The conditioning of Examples A through A23, wherein at least one of the plurality of joints has a tensile strength between 15 N / in. and about 40 N / in., more preferably from about 20 N / in. to about 35 N / in. or most preferably from about 22 N / in. to about 30 N / in. as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as amended herein.

[0225] Example A25: Packaging according to example A24, wherein one or more absorbent articles within the packaging include baby diapers or incontinence pads.

[0226] Example A26: The packaging of Examples A through A19, wherein each of the plurality of joints has a tensile strength of at least 10 N / in., and wherein each of the joints has a tensile strength that is within 15% of the tensile strength of the remaining joints in the packaging as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0227] Example A27: The conditioning of Examples A through A19, wherein the tensile strength of at least one joint of the conditioning ranges from about 3 N / in. to about 25 N / in., more preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 20 N / in., or most preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 15 N / in. as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0228] Example A28: Packaging according to example A27, in which one or more absorbent items include at least one of the following: menstrual pads, adult light incontinence pads, liners, or in which fewer than 6 absorbent items are arranged within the package.

[0229] Example A29: The packaging of examples A to A28, wherein at least two of the plurality of seals comprise different adhesives.

[0230] Example A30: The packaging of examples A to A28, in which each of the plurality of joints comprises the same adhesive.

[0231] Example A31: The packaging of examples A to A30, in which at least one of the plurality of seals comprises a soluble adhesive selected from at least one of the following: starch-based, polyethylene oxide-based, or polyvinyl alcohol-based.

[0232] Example A32: The packaging of examples A to A31, wherein the adhesive for at least one of the plurality of joints comprises a dispersible adhesive present in an amount of 12 percent by weight or less, or more preferably 10 percent by weight or less.

[0233] Example A33: The packaging of Example A32, wherein the dispersible adhesive is present in an amount ranging from 0.5 percent by weight to about 12 percent by weight, more preferably from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 10 percent by weight or most preferably from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 7 percent by weight.

[0234] Example A34: The packaging of examples A32 to A33, in which the adhesive is based on polyvinyl acetate.

[0235] Example A35: The packaging of examples A to A34, wherein the adhesive for at least one of the plurality of joints comprises a dispersible adhesive present in an amount of 7 percent by weight or less, more preferably of about 5 percent by weight or less, or most preferably of about 4 percent by weight or less.

[0236] Example A36: The packaging of Example A35, wherein the adhesive is present in an amount between about 0.5 percent by weight and about 7 percent by weight, more preferably from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or most preferably from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight.

[0237] Example A37: The packaging of examples A35 to A36, in which the dispersible adhesive is based on thermoplastic elastomer.

[0238] Example A38: The packaging of examples A to A37, wherein the adhesive for at least one of the plurality of joints comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0239] Example A39: The conditioning of examples A to A38, in which the condi operation includes a non-recyclable material present at about 50 percent by weight or less, more preferably less than 30 percent by weight or less, or most preferably less than 15 percent by weight or less.

[0240] Example A40: The packaging of examples A to A39, wherein the packaging comprises a non-recyclable material having a percentage by weight of between 0.1 percent and about 50 percent, more preferably of about 0.1 percent to about 30 percent, or most preferably of about 0.1 percent to about 15 percent.

[0241] Example A41: Packaging of examples A to A40, wherein the packaging comprises a non-recyclable material having a percentage by weight of colorant, coatings and / or adhesive ranging from 0.1 to about 5 percent by weight.

[0242] Example A42: The packaging of examples A to A41, in which the packaging includes a colorant but does not include a coating.

[0243] Example A43: The packaging of examples A to A42, wherein the packaging material has a size between 50 pm and 110 pm, more preferably between 55 pm and 105 pm, or most preferably between 60 pm and 100 pm in accordance with ISO 534 as amended herein.

[0244] Example A44: Packaging of examples A to A43, wherein the packaging material has a surface mass of between 50 and 120 g / m2, more preferably between 60 and 105 g / m2, and most preferably between 70 and 90 g / m2 as measured by the basis weight test of ISO 536 as modified herein.

[0245] Example A45: Packaging of examples A to A44, wherein one or more absorbent articles include at least one of feminine hygiene napkins, baby diapers, incontinence pads, diaper pants, adult incontinence briefs.

[0246] Example A46: The packaging of examples A to A45, wherein one or more absorbent articles comprise baby diapers and the plurality of panels further comprises a bottom panel and wherein the bottom panel comprises a pinched bottom configuration or a cross bottom configuration.

[0247] Example A47: The packaging of examples A to A45, wherein one or more absorbent articles comprise feminine hygiene articles and the plurality of panels further comprises a bottom panel, and wherein the bottom panel comprises a lower block configuration.

[0248] Example A48: The conditioning material of Examples A to A47, in which the conditioning material does not include a barrier layer.

[0249] Example A49: The packaging of examples A to A48, wherein one or more absorbent articles have a bag stack height of less than about 150 mm, more preferably less than about 100 mm, or more preferably less than approximately 70 mm, in accordance with the bagged stack height process.

[0250] Example A50: The packaging of examples A to A49, wherein one or more absorbent articles have a bag pile height of between 70 mm and about 150 mm, more preferably from about 70 mm to about 100 mm, or most preferably from about 70 mm to about 90 mm.

[0251] Example A51: The packaging of examples A49 to A50, wherein one or more absorbent articles comprise at least one of diapers, incontinence pads, baby diapers, or adult incontinence briefs.

[0252] Example A52: The conditioning of Examples A1 to A51, wherein the upper panel includes a joint, the lower panel includes a joint, and at least one of the left and right panels includes a joint, wherein the tensile strength of at least one of the left and right panel joints is greater than the tensile strength of the upper joint as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0253] Example A53: The conditioning of Examples A1 to A52, wherein the top panel includes a joint, wherein the tensile strength of the top panel joint is between 3 N / in. and about 40 N / in., more preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 35 N / in., or most preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 30 N / in., as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0254] Example A55: The conditioning of Examples A1 to A55, wherein the left and / or right pane includes a joint, wherein the joint has a tensile strength between 15 N / in. and about 40 N / in., more preferably about 20 N / in. to about 35 N / in. or most preferably about 22 N / in. to about 30 N / in. as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as amended herein.

[0255] Example A56: The conditioning of Examples A1 to A55, wherein the upper panel includes a joint and the lower panel includes a joint, and wherein the tensile strength of the lower panel joint is greater than the tensile strength of the upper panel joint as determined in accordance with ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

[0256] Example A57: The conditioning of examples A1 to A56, wherein the conditioning material comprises a monolayer (a stratum).

[0257] Example A58: Packaging according to any one of the examples A1 to A57, wherein at least one of the seals does not include an adhesive.

[0258] Example A59: Packaging according to any one of examples A1 to A47 and A49 to A58, where the packaging includes a barrier material.

[0259] Test methods

[0260] ASTM F88-06 - Tensile Strength

[0261] This test method determines the strength of a seal in flexible barrier materials by measuring the force required to separate a reactive strip from the material containing the seal. The seal strength is measured in accordance with the ASTM F0088-06 Pharmacopoeia procedure on a constant-speed extension tensile tester, with procedural specifics indicated herein. A suitable instrument is the Instron Model 5965 using Bluehill Universal Software, both available from Instron (Norwood, MA), or equivalent. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, and test specimens are conditioned in this environment for 2 hours prior to testing.

[0262] The preparation of the test specimens and the test procedure is described in the referenced ASTM procedure, with the following specific details. The test specimen is cut to a width of 1.0 inch, the jaw separation speed is 300 mm / min, and the tail-holding process is not supported. The maximum force encountered when the test specimen is subjected to deterioration is recorded as force per unit width to the nearest 0.1 N / in. The test is repeated for a total of five replicated test specimens. Calculate the arithmetic mean for the maximum sealing strength and report it as tensile strength to the nearest 0.1 N / in.

[0263] ISO 1924-3 - Tensile properties (tensile strength, stretching, energy absorption)

[0264] The tensile properties (tensile strength, elongation, and energy absorption) of a test sample are calculated from measured force and elongation values ​​obtained using a constant elongation test rate until the sample breaks. The test is performed in accordance with the procedure in Pharmacopoeia ISO 1924-3, with modifications noted herein. Measurements are performed on a constant-rate extension tensile tester using a load cell for which the measured forces are from 1% to 99% of the cell limit. A suitable instrument is the Alliance MTS using Test Suite Software, available from MTS Systems Corp., Eden Prairie, MN, or equivalent. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, and the test samples are conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours prior to testing.

[0265] Measurements are performed on both test samples in the SM (machine direction) and ST (transverse direction) taken from rolls or sheets of the raw material, or from test samples obtained from a finished package. When excising the test sample from a finished package, care must be taken not to The process must not cause any contamination or deformation of the sample. The excised sample must be free of residual adhesive and taken from an area of ​​the package that is free of any seams or folds. The test sample is cut to a width of 25.4 mm with a length that can accommodate a test span of 50.8 mm. The long side of the sample is parallel to the direction of interest (SM, ST). Normally in finished packages, the SM runs from the bottom to the top of the package, but this can be verified by determining the fiber orientation if there is any doubt. Ten repeat test samples should be prepared from the SM and ten additional repeats from the ST.

[0266] Program the tensile tester for a constant uniaxial extension rate as follows. Set the gauge length (test span) to 50.8 mm using a calibrated gauge block and zero the crosshead. Insert the test specimen into the jaws so that the long side is centered and parallel to the central tensile axis of the tensile tester. Raise the crosshead at a rate of 25.4 mm / min until the test specimen breaks, collecting force (N) and extension (mm) data at 100 Hz throughout the test. Construct a force (N) versus extension (mm) graph. Read the maximum force (N) from the graph and record it as the peak force to the nearest 0.1 N, noting it as SM or ST. Read the extension at maximum force (N) from the graph and record as elongation at break to within 0.01 mm, noting SM or ST.From the graph, determine the point (z) where the tangent to the curve, with a slope equal to the maximum slope of the curve, intersects the axis of extension. Now calculate the force vs. extension curve from the point z to the point of maximum force and indicate to the nearest 0.1 mJ, noting SM or ST. [Refer to Figure 2 in ISO 1924-3 for a representation of a typical force vs. extension curve where the point z is denoted.]

[0267] Calculate the arithmetic mean peak force for all repetitions in SM and then for all repetitions in ST, and record these values ​​respectively as the mean peak force in SM and the mean peak force in ST, rounded to the nearest 0.1 N. Calculate the arithmetic mean elongation at break for all repetitions in SM and then for all repetitions in ST, and record these values ​​respectively as the mean elongation at break in SM and the mean elongation at break in ST, rounded to the nearest 0.01 mm. Calculate the arithmetic mean area under the force vs. elongation curve for all repetitions in SM and then for all repetitions in ST, and record these values ​​respectively as the mean area under the SM curve and the mean area under the ST curve, rounded to the nearest 0.1 mJ.

[0268] The tensile strength is calculated by dividing the average peak force (N) by the width of the test sample (25.4 mm). Calculate the tensile strength for the repetitions in the SM, then the repetitions in the ST and report respectively as tensile strength in the SM and tensile strength in the ST to within 0.1 kN / m.

[0269] The stretch at break is calculated by dividing the mean elongation at break (mm) by the initial test length (test span) of 50.8 mm, then multiplying by 100. Calculate the stretch at break for the repetitions in the SM and then the repetitions in the ST and report respectively as stretch at break in the SM and stretch at break in the ST to the nearest percentage.

[0270] ISO 2758 - Burst resistance

[0271] Burst strength is the maximum uniformly distributed pressure that a test sample can withstand. Burst strength is measured in accordance with the ISO 2758 Pharmacopoeia procedure using a test apparatus as described in the procedure. A suitable instrument is the 13-60 Burst Tester for Paper and Metal Foil available from Testing Machines, Inc. (New Castle, DE), or equivalent. The instrument is calibrated and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, and the test samples are conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours prior to testing.

[0272] Measurements are performed on test samples taken from rolls or sheets of the raw material, or from test specimens obtained from a finished package. When excising a test sample from a finished package, care must be taken not to create any contamination or deformation of the test sample during the process. The test sample must be larger than the clips used to hold the test sample in the instrument. The test sample should be taken from an area free of folds, creases, or seams.

[0273] Measure burst strength (using sufficient clamping pressure to prevent slippage during the test, and a pumping rate of 95 ± 15 mL / min) for a total of 10 repeated test samples. For lateral samples, the side of the test sample intended to face the inside of the packaging faces the pressure when placed in the clamps, and 10 repetitions are tested in this orientation. For balanced (non-lateral) samples, 5 repetitions are tested with the inside of the packaging facing the pressure and 5 repetitions are tested with the outside of the packaging facing the pressure, and the average of the results is calculated together. Record the pressure at which each test sample bursts to the nearest 0.001 kPa. If the burst pressure is less than 70 kPa, multiple layers of the test material should be used.To obtain the burst strength, divide the burst pressure by the number of layers tested. Calculate the arithmetic mean burst pressure. for all repetitions and report as burst strength to within 0.001 kPa.

[0274] ISO 534 - Size

[0275] The size, or thickness, of a monolayer test sample is measured under a static load using a micrometer, in accordance with the procedure in Pharmacopoeia ISO 534, with the modifications noted herein. All measurements are carried out in a laboratory maintained at 23 °C ± 2 °C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, and the test samples are conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours prior to testing.

[0276] The size is measured with a micrometer equipped with a pressure foot capable of exerting a constant pressure of 70 kPa ± 0.05 kPa on the test specimen. The micrometer is a deadweight type instrument with measurements accurate to 0.1 micron. A suitable instrument is the TMI Digital Micrometer Model 49-56, available from Testing Machines Inc., New Castle, DE, or equivalent. The pressure foot is a circular movable face on a flat surface with a diameter smaller than the test specimen and capable of exerting the required pressure. A suitable pressure foot has a diameter of 16.0 mm. The test specimen is supported by a horizontal flat reference platform that is larger than and parallel to the surface of the pressure foot. The system is calibrated and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

[0277] Measurements are performed on single-layer test samples taken from rolls or sheets of the raw material, or from test samples obtained from a finished package. When excising the test sample from a finished package, care must be taken not to create any contamination or deformation to the sample during the process. The excised sample must be free of residual adhesive and taken from an area of ​​the package that is free of any seams or folds. The test sample is ideally 200 mm² and must be larger than the pressure foot.

[0278] To measure size, first zero the micrometer on the flat, horizontal reference platform. Place the test sample on the platform with the test location centered under the pressure foot. Lower the pressure foot moderately at a rate of 3.0 mm per second until full pressure is applied to the test sample. Wait 5 seconds and then record the size of the test sample to the nearest 0.1 micron. Repeat this procedure for a total of ten repeated test samples. Calculate the arithmetic mean for all size measurements and report the value as size to the nearest 0.1 micron.

[0279] ISO 536 - Surface mass

[0280] The surface mass of a test sample is the mass (in grams) per unit area (in square meters) of a single layer of material and is measured in accordance with the ISO 536 pharmacopoeia procedure. The mass of the test sample is cut to a known area, and the mass of the sample is determined using an analytical balance accurate to 0.0001 grams. All measurements are carried out in a laboratory maintained at 23 °C ± 2 °C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, and the test samples are conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours before testing.

[0281] Measurements are performed on test samples taken from rolls or sheets of the raw material, or from finished packaging. When excising the test sample from finished packaging, care must be taken not to create any contamination or deformation to the sample during the process. The excised sample must be free of residual adhesive and taken from an area of ​​the packaging that is free of any seams or folds. The test sample should be as large as possible so that any inherent variability in the material is taken into account.

[0282] Measure the dimensions of the single-layer test sample using a calibrated metal ruler made of NIST-traceable steel, or equivalent. Calculate the area of ​​the test sample and record to the nearest 0.0001 square meter. Use an analytical balance to obtain the mass of the test sample and record to the nearest 0.0001 gram. Calculate the mass per unit area by dividing the mass (in grams) by the area (in square meters) and record to the nearest 0.01 gram per square meter (g / m²). Repeat this procedure similarly for a total of ten repeated test samples. Calculate the arithmetic mean for the mass per unit area and report to the nearest 0.01 gram / square meter.

[0283] Bag pile height test

[0284] The bagged stack height of a package of absorbent articles is determined as follows:

[0285] Equipment

[0286] A micrometer with a rigid, flat, horizontal sliding plate is used. The micrometer is configured so that the horizontal sliding plate moves freely in a vertical direction, with the horizontal sliding plate always held in a horizontal orientation directly above a rigid, flat, horizontal base plate. The micrometer includes a device suitable for measuring the gap between the horizontal sliding plate and the horizontal base plate to ±0.5 mm. The horizontal sliding plate and the horizontal base plate are larger than the surface area of ​​the absorbent material packaging that comes into contact with each plate; that is, each plate extends beyond the contact surface. of the absorbent item packaging in all directions. The horizontal sliding plate exerts a downward force of 850 ± 1 gram-force (8.34 N) on the absorbent item packaging, which can be obtained by placing an appropriate weight on the center of the upper surface without contact with the packaging of the horizontal sliding plate so that the total mass of the sliding plate plus added weight is 850 ± 1 gram.

[0287] Test procedure

[0288] Absorbent article packagings are balanced at 23 ± 2 °C and 50 ± 5% relative humidity before measurement.

[0289] The horizontal sliding plate is raised, and an absorbent material package is placed in the center beneath the horizontal sliding plate so that the absorbent material in the package is in a horizontal orientation (see [Fig. 5]). Any handle or other packaging element on the packaging surfaces that would come into contact with either of the plates is folded flat against the packaging surface to minimize its impact on the measurement. The horizontal sliding plate is lowered slowly until it comes into contact with the upper surface of the packaging and then released. The gap between the horizontal plates is measured to ±0.5 mm ten seconds after the horizontal sliding plate is released.Five identical packs (packs of the same size and the same number of absorbent items) are measured and the arithmetic mean is reported as the pack width. The "Stack Height in Bag" = (pack width / number of absorbent items per stack) x 10 is calculated and reported to ± 0.5 mm.

[0290] Method for measuring the percentage of dye coverage

[0291] The dye coverage percentage measurement method measures the percentage area of ​​dye coverage on a packaging panel. A flatbed scanner capable of scanning a minimum of 24-bit color at 800 dpi with manual color management control (a suitable scanner is an Epson Perfection V750 Pro from Epson America Inc., Long Beach, CA, or equivalent) is used to obtain images. The scanner is interfaced with a computer running color calibration software capable of calibrating the scanner against an IT8 color reflection target using a corresponding reference file conforming to the ANSI IT8.7 / 2-1993 process (the suitable color calibration software is Monaco EZColor or il Studio available from X-Rite, Grand Rapids, MI, or equivalent).The color calibration software creates an International Color Consortium (ICC) color profile for the scanner, which is used to correct the colors of an output image using an image acquisition program that supports the application of ICC profiles. The corrected image in... color is then segmented across a color threshold using color analysis software (suitable image color analysis software is MATLAB R2017b available from The Mathworks, Inc., Natick, MA).

[0292] Samples are conditioned at approximately 23 °C ± 2 °C and approximately 50 % ± 2 % relative humidity for 2 hours prior to testing.

[0293] The scanner is turned on 30 minutes before calibration and image acquisition. Deselect any automatic color correction or color management options that may be included in the scanner software. If automatic color management cannot be disabled, the scanner is not suitable for this application. The recommended procedures of the color calibration software are followed to create and export an ICC color profile for the scanner. The color calibration software compares an acquired IT8 target image to a matching reference file to create and export the ICC color profile for the scanner, which will be applied within the image analysis program to correct the color of subsequent output images.

[0294] A sample is obtained from packaging or packaging materials with identified sections. A single section is selected and cut along its perimeter to remove it for testing. The sections selected for testing should not contain any tears or creases.

[0295] The scanner lid is opened, and the sample is carefully placed flat on the center of the scanner glass with the colored surface facing the glass. A scan containing a pan region is acquired at 24-bit color with a resolution of 800 dpi (approximately 31.5 pixels per mm) in reflectance mode. The ICC color profile is assigned to the image, producing a color-corrected sRGB image. This calibrated image is saved in an uncompressed format to preserve the calibrated R, G, B color values, such as a TIFF file, before analysis.

[0296] The calibrated image is opened in the color analysis software. The image is smoothed using a 2D Gaussian filter with a sigma of 3 to blur any individual dye points. Next, using a color thresholding program, a color space is selected for the color thresholding, for example, CIELAB with its three color values ​​L*, a*, b*. Then, a region of interest (ROI) boundary is manually drawn within a region of the base color that is only visible, with no dye present, to identify its color space values. A pane with no visible base color region will be considered to have 100% dye coverage. The thresholding levels in all three channels of the selected color space are then manually adjusted to segment the regions of the pane that contain coverage of dye is applied to these areas of the base color. The area of ​​the pan containing the dye coverage is measured, and the percentage of the pan area containing the dye coverage is calculated and recorded to the nearest whole number.

[0297] Similarly, prepare, scan, and analyze six repeated conditioning panels. Calculate and report the arithmetic mean of the measured percentage area of ​​dye coverage values ​​to the nearest whole number.

[0298] The dimensions and values ​​described herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​quoted. Instead, and unless otherwise indicated, each of these dimensions corresponds both to the stated value and to an equivalent functional range around that value. For example, a dimension described as '40 mm' means 'approximately 40 mm'.

[0299] The citation of any document is not an admission that it is a prior technique in relation to any invention described or claimed herein or that alone, or in any combination with any other reference, it teaches, proposes or describes any such invention.

[0300] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all such variants and modifications that fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Demands

1. Packaging (1) of one or more absorbent articles, the packaging comprising a packaging material, wherein the packaging material comprises natural fibres, wherein the packaging comprises a plurality of panels, including one panel facing the consumer, wherein the packaging is sealed so that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed within it, wherein the packaging material comprises a surface mass of between 50 g / m2 and 120 g / m2, more preferably between 60 g / m2 and 105 g / m2 or more preferably between 70 g / m2 and 90 g / m2, as determined by means of ISO 536 as modified herein, and wherein the packaging material is recyclable.

2. Packaging (1) according to claim 1, wherein the packaging material has a recyclable percentage of at least 70 percent, more preferably of at least 80 percent, or most preferably of at least 90 percent, as determined by the PTS-RH:021 / 97 process (Draft Oct. 2019).

3. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging material is recyclable.

4. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging material has a recyclable percentage of between 70 percent and about 99.9 percent, more preferably from about 80 percent to about 99.9 percent, or most preferably from about 90 percent to about 99.9 percent.

5. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging material comprises at least 50 percent by weight of natural fibers, more preferably at least 70 percent by weight of natural fibers, or most preferably at least 90 percent by weight of natural fibers.

6. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging material comprises between 50 and 100 percent by weight of natural fibers, more preferably between 70 and 99 percent by weight of natural fibers, or more preferably between 90 and 99 percent by weight of natural fibers.

7. The packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims preceding, in which the natural fibers of the packaging material comprise at least one of the following: cellulose-based fibers, bamboo-based fibers, cotton, abaca, Javanese jute, Chinese alpine rush, flax, esparto grass, straw, hemp jute, bagasse, milkweed fibers, pineapple leaf fibers, wood fibers, or paper pulp fibers.

8. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the natural fibers comprise at least one of wood fibers or pulp fibers.

9. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging material comprises recycled natural fibers.

10. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the plurality of panels comprises a background color, marking and / or packaging information as determined by means of a dye detection process.

11. Packaging (1) according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of pans comprises a percentage of dye coverage of 75 percent or less, more preferably of 50 percent or less, or more preferably of 40 percent or less as determined by the dye coverage process.

12. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pan facing the consumer comprises a base color.

13. Packaging (1) according to claim 12, wherein one or more absorbent articles comprise a natural base.

14. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the pan facing the consumer comprises a first percentage of dye coverage which is greater than a dye coverage area of ​​another pan of the packaging (1).

15. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging (1) comprises a plurality of seals in which each of the plurality of seals has a tensile strength of at least 3 N / in. as determined by ASTM F88-06 as modified herein.

16. Packaging (1) according to any one of claim 15, wherein at least one of the plurality of joints has resistance to the higher tensile strength than another of the plurality of joints as determined through ASTM F88-06 as modified.

17. Packaging (1) according to any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein at least one of the plurality of joints has a tensile strength of between 15 N / in. and about 40 N / in., more preferably from about 20 N / in. to about 35 N / in. or most preferably from about 22 N / in. to about 30 N / in. as determined by ASTM F88-06 as modified.

18. Packaging (1) according to claim 17, wherein one or more absorbent articles within the packaging comprise baby diapers or incontinence pads.

19. Packaging (1) according to any one of claims 15 and 16, wherein the tensile strength of at least one seal of the packaging is from about 3 N / in. to about 25 N / in., more preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 20 N / in., or most preferably from about 3 N / in. to about 15 N / in. as determined by means of ASTM F88-06 as modified.

20. Packaging (1) according to claim 19, wherein one or more absorbent articles comprise at least one of menstrual pads, adult light urinary incontinence pads, liners, and the like.

21. Packaging (1) according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein at least one of the seals comprises a soluble adhesive or a dispersible adhesive.

22. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging comprises a non-recyclable material having a percentage by weight of between 0.1 percent and about 50 percent, more preferably from about 0.1 percent to about 30 percent, or most preferably from about 0.1 percent to about 15 percent.

23. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging comprises a non-recyclable material having a percentage by weight of between 0.1 and about 5 percent by weight.

24. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging material does not comprise a barrier layer.

25. Packaging (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the packaging material comprises a barrier layer.

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