Nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent article

Abstract

To provide a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles, excellent in cushioning properties.SOLUTION: A nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles has a plurality of fiber masses containing thermoplastic fiber on a single side of a nonwoven fabric including thermoplastic fiber. The nonwoven fabric and the fiber mass are bonded through fiber fusion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a nonwoven fabric sheet for an absorbent article. [Background technology]

[0002] Nonwoven fabrics are used in a variety of applications, such as as constituent members of absorbent articles such as diapers, sanitary napkins, etc. For example, nonwoven fabrics used as topsheets of absorbent articles have a variety of structures. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a nonwoven fabric containing cotton fiber masses inside a fiber layer having a concave-convex shape. In this nonwoven fabric, the cotton content is lower in the concave regions than in the convex regions to prevent the cotton from falling out. Patent Document 2 describes a fiber sheet in which multiple fiber particles are entangled three-dimensionally and bonded together by heat-fusible fibers contained in the fiber particles, which is said to prevent the internal fiber particles from shifting to one side. The absorbent article described in Patent Document 3 includes an absorbent body containing fiber agglomerates cut out from a nonwoven fabric and absorbent fibers such as pulp. From the viewpoint of uniform dispersion within the absorbent body, the fiber agglomerates are described as having two opposing basic surfaces, such as a rectangular prism or a disk shape. Patent Document 4 describes an air-through nonwoven fabric having two or more fiber layers, with flattened fiber agglomerates embedded in at least one of the layers. The air-through nonwoven fabric is said to have an excellent feel to the touch, and the fiber agglomerates form a pattern, enhancing the visual effect. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-69089 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-94692 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-96779 [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2020 / 049747 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The nonwoven fabrics and absorbents described in the above Patent Documents 1 to 4 have various functions due to the incorporation of fiber agglomerates. On the other hand, in recent years, there has been a growing demand for nonwoven fabric sheets used in absorbent articles to improve cushioning without excessively increasing the fiber basis weight, in order to reduce the burden on the skin that comes into contact with the nonwoven fabric sheets while maintaining a soft texture. None of the above Patent Documents 1 to 4 discloses a solution to this problem.

[0005] In view of the above, the present invention relates to a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles that has excellent cushioning properties. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention provides a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles, which has a plurality of fiber agglomerates containing thermoplastic fibers on one side of a nonwoven fabric containing thermoplastic fibers, and the nonwoven fabric and the fiber agglomerates are bonded by fiber fusion.

[0007] The present invention also provides a method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles, which comprises placing a fiber mass on one side of a nonwoven fabric and then heat-sealing the nonwoven fabric and the fiber mass with hot air. The present invention further provides a method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles, which comprises placing fiber agglomerates on one side of an unfused fiber web and then thermally fusing the fiber web and the fiber agglomerates with hot air. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention has excellent cushioning properties. According to the method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention, the above-mentioned nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention can be suitably produced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view schematically showing a preferred embodiment of a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the cross section of the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles shown in FIG. 1 taken along line II-II. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram schematically illustrating the effect of dispersing a pressing force in the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing one example of an embodiment in which the nonwoven fabric of the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles shown in FIG. 1 has an uneven shape on the second surface side. [Figure 5] 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an embodiment in which the nonwoven fabric of the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles shown in FIG. 1 has an uneven shape on both the second surface side and the first surface side. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a photograph, substituted for a drawing, showing the second surface side of the nonwoven fabric sheets for absorbent articles of Examples 1 to 3. [Figure 7] For the nonwoven fabric sheets for absorbent articles of Examples 1 and 2 and Comparative Example 1, (A) is a graph showing the total thickness (TM) under a high load (under a pressure of 50 gf / cm2), and (B) is a graph showing the pressure change ratio (TM / T0). For the nonwoven fabric sheets for absorbent articles of Example 3 and Comparative Example 2, (C) is a graph showing the total thickness (TM) under a high load (under a pressure of 50 gf / cm2), and (D) is a graph showing the pressure change ratio (TM / T0). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A preferred embodiment of the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this specification, the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles may be simply referred to as a nonwoven fabric sheet.

[0011] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 of this embodiment comprises a nonwoven fabric 1 and a plurality of fiber agglomerates 2 disposed on one side of the nonwoven fabric 1. The side of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 on which the nonwoven fabric 1 is located is referred to as the first side 10T, and the side on which the fiber agglomerates 2 are located is referred to as the second side 10B. In an absorbent article, either the first side 10T or the second side 10B may be the skin-facing side. From the viewpoint of cushioning, which will be described later, it is preferable that the first side 10T be the skin-facing side. In particular, when the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is used as a sheet closer to the skin than the absorbent body of an absorbent article (e.g., a topsheet), having the first side 10T as the skin-facing side provides better cushioning and a more comfortable feel. Furthermore, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is also preferable as a sublayer interposed between the topsheet and the absorbent body, since it provides good cushioning. In this case, it is also preferable that the first side 10T be the skin-facing side. The skin-facing side of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 refers to the side that comes into contact with the wearer's skin when applied to an absorbent article, and the opposite side is called the non-skin-facing side. These terms are also used to indicate the relative positional relationship in the component configuration of the absorbent article for components that do not have a surface that comes into contact with the wearer's skin.

[0012] Both the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2 contain thermoplastic fibers and are bonded together by fiber fusion. This bonding is primarily achieved by thermal fusion at the intersections between the constituent fibers of the nonwoven fabric 1 and the constituent fibers of the fiber agglomerates 2. In addition to the intersections, fiber fusion may also occur within the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2. With regard to the fiber fusion, the thermoplastic fibers may be fused together, or one of the thermoplastic fibers may be melted and fused together. Furthermore, when the thermoplastic fibers are core-sheath composite fibers, the resins of the sheaths may be fused together, or one of the sheaths may be melted and fused together. The fiber fusion increases the bond strength between the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2, making them less likely to separate even when subjected to external pressure or when wet with liquid. This enhances the cushioning properties of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, as described below.

[0013] Various types of nonwoven fabrics commonly used in this type of article can be used as the nonwoven fabric 1. Examples include those in which fibers are fused together (air-through nonwoven fabric, spunbonded nonwoven fabric, heat-rolled nonwoven fabric, etc.), those in which fibers are bonded with a binder (resin bond), and fiber sheets formed by entanglement through fluid or mechanical action (spunlace, steam jet, needle punch, etc.).

[0014] The nonwoven fabric 1 may contain other fibers as constituent fibers in addition to the thermoplastic fibers. Examples of other fibers include cotton, regenerated cellulose fibers, and pulp fibers. The nonwoven fabric 1 preferably contains 50% by mass or more and 100% by mass or less of thermoplastic fibers. This is preferable because it increases the ability of the nonwoven fabric 1 to draw body fluids and the like into the fiber mass 2.

[0015] The fiber agglomerates 2 are formed by fibers that are entangled or fused together to form granular shapes. The fiber orientation of the fiber agglomerates 2 is relatively random compared to that of the nonwoven fabric 1. The fiber density of the fiber agglomerates 2 is preferably higher than that of the nonwoven fabric 1 to the extent that it does not cause a foreign body sensation. This point will be described later. The fiber agglomerates 2 contain thermoplastic fibers, and may contain cotton, regenerated cellulose fibers, or pulp fibers. The fiber agglomerates 2 preferably contain 50% by mass or more and 100% by mass or less of thermoplastic fibers. This is preferable because it provides absorbency in addition to cushioning properties. The shape of the fiber agglomerates 2 may be irregular, spherical, flat, rice grain-like, or cylindrical. From the viewpoint of cushioning properties described below, the fiber agglomerates 2 are preferably rounded like dumplings, and more preferably spherical.

[0016] Various resins are used as the constituent resins of the thermoplastic fibers. For example, resins such as polyethylene, polypropylene (hereinafter also referred to as PP), nylon, and polyester are used. When the thermoplastic fibers are composite fibers such as core-sheath or side-by-side fibers, the heat-sealing resin located on the surface of the fibers is preferably polyethylene, low-melting-point polypropylene (ethylene-propylene copolymer (random PP, block PP), low-configuration isotactic-syndiotactic PP, low-melting-point polyethylene terephthalate, or the like.

[0017] The thermoplastic fibers contained in nonwoven fabric 1 preferably have their fiber surfaces treated with a hydrophilic oil agent, since this allows for quick absorption of liquid in the absorbent article. Also, the thermoplastic fibers contained in fiber agglomerates 2 preferably have their fiber surfaces treated with a hydrophilic oil agent, since this allows for quick transfer of liquid from nonwoven fabric 1 to the next sheet.

[0018] In the thickness direction Z of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, the nonwoven fabric 1 on the first side 10T side is a layer filled with fibers, whereas the second side 10B side has gaps 21 between multiple fiber agglomerations 2, 2, making it a sparser fiber layer than the nonwoven fabric 1. This reduces the fiber basis weight of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 compared to when two fiber layers are simply laminated together, allowing the soft texture of the nonwoven fabric 1 on the first side 10T side to be maintained. In addition, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 has high cushioning properties. This is because each of the multiple fiber agglomerates 2 integrated with the nonwoven fabric 1 by fiber fusion undergoes a pressure, reducing its thickness and deforming to expand toward the gaps 21, while simultaneously dispersing the pressure in multiple directions. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 , when a pressure F is applied from the first surface 10T side, the pressure F is received in a planar form by the nonwoven fabric 1 and then dispersed among the multiple fiber agglomerates 2 on the second surface 10B side. Each fiber agglomerate 2 appropriately reduces its thickness due to the dispersed and reduced pressure F1 and deforms to expand toward the gaps 21. Furthermore, as a result of this deformation, each fiber agglomerate 2 radially disperses the pressure F1 not only in the thickness direction Z but also in multiple directions. This deformation of the fiber agglomerates 21 and the dispersion of the pressure F (F → F1 → F2) enable the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 to reduce the impact of the pressure F. Additionally, as each fiber agglomerate 2 deforms, its contact area with other components 9 increases appropriately in response to the dispersed and reduced pressure F2, further enhancing its shock absorption. Meanwhile, the contact area between the fiber agglomerates 2 and other components 9 is limited to the size of the fiber agglomerates 2, unlike in the case of a sheet-like nonwoven fabric 1. Furthermore, the degree of crushing of the fiber agglomerates 2 is reduced by the pressure F2 distributed in two stages. This prevents the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 from being crushed into close contact with other components 9, making it easier to maintain its bulk and soft texture, enabling it to absorb shock in this state. In this way, the cushioning properties of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 are enhanced. From the viewpoint of the cushioning properties, it is preferable that the fiber agglomerates 2 are randomly oriented, since they are less likely to be deformed into a flat shape by being crushed. Similarly, the fiber agglomerates 2 are preferably rounded like dumplings, and more preferably spherical.

[0019] Furthermore, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 has excellent liquid permeability from the first surface 10T side to the second surface 10B side due to the presence of gaps 21 on the second surface 10B side. In addition, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 has the aforementioned cushioning properties that make it easy to maintain the gaps 21, thereby suppressing the return of liquid from the second surface 10B side to the first surface 10T. For example, when the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is used as a sheet that faces the skin rather than the absorbent body of an absorbent article, the absorbent article not only has excellent cushioning properties but also has excellent bodily fluid permeability and resistance to return of liquid.

[0020] From the viewpoint of further enhancing the dispersion effect of the pressing force F by the fiber agglomerates 2, it is preferable that the fiber agglomerates 2 are discretely arranged on one side of the nonwoven fabric 1. Furthermore, the discrete arrangement makes the gaps 21 between the fiber agglomerates 2 more distinct, making it easier to maintain a sparse fiber layer. This makes it easier to maintain the soft texture of the nonwoven fabric 1 on the first side 10T, and further improves the bodily fluid permeability and the resistance to backflow of the absorbent article described above. As long as the above-mentioned effect can be significantly exhibited, some of the fiber agglomerates 2 may be in contact with each other. The proportion of the fiber agglomerates in contact with each other is preferably 30% or less and 5% or more of the total fiber agglomerates 2.

[0021] From the same viewpoint as above, it is preferable that the average center-to-center distance of the fiber agglomerations 2, which will be described later, is 0.5 mm or more and 15 mm or less. By setting the gap 21 equal to or greater than the lower limit, the fiber agglomerations 2 do not become too dense, thereby reducing the rigidity of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 and increasing its bulk, and it is easier to disperse the pressing force F. By setting the gap 21 equal to or less than the upper limit, deformation such as partial depression of the nonwoven fabric 1 on the first surface 10T side caused by excessive widening of the gaps 21 is suppressed, and the cushioning properties described above can be more effectively exhibited. In this respect, the average center distance is preferably equal to or greater than 0.5 mm, and more preferably equal to or greater than 1.0 mm, and is preferably equal to or less than 15 mm, and more preferably equal to or less than 5 mm.

[0022] In the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, the average number density of the fiber agglomerates 2 is 4,000 pieces / m 2 More than 500,000 pieces / m 2It is preferable that the ratio is equal to or less than the above-mentioned lower limit. This indicates the proportion of the fiber agglomerates 2 arranged in the planar region on the second surface 10B side of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10. By setting the ratio at or above the above-mentioned lower limit, deformation such as partial depression of the nonwoven fabric 1 on the first surface 10T side caused by excessive widening of the gaps 2 can be suppressed, and the cushioning properties described above can be more effectively exhibited. By setting the ratio at or below the above-mentioned upper limit, the fiber agglomerates 2 do not become too dense, thereby suppressing the rigidity of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 and increasing its bulk, and making it easier to distribute the pressing force F. From this viewpoint, the average number density of the fiber agglomerates 2 is 4,000 pieces / m 2 More than 10,000 particles / m is preferable. 2 More preferably, 500,000 particles / m 2 Preferably less than 300,000 particles / m 2 The following is more preferred:

[0023] (Method for measuring average number density and average center-to-center distance of fiber agglomerates 2) When viewing the second surface 10B of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 in a plan view, the center point of the fiber agglomerates 2 is identified as the midpoint of the longest side from the outer peripheral surface of the fiber agglomerates 2. When the fiber surface of the fiber agglomerates 2 is fluffy, the outer diameter is defined as the midpoint between the inner surface of the fiber agglomerates 2 and the tip of the fluff. The "inner surface" is determined as the boundary, when viewed in plan from the surface side of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, where the fiber density on the surface side of the fiber agglomerates 2 begins to become approximately the same as that inside the fiber agglomerates 2 (the boundary where the fiber shading in an image of the fiber agglomerates 2 becomes the interior / 2 of the fiber agglomerates 2). Next, the number of fiber agglomerates 2 within a 100 mm square area was counted, and the number of fiber agglomerates 2 contained therein was divided by the area of ​​the 100 mm square to determine the number density of the fiber agglomerates 2 (numbers / mm 2 ) is calculated. For fiber agglomerates 2 located on a 100 mm square slice, the fiber agglomerates 2 whose center points are on the slice and those on the inside of the slice are counted. Measurements are taken at three different positions on the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, and the average value is calculated to obtain the average number density. Assuming that the fiber agglomerates 2 are uniformly arranged in a square lattice pattern, the average center-to-center distance of the fiber agglomerates 2 can be calculated using the following formula (I):

[0024]

number

[0025] The average center-to-center distance of the fiber agglomerations 2 on the second surface 10B side of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 may be uniform in either arrangement direction, or may vary depending on the arrangement direction. When the average center-to-center distance of the fiber agglomerates 2 differs depending on the arrangement direction, for example, the average center-to-center distance of the fiber agglomerates 2 may be wider in the direction X perpendicular to the one direction than in the direction Y. In this case, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 has deformability that allows it to bend gently while maintaining its shape as a sheet to some extent in the direction Y, and has deformability that allows it to bend relatively more easily in the direction X perpendicular to the one direction. The one direction Y and the direction X perpendicular to the one direction can be set appropriately within a plane along the planar direction of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 depending on the purpose of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10. For example, it is preferable that the directions of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 along the machine direction (MD) and the cross direction (CD) perpendicular to the machine direction in the manufacturing process of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, i.e., the longitudinal direction and width direction of the nonwoven fabric sheet, are set as the one direction Y and the direction X perpendicular to the one direction. Furthermore, when the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is used as a component such as a topsheet in an absorbent article, it is preferable that the one direction Y is set as the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article, and the direction X perpendicular to the one direction Y is set as the width direction of the absorbent article. In other words, if the one direction Y, which bends gently, is set as the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article, the absorbent article can be more easily fitted to the curved surface of the wearer's body in the direction extending from the crotch portion to the front-to-back direction. If the direction X that is prone to bending is the width direction of the absorbent article, the absorbent article can be easily deformed so that it flexibly contracts in response to pressure from the left and right of the crotch portion. From these viewpoints, it is preferable that the average center-to-center distance of the fiber agglomerates 2 is uniform in at least one of the arrangement directions of the direction Y and the direction X perpendicular to the one direction.

[0026] From the above viewpoint, when fiber agglomerates 2 are uniformly arranged at an average center-to-center distance in both one direction Y (also referred to as the Y direction) and a direction X (also referred to as the X direction) perpendicular to said one direction, the difference (K2-K1) between the Y-direction average center-to-center distance (K1) of fiber agglomerates 2 along one direction Y and the X-direction average center-to-center distance (K2) of fiber agglomerates 2 along the direction X perpendicular to said one direction, is preferably 0% or more, more preferably 20% or more, and even more preferably 50% or more, as a ratio ((K2-K1) / K1)×100) of the former to the Y-direction average center-to-center distance (K1). Furthermore, the ratio ((K2-K1) / K1) is preferably 300% or less, more preferably 250% or less, and even more preferably 150% or less, from the viewpoint of appropriately adjusting the anisotropy of the absorption performance and suppressing the diffusion of liquid in the width direction (X direction) of the absorbent article.

[0027] (Method of measuring the average center distance (K1) in the Y direction and the average center distance (K2) in the X direction of the fiber agglomerates 2) When the fiber agglomerates 2 are aligned evenly in both the direction Y and the direction X perpendicular to said direction, the distance between the center points of the fiber agglomerates 2 located at both ends of 11 fiber agglomerates 2 aligned in the direction Y is divided by 10, and this is measured at three different locations, and the average value is defined as the Y-direction average center-to-center distance (K1) (mm). Next, five rows of fiber agglomerates 2 aligned in the direction X perpendicular to said direction are extracted, and the distance between the center points of the fiber agglomerates 2 located at both ends of the five rows is divided by 4, and this is measured at three different locations, and the average value is defined as the X-direction average center-to-center distance (K2) (mm).

[0028] The average fiber density of the fiber agglomeration 2 is set to 0.03 g / cm 3 in order to make it more difficult to crush. 3 More than 0.04 g / cm is preferable. 3 More preferably, 0.05 g / cm or more 3 The above is more preferable. The average fiber density of the fiber agglomerates 2 is 0.080 g / cm from the viewpoints of suppressing the rigidity of the fiber agglomerates 2 to enable appropriate deformation, further enhancing the cushioning properties of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, making it easier to maintain the soft texture of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, and preventing the fiber agglomerates 2 from protruding through the nonwoven fabric 1 to the first surface 10T side when pressed.3 Preferably less than 0.075 g / cm 3 Less than 0.070 g / cm is more preferable. 3 The following is even more preferred:

[0029] The ratio (M2 / M1) of the average fiber density (M2) of the fiber agglomerates 2 to the average fiber density (M1) of the nonwoven fabric 1 is preferably 3 or more, more preferably 4 or more, and even more preferably 5 or more, from the viewpoint of further enhancing the cushioning properties of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10. Furthermore, the ratio (M2 / M1) is preferably 20 or less, more preferably 15 or less, and even more preferably 10 or less, from the viewpoint of suppressing the rigidity of the fiber agglomerates 2 to allow for appropriate deformation, making it easier to maintain the soft texture of the entire nonwoven fabric sheet 10, and from the viewpoint of preventing the fiber agglomerates 2 from protruding through the nonwoven fabric 1 to the first surface 10T side when pressed.

[0030] The average mass of the fiber agglomerates 2 is preferably 0.0002 g / piece or more and 0.010 g / piece or less. By setting the mass at or above the lower limit, the fiber agglomerates 2 can be easily dispersed uniformly, and by setting the mass at or below the upper limit, suitable gaps 21 can be easily formed without widening the average center-to-center distance between the fiber agglomerates 2. In other words, by setting the mass within the above range, the fiber agglomerates 2 can be distributed as small and uniform as possible, resulting in a smooth texture without a grainy feel when touching the skin. From the above viewpoint, the average mass of the fiber agglomerates 2 is more preferably 0.0010 g / piece or more, even more preferably 0.0020 g / piece or more, and is more preferably 0.0050 g / piece or less, even more preferably 0.0040 g / piece or less.

[0031] The average diameter of the fiber agglomerates 2 is preferably 0.5 mm or more and 5 mm or less. By setting it above the lower limit, the thickness of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 can be made bulkier, making it easier to exhibit the cushioning properties described above, while by setting it below the upper limit, the unevenness in the thickness direction Z of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 can be reduced, making it smoother to the touch. From the above viewpoint, the average diameter of the fiber agglomerates 2 is more preferably 1.0 mm or more, even more preferably 1.5 mm or more, and is more preferably 5.0 mm or less, even more preferably 3.0 mm or less.

[0032] (Method for measuring average mass, average diameter, and average fiber density of fiber agglomerate 2) (1) Average mass The fused fiber agglomerates 2 are cut off with scissors or the like from the nonwoven fabric sheet 10. Next, the mass of 10 fiber agglomerates is measured using an electronic balance capable of weighing to the nearest 0.1 mg, and the mass is determined by dividing this mass by 10. This is done three times for different agglomerates, and the average value is used as the average mass of the fiber agglomerates 2. (2) Average diameter The fiber agglomerate 2 cut out in (1) above is measured using a microscope "VHX-7000" (product name) manufactured by Keyence Corporation in units of 0.1 mm. From the area of ​​the fiber agglomerate 2 when viewed in plan, the diameter of a perfect circle equivalent to this area is determined and taken as the diameter of the fiber agglomerate. If the surface of the fiber agglomerate 2 is fluffy, the midpoint between the inner surface of the fiber agglomerate 2 and the tip of the fluff is taken as the outer diameter. The average diameter of 20 fiber agglomerates is taken as the average diameter of the fiber agglomerate 2. (3) Average fiber density Based on the above (1) and (2), the average fiber density of the fiber agglomerates 2 is calculated by the following formula (II). Average fiber density = average mass / (π × (average diameter / 2) 3 ×4 / 3) (II)

[0033] The average fiber diameter (R2) of the fiber agglomerates 2 is preferably larger than the average fiber diameter (R1) of the nonwoven fabric 1. This results in a larger inter-fiber distance in the fiber agglomerates 2, which have relatively thick fibers, compared to the nonwoven fabric 1, and the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 has increased cushioning properties when pressed by body weight or the like, resulting in a better texture. From this viewpoint, the ratio (R2 / R1) of the average fiber diameter (R2) of the fiber agglomerates 2 to the average fiber diameter (R1) of the nonwoven fabric 1 is preferably 1.5 or more, more preferably 2 or more, and even more preferably 3 or more. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of maintaining the flexibility of the fiber agglomerations 2 and further improving the texture of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, the ratio (R2 / R1) is preferably 10 or less, more preferably 5 or less, and even more preferably 4 or less.

[0034] (Method for measuring average fiber diameter of nonwoven fabric 1 and fiber mass 2) Three locations are magnified and observed at 100x magnification from any location on the nonwoven fabric 1 and any fiber mass 2 using a scanning electron microscope (JCM-5100 manufactured by JEOL Ltd.). 1mm 2 The fiber diameter within the area is measured. The fiber diameter is measured at 20 points for each different fiber at one location, and the average value is taken as the average fiber diameter. If the cross section of the fiber is not perfectly circular, the cross section of the fiber is observed in the longitudinal direction of the fiber, and the average value of the short and long sides is taken as the average fiber diameter. The variation in fiber diameter in the nonwoven fabric 1 or fiber mass 2 is usually so small that it is difficult to detect even when observed with the above-mentioned scanning electron microscope. For example, the variation in fiber diameter is generally about 6% according to the fiber specifications. Therefore, the average value obtained by measuring at 20 points as described above can be taken as the average fiber diameter.

[0035] In the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, as shown in Fig. 4, the second surface 10B, which is one side of the nonwoven fabric 1, may have an uneven pattern 3, and fiber agglomerates 2 may be arranged in the recesses 32 of the uneven pattern 3. This stabilizes the orientation of the fiber agglomerates 2, making it easier to more stably disperse the pressing force F (F → F1 → F2) described above. Furthermore, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 not only has a soft texture due to its bulkiness, but also enhances the cushioning properties described above by combining the uneven pattern 3 of the nonwoven fabric 1 with the fiber agglomerates 2. Furthermore, in the arrangement of the protrusions 31 and the recesses 32 in the uneven pattern 3 of the nonwoven fabric 1, the fiber agglomerates 2 arranged in the recesses 32 and the protrusions 31 provide a unique two-stage cushioning property.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 4 , the fiber agglomerates 2 are preferably placed and bonded to the opening edges 33 of the recesses 32. The opening edges 33 of the recesses 32 refer to the fiber layer portions that border the openings of the recesses 32 on the second surface 10B side. In other words, they refer to the ends of the wall fiber layers that define the spaces of the recesses 32 on the second surface 10B side. The fiber agglomerates 2 being placed on the opening edges 33 means that the fiber agglomerates 2 are fitted so as to be caught by the opening edges 33 that surround the spaces of the recesses 32. In this state, the fiber agglomerates 2 protrude toward the second surface 10B beyond the recesses 32. This further enhances the cushioning properties of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10. In this state, the fiber agglomerates 2 may be partially embedded in the recesses 32. Whether or not the fiber agglomerates 2 are partially embedded in the recesses 32, it is preferable to have spaces 34 between the recesses 32 and the fiber agglomerates 2, from the viewpoint of further enhancing cushioning properties.

[0037] 5, it is preferable that the first surface 10T of the nonwoven fabric 1 also has an uneven shape 4. This can further enhance the cushioning properties of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 and the soft feel due to the bulkiness.

[0038] The nonwoven fabric sheet 10 of this embodiment has the above-described structure and therefore has excellent frictional properties, roughness properties, and compression properties, as described below.

[0039] [Compression characteristics] The greater the linearity of the compression characteristic (LC), the more likely the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is to retain its thickness when pressed, and the more resilient it is to return to its original shape when pressed with the skin of the hand, i.e., the more cushioning it will feel. From this perspective, the linearity of the compression characteristic (LC) is preferably 0.25 or greater, and more preferably 0.5 or greater. Furthermore, because people tend to feel that a sheet that initially deforms with a gentle force and has a higher resilience as the amount of compression increases is better, the linearity of the compression characteristic (LC) is preferably 0.6 or less, and more preferably 0.55 or less.

[0040] When the compression energy (WC) of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is neither too high nor too low, the resistance to deformation when pressed by hand becomes appropriate, resulting in a soft and fluffy texture. From this perspective, the compression energy (WC) is set to 1 gfcm / cm 2 More than 2gfcm / cm is preferable. 2 In order to suppress the repulsive force and maintain a suitable texture, the compression energy (WC) of the protrusions 4 is preferably 10 gfcm / cm. 2 Preferably less than 8gfcm / cm 2 More preferably, it is:

[0041] Furthermore, if the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 has a large recovery energy (WC'), it will have a moderate rebound when pressed with the skin of the hand, i.e., cushioning properties, and will have an excellent texture. From this perspective, the recovery energy (WC') is set to 0.6 gfcm / cm 2 More than 2gfcm / cm is preferable. 2 From the viewpoint of suppressing the repulsive force and maintaining a suitable texture, the recovery energy (WC') of the protrusions 1 is preferably 5 gfcm / cm. 2 Less than 3gfcm / cm is preferred 2 More preferably, it is:

[0042] Initial state of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 before pressing (0.5 gf / cm 2 The total thickness (T0) under load is preferably 1 mm or more, more preferably 2 mm or more, and even more preferably 3 mm or more, from the viewpoint of increasing the amount of deformation due to pressure and providing a softer feel. 2 The total thickness under load (T0) is preferably 15 mm or less, more preferably 10 mm or less, and even more preferably 6 mm or less, to prevent the total thickness from being too high, which tends to result in low local basis weight of each fiber layer and easy collapse when pressure is applied. The "total thickness" is also referred to as apparent thickness, and refers to the thickness between the front and back surfaces of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 measured by sandwiching it between flat plates. The nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is in the initial state before pressing (0.5 gf / cm 2By having the total thickness (T0) under load within the above range, it is possible to increase the amount of deformation when pressed, and a softer feel can be achieved.

[0043] Nonwoven fabric sheet 10 under high load (50 gf / cm 2 The total thickness (TM) under load is preferably 0.2 mm or more, more preferably 0.3 mm or more, and even more preferably 0.4 mm or more, from the viewpoint of providing a stable thickness and cushioning feeling and an excellent texture. In addition, the nonwoven fabric 10 under high load (50 gf / cm 2 The total thickness (TM) under pressure (0.5gf / cm) is the same as the initial state before pressure (0.5gf / cm) in order to increase the deformation amount (T0-TM) due to pressure and obtain a softer feel. 2 It is preferable that the total thickness (TM) is smaller than the total thickness (T0) under load. From this viewpoint, the total thickness (TM) is preferably equal to or less than 1.2 mm, more preferably equal to or less than 1.0 mm, and even more preferably equal to or less than 0.8 mm. The nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is resistant to high loads (50 gf / cm 2 By keeping the total thickness (TM) under pressure within the aforementioned range, crushing is prevented even under high load, and plastic deformation (sag) is felt to be minimal.

[0044] The greater the thickness deformation (T0-TM), the softer the feel of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10. From this perspective, the thickness deformation (T0-TM) is preferably 1.0 mm or more, more preferably 2.0 mm or more, and even more preferably 3.0 mm or more. There is no particular upper limit to the thickness deformation (T0-TM), but it is preferable that the thickness deformation (T0-TM) is 1.0 mm or more, more preferably 2.0 mm or more, and even more preferably 3.0 mm or more. 2 In the following cases, the smaller the deformation amount, the more likely it is that the distance between fibers will not become too wide, resulting in excellent cushioning and strength. From this perspective, 7 mm or less is preferable, 6 mm or less is more preferable, and 5 mm or less is even more preferable. The greater the deformation amount when a load is applied, the softer the material feels.

[0045] Furthermore, the higher the pressure deformation ratio TM / T0, the less the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 is crushed by pressure, resulting in excellent wetback absorption performance for body fluids and the like. From this viewpoint, the pressure deformation ratio TM / T0 is preferably 0.1 or more, and more preferably 0.15 or more. If the pressure deformation ratio TM / T0 is not too high, hardening of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 can be prevented. From this viewpoint, the pressure deformation ratio TM / T0 is preferably 0.40 or less, and more preferably 0.30 or less.

[0046] (Method for measuring compression characteristics) These compression properties can be measured by the following method: using an automatic compression tester (KES FB3-AUTO-A manufactured by Kato Tech Co., Ltd.), the speed is 0.05 mm / s, and the area of ​​the probe is 2 cm. 2 At a compression load of 0.5gf / cm 2 More than 50gf / cm 2 Within the range below, the sheet is compressed with a measuring probe, and after applying the maximum load, the thickness and the load at that time are measured when the sheet is moved in the recovery direction immediately. 2 The thickness of the nonwoven fabric under load is T0, and the load is 50 gf / cm 2 The thickness of the nonwoven fabric under load is defined as TM. The linearity of the compression characteristics is defined as LC, the compression energy as WC, the recovery energy as WC', the compression resilience as RC (WC' / WC x 100), the deformation amount "T0-TM" and the pressure deformation ratio "TM / T0" are calculated. The measurement surface is such that the surface side faces the gauge head. Each measurement value is calculated by measuring five points on the sheet and averaging the results.

[0047] [Preparing the measurement sample] When preparing the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 (sample) from the absorbent article for each of the above-mentioned measurements, if the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 (sample) is adhered with a hot melt adhesive, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 (sample) is peeled off from the absorbent article using a cold spray or the like, while minimizing damage to the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 (sample). Unless otherwise specified for each measurement, measurements are taken at randomly selected locations.

[0048] Next, a preferred embodiment of the method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention will be described. In the method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet according to the first embodiment, fiber agglomerates 2 are placed on one side of nonwoven fabric 1, and hot air is used to thermally fuse the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2 together. As a result, the thermoplastic fibers melt, causing fiber fusion within the fiber agglomerates 2, and simultaneously bonding the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2 together. In this manner, a nonwoven fabric sheet 10 can be produced. With regard to the fused fibers within the fiber agglomerates 2 immediately before the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2 are fused together, the fiber agglomerates 2 placed on one side of the nonwoven fabric 1 may be those in which the constituent fibers are fused together, or may be unfused. In the first embodiment, the nonwoven fabric 1 has already been bonded at its fiber intersections, and therefore, it is preferable to easily and suitably control the arrangement of the fiber agglomerates 2 on one side of the nonwoven fabric 1. As for the material of the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber masses 2, various materials that are normally used in this type of article can be used as long as they contain thermoplastic fibers, as described above. The fiber mass 2 can be formed by various methods. For example, raw cotton can be processed into lumps using a carding machine for lumps (knops). Multiple carding machines may be used to process multiple times. Alternatively, a web is produced by carding, and the web is cut into pieces of a predetermined size to provide the required amount of fiber. The cut pieces are then rolled into granules by flowing them together with an air current through a spirally wound pipe. Preferably, this is done using cold air at 100°C or less to prevent fiber fusion. The hot air may be blown from the surface on which the fiber agglomerates 2 are placed (the surface that will become the second surface 10B) or from the opposite surface (the surface that will become the first surface 10T). From the viewpoint of performing heat fusion bonding in a state in which the fiber agglomerates 2 are evenly distributed on the web, it is preferable to blow the hot air from the surface that will become the second surface 10B. The hot air blowing conditions are preferably as follows: From the viewpoint of making it difficult for the fiber agglomerates 2 to fall off the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 by forming fusion points between the fibers, and from the viewpoint of preventing hardening of the nonwoven fabric sheet 10, it is preferable that the hot air be blown at a temperature 5°C to 15°C higher than the melting point of the fusion resin of the fibers (the resin on the sheath side), at a hot air speed of 0.5 m / s to 5 m / s, preferably 1.5 m / s to 3 m / s, for a heat treatment time of 2 seconds to 10 seconds.

[0049] In the method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet according to the first embodiment, the nonwoven fabric 1 may have a flat surface on one side on which the fiber agglomerates 2 are placed, or may have the aforementioned uneven shape 3. In the latter case, the fiber agglomerates 2 can be arranged so as to rest on the recesses 32 of the uneven shape 3. By appropriately setting the relationship between the opening diameter of the recesses 32 and the diameter of the fiber agglomerates 2, the fiber agglomerates 2 can be placed on the open ends 33 of the recesses 32. This facilitates the placing operation and makes the arrangement of the fiber agglomerates 2 stable and easy to control. When the nonwoven fabric 1 has the uneven pattern 3, it may have the uneven pattern 4 on the opposite surface (the surface that will become the first surface 10T). Whether the nonwoven fabric 1 has the uneven shape 3 on one side or the uneven shape 3 and the uneven shape 4 on both sides, it is preferable to perform a hot-air recovery treatment before placing the fiber agglomerates 2. This increases the thickness of the nonwoven fabric 1, making the uneven shape 3 more distinct and facilitating the operation of placing the fiber agglomerates 2 on the recesses 32.

[0050] Next, in the method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet according to the second embodiment, unfused fiber agglomerates 2 are placed on one side of an unfused fiber web, and the fiber web and the fiber agglomerates 2 are thermally fused together using hot air. As a result, the thermoplastic fibers melt, causing fiber fusion within the fiber web and the fiber agglomerates 2, and simultaneously bonding the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2 together through fiber fusion. This allows the production of a nonwoven fabric sheet 10. The second embodiment is preferable in that the air pressure of the hot air makes it easier for the unfused fiber agglomerates 2 to penetrate into the unfused fiber web, increasing the contact area between the nonwoven fabric 1 and the fiber agglomerates 2 and increasing the liquid absorption rate. The fiber web contains thermoplastic fibers as a raw material for the nonwoven fabric 1. The "fiber web" refers to a fiber assembly in which constituent fibers, including thermoplastic fibers, are loosely entangled without being fused and fixed, and which does not retain its shape as a sheet by itself. In other words, it is a fiber assembly before being made into a nonwoven fabric. Therefore, the mobility between fibers in the fiber web is high. Such a fiber web can be supplied from a carding machine (not shown) to a predetermined thickness.

[0051] The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention can be used in a variety of absorbent articles, including a wide range of articles used to absorb fluids excreted from the body, such as diapers for adults and babies, sanitary napkins, panty liners, and urine absorption pads.

[0052] Absorbent articles using the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention typically include a top sheet, a back sheet, and a liquid-retaining absorbent core interposed between the two sheets. In the absorbent article, the nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention can be used as various components, such as a component on the skin side of the absorbent core. Examples of the skin-facing component include a top sheet that contacts the wearer's skin, or a sublayer interposed between the top sheet and the absorbent core. The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles of the present invention can also be used as a covering sheet (core wrap sheet) for the absorbent core, or as gathers, exterior sheets, or wings for the absorbent article. [Example]

[0053] The present invention will be explained in more detail below based on examples, but the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto. In these examples, "parts" and "%" are all based on mass unless otherwise specified. "-" means that there is no value corresponding to that item.

[0054] [Example 1] The fibers used were core-sheath (polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (core): polyethylene (PE) (sheath) = 5:5 (mass ratio)) thermoplastic fibers with a fineness of 3.3 dex and a fiber length of 51 mm that had been treated with a hydrophilic oil agent. A fiber web was produced using a roller carding machine, and the web was subjected to an air-through treatment under conditions of a hot air temperature of 140°C, a web conveying speed of 10 m / min, and a hot air speed of 2 m / s to form a nonwoven fabric, thereby obtaining Nonwoven Fabric 1. The basis weight of Nonwoven Fabric 1 was 10 g / m 2 It was. The fibers for the fiber mass 2 were core-sheath type (polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (core): polyethylene (PE) (sheath) = 5:5 (mass ratio)) thermoplastic fibers treated with a hydrophilic oil agent, with a fineness of 1.8 dex and a fiber length of 51 mm, and were carded using a roller carding machine to a basis weight of 15 g / m 2 The fiber web was cut into 1.5 cm square pieces and then granulated. Granulated unfused fiber masses 2 were arranged in a grid pattern along the MD and CD directions at intervals of approximately 15 mm (average center-to-center distance) in a 15 cm x 20 cm square area on the side of nonwoven fabric 1 where the hot air was blown through the airflow. Next, an air-through treatment was performed from the fiber agglomeration 2 side under conditions of a hot air temperature of 140°C, a web conveying speed of 5 m / min, and a hot air speed of 1 m / s, to bond the fiber agglomeration 2 and the nonwoven fabric 1 by fiber fusion. At the same time, the fibers within the fiber agglomeration 2 were also fused to bond the fibers together. In this way, the nonwoven fabric sheet 10 of Example 1 was produced (see FIG. 6(A)).

[0055] [Example 2] The fibers used were thermoplastic core-sheath fibers (polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (core): polyethylene (PE) (sheath) = 5:5 (mass ratio)) with a fineness of 3.3 dex and a fiber length of 51 mm, which had been treated with a hydrophilic oil agent. An unfused fiber web was produced using a roller carding machine. The basis weight of this fiber web was 10 g / m 2 It was. For fiber mass 2, core-sheath type (polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (core): polyethylene (PE) (sheath) = 5:5 (mass ratio)) thermoplastic fibers with a fineness of 1.8 dex and a fiber length of 51 mm that had been treated with a hydrophilic oil agent were used, and an unfused fiber web was produced using a roller carding machine.The fiber web was then cut into 1.5 cm squares and granulated. The granulated unfused fiber masses 2 were arranged in a grid pattern along the MD and CD directions at intervals of approximately 15 mm (average center-to-center distance) in a 15 cm x 20 cm square area on the unfused fiber web. Next, an air-through treatment was carried out from the fiber agglomerates 2 side under conditions of a hot air temperature of 140°C, a web conveying speed of 5 m / min, and a hot air speed of 1 m / s, to form the fiber web into a nonwoven fabric (forming nonwoven fabric 1), and at the same time, to bond the fiber agglomerates 2 and nonwoven fabric 1 by fiber fusion.Fibers were also bonded to each other within the fiber agglomerates 2 by fiber fusion. In this way, a nonwoven fabric sheet 10 of Example 2 was produced (see FIG. 6(B)).

[0056] [Example 3] The nonwoven fabric having a double-sided uneven surface described in Example 1 of JP 2019-44320 A (which was hot-air recovered under the conditions of a hot air temperature of 140°C, a web conveying speed of 5 m / min, and a hot air speed of 1 m / s) was designated as nonwoven fabric 1. The basis weight of nonwoven fabric 1 was 30 g / m 2 It was. For fiber mass 2, core-sheath type (polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (core): polyethylene (PE) (sheath) = 5:5 (mass ratio)) thermoplastic fibers with a fineness of 1.8 dex and a fiber length of 51 mm that had been treated with a hydrophilic oil agent were used, and an unfused fiber web was produced using a roller carding machine.The fiber web was then cut into 1.5 cm squares and granulated. The granulated fiber masses 2 were arranged in a grid pattern along the MD and CD directions at intervals of 5 mm in the MD direction and 10 mm in the CD direction (average center distance) in a 15 cm x 20 cm square area on top of the nonwoven fabric 1 (14 valley portion as viewed from the Z1 side described in JP 2019-44320 A). Next, an air-through treatment was performed from the fiber agglomeration 2 side under conditions of a hot air temperature of 140°C, a web conveying speed of 5 m / min, and a hot air speed of 1 m / s, to bond the fiber agglomeration 2 and the nonwoven fabric 1 by fiber fusion. At the same time, the fibers within the fiber agglomeration 2 were also fused to bond the fibers together. In this way, a nonwoven fabric sheet 10 of Example 3 was produced (see FIG. 6(C)).

[0057] [Comparative Example 1] The fibers used were core-sheath type (polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (core): polyethylene (PE) (sheath) = 5:5 (mass ratio)) thermoplastic fibers with a fineness of 3.3 dex and a fiber length of 51 mm, which had been treated with a hydrophilic oil agent. A web was produced using a roller carding machine, and an air-through treatment was carried out under the conditions of a hot air temperature of 140°C, a web conveying speed of 10 m / min, and a hot air speed of 2 m / s to form a nonwoven fabric with a basis weight of 25 g / cm. 2 This was used as a nonwoven fabric sheet sample for Comparative Example 1.

[0058] Comparative Example 2 The nonwoven fabric 1 having concaves and convexes on both sides used in Example 3 was used as a nonwoven fabric sheet sample for Comparative Example 2.

[0059] For the nonwoven fabric samples of the Examples and Comparative Examples, the linearity of the compression characteristics (LC), compression energy (WC), compression resilience (RC), and initial state before pressing (0.5 gf / cm 2 Total thickness (T0) under high load (50gf / cm 2 The total thickness (TM), deformation amount (T0-TM), and compression deformation ratio (TM / T0) under compression were measured based on the above-mentioned (Method for measuring compression characteristics).

[0060] [Table 1]

[0061] [Table 2] [Table 3]

[0062] As shown in Tables 1 to 3 and Figures 7(A) to (D), the nonwoven fabric sheet samples of Examples 1 to 3 exhibited higher strength under a high load (50 gf / cm) than the nonwoven fabric sheet samples of Comparative Examples 1 and 2. 2 The nonwoven fabric sheet samples of Examples 1 to 3 exhibited a high deformation ratio (TM / T0) under a high load (50 gf / cm) compared to the nonwoven fabric sheet samples of Comparative Examples 1 and 2, demonstrating excellent cushioning properties. 2 It was also shown that the high total thickness (TM) under pressure provided good cushioning properties while being resistant to crushing under load. Furthermore, as shown in Table 2, Examples 1 and 2 had higher LC, WC, and WC' than Comparative Example 1, and thus had a moderately high cushioning property and a soft texture. Similarly, as shown in Table 3, Example 3 had higher LC, WC, and WC' than Comparative Example 2, and thus had a moderately high cushioning property and a soft texture. [Explanation of symbols]

[0063] 1. Nonwoven fabric 2 Fiber mass 3 Uneven shape 10 Nonwoven fabric sheet

Claims

1. A nonwoven fabric containing thermoplastic fibers has a plurality of fiber masses containing thermoplastic fibers on one side thereof, The nonwoven fabric and the fiber mass are bonded by fiber fusion. Nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles.

2. 2. The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to claim 1, wherein the fiber agglomerates are discretely arranged on one surface of the nonwoven fabric.

3. 3. The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to claim 1, wherein the fiber agglomerates have an average center-to-center distance of 0.5 mm or more and 15 mm or less.

4. The average number density of the fiber agglomerates is 4,000 pieces / m ２ More than 500,000 pieces / m ２ 3. The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to claim 1 or 2, wherein:

5. 3. The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to claim 1, wherein one surface of the nonwoven fabric has an uneven shape, and the fiber agglomerates are arranged in the recesses of the uneven shape.

6. 6. The nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to claim 5, wherein the fiber masses are placed on and bonded to the open ends of the recesses.

7. A method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles, comprising placing a fiber mass on one side of a nonwoven fabric and thermally fusing the nonwoven fabric and the fiber mass with hot air.

8. The method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles according to claim 7, wherein one surface of the nonwoven fabric has an uneven shape, and the fiber masses are placed on the recesses of the uneven shape.

9. A method for producing a nonwoven fabric sheet for absorbent articles, comprising placing a fiber mass on one side of an unfused fiber web, and then thermally fusing the fiber web and the fiber mass with hot air.

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