Recyclable absorbent goods packaging

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to a package for one or more absorbent articles. The package includes a packaging material comprising natural fibers. The package includes a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel. The package is sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein. The packaging material exhibits a Huba value of greater than about 5 hours according to the Huba Test. The package is recyclable. The package includes vertical side seals having a side seal strength ranging from about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm according to the Seal Tensile Strength Test. The packaging material includes a barrier film including a first layer and a second layer. The first layer includes a first polymeric material and the second layer includes a second polymeric material. The first polymeric material is different from the second polymeric material.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to packaging for disposable absorbent articles, and more particularly to packaging for disposable absorbent articles that is recyclable, exhibits the necessary seal strength, barrier properties, and shelf life, and is processable on high speed manufacturing equipment. [Background technology]

[0002] Environmentally friendly products and packaging are at the forefront of many consumers' consciousness at this point in history. There is an increasing focus on sustainably sourced products and packaging. For example, there is a strong market demand for creating consumer products and packaging that include natural, biologically sourced, and / or recycled materials. For disposal purposes, there is an increasing focus on products and packaging that are biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, reusable, and / or otherwise generate minimal landfill waste.

[0003] Some absorbent article packages utilize cartonboard as their on-shelf packaging. Because cartonboard is derived from wood pulp, it can be sustainably sourced and recyclable. Cartonboard's structural integrity makes it useful when the product inside the package cannot form a shelf-stable surface by itself. The problem with cartonboard alone is that it does not prevent atmospheric moisture from reaching the absorbent article and causing problems such as pre-activation of SAP and / or wetness indicators.

[0004] There are absorbent article packages that utilize plastic films as their on-shelf packaging. Plastic can exhibit barrier properties that protect the articles within the plastic packaging from atmospheric moisture. However, plastic films may not be considered environmentally friendly by consumers. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, there is an increasing public demand for alternatives to plastic and cartonboard packaging materials for absorbent articles that exhibit sufficient barrier properties to atmospheric moisture and are environmentally friendly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The disclosed package provides a packaging material for absorbent articles that exhibits sufficient barrier properties against atmospheric moisture and is environmentally friendly. The package may include natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers. The package may also include a specific Huba coefficient, which is equivalent to the shelf life of the absorbent article when placed in the package.

[0007] The package of the present disclosure contains one or more absorbent articles therein and includes a packaging material including natural fibers. Each package includes multiple panels, including a consumer-facing panel, and the package is sealed such that the one or more absorbent articles are enclosed by the packaging material. Additionally, the package of the present disclosure is recyclable.

[0008] The present disclosure is directed, in part, to a package for one or more absorbent articles. The package includes a packaging material comprising natural fibers. The package includes a plurality of panels, including a consumer-facing panel. The package is sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein. The packaging material exhibits a Huba value of greater than about 5 hours according to the Huba Test herein. The packaging material and / or the package is recyclable. The package includes a side seal having a side seal strength of greater than about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm according to the Seal Tensile Strength Test. The packaging material includes a barrier film layer including a first layer and a second layer. The first layer includes a first polymeric material or a first polyolefin material, and the second layer includes a second polymeric material or a second polyolefin material. The first polymeric material or the first polyolefin material is different from the second polymeric material or the second polyolefin material. The first polymeric material or first polyolefin material may at least partially comprise post-consumer recycle (PCR) or post-industrial recycle (PIR). The second polymeric material or second polyolefin material may at least partially comprise PCR or PIR. At least some of the natural fibers may at least partially comprise PCR and / or PIR natural fibers.

[0009] The present disclosure is directed, in part, to a package for one or more absorbent articles. The package includes a packaging material, the packaging material including natural fibers. The package includes multiple panels, including a consumer-facing panel. The package is sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein. The packaging material exhibits a Huba value of about 5.3 hours to greater than about 20 hours according to the Huba Test. The packaging material or package is recyclable. Each of the one or more absorbent articles includes a super absorbent polymer (SAP) in an amount greater than about 5 grams per article.

[0010] The present disclosure is directed, in part, to a package for one or more absorbent articles. The package includes a packaging material, the packaging material including natural fibers. Each of the packages includes multiple panels, including a consumer-facing panel, and the package is sealed so that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein. The packaging material exhibits a Huba value of greater than about 5.3 hours according to the Huba Test. The packaging material and / or the package are recyclable. The package includes vertical side seals having a side seal strength of greater than about 5.1 N / 15 mm and less than about 15 N / 15 mm according to the Seal Tensile Strength Test. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a packaging material according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a packaging material according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a package of the present disclosure in a partially flattened configuration, without one or more absorbent articles within the package. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a front view of the package of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2B is a rear view of the package of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2D] 2B is a right side view of the package of FIG. 2A, and the left side view is the same. [Figure 2E] FIG. 2B is a top view of the package of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2F] FIG. 2B is a bottom view of the package of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2G] 2B is a diagram of the shape of the packaging material used to manufacture the package of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a front right perspective view of an exemplary package of the present disclosure with multiple absorbent articles positioned therein. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is another front right-side perspective view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3B is a front left perspective view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3D]FIG. 3B is a front view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3E] FIG. 3B is a rear view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3F] FIG. 3B is a right side view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3G] FIG. 3B is a left perspective view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3H] FIG. 3B is a right-side perspective view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3I] FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of the package of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating another package according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram showing a rotated view of the package of FIG. 4A. [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary package showing an absorbent article therein. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of an absorbent article of the present disclosure showing a partial cutaway view of the article. [Figure 7A] 1 is a plan view of a diaper constructed in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 7B is a cross-sectional view of the diaper taken along line 35-35 of FIG. 7A. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view of the diaper of FIG. 7B in an inflated state. [Figure 8] 1 shows a plan view of an exemplary absorbent article in the form of a tape diaper laid out flat with the garment-facing surface facing the viewer. [Figure 9A] 2H is an exemplary side view of the packaging material of FIG. 2G. [Figure 9B] 9B is an example of folds formed in the packaging material of FIG. 9A to create a first handle fold and a second handle fold. [Figure 9C] 1 is an exemplary handle formed from a first handle folding portion and a second handle folding portion. [Figure 10] 2D with handles formed on the consumer-facing panel and the back panel. [Figure 11]FIG. 1 is a rear view of a package with a handle. [Figure 12A] Shown is a handle with a U-shaped slit or slot cut or perforated to form an opening through which the consumer's fingers can slide to grasp the package by the handle. [Figure 12B] Shown is a handle with a semi-oval shaped slit or slot cut or punched to form an opening through which the consumer's fingers can slide to grip the package by the handle. [Figure 12C] Shown is a handle with an oval shaped slit or slot cut or punched to form an opening through which the consumer's fingers can slide to grasp the package by the handle. [Figure 12D] 1 shows a handle having an oval shaped slit or slot perforated to form an opening through which the consumer's fingers can slide to grasp the package by the handle. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a rear view of a package with a handle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] As used herein, the term "absorbent article" refers to a device that absorbs and contains bodily exudates, and more specifically, to a device that is placed against or in close proximity to the body of a wearer to absorb and contain various bodily exudates discharged from the body. Absorbent articles of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, diapers, adult incontinence briefs, training pants, swim pants, diaper holders, diaper outer covers, absorbent inserts for diaper outer covers, menstrual pads, incontinence pads, liners, panty liners, tampons, durable menstrual pants, and the like.

[0013] As used herein, the terms "cross-machine direction" or "CD" refer to the path in the plane of the web that is perpendicular to the machine direction.

[0014] As used herein, the term "machine direction" or "MD" refers to the path that a material, such as a web, follows through a manufacturing process.

[0015] As used herein, the term "colorant" refers to inks, dyes, pigments, etc. that are used to impart color to a substrate.

[0016] As used herein, the term "natural fibers" refers to fibers including cellulosic fibers, bamboo-based fibers, and the like. Natural fibers also refer to woody, wood, or pulp fibers, such as those obtained from deciduous and coniferous trees, including non-woody fibers such as cotton, abaca, kenaf, sabai grass, flax, esparto fiber, straw, jute, bagasse, milkweed floss fiber, and pine leaf fiber, as well as softwood fibers such as northern and southern softwood kraft fibers, and hardwood fibers such as eucalyptus, maple, birch, and aspen. Pulp fibers can be prepared in high-yield or low-yield forms and can be pulped by any known method, including kraft, sulfite, high-yield pulping, and other known pulping methods. The natural fibers of the present disclosure 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. The fibers can have a Canadian Standard Freeness of at least 200, more specifically at least 300, more specifically at least 400, and most specifically at least 500.

[0017] As used herein, the term "cellulosic fiber" may include cellulose fibers such as wood fibers, cotton, regenerated cellulose fibers such as viscose, lyocell, rayon, or cuprammonium rayon, and high-pulp-yield fibers, unless otherwise specified. The term "cellulosic fiber" also includes chemically treated natural fibers, such as mercerized pulp, chemically stiffened or crosslinked fibers, or sulfonated fibers. Also included are mercerized natural fibers, regenerated natural cellulose fibers, microbially produced cellulose, rayon processes, cellulose dissolution and coagulation spinning processes, and other cellulose materials or cellulose derivatives. Other cellulosic fibers that may be included are broken paper or recycled fibers and high-yield fibers. High-yield pulp fibers are fibers produced by pulping processes that provide a yield of about 65% or greater, more specifically about 75% or greater, and even more specifically about 75% to about 95%. Yield is the resulting amount of processed fiber expressed as a percentage of the initial wood mass. Such pulping processes include bleached chemithermomechanical pulp (BCTMP), chemithermomechanical pulp (CTMP), pressure / pressure thermomechanical pulp (PTMP), thermomechanical pulp (TMP), thermomechanical chemical 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-yield fibers are known for their stiffness in both the dry and wet states compared to typical chemically pulped fibers.

[0018] Packaging materials or packages for one or more absorbent articles, particularly premium absorbent article products, generally should meet certain requirements, including: 1) reliable performance on high-speed converting lines; 2) protection for absorbent articles during distribution through the supply chain; 3) withstand handling associated with inventory on retail shelves or in e-commerce distribution systems; 4) protection for contained absorbent articles during transport to the consumer's home and before actual wear; and 5) meeting items 1-4 for package life or product lifespan from the manufacturer through the distribution system until the product is actually used. A challenge facing absorbent article manufacturers when using packaging materials including natural fiber, wood fiber, and / or paper substrates with a barrier film layer is simultaneously achieving the required combination of side seal strength, recyclability, and barrier film layer properties, as these are design options for manufacturers to meet items 1-5 above. Reducing the basis weight of the barrier film layer can meet the recyclability requirement, but this may compromise side seam strength and / or barrier film layer properties. When the basis weight of the barrier film layer is increased, the side seam strength and / or barrier layer film properties may meet requirements, but the recyclability may not meet requirements or targets. Therefore, there is a need for an improved package for one or more absorbent articles that includes a packaging material comprising natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers, which simultaneously meets the requirements of side seal strength, recyclability, and barrier film layer.

[0019] The barrier film layer properties of packages and packaging materials have been designed using approaches including those involving various Water Vapor Transmission Rate (WVTR) methods. The inventors have discovered that the WVTR approach for evaluating barrier film layer properties may not be a reliable predictor of the actual shelf life of a package and the actual survivability of a product within the package. Therefore, there is a need for more predictive methods, packaging materials, and packages for more accurately assessing and designing package life and for use in designing improved packages for one or more absorbent articles that include packaging materials comprising natural fibers and a barrier film layer.

[0020] Therefore, there is a need for one or more packages of absorbent articles that include packaging materials that include natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers, where the packaging materials also exhibit a high-performance combination of recyclability, side seam strength, and barrier film layer properties as measured by the Huba coefficient (equivalent to the shelf life of the package). There is also a need for one or more packages of absorbent articles that include packaging materials that include natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers, where the packaging materials also exhibit a range of barrier film layer properties as measured by the Huba coefficient, recyclability, and superabsorbent polymer levels per absorbent article. There is also a need for one or more packages of absorbent articles that include packaging materials that include natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers, where the packaging materials also exhibit a high-performance combination of recyclability, side seam strength, and barrier film layer properties as measured by the Huba coefficient. The one or more barrier film layers optionally include a first barrier film layer and a second barrier film layer, where the two layers comprise different materials, such as a polymer or a polyolefin. One or more barrier film layers are self-sealable, meaning that they melt to form a seal when the inside surface of one portion of the package is joined with the inside surface of another portion of the package. Meeting these unmet needs is of utmost commercial importance, especially as it relates to packaging of one or more absorbent articles made on high speed converting lines and having acceptable product shelf life.

[0021] Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors have unexpectedly discovered that a package for one or more absorbent articles includes a packaging material comprising natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers, and the packaging material also exhibits a high-performance combination of recyclability, side seam strength, and barrier film layer properties, which can be achieved by designing the barrier film layers as two or more layers. The composition of the two or more barrier film layers facilitates the simultaneous use of different materials in each layer, and the different materials separately contribute to the overall package requirements, including the barrier film layer requirements. For example, one barrier film layer may provide excellent side seam strength, while the other barrier film layer may provide excellent barrier film layer properties or HuBa coefficient. By dividing the performance requirements of side seam strength and barrier film layer properties into two barrier film layers, the total level (or basis weight) of the two combined layers can be reduced, leading to meeting recyclability requirements. This creates a selected new area of ​​package design.

[0022] The inventors have surprisingly found that selectable ranges of recyclability, side seam strength, and barrier film layer properties as measured by the Huba coefficient, when exhibited, result in a package with superior performance and package life. The inventors have separately found that when a package includes packaging materials that include natural fibers and a barrier film layer and that exhibit selectable ranges of barrier properties as measured by the Huba coefficient, recyclability, and superabsorbent polymer levels per absorbent article, the resulting package exhibits superior performance and product life. The inventors have also unexpectedly found that when the barrier film layer includes two layers, each containing a different polymer or polyolefin material, the resulting package exhibits superior performance and package life. The inventors have further unexpectedly found that when the barrier film layer includes two layers, one containing low-density polyethylene and the other containing high-density polyethylene, the resulting package exhibits superior performance and package shelf life. Importantly, superior packaging performance may include containing therein an absorbent article that includes a substantially inactivated wetness indicator and superabsorbent polymer, has no moisture content, has a total side seal, or the same strength and recyclability requirements are also met.

[0023] Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors have discovered and described herein a Huba method for evaluating the true barrier performance of a package of one or more absorbent articles, including packaging materials containing natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers. This method provides an output time measure that the inventors have found to be more predictive of actual package shelf life than the WVTR method. Package shelf life can be a measure of the period during which a package of one or more absorbent articles maintains excellent performance before potentially beginning to exhibit defects related to moisture exposure, such as loss of absorbent capacity, stiffening of the absorbent core, and / or premature activation of wetness indicators. These defects are most pronounced for absorbent articles containing higher levels of superabsorbent polymer, or more than about 5 grams of superabsorbent polymer per article. Based on information and belief, previous methods for measuring barrier properties, including WVTR-type methods, lacked recognition of issues related to delivery relative to product shelf life requirements. These WVTR methods provide the moisture permeation flux rate through a given package or packaging material, but may not provide insight into the subject of package life or product life. The inventors have found that the time dynamics and time measurement output of the Huba method can be more predictive of and correlated with the ultimate shelf life of a package of one or more absorbent articles comprising a packaging material comprising natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers.

[0024] The package of the present disclosure may contain an absorbent article containing a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) therein. The package of the present disclosure may include one or more barrier film layers that reduce the rate of moisture transfer through the packaging material to the SAP of the absorbent article within the package. Additionally, the absorbent article of the present disclosure may include a wetness indicator that indicates when the absorbent article is insulted with liquid. The one or more barrier film layers of the package of the present disclosure slow absorption by the absorbent article therein, allowing these wetness indicators to be inactivated for a much longer period of time on the shelf compared to the absence of the one or more barrier film layers.

[0025] The inventors have surprisingly found that some absorbent articles are more susceptible to water or water vapor absorption than others. One example is absorbent articles that include moisture-sensitive or wetness indicators, such as diapers and / or training pants. These wetness indicators can be activated in the package before use, depending on the environmental conditions in which the package of the absorbent article is placed. Furthermore, absorbent articles with a high amount of SAP, typically absorbent gelling materials, can also present wet environment problems. For example, the SAP of these absorbent articles may change color after absorbing a certain amount of moisture in the form of water vapor from the environment. Unfortunately, this color change can cause concern among the wearer or caregiver.

[0026] Furthermore, the inventors surprisingly discovered that while SAP is effective at absorbing moisture from its environment in the form of water vapor, this water vapor absorption does not continue until the SAP's capacity is exhausted. Instead, the SAP absorbs water vapor for a period of time, for example, under stress conditions (described below), and approaches a steady state. The amount of water vapor absorbed by the SAP at steady state is much lower than the SAP's overall capacity. Thus, the SAP within the absorbent article still has the capacity to absorb a liquid bulk phase during use. As an example, the steady state may be less than about 10 percent of the absorbent article's total capacity. However, even at less than 10 percent, enough water vapor may activate a wetness indicator and / or cause a color change in the SAP before wear.

[0027] Numerous factors can affect the absorption of moisture by SAP in absorbent articles. By way of example, and without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors have found that cellulose in absorbent articles is not as susceptible to the absorption of moisture vapor as SAP. It has been theoretically demonstrated that cellulose materials in absorbent articles do not absorb as much moisture vapor from the environment as SAP. Thus, it has been theoretically demonstrated that absorbent articles having a high weight ratio of cellulose to SAP may not absorb as much moisture vapor from the environment as those absorbent articles having a lower weight ratio of cellulose to SAP. Similarly, it has been theoretically demonstrated that absorbent articles having a high weight or number of grams of SAP per absorbent article may also absorb more moisture vapor than absorbent articles having a very low weight or number of grams of SAP.

[0028] For example, menstrual pads typically have much less SAP per article than diapers or training pants. Similarly, menstrual pads typically have much less SAP per article than adult incontinence pads and / or pants. It has been theorized that absorbent articles containing SAP in amounts greater than 5 grams per article, greater than 8 grams per article, or greater than 10 grams per article could potentially benefit from the packaging of the present disclosure.

[0029] Furthermore, it has been theorized that the amount of breathability of an absorbent article's backsheet can similarly contribute to or influence the amount of water vapor absorbed by the SAP while it is in the absorbent article package. As an example, a non-breathable film can provide a high barrier to moisture absorption by the SAP while the SAP-containing article is in the package. However, in diapers, pants, and adult incontinence pants that have a breathable film as a backsheet component, such a breathable film is theorized to allow moisture to cross or diffuse across the space between adjacent absorbent articles in the package. Therefore, it is believed that the absorbent article packaging material of the present disclosure is particularly needed for absorbent articles that include a breathable film as a backsheet component.

[0030] Another feature of an absorbent article that can affect the amount of water vapor absorbed by SAP is the packaging. While plastic films can create a significant moisture barrier and prevent water vapor absorption by SAP, plastic films are generally seen as contaminants in recycling processes that involve natural fibers, such as wood pulp and / or cellulose materials. However, the inventors have surprisingly discovered packaging materials that include a natural fiber layer and one or more barrier film layers and are still recyclable. The one or more barrier film layers may be disposed on the inner or outer surface of the natural fiber layer. The one or more barrier film layers may include plastic or a polymeric material. In one example, the one or more barrier film layers may include a polymer, a polyolefin, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or a combination thereof. As another example, the first barrier film layer may include low-density polyethylene, and the second barrier film layer may include high-density polyethylene. In another example, both the first barrier film layer and the second barrier film layer may include low-density polyethylene, or both may include high-density polyethylene. For clarity, one or more barrier film layers are unlikely to be recyclable in the same recycling processes as natural fibers, but may be recyclable via other recycling means, e.g., plastic film, plastic bag recycling.

[0031] Regarding the recyclability of packaging materials and / or packages, there is no uniform standard for determining the recyclability of a material. Generally, the higher the yield percentage of natural materials, the more likely the material can be recycled in the paper recycling stream. To accommodate a higher yield percentage of natural materials, such as wood pulp and / or cellulose, the weight percentage of film compared to natural fibers should be substantially less. As an example, the one or more barrier film layers can comprise about 40 weight percent or less, about 30 weight percent or less, about 20 weight percent or less, about 10 weight percent or less, about 5 weight percent or less, or about 5 to about 20 weight percent of the overall packaging material. As another example, the one or more barrier film layers can comprise about 3 weight percent to about 40 weight percent, about 3 weight percent to about 30 weight percent, or about 3 weight percent to about 20 weight percent. In one particular example, the one or more barrier film layers may comprise about 5 weight percent or less, about 4 weight percent or less, or about 3 weight percent or less of the overall packaging material weight. In other specific examples, the film may comprise between about 1 weight percent and about 5 weight percent, between about 1 weight percent and about 4 weight percent, or between about 1 weight percent and about 3 weight percent.

[0032] The basis weight of the packaging material can be from about 50 gsm to about 220 gsm, from about 50 gsm to about 120 gsm, from about 60 gsm to about 100 gsm, from about 70 gsm to about 90 gsm, about 75 gsm, about 80 gsm, or about 85 gsm. Basis weight can be determined by ISO 536, as modified herein.

[0033] The basis weight of the one or more barrier film layers should be at least about 2 gsm and less than about 25 gsm. Below this basis weight, it is theorized that the film may not cover a sufficient portion of the bag to provide suitable barrier properties. However, except as noted above, the one or more barrier film layers may be of any suitable basis weight, so long as the basis weight of the one or more barrier film layers is within the weight percentages described herein.

[0034] It is worth noting that one or more barrier film layers laminated, coated, or otherwise bonded to a natural fiber layer form a synergistic relationship, particularly when the one or more barrier film layers constitute a smaller weight percentage of the overall packaging material. For example, if the one or more barrier film layers constitute 5 weight percent or less of the overall packaging material, this may be a very low basis weight barrier film for the basis weights of the packaging materials described above. At this very low basis weight, it is believed that one or more barrier film layers cannot be reliably processed without being coated, laminated, or otherwise bonded to the natural fiber layer. Similarly, without the addition of one or more barrier film layers, the natural fiber layer, if present, may not provide much inhibition of water vapor absorption by SAP within the absorbent article in the package.

[0035] Regarding how one or more barrier film layers can be bonded to a natural fiber layer, exemplary methods are described below. The one or more barrier film layers can be a water-insoluble polymer. The polymer can be obtained from a manufacturer as a pre-made dispersion / emulsion of the polymer, or if a pre-made dispersion / emulsion is not available, a dispersion / emulsion can be formed. An aqueous polymer system can then be coated onto the natural fiber layer, and the water (or other solvent, e.g., alcohol) can then be removed by a convection or diffusion drying process. Sufficient heat can then be applied to form a continuous polymer layer.

[0036] Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the most important material properties of an aqueous polymer system are a) the ability of the polymer to be made into an emulsion in water, b) the resulting viscosity of the aqueous polymer system at that temperature (the higher the viscosity, the better for maximum differentiation / separation between layers), and c) the degree of wetting of the aqueous polymer system on the substrate to be coated (the higher the degree of wetting, the better).

[0037] Another example involves thermal extrusion coating, which is used to apply a non-aqueous composition. In this method, the polymer composition can be melted in an extruder. The molten polymer composition is thermally extruded onto the surface of the natural fiber layer and subsequently cooled to form the packaging material.

[0038] In yet another example, one or more barrier film layers can be applied to the natural fiber layer via adhesive lamination. When doing so, care should be taken regarding the type of adhesive and the amount of adhesive used, as this can affect the overall recyclability of the packaging material. When using such an arrangement, the adhesive layer can be applied directly to the natural fiber layer, and then a pre-fabricated barrier film layer is applied to the adhesive layer. The polymer composition can be applied to the pre-fabricated barrier film layer by various methods, including solution casing, thermal cast film extrusion, and thermal blown film extrusion. In yet another example, thermal lamination can be used to adhere the polymer barrier film layer to the natural fiber layer.

[0039] Regarding suitable polymer compositions that can be utilized for one or more barrier film layers, there are many that can be biodegradable or non-biodegradable. Some examples of biodegradable options include aliphatic-aromatic polyesters (e.g., ECOFLEX® from BASF), thermoplastic starch (e.g., MATER-BI from Novamont or PLANTIC® from Plantic / Kuraray), polybutylene succinate and copolymers thereof (e.g., BIONOLLE® from Showa Polymer Co., Ltd. or PBSA from Mitsubishi Chemical), and copolymers thereof, polycaprolactone, and mixtures thereof. Other suitable polymers include polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and PHA copolymers, such as poly(beta-hydroxyalkanoates), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (NODAX™ from Danimer, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) from Kaneka). Non-limiting examples of PHA copolymers include those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,498,692. Other PHA copolymers can be synthesized by methods known to those skilled in the art, for example, from microorganisms by ring-opening polymerization of beta-lactone, by dehydration polycondensation of hydroxyalkanoic acids, and by dealcoholization polycondensation of alkyl ethers of hydroxyalkanoic acids, as described in Volova, "Polyhydroxy Alkanoates Plastic Materials of the 21st Century: Production, Properties, and Application," Nova Science Publishers, Inc. (2004), incorporated herein by reference. Another example is polylactic acid (PLA). Additional examples of non-biodegradable options include polyolefin materials, such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).Examples of polyethylene can include high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, and medium-density polyethylene, including all homopolymers and copolymers of these materials. Other examples of non-biodegradable options include various Surlyn® polymers, copolymers of styrene butadiene, e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene, acrylic copolymers, acrylate copolymers (including methyl methacrylate), and acetate copolymers, including EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate). The polymers can optionally include filler additives, such as clay (e.g., kaolin), and other inorganic additives, such as CaCO3 or TiO2.

[0040] Ideally, the packaging material of the present disclosure provides unlimited protection against water vapor absorption by SAP in absorbent articles therein. However, as previously mentioned, the addition of one or more barrier film layers to natural fibers can adversely affect the recyclability of the natural fibers. Therefore, the one or more barrier film layers, and therefore the packaging material, must be carefully selected.

[0041] The barrier properties of the packaging materials of the present disclosure can be measured by the moisture barrier rapid test described herein, also known as the "HuBa test," which can provide useful information regarding the moisture transmission of the packaging material.

[0042] To reduce the likelihood of premature activation of the wetness indicator, hardening of the absorbent core, and SAP with partial absorption of moisture, the inventors have surprisingly found that the packaging material should have a HubA value of greater than about 5 hours, greater than about 5.1 hours, greater than about 5.2 hours, greater than about 5.3 hours, from about 5 hours to about 20 hours, from about 5.1 hours to about 15 hours, from about 5.2 hours to about 15 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 20 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 15 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 14 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 13 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 12 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 11 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 10 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 9 hours, from about 5.3 hours to about 8.8 hours, about 5.3 hours, about 8.8 hours, or about 6 hours. The above HuBa value is equal to the shelf life in months from when the package is sealed to when the product inside the package is used. The shelf life (using absorbent articles with deactivated wetness indicators) can range from about 5 months to about 18 months, from about 6 months to about 16 months, from about 6 months to about 15 months, about 6 months, about 11 months, or about 15 months.

[0043] Data for packaging material samples 1-4 are provided in Table 1 below.

[0044] [Table 1]

[0045] Comparative Example: Sample 1 is an 80 gsm premium smooth white paper with a single barrier film layer on one side. Low density polyethylene is in contact with natural fibers.

[0046] Example of the present disclosure: Sample 2 is an 80 gsm premium smooth white paper with two barrier film layers on one side: high density polyethylene in contact with natural fibers; and low density polyethylene in contact with high density polyethylene.

[0047] Example of the present disclosure: Sample 3 is an 80 gsm premium smooth white paper with two barrier film layers on one side: high density polyethylene in contact with natural fibers; and low density polyethylene in contact with high density polyethylene.

[0048] Example of the present disclosure: Sample 4 is an 80 gsm premium smooth white paper with a single barrier film layer on one side. Low density polyethylene is in contact with natural fibers.

[0049] Of the above tested samples 1-4, the inventors found that only samples 2-4 met the prerequisites described herein. That is, samples 2-4 provide an adequate barrier to atmospheric moisture as described herein, and have a high recyclability percentage and high seam or seal strength. The mechanical properties of the packaging materials of the present disclosure are described below.

[0050] Instead of having a 100% coating of LDPE over the entire interior surface of the packaging material, only certain areas may have LDPE. While HDPE has more desirable barrier properties than LDPE, LDPE has more desirable sealing and / or seaming properties. Therefore, it may be desirable to include HDPE at a higher basis weight over all or most of the interior surface of the packaging material, providing LDPE only in the seam and / or sealing areas where the LDPE has the most functionality. As an example, instead of having the coating of Example 2 of the present disclosure, the interior surface of the packaging material may be coated with 10 g of HDPE over 100% of the interior surface area and 6 g of LDPE over about 5% to about 35%, about 5% to about 25%, about 10% to about 20%, or about 15% of the interior surface area of ​​the packaging material. The LDPE may be placed in the seam area or where the seaming or sealing will occur. In other words, the LDPE does not have to overlap all of the HDPE. For example, LDPE may be disposed in or only in the areas of the vertical left side seam 40, the vertical right side seam 42, the first left side angled seam 44, the second left side angled seam 46, the first right side angled seam 48, and the second right side angled seam 50, as well as other seam or sealing areas. See, for example, Figures 2A-2F. This allows the package to have improved barrier properties while still meeting recyclability guidelines, along with adequate seaming and / or sealing properties. Instead of LDPE in the sealing and / or seaming areas, other bonding agents with desirable heat sealability and sufficient seal and / or seam strength may be used. An example of a bonding agent is a heat-sealable adhesive. The bonding agent may be applied using flexographic printing, dispersion coating, inkjet printing, or any other specific application technique.

[0051] Instead of using HDPE and LDPE as barrier and / or sealing materials, natural fibers can be coated with clay, hectorite, and / or PET, which are not sealable but provide a suitable barrier. Another option is to bond metallized paper or other inorganic barrier materials to the natural fibers, which also provide a suitable barrier. It is also contemplated that aluminum oxide barriers can be bonded to the natural fibers. Aluminum oxide barriers are transparent, which can be desirable and / or unobtrusive to consumers. With all of these options, a bond enhancer can be applied to the seal and / or seam areas on the inner surface of the packaging material to allow the seal or seam to form when the package is made, even if the initial barrier material is not sealable. Generally, clay, hectorite, PET, metallized paper, inorganic barrier, and / or aluminum oxide, including bond enhancers in seal or seam areas, can be less than about 15%, less than about 10%, less than about 5%, between about 2% and about 10%, or between about 3% and about 8% by weight of the laminate of these materials and natural fibers to meet recycling requirements.

[0052] Regarding the deactivated wetness indicators of the package of one or more absorbent articles of the present disclosure, it is worth considering various types of wetness indicators. First, the wetness indicator appears as a first color in its dry state and can change to a second color as the wetness indicator becomes wet. As more liquid is introduced into the absorbent core of the absorbent article, more of the wetness indicator changes from the first color to the second color. When the absorbent article is completely filled, the wetness indicator typically only shows the second color.

[0053] A second type of wetness indicator may involve a graphic that appears only after wetness is received by the wetness indicator. For example, in its dry state, the wetness indicator may be visible or distinguishable from the surrounding color of the absorbent article. In such a wetness indicator, as with the first type, when liquid is received by the wetness indicator, a color change may occur that is visible through either the wearer-facing surface and / or the garment-facing surface of the article. Depending on the amount of liquid received by the wetness indicator, only a small portion may be activated to produce a color change. Alternatively, if a large amount of liquid is received, a larger portion or all of the wetness indicator may be activated to produce a visible color change.

[0054] A third type of wetness indicator may involve a disappearing graphic. As an example, a graphic of a full carton feature may appear when the article is dry. As the article begins to absorb liquid, the carton feature begins to disappear. When the article is full, the cartoon character may not appear, or may not appear for the most part.

[0055] Based on the foregoing discussion of wetness indicators, a deactivated wetness indicator is one in which the wetness indicator is substantially available to receive and indicate the level of liquid within the article. For example, in the case of a wetness indicator color change or appearance, a substantially deactivated wetness indicator is one in which 70 percent or more, 85 percent or more, or 95 percent or more of the area of ​​the wetness indicator (i) remains the original (dry) color or (ii) is not present. As another example, in the case of a missing graphic, a substantially deactivated wetness indicator is one in which the missing graphic is present in about 70 percent or more, 85 percent or more, or 95 percent or more.

[0056] It should be noted that when the desired recyclability percentage of the packaging material of the present disclosure is between 60 and 70 percent, a much more restrictive barrier to moisture can be accommodated. For such a structure, the one or more barrier film layers may comprise between about 30 and 40 percent by weight, but are theoretically capable of exhibiting a HubA of between about 22 and 32 hours. When the desired recyclability percentage of the packaging material of the present disclosure is between 70 and 80 percent, the weight percentage of the one or more barrier film layers may be between 20 and 30 percent by weight. At such levels, the packaging material of the present disclosure is believed to be capable of exhibiting a HubA of between about 15 and 22 hours. When the desired recyclability percentage of the packaging material of the present disclosure is between 80 and 90 percent, the one or more barrier film layers may comprise between 10 and 20 percent by weight. At such levels, the packaging material of the present disclosure is believed to be capable of exhibiting a HubA of between about 8 and 15 hours. Where the desired recyclability percentage of the packaging material of the present disclosure is desired to be greater than 90 percent, one or more barrier film layers may comprise 10 weight percent or less, and at such levels, it is believed that the packaging material of the present disclosure may exhibit a HubA of about 5 hours to about 8 hours.

[0057] The inventors have also surprisingly found that the moisture absorption rate can be further reduced by additional packaging. As an example, the packaging material of the present disclosure can be utilized as a primary package. The primary package is the package that contains the absorbent article. The primary package is typically placed on a shelf and sold to consumers.

[0058] Secondary packages can be used to ship primary packages to retailers. Secondary packages typically contain multiple primary packages within them. These secondary packages can also be provided with one or more barrier film layers, either internally and / or externally, to reduce the rate at which moisture is absorbed by the absorbent articles within the primary package. The one or more barrier film layers within the secondary package can reduce the rate at which moisture is absorbed by the absorbent articles within the primary package. In addition to or independent of the one or more barrier film layers within the secondary package, multiple secondary packages can be shipped together on a pallet. These multiple secondary packages can also include a film wrap that helps stabilize the multiple secondary packages. However, in addition to stabilizing the multiple secondary packages, the film wrap can further reduce the rate of moisture vapor absorption within the primary package. These film wraps for pallet stabilization are generally polyolefin-based.

[0059] The multiple secondary packages can remain wrapped in the outer film wrap until needed for opening by the product distributor. Similarly, the secondary packages can be sealed until the primary package therein is needed. Each secondary package can include packaging information providing instructions on how and / or when to open it. Such information can help reduce the overall amount of moisture absorbed by the SAP in the absorbent article, since the secondary packages are not opened until needed.

[0060] If the packaging of the present disclosure has a sufficient barrier against moisture absorption, the wetness indicator and the SAP within the absorbent article will have a longer shelf life. For example, under stress conditions, i.e., at 40°C and 75 percent relative humidity, the absorbent article within the packaging of the present disclosure is believed to absorb less than 4.5 grams of moisture per article for a sufficient period of time. Furthermore, the absorbent article within the packaging of the present disclosure is believed to absorb less than 7 grams, or even less than 5 grams, of moisture per article for an even longer period of time.

[0061] As mentioned above, one or more barrier film layers in the packaging materials of the present disclosure are considered contaminants in the recycling process of natural materials, such as wood pulp and / or cellulose. Unfortunately, in addition to the one or more barrier film layers, other materials that may be used in the construction of the packages of the present disclosure may also be considered contaminants. For example, the packages of the present disclosure include seals or seams. These seals ensure that the absorbent articles within the package are unlikely to be contaminated by the environment outside the package. Furthermore, colorants and / or coatings can be used to provide branding, background color, and / or packaging information on the package. The use of adhesives, coatings, and / or colorants is discussed in more detail below.

[0062] Here, the inventors focus on the recyclability of the packaging of the present disclosure. The recycling process can determine the percentage of recyclable material and the amount of reject material, i.e., the amount of material that is not recyclable. Some specific examples that may be useful for determining whether packaging materials and / or packaging are recyclable, the percentage of recyclable material, and the percentage of non-recyclable material include the PTS method and the Western Michigan method, each of which is described in more detail below. These methods relate to the recyclability of materials that include wood fibers and / or pulp fibers. These methods are described in more detail below.

[0063] The packaging material of the present disclosure may include natural fibers forming paper. The packaging material may include at least 50 weight percent natural fibers, at least 70 weight percent natural fibers, or at least 90 weight percent natural fibers. As yet another example, the packaging material may include 95 weight percent natural fibers. The packaging material of the present disclosure may include 50 weight percent to 100 weight percent natural fibers, 70 weight percent to 99.9 weight percent, or 90 weight percent to 99.9 weight percent natural fibers. It should be noted that if the weight percentage of natural fibers is less than 100 percent, there is room for coatings, colorants, barrier film layers, and / or adhesives, as desired.

[0064] To increase the likelihood that the packaging material and / or package is recyclable, the total weight percentage of non-recyclable materials, such as adhesives, barrier film layers, coatings, and / or colorants, in the packaging material of the present disclosure can be carefully selected. For example, the packaging material and / or package of the present disclosure may contain 50 weight percent or less, 30 weight percent or less, or about 10 weight percent or less of non-recyclable materials. As another example, the packaging material and / or package of the present disclosure may contain from about 0.1 weight percent to about 50 weight percent, from about 0.1 weight percent to about 30 weight percent, or from about 0.1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent of non-recyclable materials. If increased recyclability is desired, the weight percentage of non-recyclable materials may be 5 weight percent or less, or from 0.1 weight percent to 5 weight percent.

[0065] The effectiveness of a recycling process for packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can be determined by the recyclability percentage. The packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can exhibit a recyclability percentage of 60 percent or more, 80 percent or more, or 90 percent or more. The packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can have a recyclability percentage of about 60 percent to about 99.9 percent, about 80 percent to about 99.9 percent, or about 90 percent to about 99.9 percent. In one specific example, the packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can exhibit a recyclability percentage of about 80 percent to about 90 percent, about 90 percent to about 99.9 percent, about 94 percent to about 99.9 percent, or about 96 percent to about 99.9 percent. The percentage recyclability of the packaging material or packaging of the present disclosure can be determined by Category II test PTS-RH:021 / 97 (draft October 2019), performed by Papiertechnische Stiftung, located at Pirnaer Strasse 37, 01809 Heidenau, Germany.

[0066] Along with the recyclability percentage, the total rejection percentage can be determined by Category II test method PTS-RH:021 / 97 (draft October 2019). However, unlike the recyclability percentage, the total rejection percentage can be reduced to increase the potential for recyclability. For example, the total rejection percentage of the packaging material and / or packaging of the present disclosure can be 40 percent or less, about 20 percent or less, or less than about 10 percent. For example, the total rejection rate of the packaging material and / or packaging of the present disclosure can be between about 0.1 percent and about 40 percent, between about 0.1 percent and about 20 percent, between about 5 percent and about 20 percent, or between about 0.1 percent and about 10 percent. In one specific example, the total rejection percentage can be less than about 6 percent, between about 5 percent and about 20 percent, between about 0.1 percent and about 6 percent, between about 0.1 percent and about 4 percent, or between about 0.1 percent and about 3 percent.

[0067] To be clear, the percent of non-recyclable material does not necessarily have a 1:1 correlation with the total rejection percentage. For example, the use of dissolvable adhesives is disclosed herein. Because these adhesives are designed to dissolve during the recycling process, it is theorized that these adhesives will not affect the total rejection percentage; however, they will contribute to the non-recyclable material weight percentage.

[0068] It is noteworthy that the Category II test method, PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft October 2019), includes a handsheet inspection component. Trained screeners inspect one or more handsheets of recycled packaging material and / or packages for visual defects and tackiness. If the number of visual defects is too great or the handsheet is too tacky, the packaging material and / or package is rejected. If the number of visual defects is acceptable and the handsheet is too tacky, the packaging material and / or package is then approved for further processing, in accordance with the PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft October 2019) method. The packaging material and / or package of the present disclosure can produce acceptable levels of visual defects and tackiness during this step of the PTS method.

[0069] The packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can provide the recyclability percentages referenced above and pass the handsheet screening method. Thus, the packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can achieve an overall or final score of "pass" when subjected to the Category II recycling test method of PTS-RH:021 / 97 (Draft October 2019).

[0070] It should also be noted that there are alternative methods for determining the recyclability percentage of the packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure. A test method conducted by the University of Western Michigan, called the Repulping Test, can provide a percentage yield of recyclable material. The packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can achieve a percentage yield of greater than about 60 percent, greater than about 80 percent, or greater than about 90 percent according to the Repulping Test. The packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can have a percentage yield of about 60 percent to about 99.9 percent, about 80 percent to about 99.9 percent, or about 90 percent to about 99.9 percent. In one particular example, the packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can exhibit a percentage yield of recyclable material of 80 percent to 99.9 percent. In such an example, the packaging materials and / or packages can include a brown base color. In another particular example, the packaging materials and / or packages of the present disclosure can exhibit a percentage yield of recyclable material of 85 percent to 99.9 percent. In such an example, the packaging material may include a base color of white, which is discussed in more detail herein.

[0071] It is contemplated that the packaging materials and / or packaging of the present disclosure, while recyclable, may themselves contain recycled materials. Such a determination can be confirmed by visually inspecting the packaging materials. For example, manufacturers typically advertise their use of recycled materials as part of an effort to demonstrate an environmentally friendly packaging approach. To further illustrate this example, some manufacturers may utilize a logo, e.g., a leaf, along with words indicating packaging containing recycled materials. Often, manufacturers may also specify the percentage of recycled material utilized, e.g., greater than 50 percent, greater than 70 percent, etc. The packaging materials and / or packaging may include PIR and / or PCR.

[0072] Visual inspection can be as simple as using the human eye to inspect the packaging for a logo indicating that the material is recycled. Additionally or alternatively, visual inspection can include microscopy, such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, or other suitable methods known in the art. For example, packaging materials and / or packages containing recycled paper fibers will appear different under a microscope due to the presence of a much wider range of natural fiber types than if the packaging material and / or package were composed of 100% unrecycled paper. As another example, under a microscope, potentially a scanning electron microscope, recycled fibers may appear more fibrillated than their virgin fiber counterparts due to their processing.

[0073] The packaging materials of the present disclosure can be arranged as a package in countless configurations containing one or more absorbent articles. For example, the package can include multiple panels, including a consumer-facing panel. The consumer-facing panel is the side of the package that faces the consumer when on a shelf. Generally, the consumer-facing panel includes branding and / or packaging information, each of which is described in further detail herein. Each of the multiple panels includes an inner surface and an outer surface.

[0074] Coatings and Colorants Each of the plurality of panels includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer and / or inner surfaces of one or more panels may include a colorant and / or coating to create branding, such as a package, package information, and / or background color. The branding and / or package information may be provided on the outer and / or inner surfaces of at least one panel, for example, the panel facing the consumer. The branding may include a logo, product name, trademark, icon, etc., associated with the absorbent article within the package. The branding may be used to inform consumers of the brand of the absorbent article within the package. As an example, the branding on a diaper package may include the trademark Pampers®.

[0075] The packaging information may include information associated with the absorbent articles in the package, such as the size of the absorbent articles, the number of absorbent articles in the package, exemplary images of the absorbent articles contained in the package, recyclability logos, etc. Additionally, the packaging information may include information about the packaging material itself, such as recyclability logos, certifications from various organizations, etc. As an example, the packaging information for a package of feminine hygiene pads may include a size indicator, e.g., "Size 1." Other panels of the package, along with those associated with the consumer-facing panel, may similarly include branding, packaging information, and / or background color.

[0076] Additionally, one or more panels of the package of the present disclosure may include a colorant and / or coating to provide a background color to the package of the present disclosure. To further clarify background color, it should be noted that the packaging material includes a base color. The base color of the packaging material is the color of the packaging material without colorants and / or coatings. For example, bleached packaging material is white in color, unbleached is brown in color, and packaging material containing recycled content is gray in color. The background color is any color that is not a base color, such as blue, red, green, yellow, purple, orange, black, or a combination thereof. However, when the background color is obtained by a colorant and / or coating, the background color may also include white, brown, or gray.

[0077] As previously mentioned, the use of colorants and / or coatings may be considered contaminants in the recyclable stream, and therefore, the use of colorants and / or coatings should be carefully reviewed.

[0078] The base color of the packaging material may be utilized to reduce the use of colorants / coatings for the benefit of the recycling process. For example, a package is contemplated in which the consumer-facing panel includes branding, packaging information, and / or a background color, and one or more panels include the base color. In one particular example, the bottom panel and / or the back panel may utilize the base color of the packaging material instead of the background color. One or more of the bottom panel, top panel, left panel, right panel, back panel, or any combination thereof may utilize the base color of the packaging material instead of the background color. In another example, the consumer-facing panel may include the base color, either independently or in combination with other panels. To further build on this example, the package may include an absorbent article that includes natural-based components, such as a cotton topsheet and / or non-chlorine bleached pulp in the absorbent core. In such an example, the consumer-facing panel may include a white base color. In this same example, in addition to the base color, the consumer-facing panel may further include branding, a background color (associated with the branding), and / or packaging information. In yet another example, one or more panels may include packaging information that includes, in part, a base color. To further build on this example, the base color may be a first color, e.g., white, and the background color may be applied to the panels in a negative image of the packaging information, such that the packaging information, or portions thereof, are not covered by the background color and the packaging information includes the first color.

[0079] In yet another example, a seam in a package of the present disclosure may include less colorant 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 seal may include a seam region. The seam region may include less colorant than the portion of the panel adjacent to it, or even no colorant. Each seal may include a seam region that includes less colorant than the area adjacent to the seal, or even no colorant.

[0080] In yet another example, a first panel may have a different colorant coverage percentage than a second panel. Further elucidating this example, a consumer-facing panel may have a higher colorant coverage percentage than another panel of the package, such as the bottom panel. As noted above, absorbent articles that are natural-based, e.g., have a cotton topsheet or other components, a non-chlorine bleached core, no added colorants, and / or no added fragrances, may rely more on the base color of the packaging material. By way of example, such a package may include a consumer-facing panel that includes a colorant coverage of 75 percent or less, 50 percent or less, or 40 percent or less. Furthermore, the consumer-facing panel may include a colorant coverage of about 10 percent to about 75 percent, about 15 percent to about 50 percent, or about 20 percent to about 40 percent.

[0081] In such packages, other panels may be configured to have a higher percentage of colorant coverage, a lower percentage, or a combination thereof. For example, in such a configuration, the bottom panel may include a lower percentage of colorant coverage. The back panel, left panel, and / or right panel may include a higher or lower percentage of colorant coverage. These same values ​​may also apply to the flow wrap package configurations described herein.

[0082] Natural-based products as described are not necessarily limited to the aforementioned colorant coverages. However, lower colorant percentages may result in lower colorant weight percentages, which may be beneficial from a recyclability perspective. In another example, absorbent article packaging according to the present disclosure may include a consumer-facing panel with a colorant coverage of 100 percent, 99 percent or less, or 98 percent or less. For example, a package according to the present disclosure may include a consumer-facing panel with a colorant coverage of 40 percent to about 100 percent, about 60 percent to about 100 percent, about 60 percent to about 99 percent, or about 60 percent to about 98 percent. In such configurations, other panels may include the same percentage of colorant coverage, or may include lower percentages. Colorant coverage is determined by the percentage colorant coverage measurement method described herein.

[0083] Careful paper selection may not be required to achieve the desired recyclability percentage. For example, the inventors surprisingly found that colorants and / or coatings may play a very small role in the overall weight percentage of the packaging material, although the colorants and / or coatings form a portion of the overall percentage. Therefore, if the desired recyclability percentage is 95 percent or greater, it may be recommended to utilize packaging materials with a white base color. When packaging materials with a white base color are utilized, absorbent article manufacturers may be able to utilize the base color in the overall packaging color scheme, thereby reducing the amount of colorants and / or coatings. Such packaging implementations may be useful for absorbent articles containing cotton and / or other natural ingredients. If the desired recyclability percentage is less than 95 percent, any suitable base color may be utilized.

[0084] While any suitable colorant can be utilized, the inventors have surprisingly found that water-based colorants typically dissolve more easily in water during the recycling process. Thus, water-based colorants can facilitate the recycling process of the packaging of the present disclosure. Any suitable water-based colorant can be utilized. Water-based colorants are well known in the art.

[0085] It should be noted that solvent-based colorants and / or energy-curable colorants can also be used. However, the use of these types of colorants can add complexity to the production of packaging materials. For example, solvent-based colorants generally emit volatile organic compounds that need to be removed from the air. In addition, solvent-based colorants can contain components that are not easily dissolved in water during the recycling process, which can adversely affect the recyclability of the packaging material and / or package.

[0086] Energy curable colorants can also be utilized, but like solvent-based colorants, energy curable colorants can add complexity to the processing of packaging materials and, like solvent-based colorants, energy curable colorants can contain components that are not readily soluble in water during the recycling process, which can adversely affect the recyclability of the packaging material and / or packaging.

[0087] Any suitable coating on the outer surface of the packaging material (i.e., opposite the one or more barrier film layers on the inner surface) can be utilized. The coating can be utilized to protect background color, branding, and / or package information. Additionally, coatings can be utilized to provide antistatic benefits, coefficient of friction benefits (e.g., gloss, matte, satin, high gloss, etc.). The inventors have surprisingly found that, like water-based colorants, water-based coatings can facilitate the recycling process of the packaging material and / or package. Suitable coatings include varnishes known in the art. Any suitable coating / varnish can be utilized.

[0088] Package sealing part As mentioned above, the package of the present disclosure may also include multiple seals. A seal is a seam of packaging material attached to each other. A seam is an area of ​​the package where at least two portions of packaging material can overlap each other. A seal is formed when at least two portions of packaging material within a seam are joined to each other. For example, a consumer-facing panel is joined to a rear panel via a seal. One or more polymers or polyolefins, such as polyethylene, or adhesives may be provided on the inner surface of the first portion of the consumer-facing panel and the inner surface of the rear panel to create one or more seals. The polymer or polyolefin may be at least partially melted in the area desired for the seal to form the seal. While a seal may be provided on any panel of the package, it is recommended that the consumer-facing panel not include a seam or seal. Seams and seals may be visually unattractive to consumers.

[0089] It should be noted that the seam may include an overlapping region of the aforementioned packaging material. That is, one or more polymers, polyolefins, or adhesives may be applied to the inner surface of a first portion of packaging material and / or the outer surface of a second portion of packaging material. The first and second portions may then be joined together to create an overlap seal. However, a butt seal may also be formed. A butt seal may be created when one or more polymers, polyolefins, or adhesives are applied to the inner surface of a first portion of packaging material and / or the inner surface of a second portion of packaging material. The inner surfaces of the first and second portions may be joined to form a butt seal. Butt seals and overlap seals are discussed in more detail below. When one or more barrier film layers is polyethylene, the seal may be created by heat sealing the film layer to itself, with or without the use of an adhesive.

[0090] The seal is important for ensuring that the package of the present disclosure is unlikely to expose one or more absorbent articles therein to the environment outside the packaging material. The use of the seal described herein can provide a proper seal of the packaging material so that the absorbent articles in the package are not exposed to the external environment. A simple fold or roll of the packaging material does not form a seal and is generally not sufficient to protect one or more absorbent articles therein from the external environment.

[0091] The seal should have the necessary strength to withstand the rigors of shipping, storage, and handling by consumers. Several variables complicate the required seal strength requirements: the type of seal and the level of compression of one or more absorbent articles within the package. An additional complication is that one or more polyolefins or adhesives are considered non-recyclable materials. However, the inventors have surprisingly discovered that by carefully selecting the type and weight percentage of polymer, polyolefin, or adhesive, it is possible to meet the seal strength requirements while maintaining the recyclability of the packaging material.

[0092] In terms of types of closures, the closures of the packages of the present disclosure can include an access closure, a gusset closure, a hoop closure, and a bottom closure. Flow wrap packages can be configured to include these closures as well. Alternatively, flow wrap packages can include a pair of opposing edge closures and a hoop closure between the edge closures. In this configuration, an access closure can be provided as well.

[0093] An access closure may be provided as a closure that is opened by a consumer to access one or more absorbent articles within the package. Access closures are described in further detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0110801, entitled "Absorbent Article Packages with Natural Fibers and Opening Features," filed April 14, 2022.

[0094] The packages of the present disclosure can be configured so that the seals have similar tensile strengths. For example, each of the seals can have a tensile strength of at least 5.1 N / 15 mm. In such a configuration, each seal can have a tensile strength within 15% of the tensile strength of the rest of the seals in the package. However, as mentioned above, polymers, polyolefins, or adhesives are considered non-recyclable materials, and their use should be carefully reviewed to ensure that the packaging material and / or package maintains its ability to be recycled. The tensile strength of the seals referred to herein can be determined by the tensile test method set forth in ASTM F88-06, as modified herein.

[0095] As previously mentioned, the type and amount of adhesive utilized in the closure of the presently disclosed package, if present, can affect the recyclability of the package. By way of example, polyolefins or adhesives that can be dissolved or dispersed in water during the repulping stage of the disintegration step of the recycling process may be particularly suitable for the presently disclosed package. Such adhesives include starch-based adhesives, polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesives, and polyethylene oxide-based adhesives. One suitable example of a starch-based adhesive is available from LD Davis (Monroe, North Carolina) under the trade name AP0420CR. One suitable example of a polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesive is available from Sekisui Chemical Co. (Osaka, Japan) under the trade name Selvol 205. One suitable example of a polyethylene oxide-based adhesive is available from Dow Chemicals Co. (Midland, Michigan) under the trade name WSR N-80.

[0096] If the adhesive is not water-soluble, a water-dispersible adhesive may also be used. Suitable examples of water-dispersible adhesives include thermoplastic elastomer adhesives and polyvinyl acetate adhesives. One suitable example of a thermoplastic elastomer adhesive is available from Actega (Blue Ash, Ohio) under the trade name Yunior 491. One suitable example of a polyvinyl acetate adhesive is available from Bostik (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) under the trade name Aquagrip 4419U01. Another suitable example of a polyvinyl acetate adhesive is available from HB Fuller under the trade name PD-0330.

[0097] Any suitable pressure-sensitive adhesive may be utilized as well. One suitable example of a pressure-sensitive adhesive is that sold under the trade name FP2154 by Formulated Polymer Products Ltd. (Bury, Lancashire, England). As a specific example, the access seal may include a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0098] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that packages of the present disclosure utilizing water-soluble adhesives may contain a higher weight percentage of such adhesive than adhesives that are only water-dispersible. For example, a package including a water-soluble adhesive may contain a first weight percentage of adhesive, while a package including a water-dispersible adhesive may contain a second weight percentage of adhesive. It is believed that the first weight percentage may be greater than the second weight percentage for purposes of recycling the packaging material and / or the package.

[0099] As mentioned above, the package of the present disclosure may utilize a dissolvable adhesive, a dispersible adhesive, a pressure-sensitive adhesive, or any combination thereof. However, the selection of the adhesive should be carefully considered in terms of weight percentage. When a dissolvable adhesive is utilized, the adhesive may include at least one of a starch-based adhesive, a polyethylene oxide-based adhesive, a polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesive, or a combination thereof.

[0100] It should be noted that the characteristics of the closure of the package of the present disclosure may depend on how the packaging material is processed. For example, an absorbent article manufacturer may purchase a pre-formed package. In such a case, the absorbent article manufacturer may receive an open bag from a paper packaging manufacturer that includes a consumer-facing panel and a back panel with side closures.

[0101] It is also possible for the absorbent article manufacturer to produce the package itself: for example, an absorbent article manufacturer may have the ability to produce an open bag, similar to that described above, subsequently fill it with one or more absorbent articles, and then seal it without having to purchase such a bag from a supplier.

[0102] It should be noted that adhesives may be utilized for additional reasons. For example, if a resealability feature is desired, adhesive may be provided near the access seal area to enable resealability of the package. The ability to reclose the package may help protect the items within the package from contamination from the external environment and may also inhibit moisture from the environment from being absorbed by the items in the package. One suitable example of an adhesive that may be utilized is a pressure-sensitive adhesive. One specific example of a pressure-sensitive adhesive is available from Bostik under the trade name Aquagrip® JB018. Additionally, one or more of the multiple panels of the package may include instructions to the user for resealing the package when the items do not need to be accessed.

[0103] We now focus on some of the mechanical properties of the packaging material. The packaging material may have some level of strength, stretch, and elasticity to withstand the rigors of the manufacturing process in which multiple absorbent articles are disposed within the package, withstand the rigors of shipping, provide protection from environmental aggressions during shipping and on the store shelf, and provide product protection while in the consumer's home. By way of example, the packaging material of the present disclosure may exhibit an MD tensile strength of at least 4.7 kN / m, at least 7 kN / m, or at least 8 kN / m. The MD tensile strength may be between 4.7 kN / m and 9.0 kN / m, or between 5.2 kN / m and 8.2 kN / m, or between 5.5 kN / m and 8.0 kN / m. MD tensile strength is measured using ISO 1924-3, as modified herein.

[0104] As another example, the packaging material of the present disclosure may exhibit a CD tensile strength of at least 2.7 kN / m, at least 4 kN / m, or at least 5.5 kN / m. The CD tensile strength may be 2.7 to 6.5 kN / m, 2.7 to 6.2 kN / m, or 2.7 to 6 kN / m. CD tensile strength is measured using ISO 1924-3, as modified herein.

[0105] As another example, the packaging materials of the present disclosure may exhibit a burst strength of at least 185 kPa, at least 250 kPa, or at least 550 kPa. The burst strength of the packaging materials of the present disclosure may be 185 to 600 kPa, 220 to 550 kPa, or 250 to 500 kPa. Burst strength is measured using ISO 2758, as modified herein.

[0106] As another example, the packaging materials of the present disclosure may exhibit an MD stretch at break of at least 3 percent, or at least 6 percent. The packaging materials of the present disclosure may exhibit an MD stretch at break of 3 to 6.5 percent, 3.2 to 6.2 percent, or 3.5 to 6 percent. MD stretch at break is measured using ISO 1924-3, as modified herein.

[0107] As another example, the packaging material of the present disclosure can exhibit a CD stretch at break of at least 4 percent, at least 6 percent, or at least 9 percent. The packaging material of the present disclosure can exhibit a CD stretch at break of 4 to 10 percent, 4.5 to 9.5 percent, or 5 to 9 percent. CD stretch at break is measured using ISO 1924-3, as modified herein.

[0108] In terms of caliper, the packaging materials of the present disclosure can exhibit a caliper of at least 50 μm, at least 70 μm, or at least 90 μm. The packaging materials of the present disclosure can exhibit a caliper of 50 to 120 μm, 55 to 115 μm, or 60 to 110 μm. Caliper is measured using ISO 534, as modified herein.

[0109] It should be noted that the packaging materials of the present disclosure are different from cartonboard, cardboard, and brown paper bags. For example, cartonboard is not as flexible as the packaging materials of the present disclosure. Cartonboard is designed to be, and is inherently, more rigid than the packaging materials of the present disclosure, and their rigidity can make it more difficult to process on a converting line. Furthermore, cartonboard has a higher basis weight than the packaging materials of the present disclosure.

[0110] Similarly, cardboard is also different from the packaging materials of the present disclosure. Cardboard has a much higher basis weight than the packaging materials of the present disclosure. Furthermore, cardboard is much less flexible than the packaging materials of the present disclosure. Cardboard materials are generally corrugated and include three plies of paper material, and are therefore structurally different from the packaging materials of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the packaging materials of the present disclosure have a much lower basis weight than cardboard.

[0111] Some advantages of the packaging materials of the present disclosure over cartonboard and cardboard include flexibility, as discussed herein. However, another advantage is that the packaging materials of the present disclosure occupy less space than their bulkier cartonboard and cardboard counterparts. Another advantage of the packaging materials of the present disclosure is that they allow absorbent articles therein to be compressed within the package. This allows more products to fit into a smaller volume package, enabling greater efficiency.

[0112] The packaging of the present disclosure is also different from the brown paper bags commonly used in grocery stores for transporting food products. As discussed in further detail herein, the packaging material of the present disclosure is sealed with a polymer, polyolefin, and / or adhesive so that the absorbent article is completely enclosed and protected from the external environment by the packaging material. More specifically, the packaging of absorbent articles according to the present disclosure does not have an opening through which an item can be placed. Instead, the packaging of absorbent articles according to the present disclosure is sealed to reduce the possibility of contamination of the absorbent article during shipping, storage, and placement on store shelves. In contrast, traditional brown paper bags, which were widely used in grocery stores decades ago, include an opening through which an item can be placed. Furthermore, these brown paper bags do not provide any barrier against water vapor absorption.

[0113] Despite reduced flexibility compared to plastic packaging and lower basis weight than cardboard and paperboard, the inventors have surprisingly found that the packaging material of the present disclosure can withstand the rigors of the manufacturing process and the rigors of shipping placed into a package, provide protection from environmental aggressions during shipping and while on the store shelf, and provide product protection while in the consumer's home.

[0114] Further, embodiments are contemplated in which the absorbent article backsheet is in direct contact with the inner surface of the packaging material. Packages of the present disclosure containing diapers may be constructed in this manner. Feminine hygiene pads, including menstrual pads, liners, adult incontinence pads, and the like, may be individually wrapped to protect the panty fastening adhesive on their respective backsheets. In packages containing these articles, the individually wrapped articles may be in direct contact with the inner surface of the packaging material. Configurations are contemplated in which wrappers enclosing individual articles may include the natural fibers described herein. Furthermore, such wrappers may be recyclable as described herein.

[0115] As previously mentioned, absorbent article manufacturers may purchase packaging material already preformed into open bags, or may purchase rolls of packaging material. Whether the packaging material is on a roll or somewhat preformed, the packages of the present disclosure begin with paper stock.

[0116] In one example, FIG. 1A details various layers that a packaging material may include. The packaging material 10 may include natural fibers 12, which may include wood fibers or pulp fibers. The packaging material 10 may have an interior side 14 (facing the absorbent articles (designated AA) within the package) and an exterior side 16 (facing away from the absorbent articles within the package). The packaging material 10 may include a first barrier film layer 18. The first barrier film layer 18 may include, for example, a polymer or polyolefin, such as low-density polyethylene. The low-density polyethylene acts as a sealant and a barrier to atmospheric moisture. The natural fibers 12 may have a basis weight ranging from about 60 gsm to about 100 gsm, from about 70 gsm to about 90 gsm, or about 80 gsm. The first barrier film layer 18 may have a basis weight ranging from about 10 gsm to about 18 gsm, from about 12 gsm to about 16 gsm, or about 14 gsm. The first barrier film layer 18 may be in direct contact with the natural fibers 12 on the inside 14 of the package 10. A portion of the exterior 16 of the packaging material in the top panel may include a heat sealable lacquer 22 in a dedicated area to allow the exterior 16 of the package to seal to the exterior 16 of the package when forming a gusset seal in the top panel. The packaging material 10 may be adhesive-free or may include an adhesive.

[0117] In another example, FIG. 1B details various layers that a packaging material may include. The packaging material 10 may include natural fibers 12, which may include wood fibers or pulp fibers. The packaging material 10 may have an interior side 14 (facing the absorbent articles (designated as AA) within the package) and an exterior side 16 (facing away from the absorbent articles within the package). The packaging material 10 may include a first barrier film layer 18 and a second barrier film layer 20. The packaging material may also include a third barrier film layer, if desired. The first barrier film layer 18 may include a polymer or polyolefin, and the second barrier film layer 20 may include the same polymer or polyolefin or a different polymer or polyolefin. As an example, the polyolefin of the first barrier film layer 18 may include, consist essentially of, or consist of high-density polyethylene, and the second polyolefin of the second barrier film layer 20 may include low-density polyethylene. While not wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors have found that low-density polyethylene acts as a very effective barrier against sealants and atmospheric moisture, while high-density polyethylene acts as an effective barrier against atmospheric moisture. The first barrier film layer 18 may be in direct contact with the natural fibers 12. The second barrier film layer 20 may not be in contact with the natural fibers 12 or may have less contact with the natural fibers 12 than the first barrier film layer 18. If first and second barrier film layers are desired, they may be coextruded onto the natural fibers 12 or applied to the natural fibers by other methods. The natural fibers 12 may have a basis weight ranging from about 60 gsm to about 100 gsm, from about 70 gsm to about 90 gsm, or about 80 gsm. The first barrier film layer 18 may have a basis weight ranging from about 3 gsm to about 15 gsm, from about 4 gsm to about 12 gsm, about 5 gsm, or about 10 gsm. The second barrier film layer 20 can have a basis weight in the range of about 3 gsm to about 10 gsm, about 4 gsm to about 8 gsm, about 5 gsm to about 7 gsm, or about 6 gsm.A portion of the exterior 16 of the packaging material in the top panel may include a heat sealable lacquer 22 to allow the exterior 16 of the package to seal to the exterior 16 of the package when forming a gusset seal in the top panel. The packaging material 10 may be adhesive-free or may include an adhesive.

[0118] The inventors have found that very high HuBa coefficients can be achieved by providing either a high level (e.g., 14 gsm) first barrier film layer 18 (LDPE) without a second barrier film layer 20, or a lower level (e.g., 5 gsm or 10 gsm) first barrier film layer 18 (HDPE) with a second barrier film layer 20 (LDPE) of about 6 gsm. The HuBa value corresponds to the shelf life in months of the package without the absorbent articles therein being penetrated by atmospheric moisture.

[0119] An exemplary flat package of the present disclosure is disclosed prior to the addition of one or more absorbent articles. The package may have the configuration shown in Figures 2A-2F. Figure 2A is a perspective view of a package of the present disclosure in a partially flat configuration, without one or more absorbent articles within the package. Figure 2B is a front view of the package of Figure 2A. Figure 2C is a rear view of the package of Figure 2A. Figure 2D is a right side view of the package of Figure 2A, as well as a left side view. Figure 2E is a top view of the package of Figure 2A. Figure 2F is a bottom view of the package of Figure 2A. Figure 2G is a diagram of the shape of the packaging material used to manufacture the package of Figure 2A.

[0120] 2A-2F, the package 30 may include a consumer-facing panel 32, a back panel 34, left and right side panels (formed only when absorbent articles are in the package), a bottom panel 36, and first and second top panels (formed when absorbent articles are in the package 30 and the package is sealed). Portions of the consumer-facing panel 32 and the back panel 34 ultimately form the left and right side panels and the first and second top panels when the package is filled with absorbent articles. The back panel 34 may have a first chamfered left edge 33 and a second chamfered right edge 35 adjacent a portion of the back panel 34 that includes one or more wicket holes 38 (see FIG. 2B). Having the chamfered side edges 33, 35 may improve processing of the package 30 on a manufacturing line. Based on information and belief, processing of package 30 on a manufacturing line without chamfered side edges 33, 35 may cause defects in the package and / or runnability problems. Wicket holes 38 may be circular or oval, or may have another suitable shape.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 2B , one or more slits 39 or perforation lines may extend from the wicket hole 38. The slits 39 or perforation lines may extend in any suitable direction and may have a length ranging from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, about 2 mm to about 7 mm, about 2 mm to about 4 mm, about 2 mm, about 3 mm, or about 4 mm. The one or more slits 39 or perforation lines help direct a specific tear direction of the material adjacent to the wicket hole as the package is pulled away from the wicket. Without the one or more slits 39 or perforation lines, the force pulling the package from the wicket may be too great, potentially causing wear on the equipment. In some instances, the slits 39 or perforation lines help the packaging material to tear generally vertically above the wicket hole 38 rather than tearing horizontally. In some instances, the fiber orientation of the packaging material is generally horizontal, and therefore vertical slits or perforation lines are necessary to promote vertical tearing rather than horizontal tearing. For clarity, one or more slits 39 or perforation lines may extend from a single wicket hole 38. The slits 39 or perforation lines may extend completely through the packaging material or partially through the packaging material. In one example, the slits 39 may extend vertically from the perimeter (12 o'clock position) of the wicket hole a distance of about 3 mm. Score lines may be used in the same manner as described herein with respect to slits or perforation lines.

[0122] The package 30 may be designed with two wicket holes 38. Sometimes there may be one wicket hole or more than two wicket holes. In one example, a single wicket hole may form an elongated hole. The portion of the package 30 having the wicket hole 38 may be cut away when the package is sealed. Thus, the consumer does not see the wicket hole 38. In other examples, the package may be wicketless (i.e., may not have one or more wicket holes). The package may include graphics, brand names, manufacturer information, instructions, and / or product information regarding one or more absorbent articles positioned within the package.

[0123] The consumer-facing panel 32, the bottom panel 36, the back panel 34, and the first and second top panels may be formed from a continuous material. The continuous material may include natural fibers and one or more barrier film layers, as discussed with respect to FIGS. 1A and 1B. The natural fibers may form at least a portion of the outer surface of the package. A portion of the natural fibers in the top panels may include a heat-sealable lacquer on their outermost surfaces, which will form the outermost surface of the package. The heat-sealable lacquer is for forming a gusset seal in the top panel, joining the outer surface of the top panel to the outer surface of the top panel. One or more barrier film layers may form the innermost surface of the package (i.e., the surface facing the absorbent article), thereby forming a seal or seam within the package. The one or more barrier film layers may include a polymer and / or a polyolefin. The polymer and / or polyolefin may be sealed or spliced ​​together to form a seal or seam joining the innermost surface of the package to the innermost or outermost surface of the package. Typically, the seams or seals are formed using heat energy and pressure, but may be formed by other methods, such as ultrasonics. A vertical left side seam 40 is formed at the location shown in Figures 2A-2C. The vertical left side seam 40 is shown on the consumer-facing panel 32 and the back panel 34 in Figures 2A-2C, but will be on the left side panel when one or more absorbent articles are added to the package. A vertical right side seam 42 is formed at the location shown in Figures 2A-2C. The vertical right side seam 42 is shown on the consumer-facing panel 32 and the back panel 34 in Figures 2A-2C, but will be on the right side panel when one or more absorbent articles are added to the package. A first left side angled seam 44 is formed between a portion of the consumer-facing panel 32 and a portion of the bottom panel 36. A second left side angled seam 46 is formed between a portion of the back panel 34 and a portion of the bottom panel 36. A first right side angled seam 48 is formed between the consumer-facing portion of panel 32 and the bottom panel 36 .A second right side angled seam 50 is formed between a portion of the back panel 34 and a portion of the bottom panel 36. When the package is filled with one or more absorbent articles, angled seams 44 and 46 may be formed on the left side panel, and angled seams 48 and 50 may be formed on the right side panel. Any of the seals or seams may form overlap seams and / or butt seams, as described herein. The various vertical and angled seams discussed herein may have widths ranging from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, from about 4 mm to about 8 mm, about 4 mm, about 5 mm, about 6 mm, or about 7 mm.

[0124] The first left side angled seam 44 and the second left side angled seam 46 may each extend at an angle ranging from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal extension of the vertical left side seam 40. The first right side angled seam 48 and the second right side angled seam 50 may each extend at an angle ranging from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, from about 40 degrees to about 50 degrees, or about 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal extension of the vertical right side seam 42.

[0125] The vertical left side seam 40 may have a first length. The first left side angled seam 44 may have a second length. The second left side angled seam 46 may also have the same second length. The first length may be longer than the second length. In some examples, the first length may be at least twice, three times, or seven times longer than the second length. The vertical right side seam 42 may have a first length. The first right side angled seam 48 may have a second length. The second right side angled seam 50 may also have the same second length. The first length may be longer than the second length. In some examples, the first length may be at least twice, three times, or seven times longer than the second length. When the package is filled with one or more absorbent articles, the consumer-facing panel 32, the bottom panel 36, and the back panel 34 may not include a seam or seal. This is important because the consumer-facing panel 32 should be the most presentable panel to please the consumer. Having a seam across the consumer-facing panel 32 detracts from the appearance of the package. When the package is filled with one or more absorbent articles, all of the panels may or may not be generally rectangular in shape. The bottom panel 34 may have a fold line 52 depending on how the package is made.

[0126] Figure 2G shows package 30 before a closure is added and before consumer-facing panel 32 is folded into a facing relationship with back panel 36 (as shown in Figure 2A). In Figure 2G, it is clear that first and second top panels, consumer-facing panel 32, bottom panel 36, and back panel 34 are formed of a continuous material.

[0127] An exemplary package 30 containing one or more or a plurality of absorbent articles is shown in Figures 3A-3I. Figure 3A is a front right-hand perspective view of an exemplary package of the present disclosure with a plurality of absorbent articles positioned therein. Figure 3B is another front right-hand perspective view of the package of Figure 3A. Figure 3C is a front left-hand perspective view of the package of Figure 3A. Figure 3D is a front view of the package of Figure 3A. Figure 3E is a rear view of the package of Figure 3A. Figure 3F is a right side view of the package of Figure 3A. Figure 3G is a left-hand perspective view of the package of Figure 3A. Figure 3H is a right-hand perspective view of the package of Figure 3A. Figure 3I is a bottom perspective view of the package of Figure 3A.

[0128] The package 30 may include a consumer-facing panel 32, a right side panel 54, a left side panel 56, a first top panel 58, a second top panel 60, a bottom panel 36, and a back panel 34. The first and second top panels 58, 60 together form a top panel. A portion of the first top panel 58 is sealed or seamed to a portion of the second top panel 60 to form a top seam 62. The first top panel 58 may be sealed to the second top panel 60 to form the top seam 62 using an adhesive, a heat-sealable lacquer, or one or more barrier film layers described herein. The top seam 62 may be a heat seal or other type of seal. It should be noted that in FIGS. 3A-3I, a portion of the second top panel 60, including the wicket hole 38, has been removed. The entire top seam of the package, including the side and top seam 62, is generally known as a gusset seal.

[0129] The package 30 may include a vertical left side seam 40, a vertical right side seam 42, a first left side angled seam 44, a second left side angled seam 46, a first right side angled seam 48, and a second right side angled seam 50. The seams or seals may be, for example, butt seams or butt seams. The vertical left side seam 40 may be longer than the first left side angled seam 44 and longer than the second left side angled seam 46. The vertical right side seam 42 may be longer than the first right side angled seam 48 and longer than the second right side angled seam 50. The package may also include a fold line 52 in the bottom panel 34. The consumer-facing panel 32 may have a consumer-facing panel height "H2" that is greater than the length "L1" of the vertical right side seam 42 and the length "L2" of the vertical left side seam 40. The back panel 34 may have a back panel height "H1" that is greater than the length "L1" of the vertical right side seam 42 and the length "L2" of the vertical left side seam 40.

[0130] The vertical left side seam 40 and the vertical right side seam 42 may have a vertical side seal strength in the range of about 4.9 N / 15 mm to about 18 N / 15 mm, about 4.9 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm, 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm, about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 12 N / 15 mm, about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 10 N / 15 mm, about 5.5 N / 15 mm to about 8.5 N / 15 mm, about 6.1 N / 15 mm, about 7.6 N / 15 mm, or about 7.8 N / 15 mm according to the Seal Tensile Strength Test herein, which is acceptable for the entire distribution and shelf life of the package.

[0131] The first left angled seam 44, the second left angled seam 46, the first right angled seam 48, and the second right angled seam 50 may have an angled seam seal strength in the range of about 4.4 N / 15 mm to about 12 N / 15 mm, about 4.4 N / 15 mm to about 10 N / 15 mm, about 4.5 N / 15 mm to about 10 N / 15 mm, about 5 N / 15 mm to about 10 N / 15 mm, about 5.5 N / 15 mm to about 8 N / 15 mm, about 5.7 N / 15 mm, about 7.2 N / 15 mm, or about 6.7 N / 15 mm according to the Seal Tensile Strength Test herein, which angled seam seal strength is acceptable for the entire distribution and shelf life of the package.

[0132] In such a package, the one or more absorbent articles may include diapers, pants, or adult incontinence pants or moderate to heavy use adult incontinence pads. Additional examples are contemplated, including at least one seal having a higher, lower, or different seal tensile strength than another seal.

[0133] In one example, a Totani™ style bag may be utilized. Totani™ style bags may include visible seams / seals. Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a Totani™ style package 1400 is shown. The package 1400 may be configured with a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The package 1400 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, a first seal 1420 extends outward between the fourth panel 1414 and the sixth panel 1410. The first seal 1420 forms a kind of foot for the package 1400. The second seal may extend outward between the fifth panel 1415 and the sixth panel 1410 in a manner similar to the first seal 1420. It should be noted that in some forms, the first panel 1411 may be flat, similar to the sixth panel 1410.

[0134] The first seal 1420 can extend such that a portion of the first seal 1420 is on the second panel 1412 and another portion of the first seal 1420 is disposed on the third panel 1413. Similarly, a portion of the second seal can be disposed on the second panel 1412, while another portion is disposed on the third panel 1413. The first seal 1420 and second seal can be provided where the sixth panel 1410 is formed from a separate piece of material, which can then be joined to the fourth panel 1414 and the fifth panel 1415. Of course, configurations in which the sixth panel 1410 is integral with the fourth panel 1414 and the fifth panel 1415 are also contemplated.

[0135] The third seal 1430 and the fourth seal 1440 may extend outward from the second panel 1412 and the third panel 1413, respectively. It should be noted that the first seal 1420, the second seal, the third seal 1430, and the fourth seal 1440 may collectively comprise the hoop seals previously discussed. Thus, one, all, or any combination of these seals may exhibit the tensile strength of the hoop seals described herein.

[0136] As shown, the package 1400 may further include a fifth seam 1450 and a sixth seam 1460 disposed on the sixth panel 1411. The fifth seam 1450 and the sixth seam 1460 may extend into the sealing fin 1480. It should be noted that the package 1400 and its associated seams may be assembled as described herein with adhesives, films, and / or combinations of films and adhesives. However, the construction of the package 1400 is particularly well suited to creating seams through one or more barrier film layers on the inner surface of the packaging material. In such a configuration, the one or more barrier film layers may form a barrier that reduces the likelihood, or at least the amount, of moisture vapor passing through the packaging material to the absorbent articles therein.

[0137] The package of the present invention can contain multiple compressed articles, such as compressed disposable absorbent articles. For example, the package of the present disclosure can be used to contain feminine hygiene pads. As shown in FIG. 4 , package 1 defines an interior space 1002 into which multiple absorbent articles 1004 are placed. The multiple absorbent articles 1004 can be arranged in one or more stacks 1006. The absorbent articles can be packaged under compression to reduce the size of the package while still providing a sufficient number of absorbent articles per package. Packaging the absorbent articles under compression allows caregivers to easily handle and store the package and can also provide manufacturers with reduced distribution costs due to the size of the package. Despite lacking the stretch properties of conventional plastic packaging materials, the inventors have surprisingly found that the packaging material of the present disclosure can withstand the rigors of processing and dispensing, as previously mentioned, even with compressed absorbent articles within the package. This is particularly unexpected because the material of the present disclosure does not exhibit the stretch properties of conventional plastic films currently in use.

[0138] Thus, a package of absorbent articles of the present disclosure may have an in-bag stacking 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 according to the In-Bag Stacking Height Test described herein. Alternatively, a package of absorbent articles of the present disclosure may have an in-bag stacking height of about 70 mm to about 150 mm, about 70 mm to about 110 mm, about 70 mm to about 105 mm, about 70 mm to about 100 mm, about 70 mm to about 95 mm, about 70 mm to about 90 mm, about 70 mm to about 85 mm, about 72 mm to about 80 mm, or about 74 mm to about 78 mm according to the In-Bag Stacking Height Test described herein.

[0139] It should be noted that the absorbent articles within the package of the present disclosure can be arranged in a myriad of configurations. For example, the absorbent articles of the present disclosure may be arranged within the package so that they are oriented vertically, or the absorbent articles may be arranged so that they are arranged in a horizontal configuration, as illustrated, for example, in Figure 5. Configurations are contemplated in which a combination of horizontally and vertically oriented articles are provided in the package.

[0140] Furthermore, the absorbent articles within the package may be oriented such that one longitudinal periphery of each of the multiple articles is closer to the consumer-facing panel than another longitudinal periphery. For example, if the number of absorbent articles within the package is relatively large, e.g., greater than nine, the absorbent articles may be arranged within the package as previously described. However, if the number of absorbent articles within the package is smaller, e.g., fewer than nine, the absorbent articles may be arranged such that the topsheet or backsheet of the absorbent article is closer to the consumer-facing panel. Additional absorbent articles may be stacked behind the absorbent article closest to the consumer-facing panel. Configurations with a combination of orientations within the package are contemplated. For example, at least one absorbent article may be arranged such that one of its longitudinal periphery side edges is closer to the consumer-facing panel than the other, and at least one absorbent article may be arranged such that its topsheet or backsheet is closer to the consumer-facing panel. The remainder of the absorbent articles, if present, may have any of these configurations.

[0141] absorbent articles As previously mentioned, there are many absorbent articles that can be packaged within the packaging material of the present disclosure. Two specific examples are provided in Figures 6-7C. However, the packaging material and package of the present disclosure can be utilized to accommodate many absorbent articles as previously described. Figures 6-7C are merely examples of absorbent articles that can be included in the packaging material / package of the present disclosure.

[0142] 6 illustrates an exemplary feminine hygiene pad 400. The feminine hygiene pad 400 may include a topsheet 420, a backsheet 450, and an absorbent core 440 disposed between the topsheet 420 and the backsheet 450. A fluid management layer 430 may be disposed between the topsheet 420 and the absorbent core 440. The absorbent article has a wearer-facing surface 460 and an opposing garment-facing surface 462. The wearer-facing surface 460 primarily comprises the topsheet 420, and the garment-facing surface 462 primarily comprises the backsheet 450. Additional components may be included on either the wearer-facing surface 460 and / or the garment-facing surface 462. For example, if the absorbent article is an incontinence pad, a pair of barrier cuffs extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the absorbent article 400 may form part of the wearer-facing surface 460. Similarly, a fastening adhesive may be present on the backsheet 450, forming part of the garment-facing surface 462 of the absorbent article.

[0143] The topsheet 420 can be joined to the backsheet 450 by attachment methods such as those known in the art. The topsheet 420 and backsheet 450 may be joined directly to one another around the periphery of the article, or they may be indirectly joined to one another by directly joining them to the absorbent core 440, the fluid management layer 430, and / or additional layers disposed between the topsheet 420 and the backsheet 450. This indirect or direct joining may be achieved by attachment methods known in the art.

[0144] The topsheet 420 may be compliant, soft-feeling, and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. Suitable topsheet materials include liquid-permeable materials that are oriented toward and in contact with the wearer's body, allowing bodily exudates to rapidly penetrate therethrough without allowing fluids to flow back through the topsheet onto the wearer's skin. The topsheet can allow for rapid movement of fluids therethrough, while also allowing the lotion composition to migrate or transfer onto outer or inner portions of the wearer's skin.

[0145] Suitable topsheets 420 may be made from a variety of materials, such as woven and nonwoven materials; perforated film materials, including perforated formed thermoplastic films, perforated plastic films, and perforated interlocked fiber films; hydroformed thermoplastic films; porous foams; reticulated foams; cotton; reticulated thermoplastic films; thermoplastic scrims; or combinations thereof.

[0146] Suitable apertured film materials for use as the topsheet include apertured plastic films that are non-absorbent and permeable to body exudates and minimize or eliminate backflow of fluids through the topsheet. Non-limiting examples of other suitable formed films, including apertured and non-apertured formed films, are more fully described in U.S. Patent No. 3,929,135, issued to Thompson on December 30, 1975, and U.S. Patent No. 4,324,246, issued to Mullane et al. on April 13, 1982.

[0147] Non-limiting examples of woven and nonwoven materials suitable for use as the topsheet include fibrous materials made from natural fibers (e.g., cotton, including 100 percent organic cotton), modified natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or combinations thereof. These fibrous materials can be hydrophilic or hydrophobic, although it is sometimes desirable for the topsheet to be hydrophobic or to be rendered hydrophobic. Portions of the topsheet can optionally be rendered hydrophilic using any known method for making a topsheet containing hydrophilic components. The nonwoven fibrous topsheet 20 can be manufactured by any known procedure for making nonwoven webs, non-limiting examples of which include spunbonding, carding, wetlaid, airlaid, meltblown, needlepunched, mechanical entanglement, thermomechanical entanglement, and hydroentanglement.

[0148] The topsheet 420 may be formed from a combination of an apertured film and a nonwoven. For example, a film web and a nonwoven web may be combined as described in U.S. Patent No. 9,700,463. Alternatively, a film may be extruded onto the nonwoven material, which is believed to enhance contact between the film layer and the nonwoven material. Exemplary processes for such combinations are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 9,849,602 and 9,700,463.

[0149] The backsheet 450 may be positioned adjacent to the garment-facing surface of the absorbent core 440 and may be joined to the garment-facing surface of the absorbent core by attachment methods such as those known in the art. For example, the backsheet 450 may be secured to the absorbent core 440 by a uniform continuous layer of adhesive, a patterned layer of adhesive, or an array of discrete lines, spirals, or dots of adhesive. Alternatively, the attachment method may include the use of thermal bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, dynamic mechanical bonding, or any other suitable attachment method or combination of these attachment methods generally known in the art.

[0150] The backsheet 450 may be impermeable or substantially impermeable to liquids (e.g., urine) and may be fabricated from a thin plastic film, although other flexible, liquid-impermeable materials may also be used. As used herein, the term "flexible" refers to a material that is conformable and easily conforms to the general shape and contours of the human body. The backsheet may prevent or at least inhibit bodily exudates absorbed and contained in the absorbent core from wetting garments that contact the incontinence pad, such as underwear. However, while the backsheet may permit vapors to escape from the absorbent core (i.e., breathable), in some cases the backsheet may not permit vapors to escape (i.e., non-breathable). Thus, the backsheet may comprise a polymeric film, such as a thermoplastic film of polyethylene or polypropylene. Suitable materials for the backsheet are, for example, thermoplastic films having a thickness of about 0.012 mm (0.5 mil) to about 0.051 mm (2.0 mil). Any suitable backsheet known in the art may be utilized with the present disclosure.

[0151] The backsheet 450 acts as a barrier to any absorbed bodily fluids that may pass through the absorbent core 440 to the surface of the garment, thereby reducing the risk of soiling undergarments or other garments. Preferred materials are soft, smooth, flexible, liquid- and vapor-permeable materials that provide softness and conformability for comfort and are low noise so that movement does not create unwanted sounds.

[0152] Breathable backsheets suitable for use herein include all breathable backsheets known in the art. There are essentially two types of breathable backsheets: single-layer breathable backsheets that are breathable and water-blocking, and backsheets that have at least two layers that, when combined, provide both breathability and water-blocking properties.

[0153] The backsheet may be a nonwoven web having a basis weight of about 20 gsm to about 50 gsm. The backsheet has a garment-facing side and an opposite, body-facing side. The garment-facing side of the backsheet includes non-adhesive areas and adhesive areas. The adhesive areas may be provided by any conventional means. Pressure-sensitive adhesives have generally been found to work well for this purpose.

[0154] The absorbent core 440 may comprise any suitable shape, including, but not limited to, an oval, a rectangular disk, a rectangle, an asymmetrical shape, and an hourglass shape. For example, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, the absorbent core 440 may comprise a contoured shape, e.g., a shape having a narrower mid-region than the end regions. As yet another example, the absorbent core may comprise a tapered shape having a wider portion at one end region of the pad and tapering to a narrower end region at the other end region of the pad. The absorbent core may have varying stiffness in the MD and CD.

[0155] The composition and structure of the absorbent core may vary (e.g., the absorbent core 440 may have varying caliper areas, hydrophilic gradients, superabsorbency gradients, or acquisition areas of lower average density and lower average basis weight). Additionally, the size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 440 may also be altered to accommodate different wearers. However, the total absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 440 should be compatible with the design load and intended use of the disposable absorbent article or incontinence pad.

[0156] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the absorbent core may include multiple multi-functional layers in addition to the first and second laminates. For example, the absorbent core may include a core wrap useful for enclosing the first and second laminates and other optional layers. The core wrap may be formed from two nonwoven materials, substrates, laminates, films, or other materials. In one embodiment, the core wrap may include only a single material, substrate, laminate, or other material at least partially wrapped therearound. The absorbent core may include one or more adhesives, for example, to help secure the SAP or other absorbent material within the first and second laminates.

[0157] Absorbent cores containing relatively high amounts of SAP with various core designs are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,599,335 to Goldman et al., European Patent No. 1,447,066 to Busam et al., International Publication No. WO 95 / 11652 to Tanzer et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0312622(A1) to Hundorf et al., and International Publication No. WO 2012 / 052172 to Van Malderen, and may be used to construct the superabsorbent layer.

[0158] Any suitable fluid management layer may be utilized in conjunction with the feminine hygiene pad 400. The fluid management layer may be separate and spaced apart from the absorbent system. Additionally, the fluid management layer may be disposed beneath the topsheet and on the wearer-facing surface of the core. The fluid management layer may have a basis weight of about 40 gms to about 100 gms, about 45 gms to about 75 gsm, or about 50 gms to about 65 gsm. In some embodiments, the fluid management layer may comprise a homogeneous blend of fibers, while in other embodiments, the fluid management layer may comprise a heterogeneous blend of fibers.

[0159] Another example of an absorbent article that may be included in the package of the present disclosure is a diaper. Figure 7A shows a plan view of an exemplary absorbent article, diaper 1900, laid flat and in an uncontracted state (i.e., with elastic contraction removed), with portions of the diaper 1900 cut away to more clearly show its structure, and with its wearer-facing surface facing the viewer. This diaper is shown for illustrative purposes only, as the package of the present disclosure can be used for a wide variety of diapers and other absorbent articles.

[0160] The absorbent article may include a liquid permeable topsheet 1924, a liquid impermeable backsheet 1925, an absorbent core 1928 positioned at least partially intermediate the topsheet 1924 and the backsheet 1925, and barrier leg cuffs 1934. The absorbent article may also include a liquid management system ("LMS") 1950 (shown in FIG. 6B), which in the illustrated example comprises a distribution layer 1954 and an acquisition layer 1952, both of which are described further below. In various configurations, the acquisition layer 1952 may alternatively distribute body exudates, and the distribution layer 1954 may alternatively acquire body exudates, or either layer may be capable of distribution and / or acquisition of body exudates. Additionally, the LMS 1950 may be provided as a single layer or as two or more layers. The absorbent article may also include elastic gasket cuffs 1932 that are typically joined to the chassis 1982 of the absorbent article through the topsheet and / or backsheet and are substantially planar to the chassis of the diaper.

[0161] The figures also show typical components of a taped diaper, such as a fastening system comprising adhesive tabs 1942 or other mechanical fasteners attached toward the rear edge of the absorbent article 1900 and cooperating with a landing area 1944 at the front of the absorbent article 1900. The absorbent article may further include other typical elements not shown, such as, for example, a rear elastic waist feature (1936 shown in FIG. 8) and a front elastic waist feature (1937 shown in FIG. 8).

[0162] The absorbent article 1900 may have a front waist edge 1910, a back waist edge 1912 longitudinally opposite the front waist edge 1910, a first side edge 1903, and a second side edge 1904 laterally opposite the first side edge 1903. The front waist edge 1910 is the edge of the absorbent article 1900 that is intended to lie toward the front of the user when worn, and the back waist edge 1912 is the opposite edge. When a wearer puts on the absorbent article 1900, the front waist edge 1910 and the back waist edge together form a waist hole. The absorbent article 1900 may have a longitudinal axis 1980 that extends from the lateral midpoint of the front waist edge 1910 of the absorbent article 1900 to the lateral midpoint of the back waist edge 1912, dividing the absorbent article 1900 into two substantially symmetrical halves about the longitudinal axis 1980, when the article is laid flat and viewed from the surface facing the wearer, as illustrated in Figure 7A. The absorbent article may also have a lateral axis 1990 that extends from the longitudinal midpoint of the first side edge 1903 to the longitudinal midpoint of the second side edge 1904. The length L of the absorbent article 1900 may be measured along the longitudinal axis 1980 from the front waist edge 1910 to the back waist edge 1912. The crotch width of the absorbent article 1900 may be measured along a lateral axis 1990 from a first side edge 1903 to a second side edge 1904. The absorbent article 1900 may include a front waist region 1905, a back waist region 1906, and a crotch region 1907. The front waist region, the back waist region, and the crotch region each define one-third of the longitudinal length of the absorbent article. Additionally, front and back portions may also be defined on either side of the lateral axis 1990.

[0163] The topsheet 1924, backsheet 1925, absorbent core 1928, and other components of the article may be assembled in a variety of configurations, particularly by gluing or heat embossing, for example.

[0164] The absorbent core 1928 may include an absorbent material comprising 75% to 100%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% by weight of absorbent material, and a core wrap encapsulating the absorbent material. The core wrap may typically include two materials, substrates, or nonwoven materials 16 and 16', for the upper and lower surfaces of the core.

[0165] The absorbent core 1928 may include one or more channels, shown in FIG. 6A as four channels 1926, 1926', and 1927, 1927'. Additionally, or alternatively, the LMS 1950 may include one or more channels, shown in FIGS. 7A-7C as channels 1949, 1949'. In some forms, the channels of the LMS 1950 may be positioned within the absorbent article 1900 so as to align, substantially align, overlap, or at least partially overlap with the channels of the absorbent core 1928. The channels may be regions that are free of absorbent material, or may be embossed or compressed, although absorbent material may be present. These and other components of the absorbent article are discussed in more detail below.

[0166] The topsheet 1924 is the portion of the absorbent article that is in direct contact with the wearer's skin. As known to those skilled in the art, the topsheet 1924 may be joined to the backsheet 1925, the core 1928, and / or any other layers. Typically, the topsheet 1924 and the backsheet 1925 are joined directly to each other in some locations (e.g., at or near the periphery of the article) and are joined indirectly in other locations by directly joining them to one or more other elements of the absorbent article 1900.

[0167] The backsheet 1925 is generally positioned adjacent to the garment-facing surface of the absorbent core 1928 and is the portion of the absorbent article 1900 that prevents, or at least impedes, body exudates absorbed and contained therein from soiling articles such as bedsheets and undergarments. The backsheet 1925 is generally impermeable, or at least substantially impermeable, to liquids (e.g., urine, fluid BM), but is vapor-permeable to allow the diaper to "breathe." The backsheet may be or include a thin plastic film, such as a thermoplastic film having a thickness of about 0.012 mm to about 0.051 mm. Exemplary backsheet films include those manufactured by Tredegar Corporation, based in Richmond, VA, and sold under the trademark CPC2 film. Other suitable backsheet materials can include breathable materials that allow vapors to escape from the absorbent article 1900 while simultaneously preventing, or at least impeding, body exudates from passing through the backsheet 1925. Examples of breathable materials can include materials such as woven webs, nonwoven webs, as well as composite materials such as film-coated nonwoven webs, microporous films, and monolithic films. In one particular example, the backsheet can include a film and a nonwoven, where the nonwoven (1971 shown in FIG. 8) forms a portion of the garment-facing surface of the article.

[0168] The backsheet 1925 may be joined to the topsheet 1924, the absorbent core 1928, and / or any other elements of the absorbent article 1900 by any attachment method known to those skilled in the art. Suitable attachment methods are described above with respect to methods for joining the topsheet 1924 to other elements of the absorbent article 1900.

[0169] As used herein, the term "absorbent core" refers to a separate component of an absorbent article that has maximum absorbent capacity and contains absorbent material. The absorbent core may include a core wrap or core bag (hereinafter "core wrap") that encloses the absorbent material. The term "absorbent core" does not include the LMS or any other component of the absorbent article that is not an integral part of or disposed within the core wrap. The absorbent core may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of a core wrap, absorbent material (as defined below), and a size agent enclosed within the core wrap. Additionally, pulp or air felt may be present within the core wrap but may also form part of the absorbent material. The periphery of the absorbent core, which may be the periphery of the core wrap, may define any suitable shape, such as, for example, a "T" shape, a "Y" shape, an "hourglass" shape, or a "dogbone" shape. The periphery of the absorbent core, having a generally "dogbone" or "hourglass" shape, may taper along its width toward the center or "crotch" region of the core. In this manner, the absorbent core may have a relatively narrow width in the region of the absorbent core intended to be placed in the crotch region of an absorbent article.

[0170] The absorbent core 1928 of the present disclosure may comprise an absorbent material in which a quantity of superabsorbent polymer (abbreviated herein as "SAP") is encapsulated within a core wrap. The SAP 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 within the core wrap. SAPs useful in the present disclosure may include various water-swellable polymers that are water-insoluble but capable of absorbing large amounts of fluid. The core wrap is not considered the absorbent material for purposes of assessing the percentage of SAP in the absorbent core. The remainder of the absorbent material in the core 1928 may be airfelt.

[0171] "Absorbent material" refers to materials that have some absorbent or liquid-retaining properties, such as SAP, cellulose fibers, and synthetic fibers. Generally, sizing agents used to make absorbent cores do not have absorbent properties and are not considered absorbent materials. The SAP content, as described above, may be greater than 80% by weight of the absorbent material contained in the core wrap, e.g., at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 99%, and even up to 100% by weight. This typically results in a relatively thin core compared to conventional cores that contain, for example, 40-60% SAP and a significant amount of cellulose fibers or airfelt. The absorbent material may contain less than 15% by weight, or less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 3%, less than 2%, less than 1%, or even substantially no natural or synthetic fibers. The absorbent material may contain little or no airfelt (cellulose) fibers, and in particular the absorbent core may contain less than 15%, less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 3%, less than 2%, less than 1% by weight of airfelt (cellulose) fibers, or even be substantially free or free of cellulose fibers.

[0172] The absorbent core 1928 may also include a generally planar top surface and a generally planar bottom surface. When viewed from above in a plan view such as that shown in FIG. 6A , the core 1928 may have a longitudinal axis 80′ that substantially corresponds to the longitudinal axis 80 of the absorbent article. Because higher absorbency may be desired at the front of a particular article, the absorbent material may be distributed in greater amounts toward the front than toward the rear. The absorbent material may have a non-uniform basis weight or a uniform basis weight throughout any portion of the core. The core wrap may be formed by 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 wrap may be at least partially sealed along the front, back, and two longitudinal sides to substantially prevent leakage of the absorbent material from the absorbent core wrap. The first material, substrate, or nonwoven 1916 may at least partially surround the second material, substrate, or nonwoven 1916' to form a core wrap. The first material 1916 may surround a portion of the second material 1916' proximate the first side edge 1903 and the second side edge 1904.

[0173] Cores containing relatively high amounts of SAP in a variety of core designs are disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,599,335 (Goldman) and European Patent No. 1,447,066 (Busam).

[0174] The absorbent material may be one or more continuous layers present within the core wrap. Alternatively, the absorbent material may consist of individual pockets or stripes of absorbent material enclosed within the core wrap. In the first case, the absorbent material can be obtained, for example, by applying a single continuous layer of absorbent material. A continuous layer of absorbent material, in particular SAP, can also be obtained by combining two or more absorbent layers with discontinuous absorbent material application patterns, with the resulting layer being substantially continuously distributed across the entire area of ​​the absorbent granular polymer material, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0312622 A1 (Hundorf). The absorbent core 1928 may include a first absorbent layer and a second absorbent layer. The first absorbent layer may include a first material 1916 and a first layer 1961 of absorbent material, which may be up to 100% SAP. The second absorbent layer may include a second material 1916' and a second layer of absorbent material 1962, which may also be up to 100% SAP.

[0175] The fibrous thermoplastic adhesive material 1951 may be in at least partial contact with the absorbent material 1961, 1962 in the land areas and may also be in at least partial contact with the material 1916, 1916' in the bond areas, thereby imparting an essentially three-dimensional structure to the fibrous layer of thermoplastic adhesive material 591, which itself is essentially two-dimensional, having a relatively small thickness compared to its length and width dimensions. The fibrous thermoplastic adhesive material may thereby provide cavities for covering the absorbent material in the land areas, thereby immobilizing this absorbent material, which may be up to 100% SAP.

[0176] A core wrap may be formed of a single substrate, material, or nonwoven folded around the absorbent material, or it may include two (or more) substrates, materials, or nonwovens attached to one another. Common attachment methods are so-called C-wraps and / or sandwich wraps. In a C-wrap, 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, usually by gluing, to the outer surface of the other substrate. Other techniques can also be used to form the core wrap. For example, the longitudinal and / or transverse edges of the substrates may be bonded to one another and then folded under the absorbent core and bonded in place.

[0177] The core wrap may be at least partially sealed along all sides of the absorbent core so that substantially no absorbent material escapes the core. By "substantially free of absorbent material" it is meant that less than 5%, less than 2%, less than 1%, or about 0% by weight of absorbent material escapes the core wrap. The term "seal" should be understood broadly. The seal of the core wrap need not be continuous along the entire periphery of the core wrap, but may be discontinuous along some or all of it, such as formed by a series of spaced apart seal points in a line. The seal may be formed by gluing and / or heat bonding.

[0178] The core wrap may also be formed from a single substrate that encloses the absorbent material in a wrapping-like manner and can be sealed along the front and back sides of the core and one longitudinal seal.

[0179] The absorbent article may include a pair of barrier leg cuffs 1934. Each barrier leg cuff may be formed by a piece of material joined to the absorbent article so as to extend upward from the inner surface of the absorbent article and improve containment of liquids and other body exudates near the junction of the wearer's torso and legs. The barrier leg cuffs 1934 are defined by proximal edges 1964 joined directly or indirectly to the topsheet 1924 and / or backsheet 1925 and free distal edges 1966 intended to contact and form a seal with the wearer's skin. The barrier leg cuffs 1934 extend at least partially between the front waist edge 1910 and the back waist edge 1912 of the absorbent article on either side of the longitudinal axis 1980 and are present at least in the crotch region 1907. The barrier leg cuff 1934 may be joined to the chassis of the absorbent article at its proximal edge 1964 by a bond 1965, which may be made by glue bonding, melt bonding, or a combination of other suitable bonding processes. The bond 1965 at the proximal edge 1964 may be continuous or intermittent. The bond 1965 closest to the raised section of the leg cuff 1934 defines the proximal edge 1964 of the raised section of the leg cuff 1934.

[0180] The barrier leg cuffs 1934 may be integral with the topsheet 1924 or backsheet 1925, or may be a separate material joined to the chassis of the absorbent article. The barrier leg cuff 1934 material may extend throughout the entire length of the diaper, but may be "tuck-bonded" to the topsheet 1924 toward the front waist edge 1910 and back waist edge 1912 of the absorbent article so that the barrier leg cuff material remains flush with the topsheet 1924 in these sections.

[0181] Each barrier leg cuff 1934 may include one, two, or more elastic strands or strips of film 1935 adjacent its free end edge 1966, thereby providing a better seal. It is worth noting that, as discussed with respect to FIG. 5, the barrier leg cuffs may also be applied to pad-type structures. Such configurations may be desirable in adult incontinence pads. Any of the configurations described herein for barrier leg cuffs may be utilized in adult incontinence pads.

[0182] In addition to the barrier leg cuffs 1934, the absorbent article may include gasket cuffs 1932 that are joined to the chassis of the absorbent article, particularly the topsheet 1924 and / or backsheet 1925, and are positioned outward relative to the barrier leg cuffs 1934. The gasket cuffs 1932 may provide a better seal around the wearer's thighs. Each gasket leg cuff may include one or more elastic strings or elastic elements 1933 in the region of the leg opening between the topsheet 1924 and backsheet 1925 within the chassis of the absorbent article. All or a portion of the barrier leg cuffs and / or gasket cuffs may be treated with a lotion or skin care composition. The barrier leg cuffs may be made in several different configurations, including those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0277713.

[0183] In some forms, the absorbent article may include front ears 1946 and back ears 1940. The ears may be integral parts of the chassis, such as formed from the topsheet 1924 and / or backsheet 1925 as side panels. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7A , the ears (1946, 1940) may be separate elements attached by glue bonding, heat embossing, and / or crimping. The back ears 1940 may be stretchable to facilitate attachment of the tabs 1942 (fasteners 1943) to the landing zones 1944 and hold the tape diaper in place around the waist of the wearer. The rear ears 1940 may also be elastic or stretchable so that the elastic ears allow the sides of the absorbent article to stretch, thereby providing a more comfortable, body-hugging fit by initially fitting the absorbent article snugly to the wearer and then maintaining this fit throughout the entire wear period, even long after the absorbent article has been filled with bodily exudates.

[0184] One function of the LMS 1950 is to rapidly acquire fluid and distribute it efficiently to the absorbent core 1928. The LMS 1950 may include one or more layers that may form an integral layer or may remain discrete layers that may be attached to one another. The LMS 1950 may include two layers: a distribution layer 1954 and an acquisition layer 1952 disposed between the absorbent core and the topsheet, although the present disclosure is not limited to such a configuration.

[0185] The LMS 1950 may include SAP, as SAP can slow fluid acquisition and distribution. In other forms, the LMS may be substantially free of SAP (e.g., 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 99% free) or completely free of SAP. The LMS may also include one or more of a variety of other suitable types of materials, such as, for example, open-cell foam, airlaid fibers, or carded resin-bonded nonwoven materials.

[0186] The LMS 1950 can include a distribution layer 1954. The distribution layer 1954 can include, for example, at least 50% by weight or more crosslinked cellulose fibers. The crosslinked cellulose fibers can be crimped, twisted, or curled, or a combination thereof including crimped, twisted, and curled. Materials of this type are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0312622 A1 (Hundorf).

[0187] The LMS 1950 may alternatively or additionally include an acquisition layer 1952. The acquisition layer 1952 may be disposed, for example, between the distribution layer 1954 and the topsheet 1924. The acquisition layer 1952 may be or include a nonwoven material, such as an SMS or SMMS material, including spunbond, meltblown, and additional spunbond layers, or alternatively, a carded chemically bonded nonwoven. The acquisition layer 1952 may include air-laid or wet-laid cellulosic fibers, crosslinked cellulosic fibers, or synthetic fibers, or blends thereof. The acquisition layer 1952 may include a rollstock web of synthetic fibers (which may be processed, such as by a solid-state forming process, to increase void space), or a combination of synthetic and cellulosic fibers bonded together to form a lofty material. Alternatively, the acquisition layer 1952 may include an absorbent open-cell foam. The nonwoven material may be latex bonded.

[0188] The LMS 1950 of the absorbent article 1900 may generally include channels that may allow the absorbent article to better conform to the wearer's anatomy, thereby increasing freedom of movement and reducing gaps. One or more channels of the LMS 1950 may be configured to work in concert with various channels in the absorbent core 1928, as described above. Additionally, the channels in the LMS 1950 may further provide a larger void space within the absorbent article for retaining and distributing urine, bowel movements (BM), or other bodily waste, thereby reducing leakage and skin contact. The channels in the LMS 1950 may also provide practical indications of the interior, particularly when accentuated by physical differences in texture, color, and / or pattern, to facilitate achieving precise alignment of the absorbent article on the wearer. To this end, such physical differences may be perceptible, for example, visually and / or tactilely.

[0189] Wetness Indicator / Graphic 7A and 8 , an absorbent article 1900 of the present disclosure may include a graphic 780 and / or a wetness indicator 800 visible from the garment-facing surface 702. The graphic 780 may be printed on the landing area 740, the backsheet 1925, and / or other locations. The wetness indicator 800 is typically applied to the absorbent core-facing side of the backsheet 1925 and may therefore come into contact with bodily exudates within the absorbent core 1928. In some examples, the wetness indicator 800 may form part of the graphic 780. For example, the wetness indicator may appear or disappear, and may form / remove text within some graphics. In other examples, the wetness indicator 800 may be coordinated with the graphic 780 (e.g., same design, same pattern, same color) or may not be coordinated with the graphic 780.

[0190] Other products in the package of this disclosure Many suitable products, such as consumer products, can be placed in the packages and packaging materials of the present disclosure. By way of example, the packages of the present disclosure can contain or be contained within one or more moisture-labile, humidity-labile, moisture-sensitive, or moisture-vapor-sensitive products, including unit-dose products, unit-dose pouches, articles intended for single use, pouches, pouches with fibrous wall materials, pouches with dissolvable film wall materials, pouches containing a single layer or ply, and combinations thereof. These unit-dose or pouch-form products are delivery vehicles containing active agents or additives designed and intended to provide a benefit to something, for example, to the environment outside the unit dose or pouch. One embodiment can include a unit-dose article or pouch in which an active agent is contained within the interior volume of the unit-dose article or pouch. Another embodiment can include a unit-dose or pouch containing a single layer or ply, where the active agent is contained within the single layer or ply, coated or embedded on the surface of the layer or ply, or a combination of these two configurations.

[0191] The active agent can be any suitable additive that produces the intended effect under the intended conditions of use of the unit dose article or pouch. For example, the active agent may be selected from the group consisting of: personal cleansing and / or conditioning agents, such as hair care agents (e.g., shampoos and / or hair dyes), hair conditioning agents, skin care agents, sunscreens, and skin conditioning agents; laundry care and / or conditioning agents, such as fabric care agents, fabric conditioning agents, fabric softeners, fabric anti-wrinkle agents, fabric care anti-static agents, fabric care stain removal agents, soil release agents, dispersants, foam suppressors, foam boosters, defoamers, and fabric refreshing agents; liquid and / or powder dishwashing agents (for hand dishwashing and / or automatic dishwashing applications), hard surface care agents, and / or conditioning and / or abrasive agents; other cleaning and / or conditioning agents, such as antimicrobial agents, antibacterial agents, antifungal agents, fabric hue agents, fragrances, bleaches (e.g., oxygen bleach, hydrogen peroxide, Percarbonate bleach, perborate bleach, chlorine bleach), bleach activators, chelating agents, builders, lotions, brighteners, air care agents, carpet care agents, dye transfer inhibitors, clay stain removers, anti-redeposition agents, polymeric soil release agents, polymeric dispersants, alkoxylated polyamine polymers, alkoxylated polycarboxylate polymers, amphiphilic graft copolymers, solubilizers, buffer systems, water softeners, water hardeners, pH adjusters, enzymes, flocculants, Foaming agents, preservatives, cosmetic agents, make-up removers, foaming agents, deposition aids, coacervate formers, clays, thickeners, latex, silica, drying agents, odor control agents, antiperspirants, cooling agents, warming agents, absorbent gelling agents, anti-inflammatory agents, dyes, pigments, acids and bases; liquid treatment active agents; agricultural active agents; industrial active agents; ingestible active agents, such as pharmaceutical agents, tooth whitening agents, tooth care agents, mouthwashes, periodontal and gum care agents, edible agents, food agents, vitamins, minerals;Water treatment agents, such as water purification agents and / or water disinfectants, surfactants, anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, one or more silicones, one or more alkali metal or alkaline earth metal carbonates, alkali metal carbonates (e.g., sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, etc.), alkali metal bicarbonates (e.g., sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, etc.), ammonium carbonate, organic acids (e.g., hydroxy-carboxylic acids [citric acid, tartaric acid, malic acid, lactic acid, gluconic acid, etc.], saturated aliphatic carboxylic acids [acetic acid, succinic acid, etc.], unsaturated aliphatic carboxylic acids [e.g., fumaric acid, etc.], and mixtures thereof;

[0192] Exemplary unit dose articles or pouches of the present disclosure include those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2013 / 0172226, 2015 / 0071572, 2018 / 0216285, 2018 / 0216286, 2018 / 0216287, 2018 / 0216288, and PCT Publication Nos. WO 2022 / 117853, WO 2022 / 117854, WO 2022 / 117855, WO 2022 / 117856, WO 2022 / 117858, WO 2022 / 117859, WO 2022 / 117860, and WO 2022 / 117861.

[0193] handle Various packages of the present disclosure may include one or more handles. The handle may be a separate component attached to the outer surface of the package or may be integrally formed with the packaging material. If the handle is a separate component, the separate handle may be formed of the same or similar material as the package, or may be formed of a different material than the package. As an example, the separate handle may include, for example, natural fibers and / or polyolefin or a laminate thereof. The handle may assist consumers in picking up and transporting the package. As an example, a handle may be disposed on or formed with the consumer-facing panel 32, and another handle may be disposed on the back panel 34. As another example, a handle may be disposed on or formed solely with the back panel 34 to allow for better presentation of graphics, branding, claims, and / or images on the consumer-facing panel 32. Handles may also be disposed on other portions of the package, such as, for example, the top panel or bottom panel.

[0194] FIG. 9A is an exemplary side view of the packaging material of FIG. 2G. FIG. 9B is an example of folds formed in the packaging material of FIG. 9A to create a first handle fold and a second handle fold. FIG. 9C is an exemplary handle formed from a first handle fold joined, sealed, seamed, and / or bonded to a second handle fold. Referring generally to FIGS. 9A-9C, the consumer-facing panel 32, the bottom panel 36, and the back panel 34 are shown. The packaging material is folded to create a first handle fold 64 and a second handle fold 66. The first handle fold 64 and the second handle fold 66 are joined, sealed, seamed, and / or bonded together to form a handle 68. Although the handle 68 is shown as being formed in the consumer-facing panel 32 and the back panel 34, the handle 68 may be formed in only one of the consumer-facing panel 32 or the back panel 34. In one example, although not shown in Figures 9A-9C, a handle may also be formed in the bottom panel 36.

[0195] FIG. 10 is an example of the package 30 of FIG. 2D having handles 68 formed on the consumer-facing panel 32 and the back panel 34. The handles 68 are shown extending away from the fold line 52, but they can also extend toward the fold line 52. In one example, the handle 68 on the consumer-facing panel 32 can extend toward the fold line 52, and the handle 68 on the back panel 34 can extend away from the fold line 52, or vice versa. By having handles 68 extending in different directions, when several unfilled packages are placed adjacent to each other on a wicket, fewer bulges form in the handle area compared to when the handles extend in the same direction. One or more handles can also be folded flat against the package until a consumer grasps them to aid in shipping and distribution. If a package has only one handle 68 on either the consumer-facing panel 32 or the back panel 34, alternating bags on the wicket can have handles extending toward and away from the fold line 52. This change in the direction of extension of the handle can reduce the size of the bulge that forms when several folded packages are placed adjacent to each other on the wicket. The handle 68 can be located on any portion of the consumer-facing panel 32 and the back panel 34, for example, at or toward the top, at or toward the bottom, and / or in the center.

[0196] FIG. 11 is a back view of package 30 with handle 68. If a handle is provided on the consumer-facing panel 32, the front view of package 30 would be similar. FIG. 11 shows how first handle fold 64 is sealed or joined to second handle fold 66 (indicated by an X in FIG. 11 ). Sealing may be achieved in the same or similar manner as the various seams discussed herein, such as, for example, seams 40, 42, 46, or 50. A slit or slot 70 may be cut or punched in handle 68 to form an opening through which a consumer's fingers can slide to grasp package 30 by handle 68.

[0197] FIG. 12A shows a handle 68 having a U-shaped slit or slot 70 cut or perforated to form an opening through which a consumer's fingers can slide to grasp the package 30 by the handle 68. FIG. 12B shows a handle 68 having a semi-oval slit or slot 70 cut or perforated to form an opening through which a consumer's fingers can slide to grasp the package by the handle 68. FIG. 12C shows a handle 68 having an oval slit or slot 70 cut or perforated to form an opening through which a consumer's fingers can slide to grasp the package by the handle 68. FIG. 12D shows a handle 68 having an oval slit or slot 70 perforated to form an opening through which a consumer's fingers can slide to grasp the package by the handle 68. Some or all of the slit or slot 70 (in any configuration) may be perforated, cut, and / or slit. For example, a first portion of the slit or slot 70 may be perforated, while a second portion may be cut or slit. 12A-12D are shown without the remainder of the package and without the trim removed for simplicity. Trim removal is optional. The slit or slot 70 may have other configurations, such as, for example, a cut-out circle, rectangle, trapezoid, or a curved slit or slot.

[0198] Figure 13 is a rear view of a package with a handle. Figure 13 shows a handle 68 similar to Figure 12A, but here the trim has been cut away to leave only a handle portion 72 extending from a base 74 of the handle 68, and a slit or slot 70 has been formed in the opposite direction. The base 74 is left intact to provide strength to the handle 68. The base 74 and handle portion 72 are formed from a first handle fold portion 64 and a second handle fold portion 66 that are sealed, seamed, joined, and / or bonded together. The trim may be cut away by a laser or other suitable method. Any suitable portion of the trim may be removed for aesthetic or other reasons.

[0199] Test Method ISO1924-3 - Tensile properties (tensile strength, elongation, energy absorption) The tensile properties of the test sample (tensile strength, elongation, and energy absorption) are calculated from the measured force and elongation values ​​obtained using a constant rate of extension test until the sample breaks. Testing is performed according to compendial method ISO 1924-3, with the modifications described herein. Measurements are performed on a constant rate of extension tensile tester using a load cell in which the measured force is within 1% to 99% of the cell's limits. A suitable instrument is the MTS Alliance using Test Suite Software or equivalent, available from MTS Systems Corp. (Eden Prairie, MN). All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, and the test sample is conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours before testing.

[0200] Measurements are performed on both MD (machine direction) and CD (cross direction) test samples taken from rolls or sheets of raw material, or from finished packages. When cutting test samples from finished packages, care is taken to avoid any contamination or deformation of the samples during the process. The cut samples must be free of residual adhesive and must be taken from an area of ​​the package without seams or creases. Test samples are cut to a width of 25.4 mm with a length that can accommodate a 50.8 mm test span. The long edge of the sample is parallel to the direction of interest (MD, CD). Typically, on finished packages, the MD runs from the bottom to the top of the package, but this can be verified by determining the fiber orientation if in doubt. Ten replicate test samples should be prepared from the MD, and ten additional replicates from the CD.

[0201] The tensile tester is programmed for uniaxial extension at a constant rate of extension to failure as follows: The gauge length is set to 50.8 mm (test span) using a calibrated gauge block, and the crosshead is zeroed. The test sample is inserted into the grips with the long edge parallel to and centered on the central tensile axis of the tensile tester. The crosshead is raised at a rate of 25.4 mm / min until the test sample breaks, and force (N) and elongation (mm) data are collected at 100 Hz throughout the test. A graph of force (N) versus elongation (mm) is prepared. The maximum force (N) is read from the graph and recorded as the peak force to the nearest 0.1 N, and the MD or CD is noted. The elongation at the maximum force (N) is read from the graph and recorded as the elongation to break to the nearest 0.01 mm, and the MD or CD is noted. From the graph, the point (z) where the tangent to the curve with a slope equal to the maximum slope of the curve intersects the elongation axis is determined. Now calculate the area under the force vs. extension curve from point z to the point of maximum force, report in 0.1 mJ, and note the MD or CD. [See Figure 2 in ISO 1924-3 for a depiction of a typical force vs. extension curve with point z indicated.]

[0202] For all MD replicates, then for all CD replicates, calculate the arithmetic mean peak force and record the mean MD peak force and mean CD peak force, respectively, to the nearest 0.1 N. Calculate the arithmetic mean elongation to break for all MD replicates, then for all CD replicates, and record the mean MD elongation to break and mean CD elongation to the nearest 0.01 mm. Calculate the arithmetic mean area under the force vs. elongation curve for all MD replicates, then for all CD replicates, and calculate the mean area under the MD curve and the mean area under the CD curve, respectively, to the nearest 0.1 mJ.

[0203] The tensile strength is calculated by dividing the average peak force (N) by the width of the test sample (25.4 mm). The tensile strength of the MD replicate and then the CD replicate is calculated and reported to the nearest 0.1 kN / m for the MD and CD tensile strengths, respectively.

[0204] The elongation at break is calculated by dividing the average elongation at break (mm) by the initial test length (test span) of 50.8 mm, then multiplying by 100. The elongation at break for the MD replicates and then for the CD replicates is calculated and reported in percent for the MD stretch at break and the CD stretch at break, respectively.

[0205] ISO 2758-Bursting strength Burst strength is the maximum uniformly distributed pressure that a test sample can withstand. Burst strength is measured according to compendial method ISO 2758 using a testing apparatus as described within the method. A suitable instrument is the 13-60 Burst Tester for Paper and Foils, available from Testing Machines, Inc. (New Castle, DE), or equivalent. The instrument is calibrated and operated according to the manufacturer's instructions. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, with test samples conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours before testing.

[0206] Measurements are taken on test samples taken from rolls or sheets of raw material or on test pieces taken from finished packages. When cutting test samples from finished packages, care is taken not to contaminate or deform the test sample in the process. The test sample must be larger than the clamps used to hold it in the instrument. The test sample should be taken from an area that does not contain folds, wrinkles, or seams.

[0207] Measure the burst strength (using sufficient clamp pressure to prevent slippage during testing and a pumping rate of 95±15 mL / min) for a total of 10 replicate test samples. For sided samples, the side of the test sample facing the inside of the package faces the pressure when placed in the clamp, and test 10 replicates in this orientation. For balanced (non-sided) samples, test five replicates with the inside of the package facing the pressure and five replicates with the outside of the package facing the pressure, and average the results 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 must be used. To obtain the burst strength, divide the burst pressure by the number of layers tested. Calculate the arithmetic mean burst pressure of all replicates and report it as the burst strength to the nearest 0.001 kPa.

[0208] ISO 534-Caliper The caliper or thickness of single layer test samples is measured with a micrometer under static load according to compendial method ISO 534, with the modifications described herein. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, with test samples conditioned in this environment for at least 2 hours before testing.

[0209] Caliper is measured with a micrometer equipped with a foot presser capable of applying a steady pressure of 70 kPa ± 0.05 kPa to the test sample. The micrometer is a dead-weight instrument accurate to 0.1 micrometers. A suitable instrument is a TMI Digital Micrometer Model 49-56, available from Testing Machines Inc. (New Castle, DE), or equivalent. The foot presser is a flat, grounded, circular, movable surface with a diameter smaller than the test specimen and capable of applying the required pressure. A suitable foot presser has a diameter of 16.0 mm. The test sample is supported by a horizontal, flat reference platform larger than and parallel to the surface of the foot presser. The system is calibrated and operated according to the manufacturer's instructions.

[0210] Measurements are made on single layer test samples taken from rolls or sheets of raw material, or on test samples obtained from finished packages. When cutting test samples from finished packages, care is taken not to contaminate or deform the sample in any way during the process. The cut sample must be free of residual adhesive and must be taken from an area of ​​the package that is free of seams or folds. Test samples should ideally be 200mm long. 2 and must be larger than the clamp.

[0211] To measure thickness, first zero the micrometer against a horizontal, flat reference platform. Place the test sample on the platform with the test location centered under the pressure foot. Gently lower the pressure foot at a rate of 3.0 mm / sec until full pressure is applied to the test sample. After waiting 5 seconds, record the caliper of the test sample to the nearest 0.1 micrometer. Repeat this procedure for a total of 10 replicate test samples. Calculate the arithmetic mean of all caliper measurements and report this value as the caliper to the nearest 0.1 micrometer.

[0212] ISO 536: Basis weight The basis weight of a test sample is the mass in grams per unit area in square meters of a single layer of material and is measured according to official method ISO 536. A block of 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 performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, with the test sample conditioned in this environment for at least two hours before testing.

[0213] Measurements are made on test samples taken from rolls or sheets of raw material or from finished packages. When cutting test samples from finished packages, care is taken not to contaminate or deform the sample in any way during the process. The cut sample must be free of residual adhesive and must be taken from an area of ​​the package that is free of seams or folds. The test sample should be as large as possible to account for any inherent material variations.

[0214] Measure the dimensions of the single-ply test sample using a NIST-traceable, calibrated steel metal ruler or equivalent. Calculate the area of ​​the test sample and record to the nearest 0.0001 square meter. Obtain the mass of the test sample using an analytical balance and record to the nearest 0.0001 gram. Calculate the basis weight by dividing the mass (in grams) by the area (in square meters) and record to the nearest 0.01 grams per square meter (gsm). Repeat in the same manner for a total of 10 replicate test samples. Calculate the arithmetic mean of the basis weight and report to the nearest 0.01 grams per square meter.

[0215] Bag stacking height test The in-bag stack height of a package of absorbent articles is measured as follows. device A thickness tester is used that includes a flat, rigid horizontal sliding plate. The thickness tester is configured so that the horizontal sliding plate is free to move vertically while always maintaining a horizontal orientation directly above a flat, rigid horizontal base plate. The thickness tester includes a device suitable for measuring the gap between the horizontal sliding plate and the horizontal base plate to within ±0.5 mm. The horizontal sliding plate and the horizontal base plate are larger than the surface of the absorbent article package that contacts each plate (i.e., each plate extends beyond the contact surface of the absorbent article package in all directions). The horizontal sliding plate applies a downward force of 850±1 grams-force (8.34 N) to the absorbent article package, which can be achieved by placing a suitable weight in the center of the top surface of the horizontal sliding plate that does not contact the package, so that the total mass of the sliding plate plus the additional weight equals 850±1 grams.

[0216] Test Procedure The absorbent article package is equilibrated at 23±2° C. and 50±5% relative humidity prior to measurement.

[0217] Raise the horizontal sliding plate and center the absorbent article package under it with the absorbent articles in the package oriented horizontally (see Figure 5). Any handles or other packaging mechanisms on the surface of the package that would contact any of the plates should be folded flat against the surface of the package to minimize their effect on the measurement. Slowly lower the horizontal sliding plate until it contacts the top surface of the package, then release it. 10 seconds after releasing the horizontal sliding plate, measure the gap between the horizontal plates to within ±0.5 mm. Five identical packages (same size package and same number of absorbent articles) are measured and the arithmetic mean is reported as the package width. Calculate "in-bag stack height" = (package width / number of absorbent articles per stack) x 10 and report within ±0.5 mm.

[0218] Percentage of Colorant Coverage Measurement Method The colorant coverage percentage metric measures the area percent of colorant coverage on the package panel. Images are acquired using a flatbed scanner (a suitable scanner is the Epson Perfection V750 Pro or equivalent, manufactured by Epson America Inc., Long Beach, CA) capable of scanning a minimum of 24-bit color at 800 dpi and with manual color management controls. The scanner is interfaced to a computer running color calibration software capable of calibrating the scanner against a color reflective IT8 target using corresponding reference files conforming to ANSI method IT8.7 / 2-1993 (suitable color calibration software is Monaco EZColor or i1Studio, available from X-Rite, Grand Rapids, MI, or equivalent). The color calibration software constructs an International Color Consortium (ICC) color profile for the scanner, which is used to color correct the output image using image acquisition programs that support the application of ICC profiles. The color-corrected image is then segmented by color thresholding using color analysis software (a suitable image color analysis software is MATLAB R2017b available from Mathworks, Inc., Natick, MA).

[0219] Samples are conditioned at about 23°C ± 2°C and about 50% ± 2% relative humidity for 2 hours before testing.

[0220] Leave the scanner on for 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 you cannot disable automatic color management, the scanner is not suitable for this application. Create and export an ICC color profile for the scanner according to the recommended procedures in the color calibration software. The color calibration software compares the acquired IT8 target image with the corresponding reference file to create and export an ICC color profile for the scanner, which is then applied within an image analysis program to correct the color of subsequent output images.

[0221] A sample is taken from the package or packaging material with the identified panels. A single panel is selected and cut along its perimeter to remove it for testing. The panel selected for testing should not contain any tears or wrinkles.

[0222] Open the scanner lid and carefully place the sample flat on the center of the scanner glass with the colored surface facing the glass. A scan including the panel area is acquired in 24-bit color at a resolution of 800 dpi (approximately 31.5 pixels per mm) in reflective mode. Assign an ICC color profile to the image, generating a color-calibrated sRGB image. Prior to analysis, save this calibrated image in an uncompressed format, such as a TIFF file, to preserve the calibrated R, G, and B color values.

[0223] The calibrated image is opened in color analysis software. The image is smoothed using a 2D Gaussian filter with a sigma of 3 to blur the individual dots of colorant. A color thresholding program is then utilized to determine the color space in which to perform color thresholding, e.g., the three color values ​​L. * , a * , b *A color space value such as CIELAB is selected. A region of interest (ROI) boundary is then manually drawn within the visually perceptible area of ​​only the base color, without any colorants present, to identify its color space value. Panels with no visible base color areas are considered to have 100% colorant coverage. Thresholding levels in all three channels of the selected color space are then manually adjusted to separate areas of the panel containing colorant coverage from areas of the base color. The area of ​​the panel containing colorant coverage is measured, and the percentage of the panel's area containing colorant coverage is calculated and recorded as an integer percent.

[0224] Similarly, six replicate package panels are prepared, scanned, and analyzed. The arithmetic mean of the measured area percent colorant coverage values ​​is calculated and reported as a whole percentage.

[0225] Humidity Barrier Rapid Test (HuBa Test) The Humidity Barrier Rapid Test (HuBa Test) is used to evaluate the barrier properties of sample packaging materials. Specifically, raw packaging material available as roll stock, or alternatively, packaging material cut from a finished package, is used as the barrier surface of a test container placed in an environmentally controlled chamber. The time for the container's environment to reach quasi-equilibrium with the climate-controlled chamber environment is measured and reported as the HuBa parameter.

[0226] In this method, a polypropylene food storage container (hereinafter "test container") with a body, a removable lid, and an airtight seal is used to define a test volume. The removable lid of the test container is modified to create a rectangular opening in the lid. An untethered data logger is placed within the container. In a laboratory environment, a test specimen of the packaging material being characterized is stacked between the lid and body of the test container to create a barrier surface in the defined area (but sealed at the edges). The closed test container assembly is then placed in a climate-controlled chamber with a temperature and relative humidity elevated from ambient laboratory levels. After 48 hours, the test container assembly is then removed from the climate-controlled chamber, and the data logger memory is retrieved and read to establish a relative humidity vs. time data trace. The time to reach a quasi-equilibrium plateau (related to the climate-controlled chamber setpoint) is the Huba parameter.

[0227] Materials and Equipment The test container used was formed from polypropylene, had a capacity of approximately 2.6 L, and measured 248 mm long x 180 mm wide x 93 mm deep. The removable lid measured 248 mm long x 180 mm wide. A preferred test container is a LocknLock PP Classic Vorratsdose HPL826 food storage container from LocknLock Co. (Seoul, Republic of Korea), or its equivalent. Suitable alternative test containers have an airtight seal, generally with a secure snap closure, a capacity of 2.6 ± 0.2 L, and a depth of 446 ± 30 cm. 2 The lid of the test container shall be modified by cutting and removing a central rectangle approximately 80% of the area of ​​the lid to leave a bezel of approximately uniform dimensions at least about 20 mm wide around the entire perimeter of the lid.

[0228] A suitable untethered temperature and relative humidity data logger has an RH% accuracy within 5%, a range of 0% RH to 100% RH, a temperature range of 20° C. to 85° C., and is capable of sampling and recording once per minute for at least 48 hours. One example of a suitable data logger is the iButton DS1923 (Analog Devices, Wilmington, MA, USA) or its equivalent.

[0229] A suitable climate-controlled chamber should have a capacity of at least 250 L and be capable of controlling temperature within ±2°C and ±2% RH over the ranges of 20°C to 70°C and 10% RH to 80% RH. An example of a suitable climate-controlled chamber is the Model KBF 720 Humidity Test Chamber (Binder Inc., Bohemia, NY, USA). The chamber is maintained at 50°C and 75% RH prior to and throughout testing.

[0230] Sampling and Setup All packaging materials are equilibrated to a laboratory environment of 23±2°C and 50±5% RH for at least 24 hours, and this same environment is used throughout as the ambient laboratory environment. It is preferable to evaluate at least five similar specimens of packaging material, although only one can be characterized. The packaging material to be evaluated is preferably taken from raw roll stock or, if available, from an unfilled flat bag. In the case of roll stock, a similar specimen is cut from the roll stock, at least 1 cm longer and wider in each dimension as the lid of the test container. In the case of an unfilled flat bag, the specimen of packaging material is cut to be at least 1 cm longer and wider in each dimension as the lid of the test container, with the cutout portion being taken to avoid (or if this is not possible to minimize) the inclusion of joints, seams, or other disruptions in the packaging material to an otherwise continuous and uniform extent. If relevant roll stock or unfilled bag packaging material is not available, a similar specimen is cut from the relevant area of ​​the finished absorbent article package. The test specimen of packaging material shall again be taken at least 1 cm longer and wider in each dimension as the lid of the test container, so that the cut-off portion avoids (or if this is not possible to minimize) the inclusion of joins, seams, or other disruptions in the otherwise continuous and uniform extent of the packaging material. In either case, the test specimen may be more than 1 cm longer than each of the length and width of the lid, so long as this excess material does not interfere with secure closure of the test container. If the test container is such that a test specimen that is 1 cm longer or wider than the lid would interfere with secure closure of the test container, the test container is not suitable for this method, and an alternate test container that allows for a 1 cm overlap of the test specimens must be used.

[0231] A data logger configured to collect one temperature and percent relative humidity data point per minute is activated and then immediately placed into the body of the test container. One test piece of packaging material is placed in the center of the opening of the test container, which is then closed with a modified lid to create a seal with the packaging material around the edge of the test container, and the entire test container assembly is introduced into a climate-controlled chamber.

[0232] Measurement, Analysis, and Reporting After 48 hours, the test container with the specimen of packaging material is removed from the climate-controlled chamber, and the data logger is retrieved, stopped, and read to establish both the RH% vs. time trace and the temperature vs. time trace. Qualitatively, during this period, the relative humidity reaches quasi-equilibrium with the climate-controlled chamber, which corresponds to the plateau region of the RH% vs. time trace. (If experience with a given material justifies removal before 48 hours, this is acceptable; however, if it is discovered after the fact that the expected quasi-equilibrium point at the time of removal has not yet been reached, the specimen is discarded and replaced with an additional similar replicate.)

[0233] Analysis of the RH% vs. time trace involves several steps. First, inspection removes any artifacts at the end of the trace corresponding to the removal of the test vessel from the climate-controlled chamber or the data logger from the test vessel, so that the RH% vs. time trace ends with a plateau or upslope. Second, the first point in the temperature vs. time trace where the temperature exceeds 35°C is considered time zero, and the time axes of both the RH% vs. time trace and the temperature vs. time trace are shifted to define absolute time so that zero corresponds to this point. Third, if a quasi-equilibrium plateau is visible, the approximate range of time corresponding to this time is recorded, and the latter 50 percent of this time span is used to define the average plateau RH% by calculating the arithmetic mean of all RH% points in this latter span and recording it to the nearest 0.1% RH. (Note that due to possible absolute errors in both the relative humidity setpoint of the air conditioning chamber and the data logger itself, the quasi-equilibrium plateau may not occur at exactly 75% RH. The presence and temporal location of the plateau (rather than its absolute value) are used in this analysis.) If no terminal plateau is observed within the 48-hour test, the analysis is terminated at this point, and the specimen's HubA parameter is deemed to be 48.0 hours. Fourth, if a plateau is observed, this average plateau value is multiplied by 0.99 and recorded as the "plateau threshold" in 0.1% RH units. Fifth, the RH% vs. time trace is smoothed by applying a moving 10-minute window average to the RH% data. Finally, if a plateau is observed, the first time in the entire RH% vs. time trace at which the measured RH% exceeds the plateau threshold is deemed to be the specimen's HubA parameter being measured. The specimen's HubA parameter is recorded in hours, in 0.1-hour increments.

[0234] The arithmetic mean of the Huba parameters of each of the measured specimens is the Huba parameter of the packaging material being evaluated, reported in hours to the nearest 0.1 hour.

[0235] ASTM F88-06 - Seal Tensile Strength Test This test method determines the strength of vertical or angled side seals or seams or side seams or seals in flexible packaging materials by measuring the force required to separate a test strip of the material containing the seal. Seal strength is measured in accordance with compendial method ASTM F0088-06 on a constant rate of extension tensile tester with the procedural details described herein. Suitable equipment is an Instron Model 5965 with Bluehill Universal Software (both available from Instron, Norwood, Mass.) or a Zwick / Roell Materials Testing Machine Allround Tabletop Z010" with Zwick / Roell TestExpert V3 Software, or equivalent. All measurements are performed in a laboratory maintained at 23°C ± 2°C and 50% ± 2% relative humidity, with test samples conditioned in this environment for 2 hours before testing.

[0236] Specimen preparation and test procedures are described in the referenced ASTM method, with the following specific details: Specimens are cut to a width of 15 mm, the grip separation speed is 500 mm / min, and the tail hold method is unsupported. As the specimen is stressed to failure, the maximum force encountered is recorded as force per unit width to the nearest 0.1 N / 15 mm. This test is repeated for a total of at least three replicate specimens. The arithmetic mean of the maximum seal strength is calculated and reported as the tensile strength to the nearest 0.1 N / 15 mm.

[0237] Examples / Combinations: Aspect 1: 1. A package of one or more absorbent articles, the package comprising a packaging material, the packaging material comprising natural fibers, the package comprising a plurality of panels including a consumer-facing panel, the package sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein; the packaging material exhibits a HubA value of greater than about 5 hours according to the HubA test; The packaging is recyclable, the package includes a vertical side seal having a side seal strength of greater than about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm according to a Seal Tensile Strength Test; the packaging material comprises a barrier film; the barrier film includes a first layer closest to the natural fibers and a second layer furthest from the natural fibers; the first layer comprises a first polymeric material; the second layer comprises a second polymeric material; The package, wherein the first polymeric material is different from the second polymeric material. 2. The package of claim 1, wherein the first layer comprises high density polyethylene in contact with natural fibers. 3. The package of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second layer comprises low density polyethylene, the second layer being in contact with the first layer. 4. The package of claim 3, wherein the first layer and the second layer are coextruded. 5. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the packaging material comprises a heat-sealable lacquer, adhesive, and / or polymer. 6. The package of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first layer and the second layer are no more than 20 weight percent of the packaging material. 7. The package of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the first and second layers comprise no more than 10 weight percent, no more than 5 weight percent, no more than 4 weight percent, or no more than 3 weight percent, but at least 1 weight percent, of the packaging material. 8. The package of any one of claims 1-7, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles comprises superabsorbent polymer (SAP) in an amount greater than about 5 grams. 9. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of at least 80 percent. 10. The package of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of between about 60 percent and about 99.9 percent. 11. The package of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the package comprises at least 50 percent by weight natural fibers. 12. The package of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the packaging material comprises from about 70 weight percent to about 99 weight percent natural fibers. 13. The package of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the natural fibers comprise wood fibers or pulp fibers. 14. The package of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the packaging material exhibits a Huba value according to the Huba test of from about 5 hours to about 20 hours, preferably from about 5.3 hours to about 15 hours, more preferably from about 5.3 hours to about 12 hours. 15. The package of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the package is substantially free of adhesive. 16. The package of any one of claims 1-15, wherein the one or more absorbent articles in the package include a tape diaper, pants, or adult incontinence product. 17. The package of any one of claims 1-16, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles comprises a substantially deactivated wetness indicator. 18. The package of any one of claims 1-17, wherein one or more absorbent articles include a breathable film as a backsheet component. 19. The package of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the plurality of panels includes a consumer-facing panel, a back panel, a left side panel, a right side panel, a bottom panel, a first top panel, and a second top panel. 20. The package of claim 19, wherein the consumer-facing panel, the back panel, the bottom panel, and the first and second top panels are formed from a continuous piece of packaging material. 21. The package of claim 20, wherein the left side panel includes a vertical left side seam and two angled left side seams, and the right panel includes a vertical right side seam and two angled right side seams, the length of the vertical left side seam being greater than the length of the two angled left side seams, and the length of the vertical right side seam being greater than the length of the two angled right side seams. 22. The package of claim 21, wherein the consumer-facing panel has a consumer-facing panel height, the consumer-facing panel height being greater than the length of the vertical left side seam. 23. The package of claim 21, wherein the back panel has a back panel height, the back panel height being greater than the length of the vertical right side seam. 24. The package of claim 21, wherein the bottom panel is generally rectangular. 25. The package of claim 21, wherein the bottom panel, the consumer-facing panel, and the back panel are seam-free. 26. The package of any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the first polymeric material comprises a polyolefin. 27. The package of any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the second polymeric material comprises a polyolefin. 28. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the first polymeric material and / or the second polymeric material comprises PIR and / or PCR. 29. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the natural fibres comprise PIR and / or PCR. 30. The package of any one of claims 1-29, including a handle having a slit or slot cut or punched therethrough, the handle being integral with the packaging material.

[0238] Aspect 2: 1. A package of one or more absorbent articles, the package comprising a packaging material, the packaging material comprising natural fibers, the package comprising a plurality of panels including a consumer-facing panel, the package sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein; the packaging material exhibits a HubA value of greater than about 5.3 hours to about 20 hours according to the HubA test; The packaging is recyclable, A package in which one or more absorbent articles each comprise superabsorbent polymer (SAP) in an amount greater than about 5 grams per article. 2. The package of claim 1, wherein the packaging material comprises a barrier film layer disposed on an interior surface of the packaging material. 3. The package of claim 2, wherein the barrier film layer comprises low density polyethylene. 4. The package of claim 2, wherein the barrier film layer comprises a first layer and a second layer, the first layer comprising a first polyolefin material in contact with the natural fiber, the second layer comprising a second polyolefin material, the first polyolefin material being different from the second polyolefin material, the second layer in contact with the first layer, and the second layer overlapping only about 5% to about 35% of the first layer. 5. The package of claim 4, wherein the first layer comprises high density polyethylene. 6. The package of claim 5, wherein the second layer comprises low density polyethylene. 7. The package of claim 4, wherein the first layer and the second layer are coextruded. 8. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the packaging material comprises a heat-sealable lacquer, adhesive, and / or polymer. 9. The package of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the package includes a vertical side seal having a side seal strength of greater than about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm according to a seal tensile strength test. 10. The package of any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the first and second layers are no more than 20 percent by weight of the packaging material. 11. The package of any one of claims 4-9, wherein the first and second layers comprise no more than 10 weight percent, no more than 5 weight percent, no more than 4 weight percent, or no more than 3 weight percent, but at least 1 weight percent, of the packaging material. 12. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of at least 80 percent. 13. The package of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of from about 60 percent to about 99.9 percent. 14. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the packaging material comprises at least 50 weight percent natural fibers. 15. The package of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the packaging material comprises from about 70 weight percent to about 99 weight percent natural fibers. 16. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the natural fibres comprise wood fibres or pulp fibres. 17. The package of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the packaging material exhibits a Huba value of from about 5.3 hours to about 12 hours according to the Huba test. 18. The package of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the package is substantially free of adhesive. 19. The package of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the one or more absorbent articles in the package include a tape diaper, pants, or adult incontinence product. 20. The package of any one of claims 1-19, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles comprises a substantially deactivated wetness indicator. 21. The package of any one of claims 1-20, wherein one or more absorbent articles include a breathable film as a backsheet component. 22. The package of any one of claims 1-21, wherein the plurality of panels includes a consumer-facing panel, a back panel, a left side panel, a right side panel, a bottom panel, a first top panel, and a second top panel. 23. The package of claim 22, wherein the consumer-facing panel, back panel, bottom panel, and first and second top panels are formed from a continuous piece of packaging material. 24. The package of claim 23, wherein the left side panel includes a vertical left side seam and two angled left side seams, and the right panel includes a vertical right side seam and two angled right side seams, the length of the vertical left side seam being greater than the length of the two angled left side seams, and the length of the vertical right side seam being greater than the length of the two angled right side seams. 25. The package of claim 24, wherein the consumer-facing panel has a consumer-facing panel height, the consumer-facing panel height being greater than the length of the vertical left side seam. 26. The package of claim 24, wherein the back panel has a back panel height, the back panel height being greater than the length of the vertical right side seam. 27. The package of claim 22, wherein the bottom panel is generally rectangular. 28. The package of claim 22, wherein the bottom panel, the consumer-facing panel, and the back panel are seam-free. 29. The package of any one of claims 1-28, including a handle having a slit or slot cut or punched therethrough, the handle being integral with the packaging material. 30. A package configured to receive one or more absorbent articles, the package comprising: including packaging materials, the packaging material comprises natural fibers, the package comprises a plurality of panels including a consumer-facing panel and a back panel having one or more wicket holes in a portion thereof, the package being configured to be sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein; the rear panel including a first chamfered side edge and a second chamfered side edge in an area adjacent to the one or more wicket holes; The packaging is recyclable. 31. The package of claim 30, wherein one or more slits or perforation lines extend outward from one or more wicket holes. 32. A package as claimed in claim 30 or 31, including a handle having a slit or slot cut or punched therethrough, the handle being integral with the packaging material. 33. The package of claim 30, wherein the packaging material includes a barrier layer comprising metallized paper disposed on an interior surface of the packaging material. 34. The package of claim 30, wherein the packaging material includes a barrier layer comprising an inorganic material disposed on an interior surface of the packaging material.

[0239] Aspect 3. 1. A package of one or more absorbent articles, the package comprising a packaging material, the packaging material comprising natural fibers, the package comprising a plurality of panels including a consumer-facing panel, the package sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein; the packaging material exhibits a HubA value of greater than about 5.3 hours according to the HubA test; The packaging is recyclable, The package includes a vertical side seal having a side seal strength greater than about 5.1 N / 15 mm and less than about 15 N / 15 mm according to a seal tensile strength test. 2. The package of claim 1, wherein the packaging material comprises a barrier film layer disposed on an interior surface of the packaging material. 3. The package of claim 2, wherein the barrier film layer comprises low density polyethylene. 4. The package of claim 2, wherein the barrier film comprises a first layer and a second layer, the first layer comprising a first polyolefin material in contact with the natural fibers, the second layer comprising a second polyolefin material, the first polyolefin material being different from the second polyolefin material, and the second layer being in contact with the first layer. 5. The package of claim 4, wherein the first layer comprises high density polyethylene. 6. The package of claim 5, wherein the second layer comprises low density polyethylene. 7. The package of claim 4, wherein the first layer and the second layer are coextruded. 8. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the packaging material comprises a heat-sealable lacquer, adhesive, and / or polymer. 9. The package of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the first and second layers are no more than 20 percent by weight of the package material. 10. The package of any one of claims 4-8, wherein the first and second layers comprise no more than 10 weight percent, no more than 5 weight percent, no more than 4 weight percent, or no more than 3 weight percent, but at least 1 weight percent, of the packaging material. 11. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of at least 80 percent. 12. The package of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of between about 60 percent and about 99.9 percent. 13. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the packaging material comprises at least 50 percent by weight natural fibers. 14. The package of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the packaging material comprises from about 70 weight percent to about 99 weight percent natural fibers. 15. The package of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the natural fibers comprise wood fibers or pulp fibers. 16. The package of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the packaging material exhibits a Huba value of from about 5.3 hours to about 12 hours according to the Huba test. 17. The package of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the package is substantially free of adhesive. 18. The package of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the one or more absorbent articles in the package include a tape diaper, pants, or adult incontinence product. 19. The package of any one of claims 1-18, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles comprises a substantially deactivated wetness indicator. 20. The package of any one of claims 1-19, wherein one or more absorbent articles include a breathable film as a backsheet component. 21. The package of any one of claims 1-20, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles comprises superabsorbent polymer (SAP) in an amount greater than about 5 grams per article. 22. The package of any one of claims 1-21, wherein the plurality of panels includes a consumer-facing panel, a back panel, a left side panel, a right side panel, a bottom panel, a first top panel, and a second top panel. 23. The package of claim 22, wherein the consumer-facing panel, back panel, bottom panel, and first and second top panels are formed from a continuous piece of packaging material. 24. The package of claim 23, wherein the left side panel includes a vertical left side seam and two angled left side seams, and the right panel includes a vertical right side seam and two angled right side seams, the length of the vertical left side seam being greater than the length of the two angled left side seams, and the length of the vertical right side seam being greater than the length of the two angled right side seams. 25. The package of claim 24, wherein the consumer-facing panel has a consumer-facing panel height, the consumer-facing panel height being greater than the length of the vertical left side seam. 26. The package of claim 24, wherein the back panel has a back panel height, the back panel height being greater than the length of the vertical right side seam. 27. The package of claim 24, wherein the bottom panel is generally rectangular. 28. The package of claim 24, wherein the bottom panel, the consumer-facing panel, and the back panel are seam-free. 29. The package of any one of claims 1 to 28, including a handle, the handle including a slit or slot therethrough, the handle being integral with the packaging material. 30. The package of claim 1, wherein the packaging material includes a barrier layer comprising metallized paper disposed on an interior surface of the packaging material. 31. The package of claim 1, wherein the packaging material includes a barrier layer comprising an inorganic material disposed on an interior surface of the packaging material.

[0240] Aspect 4: 1. A package configured to receive one or more absorbent articles, the package comprising packaging material; the packaging material comprises natural fibers, the package comprises a plurality of panels including a consumer-facing panel and a back panel having one or more wicket holes in a portion thereof, the package being configured to be sealed such that one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein; the rear panel including a first chamfered side edge and a second chamfered side edge in an area adjacent to the one or more wicket holes; The packaging is recyclable. 2. The package of claim 1, wherein one or more slits or perforation lines extend outward from one or more wicket holes. 3. The package of claim 1 or 2, including a handle having a slit or slot cut or punched therethrough, the handle being integral with the packaging material. 4. The package of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the packaging material comprises a barrier film layer disposed on an interior surface of the packaging material. 5. The package of claim 4, wherein the barrier film layer comprises low density polyethylene. 6. The package of claim 4, wherein the barrier film layer comprises a first layer and a second layer, the first layer comprising a first polyolefin material in contact with the natural fibers, the second layer comprising a second polyolefin material, the first polyolefin material being different from the second polyolefin material, and the second layer being in contact with the first layer. 7. The package of claim 6, wherein the second layer overlaps only about 5% to about 25% of the second layer. 8. The package of claim 6, wherein the first layer comprises high density polyethylene. 9. The package of claim 8, wherein the second layer comprises low density polyethylene. 10. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the packaging material comprises a heat-sealable lacquer, adhesive, and / or polymer. 11. The package of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the package includes a vertical side seal having a side seal strength of greater than about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm according to a seal tensile strength test. 12. The package of any one of claims 6-11, wherein the first and second layers comprise no more than 10 weight percent, no more than 5 weight percent, no more than 4 weight percent, or no more than 3 weight percent, but at least 1 weight percent, of the packaging material. 13. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of at least 80 percent. 14. The package of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of between about 60 percent and about 99.9 percent. 15. The package of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the packaging material comprises from about 70 weight percent to about 99 weight percent natural fibers. 16. A package according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the natural fibres comprise wood fibres or pulp fibres. 17. The package of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the package is substantially free of adhesive. 18. The package of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the one or more absorbent articles in the package comprise a tape diaper, pants, or adult incontinence product, and each of the one or more absorbent articles comprises a substantially inactivated wetness indicator. 19. The package of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the plurality of panels includes a consumer-facing panel, a back panel, a left side panel, a right side panel, a bottom panel, a first top panel, and a second top panel. 20. The package of claim 19, wherein the consumer-facing panel, the back panel, the bottom panel, and the first and second top panels are formed from a continuous piece of packaging material. 21. The package of claim 19, wherein the left side panel includes a vertical left side seam and two angled left side seams, and the right panel includes a vertical right side seam and two angled right side seams, the length of the vertical left side seam being greater than the length of the two angled left side seams, and the length of the vertical right side seam being greater than the length of the two angled right side seams. 22. The package of claim 19, wherein the consumer-facing panel has a consumer-facing panel height, the consumer-facing panel height being greater than the length of the vertical left side seam. 23. The package of claim 19, wherein the back panel has a back panel height, the back panel height being greater than the length of the vertical right side seam. 24. The package of claim 19, wherein the bottom panel is generally rectangular. 25. The package of claim 19, wherein the bottom panel, the consumer-facing panel, and the back panel are seam-free. 26. The package of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the packaging material includes a barrier layer comprising metallized paper disposed on an inner surface of the packaging material. 27. The package of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the packaging material includes a barrier layer comprising an inorganic material disposed on an inner surface of the packaging material.

[0241] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm." When ranges are disclosed herein, all numbers within those ranges are specifically recited herein but not written out for brevity. For example, if a range is 1 mm to 10 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, and 10 mm are specifically recited. Also specifically recited herein are any ranges formed within the range, such as 3 mm to 7 mm or 4 mm to 9 mm. When a range of 1 mm to 10 mm and a range of 20 mm to 40 mm are provided, the range formed between the two ranges is specifically recited, such as 1 mm to 40 mm or 10 mm to 20 mm.

[0242] All documents cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patents or patent applications, and any patent applications or patents to which this application claims priority or benefit, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, unless expressly stated to the contrary. The citation of any document shall not be deemed to be prior art to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, or to teach, suggest, or disclose, either alone or in combination with any other reference or references, any such invention. Furthermore, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall control.

[0243] 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 to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A package of one or more absorbent articles, the package comprising a packaging material, the packaging material comprising natural fibers, the package comprising a plurality of panels including a consumer-facing panel, the package sealed such that the one or more absorbent articles are enclosed therein; the packaging material exhibits a HuBa value of greater than about 5 hours according to the HuBa Test; the package exhibits a recyclable paper percentage of about 60 percent to about 99.9 percent; the package includes a vertical side seal having a side seal strength of greater than about 5.1 N / 15 mm to about 15 N / 15 mm according to a Seal Tensile Strength Test; the packaging material comprises a barrier film; the barrier film comprising a first layer closest to the natural fibers and a second layer furthest from the natural fibers; the first layer comprises a first polymeric material; the second layer comprises a second polymeric material; The package, wherein the first polymeric material is different from the second polymeric material.

2. 10. The package of claim 1, wherein the first layer comprises high density polyethylene in contact with the natural fibers, and the second layer comprises low density polyethylene, the second layer in contact with at least a portion of the first layer.

3. 3. The package of claim 1 or 2, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the packaging material comprises a heat-sealable lacquer, adhesive, and / or polymer.

4. 4. The package of claim 1, wherein the first and second layers comprise no more than 20 weight percent, no more than 10 weight percent, no more than 5 weight percent, no more than 4 weight percent, or no more than 3 weight percent, but at least 1 weight percent, of the packaging material.

5. The package of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the one or more absorbent articles comprises superabsorbent polymer (SAP) in an amount greater than about 5 grams.

6. The package of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the packaging material comprises from about 70 weight percent to about 99 weight percent of the natural fibers.

7. 7. The package of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the packaging material exhibits a HuBa value according to the HuBa Test of from about 5 hours to about 20 hours, preferably from about 5.3 hours to about 15 hours, more preferably from about 5.3 hours to about 12 hours.

8. The package of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the package is substantially free of adhesive.

9. 9. The package of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the one or more absorbent articles comprise a substantially deactivated wetness indicator, and the one or more absorbent articles comprise a breathable film as a backsheet component.

10. 10. The package of claim 1, wherein the plurality of panels comprises the consumer-facing panel, a back panel, a left side panel, a right side panel, a bottom panel, a first top panel, and a second top panel, and the consumer-facing panel, the back panel, the bottom panel, and the first and second top panels are formed from a continuous packaging material.

11. 11. The package of claim 10, wherein the left side panel includes a vertical left side seam and two angled left side seams, and the right panel includes a vertical right side seam and two angled right side seams, the length of the vertical left side seam being greater than the length of the two angled left side seams, and the length of the vertical right side seam being greater than the length of the two angled right side seams.

12. 11. The package of claim 10, wherein the consumer-facing panel has a consumer-facing panel height, the consumer-facing panel height being greater than the length of the vertical left side seam, and the back panel has a back panel height, the back panel height being greater than the length of the vertical right side seam.

13. 11. The package of claim 10, wherein the bottom panel is generally rectangular, and the bottom panel, the consumer-facing panel, and the back panel are seam-free.

14. The package according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first polymeric material and / or the second polymeric material comprises PIR and / or PCR.

15. A package according to any preceding claim, comprising a handle having a slit or slot cut or punched therethrough, said handle being integral with the packaging material.

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