absorbent articles

Abstract

An absorbent article (1) includes an absorbent body (10) comprising a liquid-absorbing absorbent core (11) and an air-permeable film (13a) provided further to the non-skin side than the absorbent core (11). The absorbent article (1) includes a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (32, 42) further to the non-skin side than the air-permeable film (13a), and the absorbent core (11), the air-permeable film (13a), and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (32, 42) at least partially overlap when viewed from the thickness direction of the absorbent body (10).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent article. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, absorbent articles such as disposable diapers having a liquid-absorbent absorbent core have been common. One example of such absorbent articles is a technology in which a breathable film is provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, and moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core is passed through the breathable film as water vapor and evaporated to the outside (non-skin side) of the diaper without leaking as a liquid. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a pants-type disposable diaper having an absorbent core 56 (absorbent element 50), a liquid-impermeable sheet 70 that is disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 56 and is liquid-impermeable and moisture-permeable, and a crotch outer sheet 12 that is disposed on the non-skin side of the liquid-impermeable sheet 70 and is exposed on the outer surface of the product.

[0003] Furthermore, pants-type diapers using hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics whose hydrophilicity has been enhanced by the inclusion of a hydrophilic oil agent have been conventionally known. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a technology relating to a disposable diaper using, as an exterior sheet 4 constituting an exterior body 3 of a diaper 1, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric having fibers that have been hydrophilized by, for example, treating hydrophobic synthetic fibers with a hydrophilizing agent. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-253285 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-113186 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is at least one of the following first to third problems.

[0006] The first problem is that, in conventional absorbent articles, an exterior sheet member (crotch exterior sheet 12) that constitutes the exterior of the product is usually provided on the non-skin side of a breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 70), as disclosed in Patent Document 1. The exterior sheet member is generally made of a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, such as a melt-blown nonwoven fabric, a point-bonded nonwoven fabric, or an air-through nonwoven fabric.

[0007] However, if a hydrophobic exterior sheet member is provided on the non-skin side of the breathable film, it may be difficult to efficiently evaporate moisture, such as urine, absorbed by the absorbent core to the outside of the absorbent article. For example, water vapor that passes through the breathable film from the absorbent core and moves from the skin side to the non-skin side may be prevented from moving further to the non-skin side by the hydrophobic exterior sheet member, making it easier for moisture to accumulate between the exterior sheet member and the breathable film. In this case, moisture may remain inside the absorbent article without being discharged to the outside, causing stuffiness and skin problems, which may cause discomfort to the wearer.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and its object is to provide an absorbent article that easily discharges moisture absorbed by the absorbent core to the outside.

[0009] The second problem is that, in diapers using a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric such as that in Patent Document 2, in order to detect the presence or absence of excrement and notify the user (caregiver, guardian, etc.), it has been considered to provide an indicator that exhibits some kind of reaction (for example, a color reaction) upon contact with moisture contained in excrement. However, when such an indicator is provided, the indicator may react to moisture such as sweat absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. In other words, there is a risk that the indicator may erroneously detect something other than excrement, making it difficult to accurately detect the presence or absence of excrement.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to suppress erroneous detection of an indicator in an absorbent article using a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0011] The third problem is that adhesives, such as post-treatment tapes and front and rear marking tapes, may be attached to the surface of the outer packaging of disposable diapers. However, in diapers such as those described in Patent Document 2, the oil agent (hydrophilizing agent) used to hydrophilize the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric may cause the adhesive to peel off easily from the surface of the outer packaging. Furthermore, when the post-treatment tape (adhesive) is pulled to unfold it after use of the diaper, the bonds between the fibers constituting the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric may break, causing part of the nonwoven fabric to tear and the adhesive to peel off from the outer packaging.

[0012] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned conventional problems, and its purpose is to make it difficult for an adhesive attached to the outer casing of an absorbent article using a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to peel off. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] The main invention for achieving the first object is: An absorbent article having an absorbent main body including a liquid-absorbent core and a breathable film provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side of the breathable film; When viewed in the thickness direction of the absorbent main body, the absorbent core, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric at least partially overlap each other, an absorbent body having the absorbent core, an outer member including a front waistband portion joined to one side of the absorbent main body in the longitudinal direction and a rear waistband portion joined to the other side of the absorbent main body in the longitudinal direction; The absorbent main body is folded in half at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction, and has a pair of side joining portions that connect both left and right side portions of the front waistline portion and the rear waistline portion to each other, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is provided on at least a portion of the exterior member, the exterior member includes a skin side sheet, a non-skin side sheet laminated adjacent to the non-skin side of the skin side sheet, and a rubber thread provided between the skin side sheet and the non-skin side sheet in the thickness direction, the non-skin-side sheet is the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the non-skin side sheet of the front waistline portion and the non-skin side sheet of the rear waistline portion are discontinuous, the skin side sheet is a sheet closest to the rubber thread from the skin side, the non-skin side sheet is a sheet closest to the rubber thread from the non-skin side, the non-skin side sheet has the most non-skin side surface of the exterior member, A slit portion penetrating the absorbent core in the thickness direction Has, When viewed in the thickness direction, there is an overlapping portion between the slit portion, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. An absorbent article characterized by: is.

[0014] The main invention for achieving the second object is an absorbent article having an absorbent body including a liquid-absorbent core and a liquid-impermeable film provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, an outer member provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent body, and an indicator that exhibits a predetermined reaction when it comes into contact with excrement, wherein at least one of the sheet members constituting the outer member is a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and when viewed in the thickness direction, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the liquid-impermeable film at least partially overlap, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is positioned on the non-skin side of the liquid-impermeable film in the thickness direction, and the indicator is positioned on the skin side of the liquid-impermeable film in the thickness direction.

[0015] The main invention for achieving the third object is an absorbent article having a liquid-absorbing absorbent main body and an outer member provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body, wherein the outer member has a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric containing a hydrophilic oil agent on the non-skin side, and has an adhesive attached to the non-skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric with an adhesive, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has fibers whose fiber length is longer than the smaller of the dimensions in the longitudinal and lateral directions of the adhesive.

[0016] Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] The effect of the present invention in relation to the first problem is to provide an absorbent article that can easily discharge moisture absorbed by the absorbent core to the outside.

[0018] The effect of the present invention in relation to the second problem is that erroneous detection of an indicator can be suppressed in an absorbent article using a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0019] The effect of the present invention in relation to the third problem is that it can make it difficult for a patch attached to an exterior body of an absorbent article using a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to peel off. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a diaper 1. [Figure 2] 1 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 4A is a plan view of the absorbent body 10, and FIG. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent body 10. As shown in FIG. [Figure 5] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating the mechanism by which moisture is discharged from the absorbent body 10 in region B of FIG. [Figure 6]Fig. 6A is a schematic plan view showing the pants-type diaper 1 in a stretched state as viewed from the front side in the front-to-rear direction, and Fig. 6B is a schematic plan view showing the pants-type diaper 1 in a stretched state as viewed from the rear side in the front-to-rear direction. [Figure 7] FIG. 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 6A. [Figure 8] 8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating a method for attaching the waistline elastic members 35 to the front waistline portion 30 using the welded portions 60. FIG. [Figure 9] Fig. 9A is a plan view of the diaper 2 in an unfolded and stretched state, and Fig. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line DD in Fig. 9A. [Figure 10] Fig. 10A is a plan view of the diaper 3 in an unfolded and stretched state, and Fig. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line EE in Fig. 10A. [Figure 11] Fig. 11A is a plan view of the diaper 4 in an unfolded and stretched state, and Fig. 11B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line FF in Fig. 11A. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a diaper 1001 in an unfolded and stretched state. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14A is a plan view of the absorbent body 1010, and FIG. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent body 1010. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the basic principle of absorption and evaporation of moisture in a diaper 1001. [Figure 16] 16A and 16B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the arrangement of the indicator 1070 and the movement of moisture in the diaper 1001. FIG. [Figure 17] 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the arrangement of the indicator 1070. FIG. [Figure 18] Fig. 18A is a plan view of the diaper 1002 in an unfolded and stretched state, and Fig. 18B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line DD in Fig. 18A. [Figure 19]Fig. 19A is a plan view of the diaper 1003 in an unfolded and stretched state, and Fig. 19B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line EE in Fig. 19A. [Figure 20] Fig. 20A is a plan view of the diaper 1004 in an unfolded and stretched state, and Fig. 20B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line FF in Fig. 20A. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the diaper 2001 in an unfolded and stretched state. [Figure 22] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 2. [Figure 23] 23A is a plan view of the absorbent body 2010, and FIG. 23B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent body 2010. FIG. [Figure 24] 10 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a post-treatment tape 2080 provided on the non-skin side of the rear waistband portion 2040. FIG. [Figure 25] Fig. 25A is a schematic perspective view of the diaper 2001 seen from the back side with the post-treatment tape 2080 deployed. Fig. 25B is a schematic perspective view showing the diaper 2001 in the state of Fig. 25A rolled up and ready for disposal. [Figure 26] 26A and 26B are diagrams for explaining factors that cause the post-treatment tape 2080 to come off during the post-treatment operation of the diaper 2001. FIG. [Figure 27] 10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the fibers constituting the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the diaper 2001 and the post-treatment tape 2080. FIG. [Figure 28] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the post-processing tape 2080. FIG. [Figure 29] 29A and 29B are diagrams illustrating the forces acting on a modified post-processing tape 2080 when a post-processing operation is performed. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the state of the surface of the non-skin side sheet 2042 in the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] At least the following matters will become clear from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. An absorbent article having an absorbent body with a liquid-absorbing absorbent core and a breathable film provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, characterized in that a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is provided on the non-skin side of the breathable film, and when viewed in the thickness direction of the absorbent body, the absorbent core, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap at least partially.

[0022] In such an absorbent article, in the region where the absorbent core, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are layered in the thickness direction, the highly hydrophilic hydrophilic nonwoven fabric facilitates moisture migration to the non-skin side in the thickness direction. In other words, moisture migration to the non-skin side is promoted, making it easier to expel moisture from the inside to the outside of the diaper.

[0023] It is desirable that such an absorbent article comprises an absorbent main body having the absorbent core, an outer member having a front waist portion joined to one longitudinal side of the absorbent main body and a rear waist portion joined to the other longitudinal side, the absorbent main body is folded in half at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction, and the front waist portion and the rear waist portion have a pair of side joining portions connecting both left and right side portions of each other, and at least a part of the outer member is provided with a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0024] According to such an absorbent article, in a so-called three-piece type pants-type absorbent article consisting of an absorbent main body and a front waistband and a rear waistband (outer member) that are arranged on the non-skin side thereof, the transfer of moisture from the skin side to the non-skin side is promoted in the area where the absorbent core, breathable film, and hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap in the thickness direction, making it easier to expel moisture from the inside to the outside of the absorbent article.

[0025] It is desirable that such an absorbent article comprises an absorbent main body having the absorbent core, an outer member provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body and integrally configured so as to continue from one side to the other in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body, the absorbent main body being folded in half at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction, and having a pair of side joints that connect both left and right side portions of the outer member on one side in the longitudinal direction to both left and right side portions of the outer member on the other side in the longitudinal direction, and at least a part of the outer member is provided with a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0026] According to such an absorbent article, in a so-called two-piece type pants-type absorbent article consisting of an absorbent main body and an integrated outer member arranged on the non-skin side, the transfer of moisture from the skin side to the non-skin side is promoted in the area where the absorbent core, breathable film, and hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap in the thickness direction, making it easier to expel moisture from the inside to the outside of the absorbent article.

[0027] In such an absorbent article, when viewed in the thickness direction, it is desirable that the area of ​​the portion where the absorbent core, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap in the region below the lower end of the side joint is larger than the area of ​​the portion where the absorbent core, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap in the region above the lower end of the side joint.

[0028] With this absorbent article, the area where the absorbent core and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap can be increased in the region located under the wearer's crotch (crotch region). This allows moisture, such as urine, absorbed by the absorbent core (skin side) to be easily transferred to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side) over a wide area of ​​the crotch region. This reduces discomfort in the crotch area of ​​the wearer.

[0029] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the entire breathable film overlaps with the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0030] In this absorbent article, moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core that permeates the breathable film from the skin side to the non-skin side as water vapor is more likely to migrate to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric provided on the non-skin side across the entire area of ​​the breathable film, which further promotes the movement of moisture from the skin side to the non-skin side in the thickness direction, making it less likely for moisture to remain inside the absorbent article.

[0031] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the outer member has an elastic member that stretches in the left-right direction, and that the stress of the elastic member in the center of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is smaller than the stress of the elastic member on both sides of the absorbent core in the left-right direction.

[0032] In this absorbent article, the contractile force of the elastic member is less likely to act on the central portion of the absorbent core in the left-right direction, making it easier for the absorbent body and the outer member to maintain their flat shape. Therefore, the laminated structure of the sheet members in the thickness direction is more likely to be maintained in this central portion, making it less likely for moisture to be impeded in the thickness direction. This allows moisture, such as urine, absorbed by the absorbent core on the skin side to migrate to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side, making it easier for moisture to be expelled to the outside of the absorbent core.

[0033] It is desirable that such an absorbent article has an absorbent main body with the absorbent core, an outer member that is provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body and is integrally constructed so as to continue from one side of the absorbent main body to the other side in the longitudinal direction, a pair of fastening tapes at one end of the outer member in the longitudinal direction, and a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric provided on at least a part of the outer member.

[0034] Such an absorbent article is a so-called tape-type absorbent article that has an absorbent main body and an outer member arranged on the non-skin side thereof, and is attached to the wearer's body using a pair of fastening tapes attached to the outer member.In this case, the transfer of moisture from the skin side to the non-skin side is promoted in the area where the absorbent core, breathable film, and hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap in the thickness direction, making it easier to expel moisture from the inside to the outside of the absorbent article.

[0035] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the exterior member has a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, which is less hydrophilic than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, on the skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0036] In such an absorbent article, the hydrophilic gradient between the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the outer cover facilitates the transfer of moisture from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric side to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric side. In other words, moisture is more easily transferred from the skin side to the non-skin side. This makes it easier for moisture, such as urine, to be expelled to the outside of the absorbent article.

[0037] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be provided on the outer cover member closest to the skin.

[0038] In such an absorbent article, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric arranged on the side closest to the skin of the outer cover member forms an interface with the atmosphere, which makes it easier for moisture that migrates from the absorbent core and is contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to evaporate into the atmosphere, making it easier for moisture to be discharged to the outside of the absorbent article and reducing discomfort to the wearer.

[0039] It is desirable that such an absorbent article has a left-right direction, the width of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the left-right direction is greater than the width of the breathable film in the left-right direction, and the width of the breathable film in the left-right direction is equal to or greater than the width of the absorbent core in the left-right direction.

[0040] This absorbent article allows moisture (water vapor) to move from the entire absorbent core in the left-right direction through the breathable film to the non-skin side. Furthermore, moisture that has permeated the breathable film is easily absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side. Therefore, moisture can be more efficiently discharged from the inside (skin side) of the absorbent article to the outside (non-skin side).

[0041] It is desirable that such an absorbent article, when viewed in the thickness direction, has a portion where the absorbent core and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap, and a portion where the absorbent core and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric do not overlap.

[0042] In such an absorbent article, in the area where the absorbent core and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap, moisture such as urine can be efficiently discharged to the outside of the absorbent article. On the other hand, in the area where the absorbent core and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric do not overlap, moisture such as sweat of the wearer can be transferred to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and discharged to the outside of the absorbent article. Therefore, problems such as stuffiness when wearing the absorbent article can be more unlikely to occur.

[0043] It is desirable that such an absorbent article has a slit portion that penetrates the absorbent core in the thickness direction, and has a portion where the slit portion, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0044] In such an absorbent article, the breathable film and hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are provided on the non-skin side of the slits in the absorbent core, where moisture such as urine tends to accumulate, so that moisture accumulated in the slits can be easily transferred from the skin side to the non-skin side and evaporated to the outside. Therefore, the provision of the slits makes it easier for the absorbent core to deform to fit the shape of the wearer's body, and also reduces stuffiness, making it less likely for the wearer to feel uncomfortable.

[0045] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the moisture permeability of the breathable film is 1000 g / m2·24 h or more and 3500 g / m2·24 h or less.

[0046] In such absorbent articles, if the moisture permeability is 1000 g / m²·24h or higher, water vapor can easily pass through the breathable film, facilitating the evaporation of moisture from the inside (skin side) of the absorbent article to the outside (non-skin side). On the other hand, if the moisture permeability is 3500 g / m²·24h or lower, the breathable film is prevented from excessively transmitting water vapor, preventing excessive absorption of moisture by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the outside (non-skin side). Therefore, when the absorbent article is worn, it is possible to release an appropriate amount of moisture while preventing the outer hydrophilic nonwoven fabric from becoming damp, reducing discomfort to the wearer.

[0047] Furthermore, an absorbent article has been revealed that has an absorbent main body including a liquid-absorbing absorbent core and a liquid-impermeable film provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, an outer member provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body, and an indicator that exhibits a predetermined reaction when it comes into contact with excrement, wherein at least one of the sheet members constituting the outer member is a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and when viewed in the thickness direction, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the liquid-impermeable film overlap at least partially, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is positioned on the non-skin side of the liquid-impermeable film in the thickness direction, and the indicator is positioned on the skin side of the liquid-impermeable film in the thickness direction.

[0048] In this absorbent article, when moisture such as sweat is absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric constituting the outer member, the liquid-impermeable film provided between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator prevents the moisture from moving from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side) to the indicator (skin side). In other words, moisture from sweat absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to come into contact with the indicator. This prevents the indicator from erroneously detecting liquids other than excrement.

[0049] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the outer member has a front waist portion and a rear waist portion, the front waist portion being joined to one longitudinal side of the absorbent main body and the rear waist portion being joined to the other longitudinal side, and when the absorbent main body is folded in half at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction, both left and right side portions of the front waist portion and the rear waist portion are connected to each other, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is arranged on the non-skin side of at least one of the front waist portion and the rear waist portion.

[0050] According to this absorbent article, in a so-called three-piece pants-type absorbent article consisting of an absorbent main body and a front waistband and a rear waistband (outer member) arranged on the non-skin side thereof, moisture such as sweat absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side) can be prevented from migrating to the indicator side (skin side) and coming into contact with the indicator, thereby preventing erroneous detection of the indicator in a three-piece pants-type diaper.

[0051] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that at least one of the front waistband and the rear waistband has a portion where the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator overlap when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0052] With such an absorbent article, the indicator can be arranged over a wide area in a three-piece pants-type diaper, to the extent that it overlaps with the outer member, while preventing the indicator from falsely detecting moisture such as sweat absorbed by the outer member.

[0053] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the rear waistband portion has a portion where the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator overlap when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0054] This absorbent article can prevent moisture such as sweat absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the rear waistband from coming into contact with the indicator, effectively preventing false detection by the indicator on the back side where the wearer is likely to sweat.

[0055] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that, when viewed in the thickness direction, the number of sheet members laminated on the non-skin side of the indicator in the area where the indicator and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap is greater than the number of sheet members laminated on the non-skin side of the indicator in the area where the indicator and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric do not overlap.

[0056] In such an absorbent article, the greater the number of non-skin-side sheet members stacked in the area where the indicator overlaps with the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the less likely moisture contained in the non-skin-side hydrophilic nonwoven fabric will migrate to the skin side, making it easier to suppress false detection by the indicator. Also, the fewer the number of sheet members stacked in the area where the indicator and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric do not overlap, the greater the flexibility of the absorbent article and the better the fit when worn.

[0057] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the outer member is integrally constructed so as to be continuous from one side of the absorbent main body in the longitudinal direction to the other side, and that when the absorbent main body is folded in half at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction, both left and right side portions of the outer member on one side in the longitudinal direction and both left and right side portions of the outer member on the other side in the longitudinal direction are connected to each other, and that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is arranged on at least a portion of the non-skin side of the outer member.

[0058] According to this absorbent article, in a so-called two-piece type or simple three-piece type pants-type absorbent article consisting of an absorbent main body and an integrated outer cover member placed on the non-skin side, moisture such as sweat absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side) can be prevented from migrating to the indicator side (skin side) and coming into contact with the indicator, thereby preventing erroneous detection of the indicator in pants-type diapers such as two-piece types.

[0059] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the outer member is integrally constructed so as to be continuous from one side of the absorbent main body in the longitudinal direction to the other side, that one end of the outer member in the longitudinal direction has a pair of fastening tapes for engaging with the other end of the outer member in the longitudinal direction, and that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is arranged on at least a portion of the non-skin side of the outer member.

[0060] In a tape-type absorbent article, which has an absorbent main body and an outer cover member arranged on the non-skin side thereof and is attached to the wearer's body using a pair of fastening tapes provided on the outer cover member, moisture such as sweat absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side) can be prevented from migrating to the indicator side (skin side) and coming into contact with the indicator, thereby preventing erroneous detection of the indicator in a tape-type pants-type diaper.

[0061] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that at least a part of the exterior member has a portion where the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator overlap when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0062] With this absorbent article, it is possible to prevent the indicator from falsely detecting moisture such as sweat absorbed by the outer covering member, even while the indicator is disposed over a wide area. In other words, it is possible to ensure a wide excrement detection range while easily preventing false detection caused by moisture such as sweat.

[0063] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the outer member has a portion rearward of the center position in the longitudinal direction, where the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator overlap when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0064] Such an absorbent article can prevent moisture such as sweat absorbed by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the rear side (rear waistband portion) of the outer cover from coming into contact with the indicator, effectively preventing false detection by the indicator on the back side where the wearer is likely to sweat.

[0065] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the indicator has a portion where the entire indicator overlaps with the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric when viewed in the thickness direction.

[0066] In this absorbent article, the entire area of ​​the indicator can be made less likely to come into contact with the moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and therefore, by disposing the indicator over a wide area, it is possible to widen the detection range for excrement while making it less likely to cause false detection.

[0067] It is desirable that such an absorbent article has a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric that is less hydrophilic than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric at least in a portion between the liquid-impermeable film and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the thickness direction.

[0068] In such an absorbent article, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is interposed between the liquid-impermeable film and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the thickness direction, which makes it easier to prevent moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric from migrating toward the liquid-impermeable film (skin side), thereby making it easier to prevent erroneous detection by the indicator.

[0069] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the exterior member has the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric closer to the skin than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0070] In such an absorbent article, the high-density fibers constituting the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric generate capillary action, facilitating the absorption of moisture such as sweat from the wearer's skin. The moisture absorbed by the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric then easily transfers to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the skin side due to the difference in hydrophilicity. By facilitating the transfer of moisture such as sweat to the non-skin side, false detection by the indicator on the skin side can be reduced.

[0071] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be disposed on the outer cover member closest to the skin.

[0072] In such an absorbent article, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric serves as an interface with the atmosphere, allowing moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to efficiently evaporate to the outside of the absorbent article, thereby making it less likely that an erroneous detection will occur by the indicator.

[0073] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric contains fibers having an average fiber length of 100 mm or more.

[0074] In such an absorbent article, the use of a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric containing long fibers with an average fiber length of 100 mm or more facilitates moisture diffusion in the planar direction of the hydrophobic fibers and prevents moisture from migrating in the thickness direction of the hydrophobic fibers, thereby preventing moisture from permeating the hydrophobic fibers in the thickness direction and migrating to the liquid-impermeable film, making it easier to prevent erroneous detection by the indicator.

[0075] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the outer member is provided with an elastic member that stretches in the left-right direction, and when viewed in the thickness direction, the stress of the elastic member in the part that overlaps with the indicator is smaller than the stress of the elastic member in the part that does not overlap with the indicator.

[0076] With such an absorbent article, the stress of the elastic member is reduced in the area overlapping with the indicator, making it difficult for contractile force to act on that area, thereby preventing the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric containing moisture from being pressed against the indicator side (skin side), thereby making it less likely for the indicator to detect incorrectly.

[0077] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that, in the area where the indicator and the outer member overlap when viewed in the thickness direction, a layer of adhesive is provided between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the liquid-impermeable film in the thickness direction.

[0078] In such an absorbent article, the adhesive layer provided between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator in the thickness direction makes it easier to prevent moisture from moving in the thickness direction by the adhesive layer. That is, moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is prevented from moving in the thickness direction toward the skin and coming into contact with the indicator. This makes it easier to prevent false detection by the indicator.

[0079] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the adhesive layer has at least a first adhesive layer that joins the outer member and the absorbent main body, and a second adhesive layer that joins the liquid-impermeable film and a sheet member adjacent to the non-skin side of the liquid-impermeable film, and that when viewed in the thickness direction, there is a portion where the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer overlap.

[0080] In such an absorbent article, the amount of adhesive per unit volume increases in the overlapping portion of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, which further reduces the movement of moisture in the thickness direction in the overlapping portion. This prevents moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric from migrating to the skin side in the thickness direction and coming into contact with the indicator, further reducing false detections by the indicator.

[0081] Also disclosed is an absorbent article having a liquid-absorbing absorbent main body and an outer member provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body, wherein the outer member has a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric containing a hydrophilic oil agent on the non-skin side, and has an adhesive attached to the non-skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric with an adhesive, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has fibers with a fiber length longer than the smaller of the longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the adhesive.

[0082] In such an absorbent article, the fiber length of the fibers constituting the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is longer than the minimum width of the patch, which makes it easier for the fibers to become entangled (intertwined points) over an area wider than the minimum width of the patch, and strengthens the bonds between the fibers. Therefore, even when a force is applied to peel the patch from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to tear in the area where the patch is attached. This makes it possible to make the patch less likely to peel off.

[0083] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the longitudinal direction is a direction in which the patch is pulled relative to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and that the fibers are arranged so as to straddle the lateral direction of the patch.

[0084] In such an absorbent article, the fibers tend to be entangled with each other in the regions outside the lateral ends of the patch, and the bonding strength is strong, so that even when a force pulling the patch along the longitudinal direction of the patch is applied, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to tear. This makes it easier to prevent the patch from coming off.

[0085] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has a plurality of the fibers, and the number of the fibers arranged to cross the horizontal direction of the patch is greater than the number of the fibers arranged to cross the vertical direction of the patch.

[0086] In such an absorbent article, the more fibers that cross the patch in the direction perpendicular to the pulling direction (lateral direction) among the multiple fibers that make up the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the more resistant the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric becomes to tearing. In other words, the bonding strength of the fibers that make up the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric becomes more resistant to the pulling force on the patch. This makes it possible to make the patch more resistant to peeling.

[0087] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has a plurality of compression portions that compress the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the thickness direction.

[0088] In such an absorbent article, the provision of multiple compressed portions can increase the strength of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear even when a pulling force is applied to the patch, and making it easier to prevent the patch from peeling off.

[0089] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the fiber length is longer than the minimum value of the distance between two adjacent compressed portions.

[0090] In such absorbent articles, if the spacing between the compressed portions is shorter than the fiber length, the compressed portions are more likely to overlap with the fibers. In other words, the fibers themselves are more likely to be compressed. In the compressed fiber portions, the fibers are pressed against other fibers, strengthening the bond between the fibers and making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. This makes it possible to make the patch less likely to peel off.

[0091] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that at least one of the compressed portions is arranged in a region where the patch and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap when viewed in the thickness direction of the exterior member.

[0092] In such an absorbent article, the strength of the portion of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric where the compressed portions are located is increased, making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. Therefore, by attaching a patch to the area of ​​the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric where the compressed portions are located and the strength is increased, it is possible to more easily prevent the patch from peeling off.

[0093] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the smaller of the dimensions of the patch in the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction is larger than the minimum value of the distance between two adjacent compressed portions.

[0094] In such an absorbent article, if the minimum width of the patch is greater than the spacing between the compressed sections, there is a high possibility that two or more compressed sections will be arranged in the width direction (short direction) of the patch. Therefore, the bonds between the fibers in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are stronger, making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear in the area where the patch is attached. This makes it even more difficult for the patch to peel off.

[0095] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the exterior member has a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, which is less hydrophilic than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, on the skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0096] In such an absorbent article, the high-density fibers constituting the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric on the skin side generate capillary action, facilitating the absorption of moisture such as sweat from the wearer's skin. The moisture absorbed by the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric then easily transfers to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side due to the difference in hydrophilicity. Therefore, the outer covering member can absorb moisture such as sweat and transfer it to the non-skin side, facilitating evaporation to the outside of the absorbent article. This reduces the likelihood of stuffiness, rashes, and other problems occurring when wearing the absorbent article.

[0097] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric has an opening that penetrates the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the thickness direction, and that at least one of the openings is arranged in an area where the patch and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap when viewed in the thickness direction of the outer covering member.

[0098] In such an absorbent article, the adhesive that attaches the patch to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is more likely to adhere to the skin-side hydrophobic nonwoven fabric in the areas where the perforations are provided. That is, an area is formed where the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, which is less susceptible to the influence of oils, and the patch are directly bonded by the adhesive, and the adhesive strength of the patch is increased. This makes it easier to prevent the patch from peeling off from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0099] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the adhesive material is a post-treatment tape for maintaining the absorbent article in a compact form when the absorbent article is disposed of after use.

[0100] According to such an absorbent article, it is possible to prevent the post-treatment tape from coming off the exterior member when performing post-treatment operations to dispose of the absorbent article after use, thereby reducing stress on the user when performing post-treatment operations for the absorbent article.

[0101] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the post-treatment tape has a first member attached to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and a second member joined to the non-skin side of the first member by a joint provided between one end and the other end in the longitudinal direction of the first member.

[0102] With such an absorbent article, when the second member of the post-treatment tape is pulled during the post-treatment operation, the pulling force is easily distributed to both sides (one side and the other side) of the first member in the longitudinal direction, centered on the joint. Therefore, compared to when the pulling force on the patch (first member) (the force trying to peel the patch) acts concentrated in one place, the patch is less likely to peel off.

[0103] In such an absorbent article, it is desirable that the first member has a portion on one side of the joint in the longitudinal direction and a portion on the other side of the joint in the longitudinal direction attached to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0104] With such an absorbent article, when a force pulling the first member acts through the joint with the second member during post-treatment, the attachment portions provided on both sides of the joint in the longitudinal direction of the first member can resist the force pulling the first member, making it difficult for the post-treatment tape to come off the hydrophilic nonwoven, and allowing the user to more easily perform post-treatment of the absorbent article.

[0105] ===First Embodiment=== The absorbent article according to the present invention will be described taking a disposable diaper (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1") as an example. However, the absorbent article according to the present invention also includes napkins, panty liners, and other absorbent articles.

[0106] <Diaper 1 composition> FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a diaper 1. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the diaper 1 in an unfolded and stretched state. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 2. The "stretched state" of the diaper 1 refers to a state in which the entire diaper 1 (the entire product) is stretched without wrinkles, specifically, a state in which the dimensions of each component constituting the diaper 1 (e.g., the absorbent body 10 and waistband component 20, which will be described later) are stretched to the same dimensions as or close to the dimensions of the individual component. FIG. 1 also commonly depicts a diaper 1001 (fifth embodiment) and a diaper 1002 (ninth embodiment), which will be described later.

[0107] The diaper 1 is a disposable diaper having a pants-like shape in its natural state. In the pants-like state shown in FIG. 1, the diaper 1 has a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a front-to-back direction, which intersect with one another, and has a waist-opening BH and a pair of leg-openings LH, LH. The upper side in the vertical direction corresponds to the waist-opening BH side, and the lower side corresponds to the crotch side. The front side in the front-to-back direction corresponds to the wearer's abdominal side, and the rear side corresponds to the wearer's back side. In the unfolded state shown in FIG. 2, the diaper 1 has a vertical direction and a horizontal direction, which intersect with one another. The vertical direction is the vertical direction in FIG. 1 and corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body 10. The horizontal direction is the horizontal direction in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the direction in which the materials constituting the diaper 1 are layered is referred to as the thickness direction. In the thickness direction, the side that comes into contact with the wearer's skin is referred to as the skin side, and the opposite side is referred to as the non-skin side.

[0108] The diaper 1 comprises a liquid-absorbent main body 10 that absorbs body waste and a waistband member 20 that is disposed on the non-skin side of the absorbent main body 10. The waistband member 20 is an exterior member that constitutes the exterior of the diaper 1, and comprises a front waistband section 30 that corresponds to the front body section of the diaper 1, and a rear waistband section 40 that corresponds to the rear body section of the diaper 1. That is, the diaper 1 of the first embodiment is a so-called three-piece pants-type diaper, comprising the absorbent main body 10 as a first component that is placed in the crotch area of ​​the wearer and absorbs body waste such as urine, the front waistband section 30 that covers the abdominal area of ​​the wearer as a second component, and the rear waistband section 40 that covers the dorsal area of ​​the wearer as a third component.

[0109] In the unfolded state shown in FIG. 2 , the front waistline portion 30 and the rear waistline portion 40 are aligned parallel to each other with a gap between them in the vertical direction, with the absorbent main body 10 draped between them, with each end 10ea, 10eb in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the absorbent main body 10 joined and fixed to the skin side of the nearest waistline portion 30, 40, resulting in a generally H-shaped appearance in a plan view. From this state, the absorbent main body 10 is then folded in half, with the vertical center position CL serving as the folding position. In this folded state, the opposing front waistline portion 30 and rear waistline portion 40 are joined and connected to each other at the side portions 30sw and 40sw on both the left and right sides, forming a pair of side joining portions 50, 50. That is, the front waistline portion 30 and the rear waistline portion 40 are formed into a ring shape by the pair of side joining portions 50, 50. The side joining portion 50 is formed by a known joining method such as welding or adhesive bonding. As a result, the diaper 1 is in a pants-type state, having a waist-opening BH and a pair of leg-openings LH, LH as shown in FIG. (Absorbent body 10) Fig. 4A is a plan view of the absorbent main body 10, and Fig. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 10. The absorbent main body 10 has an absorbent core 11 that absorbs excrement, a top sheet 12 that is arranged closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction, and a back sheet 13 that is arranged closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11. However, the absorbent main body 10 may also include sheet members other than these. For example, a second sheet (not shown) may be provided between the top sheet 12 and the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction.

[0110] The absorbent core 11 is a member that absorbs and retains excreted liquids such as urine, and is formed of liquid-absorbent fibers, such as pulp fibers mixed with superabsorbent polymer (SAP). The outer periphery of the absorbent core 11 may be covered with a liquid-permeable sheet material (core wrap sheet 11b), such as tissue paper or nonwoven fabric. The absorbent core 11 of this embodiment has a waisted portion 11c, which narrows in the left-right direction, between the front and rear longitudinal ends, and has a generally hourglass shape in plan view as shown in FIG. 4A. This waisted portion 11c is the portion that is sandwiched between the wearer's legs when the diaper 1 is worn, and the short length (narrow width) of this portion in the left-right direction allows the absorbent core 11 to fit easily between the wearer's crotch.

[0111] The absorbent core 11 is also provided with slits 11s that penetrate the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction. The slits 11s are formed in a generally rectangular shape along the vertical direction (longitudinal direction), and one slit is provided in the center of the absorbent core 11 in the horizontal direction (left-right direction). However, the shape and number of the slits 11s are not limited to those shown in Fig. 4. The absorbent core 11 does not necessarily have to be provided with slits 11s.

[0112] The top sheet 12 is a liquid-permeable sheet, and is made of, for example, a hydrophilic air-through nonwoven fabric or a spunbond nonwoven fabric. In this embodiment, both left and right side portions are folded back toward the non-skin side so as to wrap around the absorbent core 11, as shown in Figure 4B.

[0113] The back sheet 13 has a two-layer structure consisting of a liquid-impermeable sheet 13a and an outer sheet 13b disposed on the non-skin side. The liquid-impermeable sheet 13a is made of a liquid-impermeable and moisture-permeable sheet material. For example, a microporous breathable resin film, which is made of a resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene and has a plurality of fine holes formed therein, can be used. In this specification, the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a is also referred to as a "breathable film." A breathable film is a sheet material that does not allow liquid to pass through but allows water vapor and air to pass through. On the other hand, a flexible hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is used for the outer sheet 13b. For example, an air-through nonwoven fabric or a spunbond nonwoven fabric can be used.

[0114] A pair of leakage preventing walls 15 is provided on both left-right side portions of the absorbent main body 10 along the vertical direction (the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body 10). In this embodiment, the leakage preventing walls 15 are formed by the above-mentioned exterior sheet 13b. Specifically, in the left-right direction (horizontal direction), a portion of the exterior sheet 13b extends outward beyond both ends of the absorbent core 11 and is folded toward the skin at multiple locations as shown in FIG. 4B , thereby forming the pair of leakage preventing walls 15. A leakage preventing wall elastic member 16 such as rubber thread is attached to the skin-side end (tip) of each leakage preventing wall 15 in a stretched state along the vertical direction (the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body 10). When the diaper 1 is worn, the leakage preventing wall elastic member 16 exhibits stretchability, causing the leakage preventing wall 15 to rise toward the skin of the wearer and fit snugly against the wearer's crotch area.

[0115] Furthermore, leg elastic members 17 such as rubber threads are attached to both left and right side portions of the absorbent main body 10 in a stretched state along the vertical direction (the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body 10). When the diaper 1 is worn, the stretchability of the leg elastic members 17 causes both side portions of the absorbent main body 10 to contract, making it easier to fit around the wearer's legs.

[0116] (Front waistband 30) 3, the front waist portion 30 has a skin-side sheet 31 disposed closest to the skin in the thickness direction, a non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​laminated adjacent to the non-skin-side of the skin-side sheet 31, and a waist elastic member 35 provided between the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​in the thickness direction. The front waist portion 30, which serves as the exterior member of the diaper 1, basically has a two-layer structure consisting of the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32, but may partially have a three-layer or more structure, for example, a skin-side sheet 36 described below.

[0117] The skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​are rectangular sheet members in plan view as shown in FIG. 2, and are made of, for example, SMS nonwoven fabric. In the diaper 1, the sheet member (nonwoven fabric) constituting the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​is more hydrophilic than the sheet member (nonwoven fabric) constituting the skin-side sheet 31. That is, the skin-side sheet 31 is made of a nonwoven fabric with low hydrophilicity, and the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​is made of a nonwoven fabric with higher hydrophilicity than the skin-side sheet 31. Hereinafter, the nonwoven fabric constituting the skin-side sheet 31 will also be referred to as a "hydrophobic nonwoven fabric," and the nonwoven fabric constituting the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​will also be referred to as a "hydrophilic nonwoven fabric." The "hydrophilicity" of nonwoven fabrics will be explained later.

[0118] The surface of the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​is provided with a plurality of apertures 32h, as shown in the partially enlarged view of FIG. 2. The apertures 32h are through-holes that penetrate the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​in the thickness direction, and the provision of the apertures 32h improves the breathability of the front waistline portion 30. Furthermore, the apertures 32h are visibly positioned on the non-skin-facing side of the front waistline portion 30, making it easier for the user to recognize that the front waistline portion 30 has good breathability. Each aperture 32h may be circular, for example, with a diameter of approximately 1 mm, but the shape and arrangement (number and pattern) of the apertures 32h can be changed as appropriate. In the diaper 1, the skin-side sheet 31 does not have through-holes corresponding to the apertures 32h.

[0119] The front waistline portion 30 of this embodiment has a folded-back portion 32f where the upper end (front end in the longitudinal direction) of the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​is folded back from the non-skin side to the skin side and from the front side to the back side in the longitudinal direction. This folded-back portion 32f covers a part (upper end) of the skin side sheet 31, thereby preventing the upper edge of the skin side sheet 31 from digging into the wearer's skin. However, the folded-back portion 32f is not necessarily provided.

[0120] The waist elastic members 35 are arranged in a line in the vertical direction and are attached in a stretched state in the left-right direction between the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32. The stretchability exhibited by the waist elastic members 35 allows the front waist portion 30 to fit the abdominal waist of the wearer.

[0121] The waistline elastic members 35 can be attached using an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive. For example, the waistline elastic members 35 can be attached by applying a hot melt adhesive to the waistline elastic members 35, stretching them at a predetermined stretch ratio, and sandwiching them between the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32. That is, the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​are joined by the adhesive via the waistline elastic members 35. The waistline elastic members 35 may also be attached by applying an adhesive to the skin side sheet 31 and the non-skin side sheet 32, or by welding using the welding portions 60 described below.

[0122] The front waistband portion 30 may also have a skin-contact sheet 36. As shown in FIG. 3, the skin-contact sheet 36 is a sheet member arranged to cover the upper end (front end in the longitudinal direction) of the absorbent main body 10 from the skin side, and functions as a cover sheet. This prevents the upper end edge of the absorbent main body 10 from digging into the wearer's skin when the diaper 1 is worn. The skin-contact sheet 36 is made of, for example, an SMS nonwoven fabric. The skin-contact sheet 36 does not necessarily have to be provided.

[0123] In the front waistband portion 30 of this embodiment, when a sheet member is provided closer to the skin than the skin-side sheet 31 or closer to the skin than the non-skin-side sheet 32, each sheet is arranged so as to cover only a portion of the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32. For example, the skin-side sheet 36 in Fig. 3 is provided so as to cover only a portion of the skin-side of the skin-side sheet 31, leaving at least a portion of the skin-side sheet 31 exposed to the skin side of the wearer.

[0124] (Rear waistband 40) The rear waistline portion 40 has a configuration substantially similar to that of the front waistline portion 30. That is, the rear waistline portion 40 has a skin-side sheet 41 disposed closest to the skin in the thickness direction, a non-skin-side sheet 42 laminated adjacent to the non-skin-side side of the skin-side sheet 41, and waistline elastic members 45 provided between the skin-side sheet 41 and the non-skin-side sheet 42 in the thickness direction. As with the front waistline portion 30, the rear waistline portion 40 may also have apertures 42h, folded-back portions 42f, a skin-facing sheet 46, etc. (see Figures 2 and 3). The configuration of each member is substantially similar to that of the front waistline portion 30, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0125] On the other hand, the external shape of the rear waistline portion 40 is different from that of the front waistline portion 30. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the rear waistline portion 40 has a buttocks cover 40b that is generally trapezoidal in shape below the side joint portion 50 (side portion 40sw). The buttocks cover 40b narrows in width from the top to the bottom in the vertical direction, and its outer edge is curved. The provision of the buttocks cover 40b enables the rear waistline portion 40 to widely cover the wearer's buttocks when the diaper 1 is worn.

[0126] The buttocks cover 40b is provided with a curved elastic member 47 such as rubber thread as shown in Fig. 2. The curved elastic member 47 is attached between the skin side sheet 41 and the non-skin side sheet 42 in a stretched state along the edge of the buttocks cover 40b, and the stretchability of the curved elastic member 47 allows the buttocks cover 40b of the rear waistband portion 40 to fit easily around the buttocks of the wearer when the diaper 1 is worn, and also makes it less likely to roll up from the buttocks.

[0127] <Hydrophilicity of sheet material> The hydrophilicity of the sheet members will now be described. In the diaper 1, hydrophobic nonwoven fabrics are used for the skin-side sheets 31, 41 constituting the waistline member 20 (front waistline portion 30, rear waistline portion 40) which is an exterior member, and for the exterior sheet 13b of the absorbent main body 10. On the other hand, hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics, which are more hydrophilic than hydrophobic nonwoven fabrics, are used for the non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 constituting the waistline member 20.

[0128] The hydrophilic nonwoven fabric of this embodiment is a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric whose hydrophilicity has been enhanced by a treatment (hydrophilic treatment) in which a predetermined oil is applied to the nonwoven fabric. Examples of oils used in the hydrophilic treatment include commercially available oils that are effective as antistatic agents for fibers, such as anionic oils, nonionic oils, and blends thereof. By adding these oils to an oil bath and oiling the nonwoven fabric using an oiling roller or the like, the hydrophilicity of the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric can be enhanced, resulting in a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. However, hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics may also be formed by other methods. For example, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric may be obtained by manufacturing a nonwoven fabric using highly hydrophilic fibers.

[0129] In this embodiment, the nonwoven fabric constituting the non-skin side sheets 32, 42 is entirely hydrophilically treated, so that the hydrophilicity of each sheet member is enhanced. However, the hydrophilicity of only a portion of each sheet member may be enhanced. For example, the hydrophilicity of only a portion of the non-skin side sheet 32 ​​may be enhanced, so that the sheet member has locally highly and locally less hydrophilic portions.

[0130] The hydrophilicity of a sheet member can be evaluated by measuring the contact angle when ion-exchanged water is brought into contact with the surface of the sheet member. Specifically, if the contact angle between a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and ion-exchanged water is smaller than the contact angle between a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and ion-exchanged water, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is more hydrophilic than the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric. The hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheet 32, etc.) used in this embodiment preferably has a contact angle with ion-exchanged water of less than 90°, more preferably 50° or less. On the other hand, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (skin-side sheet 31) preferably has a contact angle with ion-exchanged water of 90° or more, more preferably 120° or more.

[0131] The contact angle can be measured, for example, using a contact angle meter MCA-J manufactured by Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd., in the following manner. First, ion-exchanged water (approximately 20 picoliters) is dropped onto the surface of the fibers constituting the sheet member (measurement target sheet) to be measured, and the contact angle is immediately measured using the contact angle meter. Measurements are taken at multiple locations (e.g., five or more locations) on the surface of the measurement target sheet, and the average value of these measurements is taken as the contact angle. The measurement environment temperature is 22°C.

[0132] Alternatively, the contact angle may be measured by imaging the test sheet onto which ion-exchanged water has been dropped from the cross-sectional direction of the test sheet, analyzing the image, and measuring the angle between the ion-exchanged water droplet and the test sheet.

[0133] <Absorption and discharge of moisture by the absorbent body 10> In the diaper 1, excretory fluids (moisture) such as urine are absorbed by the absorbent body 10 (absorbent core 11), but by appropriately discharging the absorbed moisture to the outside of the diaper 1, the moisture retention capacity (amount of moisture that can be absorbed) of the absorbent core 11 is prevented from reaching its limit, making it easier to maintain its moisture absorption function and preventing the inside of the absorbent body 10 from becoming stuffy.

[0134] Figures 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating the mechanism by which moisture is discharged from the absorbent body 10 in region B of Figure 3. Figures 5A to 5C show the absorbent core 11, liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film), exterior sheet 13b (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), skin-side sheet 31 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), and non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​(hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) stacked in this order from the skin-side to the non-skin-side in the thickness direction.

[0135] When urine or other liquids are excreted while wearing the diaper 1, the moisture, such as urine, is absorbed by the absorbent core 11. Then, as shown in Fig. 5A, some of the absorbed moisture passes through the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) in the thickness direction from the skin side to the non-skin side as water vapor, and moves toward the outer sheet 13b and the skin-side sheet 31. The outer sheet 13b and the skin-side sheet 31 are made of hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, but voids are formed by the multiple fibers that make up the nonwoven fabric. Therefore, some of the moisture (water vapor) is drawn into the outer sheet 13b and the skin-side sheet 31 by capillary action due to the voids.

[0136] The moisture absorbed into the outer sheet 13b and the skin side sheet 31 then migrates to the non-skin side sheet 32, which is adjacent to the skin side in the thickness direction, as shown in Figure 5B. The non-skin side sheet 32 ​​is a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric that is more hydrophilic than the outer sheet 13b and the skin side sheet 31, so moisture contained in the outer sheet 13b and the skin side sheet 31 is more likely to migrate to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric side (non-skin side sheet 32 ​​side) due to the hydrophilic gradient formed between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric.

[0137] The moisture (water vapor) transferred to the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​then evaporates from the non-skin-side surface of the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​to the outside (to the atmosphere in FIG. 5C ), as shown in FIG. 5C . In the diaper 1, the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​is disposed on the outermost (non-skin-side) surface of the absorbent body 10. That is, the non-skin-side surface of the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​forms the interface with the atmosphere. This allows moisture contained within the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​to efficiently evaporate from a wide area of ​​the non-skin-side surface to the outside of the diaper 1. However, it is not necessary for the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to be disposed over the entire non-skin-side surface of the outer cover member. For example, another member (e.g., a tape member) may be provided on a portion of the non-skin-side surface of the outer cover member.

[0138] In conventional absorbent articles such as disposable diapers, a highly hydrophilic sheet member (non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​in the diaper 1) is generally not provided on the non-skin-side side of the absorbent core and breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a in the diaper 1). As a result, water vapor that permeates the breathable film tends to remain in the less hydrophilic sheet member (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) provided on the non-skin-side side. In other words, this configuration tends to allow moisture to accumulate between the breathable film (corresponding to the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a) and the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (exterior sheet 13b and skin-side sheet 31), which can cause the diaper to become stuffy.

[0139] In contrast, in the diaper 1 of this embodiment, a highly hydrophilic hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheet 32) is provided on the non-skin-side side of the breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a) and the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (exterior sheet 13b and skin-side sheet 31). As a result, moisture is drawn to the more hydrophilic hydrophilic nonwoven fabric side (non-skin-side), making it difficult for moisture to accumulate between the breathable film (corresponding to the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a) and the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (exterior sheet 13b and skin-side sheet 31). In other words, this configuration allows moisture absorbed by the absorbent core 11 to easily migrate from the skin-side side to the non-skin-side side in the thickness direction.

[0140] In the diaper 1, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (exterior sheet 13b or skin-side sheet 31) is provided between the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) and the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​(hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) in the thickness direction. However, even if a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is not provided, the above-described moisture discharge is possible. It is sufficient to at least provide a breathable film on the non-skin side of the absorbent core and a highly hydrophilic sheet member (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) on the non-skin side of the breathable film. This configuration promotes the above-described moisture movement in the thickness direction, allowing moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core to be efficiently discharged to the outside.

[0141] In this way, in the diaper 1, the absorbent core, breathable film, and hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are arranged in a layered manner in the thickness direction, which facilitates the movement of moisture in the thickness direction in the area where these three components are layered. In other words, moisture is easily expelled from the inside (absorbent body) of the diaper 1 to the outside. This makes it difficult for moisture to remain inside the diaper 1, which makes it difficult for the moisture absorption capacity of the absorbent core 11 to reach its limit, and makes it easier to maintain its moisture absorption function. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the wearer from experiencing discomfort such as stuffiness when wearing the diaper 1.

[0142] FIG. 6A is a schematic plan view showing the state of the pant-type diaper 1 in an extended state as viewed from the front side in the front-rear direction. FIG. 6B is a schematic plan view showing the state of the pant-type diaper 1 in an extended state as viewed from the rear side in the front-rear direction. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in the diaper 1, the length (width) W13 of the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) in the left-right direction is larger than the length (width) W11 of the absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction (W11 < W13). Also, in FIG. 6A, the length (width) W32 of the non-skin-side sheet 32 (hydrophilic non-woven fabric) in the left-right direction is larger than the length (width) W13 of the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) in the left-right direction (W13 < W32). Further, in FIG. 6B, the length (width) W42 of the non-skin-side sheet 42 (hydrophilic non-woven fabric) in the left-right direction is larger than the length (width) W13 of the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) in the left-right direction (W13 < W42).

[0143] As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, by overlapping the entire absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction with the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film), it is possible to move moisture (water vapor) from the entire absorbent core 11 in the left-right direction through the breathable film to the non-skin side. Then, by overlapping the entire liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) in the left-right direction with the non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 (hydrophilic non-woven fabrics), it becomes easier to absorb the moisture that has passed through the breathable film with the hydrophilic non-woven fabric on the non-skin side. As a result, it becomes easier to transfer moisture from the entire left-right area of the absorbent core 11 to the hydrophilic non-woven fabric, and moisture can be efficiently discharged from the inside (skin side) to the outside (non-skin side) of the diaper 1.

[0144] Furthermore, due to the above relationship, when viewed in the thickness direction, the diaper 1 has both overlapping and non-overlapping areas between the non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) and the absorbent core 11. In the overlapping areas between the absorbent core 11 and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (the areas indicated by W11 in Figures 6A and 6B), moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core 11 can be efficiently discharged to the outside of the diaper 1, as described above.

[0145] On the other hand, in the region where the absorbent core 11 and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric do not overlap, moisture such as sweat emitted from the wearer's body can be transferred to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 6A. FIG. 7 corresponds to FIG. 3 and shows a cross-section of the region where the absorbent core 11 and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric do not overlap. When the wearer sweats in FIG. 7, the sweat that permeates the top sheet 12 of the absorbent main body 10 permeates as water vapor through the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film), migrates via the outer sheet 13b and the skin-side sheet 31 to the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​(hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), and finally evaporates to the outside of the diaper 1. That is, moisture can be transferred from the skin-side to the non-skin-side of the diaper 1, and can be discharged from the surface of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to the non-skin-side. Therefore, in the diaper 1, in addition to moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core 11, moisture such as sweat adhering to the wearer's skin can also be discharged to the outside. This makes it possible to further reduce the likelihood of the diaper 1 becoming stuffy when worn.

[0146] In addition, in at least a portion of the region where the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the absorbent core 11 do not overlap, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is disposed between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the breathable film in the thickness direction. For example, in the case of FIG. 7, the outer sheet 13b and the skin-side sheet 31 (both hydrophobic nonwoven fabrics) are disposed between the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​(hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) and the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film). In this case, as described above, the hydrophilic gradient between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric facilitates the transfer of moisture from the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric side to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric side. In other words, the transfer of moisture from the skin-side side to the non-skin-side side is facilitated. This facilitates the transfer of moisture, such as sweat, to the outside of the diaper 1.

[0147] The waist member 20 of the diaper 1 is provided with waist elastic members 35, 45 and curved elastic members 47 that are stretchable in the left-right direction, but these elastic members are configured so that a portion of each does not exhibit stretchability in the region overlapping with the absorbent main body 10. For example, in Figures 6A and 6B, the waist elastic members 35, 45 and the curved elastic members 47 are partially cut at the center in the left-right direction of the absorbent main body 10, resulting in a contracted state on both sides of the cut point in the left-right direction (regions straddling both ends of the absorbent main body 10 in the left-right direction, hereinafter also referred to as "both side portions"). Therefore, the contractile force of the elastic members 35, 45, 47 acting on the center in the left-right direction of the absorbent main body 10 is weaker than the contractile force of the elastic members 35, 45, 47 acting on both side in the left-right direction. In other words, the stress of the elastic members 35, 45, 47 in the left-right central portion of the absorbent main body 10 is smaller than the stress of the elastic members 35, 45, 47 on both left-right sides of the absorbent main body 10. Note that each of the elastic members 35, 45, 47 does not necessarily have to be cut in the left-right central portion of the absorbent main body 10, as long as the stress there is weaker compared to both left-right sides.

[0148] With this configuration, the contractile forces of the elastic members 35, 45, 47 are less likely to act on the left-right central portion of the absorbent main body 10 (absorbent core 11), wrinkles are less likely to form on the surfaces of the absorbent main body 10 and the waistband member 20, and a flat shape is more likely to be maintained. Therefore, the laminated structure of the sheet members in the thickness direction as described in Figures 5A to 5C is more likely to be maintained, and the movement of moisture in the thickness direction is less likely to be hindered. This allows moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core 11 on the skin side to migrate to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side and evaporate toward the non-skin side from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

[0149] The stress of the elastic members can be measured as follows, for example, using an autograph tensile tester (e.g., AG-1KN1) manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation. First, the waist member 20 (30, 40) of the diaper 1 is stretched to the extent that its surface is free of wrinkles. The lateral dimensions of the target areas (the lateral center and both sides of the absorbent main body 10) within the area where the elastic members 35, 45, 47 are located are measured. The target areas are then cut to the measured dimensions using a cutter to obtain samples. Next, one end of the sample is clamped in a fixed chuck and the other end in a movable chuck. The sample is stretched at a speed of 300 mm / min to approximately 90% of its initial size, then inverted. The tensile load (N) at which each sample contracts to approximately 75% of its initial size is determined and converted to stress per unit length (mm) (N / mm).

[0150] The absorbent main body 10 of the diaper 1 has slits 11s penetrating the absorbent core 11 in the thickness direction. When viewed in the thickness direction, the slits 11s and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap each other. For example, in the diaper 1, the slits 11s and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (the non-skin-side sheet 42 of the rear waistband 40) overlap in the shaded area in Fig. 6B.

[0151] The slit portions 11s of the absorbent core 11 have low rigidity, which allows the absorbent core 11 to easily deform to fit the wearer's body shape. However, because the slits 11s are groove-shaped, they can easily trap and transfer moisture, such as body waste, which can cause discomfort to the wearer. In contrast, the diaper 1 has a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side of the slit portions 11s, which allows moisture to migrate from the skin side to the non-skin side and evaporate to the non-skin side (outside of the diaper 1) more easily than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, as described above. Therefore, by facilitating the discharge of moisture to the outside while maintaining a good fit of the absorbent core 11 to the body, discomfort to the wearer can be reduced.

[0152] Furthermore, in the diaper 1, the moisture permeability of the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) is preferably 1000 g / m²·24h or more and 3500 g / m²·24h or less. A moisture permeability of 1000 g / m²·24h or more allows water vapor to easily pass through the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a, facilitating the evaporation of moisture from the inside (skin side) of the diaper 1 to the outside (non-skin side). On the other hand, a moisture permeability of 3500 g / m²·24h or less prevents the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a from excessively transmitting moisture, thereby preventing excessive absorption of moisture by the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the outside (non-skin side). Therefore, when the diaper 1 is worn, it allows an appropriate amount of moisture to be excreted while preventing the outer hydrophilic nonwoven fabric from becoming damp, thereby reducing discomfort to the wearer.

[0153] The moisture permeability can be measured, for example, as follows, based on JIS Z 0208 (Moisture Permeability Test Method for Moisture-Proof Packaging Materials). First, multiple samples (three or more circular samples with a diameter approximately 10 mm larger than the inner diameter of the moisture-permeable cup used for measurement) are taken from the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a. Next, a moisture-absorbing agent (JIS K 8123, calcium chloride (anhydrous)) is placed in a moisture-permeable cup with a moisture-permeable area of ​​25 cm or more, and the cup is attached. The cup is sealed with sealing wax and left to stand in a constant temperature and humidity chamber for 16 hours or more. The cup is then removed, allowed to equilibrate to room temperature, and its mass is measured using an electronic balance or the like. The sample is then placed in the constant temperature and humidity chamber again, and the weighing operation using the electronic balance is repeated at regular intervals (e.g., every 24 hours) to determine the mass increase. The test is continued until the mass increase becomes constant within 5%. Then, for each sample, the moisture permeability is calculated by the following formula (1), and the value rounded to two significant figures according to JIS Z 8401 (rounding method of numerical values) is defined as the moisture permeability of the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a. Moisture permeability=240m / (t·s)···(1) s: Moisture permeability area (cm2) t: The sum of the time intervals between the last two weighing tests (h) m: Sum of the mass increase between the last two weighing intervals tested (mg)

[0154] <Modification of the method of attaching the waist elastic members 35, 45> In the above-described embodiment, the waist elastic members 35, 45 are attached to the waist member 20 by adhesive means such as a hot melt adhesive, but the method of attaching the waist elastic members 35, 45 is not limited to this. For example, the waist elastic members 35, 45 may be attached to the waist member 20 by a welding means such as ultrasonic welding. Note that ultrasonic welding is a well-known technique, and therefore a description of ultrasonic welding will be omitted in this specification.

[0155] 8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating a method for attaching the waistline elastic members 35 to the front waistline portion 30 using welds 60. In this modification, the waistline elastic members 35 are attached to the front waistline portion 30 using a plurality of welds 60, 60... that are discretely arranged in the left-right and up-down directions. Each weld 60 is formed into a substantially rectangular shape by ultrasonic welding, and joins the skin-side sheet 31 and the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​of the front waistline portion 30 in the thickness direction. The waistline elastic members 35 are attached to the front waistline portion 30 by sandwiching them from both up-down directions between a pair of welds 60s consisting of two welds 60, 60 adjacent to each other in the up-down direction.

[0156] 8A, a pair of welded portions 60, 60 constituting a pair of welded portions 60s are arranged vertically with a gap GH60 therebetween. The size of the gap GH60 is set to be equal to or slightly larger than the diameter d35t of the waist elastic member 35 in a state stretched to a predetermined stretch ratio (GH60≧d35t). In other words, the waist elastic member 35 in a stretched state is disposed vertically between the pair of welded portions 60s.

[0157] Next, when the waist elastic members 35 are relaxed from the stretched state, as shown in Fig. 8B, the waist elastic members 35 contract laterally and expand vertically, and the diameter d35 in the natural state becomes larger than the vertical distance GH60 between the pair of welded portions 60s (d35>GH60). As a result, the waist elastic members 35 are vertically sandwiched between the welded portions 60, 60. As a result, the waist elastic members 35 are attached to the front waist portion 30.

[0158] In the pants-type diaper 1 shown in Fig. 1, the waist elastic members 35 (45) are in a natural state, relaxed from the stretched state. In the pants-type diaper 1, the waist elastic members 35 (45) are joined to the front waist portion 30 (rear waist portion 40) by side joining portions 50, 50 on both lateral sides. Therefore, even if the front waist portion 30 (rear waist portion 40) is stretched in the lateral direction when the diaper 1 is worn, the waist elastic members 35 (45) will not come off the waist member 20.

[0159] === Second Embodiment === In the second embodiment, a pants-type diaper 2 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 2") having a configuration partially different from that of the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 9A is a plan view of the diaper 2 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line DD in Fig. 9A. Note that the directions (e.g., vertical direction, horizontal direction, etc.) in Figs. 9A and 9B are the same as those defined in the first embodiment.

[0160] The diaper 2 of the second embodiment has a liquid-absorbent main absorber 10 and a waistline member 20 as an outer covering member joined to the non-skin side of the absorber 10. As shown in Figs. 9A and 9B, the waistline member 20 of the diaper 2 is integrally formed so as to be continuous in the vertical direction (the longitudinal direction of the absorber 10). In other words, the diaper 2 is a so-called two-piece disposable diaper formed of two components: the absorber 10 and the outer covering member (waistline member 20). In the following description, the portion of the outer covering member (waistline member 20) of the diaper 2 that is forward of a vertical center position CL will be referred to as a front waistline section 30, and the portion behind the center position CL will be referred to as a rear waistline section 40 (see Fig. 9A).

[0161] When the diaper 2 in the unfolded state shown in Fig. 9A is formed into a pants-type diaper, the absorbent main body 10 and the waistline member 20 are folded in half at a longitudinal center position CL. In this folded state, the opposing front waistline portion 30 and rear waistline portion 40 are joined and connected to each other at the side portions 30sw and 40sw on both the left and right sides to form a pair of side joining portions 50, 50. This results in a pants-type diaper 2 having a waistline opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH, similar to the diaper 1 in Fig. 1.

[0162] In the diaper 2, the basic structure and function of the absorbent main body 10 are substantially the same as those of the diaper 1 of the first embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. However, the back sheet 13 of the diaper 2 may include only a liquid-impermeable sheet 13a (breathable film) and may not include an outer sheet 13b. This is because, in the diaper 2, the waist member 20 is provided on the entire non-skin side of the absorbent main body 10, and the waist member 20 functions as an outer sheet for the absorbent main body 10. Therefore, the back sheet 13 of the absorbent main body 10 of the diaper 2 may not include a sheet member corresponding to the outer sheet 13b of the diaper 1 (see FIG. 9B).

[0163] The waistline member 20 includes a skin-side sheet 21, a non-skin-side sheet 22 laminated adjacent to the non-skin-side of the skin-side sheet 21, and waistline elastic members 35, 45 disposed between the skin-side sheet 21 and the non-skin-side sheet 22 in the thickness direction (see FIG. 9B). The skin-side sheet 21 is a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric similar to the skin-side sheets 31, 41 of the diaper 1. The non-skin-side sheet 22 is a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric similar to the non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 of the diaper 1. That is, in the diaper 2, the non-skin-side sheet 22 is a nonwoven fabric that is more hydrophilic than the skin-side sheet 21. The waistline elastic members 35, 45 are made of rubber thread or the like, similar to those of the diaper 1, and are attached between the skin-side sheet 21 and the non-skin-side sheet 22 in a state stretched in the left-right direction.

[0164] The diaper 2 of the second embodiment also provides the same effects as the diaper 1. For example, the diaper 2 has an overlapping portion in the thickness direction of the absorbent core 11, the breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a), and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheet 22). As explained with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5C, the overlapping portion of the absorbent core 11, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric facilitates the migration of moisture from the skin side to the non-skin side in the thickness direction, facilitating the discharge of moisture from the inside (absorbent core 11) of the diaper 2 to the outside. Furthermore, the diaper 2 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 1 explained in the first embodiment.

[0165] Furthermore, in the diaper 2, the area of ​​the overlapping region between the absorbent core 11 and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side sheet 22) in the region vertically below the lower ends 50eb of the side joints 50 is larger than the area of ​​the overlapping region between the absorbent core 11 and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side sheet 22) in the region vertically above the lower ends 50eb of the side joints 50 (see FIG. 9A). That is, when the diaper 2 is worn, the area of ​​the overlapping region between the absorbent core 11 and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side sheet 22) is larger in the region below the lower ends 50eb of the side joints 50 and located between the wearer's crotch (crotch region).

[0166] Therefore, in the diaper 2, moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core 11 can be more easily discharged to the non-skin side (outside of the diaper 2) than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric over a wide range of the crotch region. This makes it less likely for the crotch region to become stuffy, which can reduce discomfort to the wearer.

[0167] 9A , the entire breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a) overlaps with the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheet 22) when viewed in the thickness direction. Therefore, among the urine and other substances absorbed by the absorbent core 11, moisture that permeates the breathable film from the skin side to the non-skin side as water vapor is more likely to migrate to the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric provided on the non-skin side throughout the entire area of ​​the breathable film. This further promotes moisture migration from the skin side to the non-skin side in the thickness direction, thereby reducing the likelihood of moisture remaining inside the diaper 2. However, as described above, as long as the absorbent core 11, the breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a), and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheet 22) overlap at least partially, moisture can be expelled to the outside of the diaper 2. Therefore, the entire breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a) does not necessarily overlap with the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheet 22).

[0168] ===Third Embodiment=== In the third embodiment, a pants-type diaper 3 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 3") having a configuration partially different from that of the above-described embodiments will be described. Fig. 10A is a plan view of the diaper 3 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line EE in Fig. 10A. Note that the directions (e.g., vertical direction, horizontal direction, etc.) in Figs. 10A and 10B are the same as those defined in the first embodiment.

[0169] The diaper 3 of the third embodiment comprises a liquid-absorbent absorbent main body 10 and a waistband member 20 as an exterior member joined to the non-skin side of the absorbent main body 10. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the waistband member 20 of the diaper 3 is integrally formed so as to be continuous in the longitudinal direction (the lengthwise direction of the absorbent main body 10). That is, the skin-side sheet 21 is formed as an integral sheet member that is continuous from one end to the other end in the longitudinal direction. Meanwhile, the non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​(front non-skin-side sheet) arranged on the front side in the longitudinal direction and the non-skin-side sheet 42 (rear non-skin-side sheet) arranged on the rear side in the longitudinal direction are formed as different sheet members that are discontinuous in the longitudinal direction. A diaper having such a structure is also called a simple three-piece disposable diaper. In the following description, the portion of the outer cover member (waist member 20) of the diaper 3 that is forward of the central position CL in the vertical direction will be referred to as the front waist portion 30, and the portion that is rearward of the central position CL will be referred to as the rear waist portion 40 (see Figure 10A).

[0170] When the diaper 3 in the unfolded state shown in Fig. 10A is formed into a pants-type diaper, the absorbent main body 10 and the waist member 20 are folded in half at a longitudinal center position CL. In this folded state, the opposing front waist portion 30 and rear waist portion 40 are joined and connected to each other at the side portions 30sw and 40sw on both the left and right sides to form a pair of side joining portions 50, 50. This results in a pants-type diaper 3 having a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH, similar to the diaper 1 in Fig. 1.

[0171] In the diaper 3, the basic structure and functions of the absorbent main body 10 are substantially the same as those of the absorbent main body 10 of the diaper 2 of the second embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0172] Of the outer covering members (waist members 20) of the diaper 3, the front waist portion 30 has a skin-side sheet 21 extending from one longitudinal end (ventral side) to the other longitudinal end (dorsal side) on the skin side in the thickness direction, a non-skin-side sheet 32 ​​laminated adjacent to the non-skin side of the skin-side sheet 21 on the front longitudinal side (ventral side), and a waist elastic member 35 disposed in the thickness direction between the skin-side sheet 21 and the non-skin-side sheet 32. The rear waist portion 40 has a skin-side sheet 21 shared with the front waist portion 30, a non-skin-side sheet 42 laminated adjacent to the non-skin side of the skin-side sheet 21 on the rear longitudinal side (dorsal side), and a waist elastic member 45 disposed in the thickness direction between the skin-side sheet 21 and the non-skin-side sheet 42.

[0173] The skin-side sheet 21 is a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric similar to the skin-side sheets 31, 41 of the diaper 1. The non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 are a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric similar to the non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 of the diaper 1. That is, in the diaper 3, the non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 are nonwoven fabrics that are more hydrophilic than the skin-side sheet 21. The waist-surrounding elastic members 35, 45 are made of rubber thread or the like, similar to those of the diaper 1, and are attached between the skin-side sheet 21 and the non-skin-side sheets 32, 42 in a state stretched in the left-right direction.

[0174] The diaper 3 of the third embodiment also provides the same effects as the diaper 1 and the diaper 2. For example, in the diaper 3, when viewed in the thickness direction, the absorbent core 11, the breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a), and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheets 32, 42) overlap in the region enclosed by the dashed line in Fig. 10B. In the overlapping portion of the absorbent core 11, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, as described with reference to Figs. 5A to 5C, the migration of moisture from the skin side to the non-skin side in the thickness direction is facilitated, facilitating the discharge of moisture from the inside (absorbent core 11) of the diaper 3 to the outside. Furthermore, the diaper 3 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 2 described in the second embodiment.

[0175] ===Fourth Embodiment=== In the fourth embodiment, a "tape-type diaper" (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 4") different from the "pants-type diaper" described in the first to third embodiments will be described as an example of an absorbent article. Fig. 11A is a plan view of the diaper 4 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 11B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line FF in Fig. 11A. Note that the directions (e.g., vertical direction, horizontal direction, etc.) in Figs. 11A and 11B are the same as those defined in the first embodiment.

[0176] 11A and 11B, the diaper 4 comprises an absorbent core 11 for absorbing bodily waste, a liquid-permeable top sheet 12 positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11, a liquid-impermeable sheet 13a positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core 11, an outer sheet 25 positioned closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a, and a pair of side sheets 18 joined to the skin side on both left-right sides of the top sheet 12. Furthermore, vertically stretchable leg elastic members 17 (e.g., rubber threads) are arranged on both left-right sides of the diaper 4.

[0177] The absorbent core 11, top sheet 12, and liquid-impermeable sheet 13a of the diaper 4 correspond to the absorbent main body 10 of the diaper 1, and have the same functions as the absorbent core 11, top sheet 12, and liquid-impermeable sheet 13a that constitute the absorbent main body 10 of the diaper 1. For example, the liquid-impermeable sheet 13a is a breathable film that allows moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core 11 to pass through as water vapor.

[0178] The outer sheet 25 of the diaper 4 is an outer member corresponding to the waist member 20 of the diaper 1, and is made of a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, similar to the non-skin-side sheets 33, 43 constituting the waist member 20 of the diaper 1. The outer sheet 25 of the diaper 4 may have a structure similar to that of the waist member 20 of the diaper 1. For example, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (not shown in FIG. 11B) may be provided on the skin-side of the outer sheet 25 made of a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and the outer sheet 25 of the diaper 4 may be made of two sheet members.

[0179] For ease of explanation, the portion of the diaper 4 in front of the central position CL in the longitudinal direction thereof will be referred to as the front waistline portion 30, and the portion behind the central position CL will be referred to as the rear waistline portion 40 (see FIG. 11A).

[0180] The pair of side sheets 18 are made of a liquid-permeable nonwoven fabric similar to the top sheet 12, and the inner left and right edges of the side sheets 18 are provided with longitudinally stretchable leakage barrier elastic members 16 such as rubber threads. When the diaper 4 is worn, the inner left and right edges of the side sheets 18 rise up toward the wearer's skin due to the contractile force exerted by the leakage barrier elastic members 16, thereby forming leakage barrier portions 15 similar to those of the diaper 1.

[0181] A pair of fastening tapes 26 extending outward in the left-right direction is provided on the back side (rear waistband portion 40) in the longitudinal direction of the diaper 4. A target sheet 27 for engaging the fastening tapes 26 when the diaper 4 is put on is provided on the non-skin-facing side (front waistband portion 30) of the diaper 4 in the longitudinal direction. A hook-and-loop fastener 26f having a plurality of hook members (not shown) is provided on the skin-facing side of the free end side (outer side in the left-and-right direction) of the fastening tape 26. The target sheet 27 is a member that can engage with the hook-and-loop fastener 26f (hook members) of the fastening tape 26 and is made of, for example, nonwoven fabric.

[0182] When putting on the diaper 4, for example, the diaper 4 in the unfolded state shown in Fig. 11A is placed around the wearer's crotch area, with the front waistline section 30 positioned against the wearer's abdominal area and the rear waistline section 40 positioned against the wearer's dorsal area (buttocks). Then, the pair of fastening tapes 26, 26 are wrapped around the wearer's waist from the dorsal area to the abdominal area, and the hook-and-loop fastener 26f is engaged with the target sheet 27 on the abdominal area of ​​the wearer. This forms a waistline opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH that are substantially the same as those of the diaper 1, and the diaper 4 can be fixed in position relative to the wearer's body (crotch area).

[0183] The target sheet 27 does not necessarily have to be provided in the diaper 4. For example, instead of placing the target sheet 27 on the non-skin side of the outer sheet 25, the diaper 4 may be put on by directly engaging the hook-and-loop fasteners 26f with the nonwoven fabric constituting the outer sheet 25.

[0184] The diaper 4 of the fourth embodiment also provides the same effects as the diaper 1. For example, in the diaper 4, when viewed in the thickness direction, the entire absorbent core 11 overlaps with the breathable film (liquid-impermeable sheet 13a) and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (exterior sheet 25). In the overlapping portions of the absorbent core 11, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, moisture is more easily transported from the skin side to the non-skin side in the thickness direction, facilitating the discharge of moisture from the inside (absorbent core 11) of the diaper 4 to the outside. In addition, the diaper 4 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 1 described in the first embodiment.

[0185] === Fifth Embodiment === A disposable diaper (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1001") will be taken as an example of the absorbent article according to the fifth embodiment.

[0186] <Composition of Diaper 1001> Fig. 12 is a plan view of the diaper 1001 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 12. Fig. 14A is a plan view of the absorbent main body 1010, and Fig. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 1010. The diaper 1001 is a pants-type disposable diaper that basically has a configuration similar to that of the diaper 1 of the first embodiment, except that it is provided with an "indicator 1070" described below. Therefore, detailed description of the configuration of the diaper 1001 other than the indicator 1070 will be omitted.

[0187] The reference numerals representing the components of the diaper 1001 are represented by the numerals representing the corresponding components of the diaper 1 plus 1000. For example, the absorbent body 10 of the diaper 1 is represented as the absorbent body 1010 in the diaper 1001 (see FIG. 12, etc.). The same applies to the following embodiments. In the fifth embodiment, the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a is also referred to as a "liquid-impermeable film." In other words, the liquid-impermeable film is a sheet member that has "leakproof properties" that do not allow liquid to pass through, but has "moisture permeability" and "breathability" that allow water vapor and air to pass through.

[0188] (Indicator 1070) An indicator 1070 for detecting excretion of urine or the like is provided between the absorbent core 1011 and the backsheet 1013 in the thickness direction of the diaper 1001. The indicator 1070 is an excretion detection unit that exhibits a predetermined reaction (e.g., a color reaction) upon contact with moisture contained in excrement such as urine, and is configured, for example, as an indicator containing a pH indicator that is used in general diapers. In this embodiment, the indicator 1070 is disposed between the absorbent core 1011 and the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film) in the thickness direction, as shown in Figs. 13 and 14B. This allows moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core 1011 to easily come into direct contact with the indicator 1070, and also makes it easy to visually observe the reaction (color reaction) of the indicator 1070 from the outside (non-skin side) of the diaper 1001 through the backsheet 13.

[0189] 14A, in the diaper 1001, the indicator 1070 is configured as a strip-shaped member along the vertical direction (the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body 1010), and is arranged so as to be continuous from the end on one side (front side) in the vertical direction to the end on the other side (rear side) in the central part in the horizontal direction (left-right direction) of the absorbent main body 1010. This makes it possible to detect the presence or absence of excretion over a wide range in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body 1010. However, the configuration of the indicator 1070 is not limited to this, and for example, multiple indicators may be arranged at intervals in the horizontal direction, or indicators with different lengths or shapes in the vertical direction may be arranged.

[0190] <About moisture absorption and evaporation by Diaper 1001> In the diaper 1001, a highly hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is provided on the non-skin side of the outer covering members (front waistband 1030, rear waistband 1040), which enables the diaper 1001 to absorb moisture such as sweat from the wearer's skin and evaporate the absorbed moisture into the atmosphere. Figs. 15A to 15C are diagrams illustrating the basic principle of moisture absorption and evaporation in the diaper 1001. Fig. 15A shows a schematic cross section of the front waistband 1030, one of the components constituting the diaper 1001.

[0191] First, when a wearer puts on the diaper 1001, the skin-side sheet 1031 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) arranged on the skin-side of the front waistband portion 1030 in the thickness direction comes into contact with the wearer's skin, as shown in FIG. 15A . As described above, the skin-side sheet 1031 of this embodiment is made of SMS nonwoven fabric and contains meltblown fibers, which have a smaller fiber diameter than spunbond fibers. Therefore, there are portions where the fine meltblown fibers are tightly entangled, resulting in narrow interfiber distances. This configuration causes capillary action in the skin-side sheet 1031, making it easier to absorb moisture, such as sweat, adhering to the wearer's skin.

[0192] Next, as shown in Figure 15B, the moisture absorbed by the skin-side sheet 1031 transfers to the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) laminated adjacent to the non-skin-side of the skin-side sheet 1031. Because the skin-side sheet 1031 is a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric and the non-skin-side sheet 1032 is a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, a difference in hydrophilicity (hydrophilic gradient) occurs between the two sheets, and moisture easily moves from the skin-side sheet 1031, which has low hydrophilicity, to the non-skin-side sheet 1032, which has high hydrophilicity. Therefore, moisture is less likely to be retained on the skin-side sheet 1031 side that is in contact with the wearer's skin, and moisture is more likely to be retained on the non-skin-side sheet 1032 side that is not in contact with the wearer's skin.

[0193] Moisture retained in the non-skin-side sheet 1032 evaporates into the atmosphere from the non-skin-side surface of the non-skin-side sheet 1032. In the diaper 1001, the non-skin-side sheet 1032 is disposed on the outermost (non-skin-side) surface of the absorbent body 1010. That is, the non-skin-side surface of the non-skin-side sheet 1032 forms the interface with the atmosphere. Therefore, moisture contained within the non-skin-side sheet 1032 can be efficiently evaporated from a wide area of ​​the non-skin-side surface to the outside of the diaper 1001. However, it is not necessary for the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to be disposed over the entire non-skin-side surface of the outer cover member. For example, a member other than the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (e.g., a tape member) may be provided on a portion of the non-skin-side surface of the outer cover member.

[0194] In this way, in the outer cover member (waist member 1020) of the diaper 1001, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric absorbs moisture from the wearer's skin, transfers it to the non-skin-side hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and releases it into the atmosphere from the non-skin-side surface of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. In other words, moisture is absorbed and efficiently evaporated into the atmosphere. This makes it difficult for moisture to come into contact with the wearer's skin, preventing the wearer's skin from becoming soggy and causing skin problems such as rashes and discomfort.

[0195] Conversely, compared to conventional diapers, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric constituting the outer member of diaper 1001 is configured to easily absorb a large amount of moisture. If moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric comes into contact with indicator 1070, there is a risk that indicator 1070 will react to the moisture. In other words, indicator 1070 may react (falsely detect) to moisture other than excrement such as urine, which may result in a deterioration in the accuracy of excrement detection.

[0196] Therefore, in the diaper 1001 of this embodiment, in order to suppress the above-mentioned false detection by the indicator 1070, each component is configured so as to prevent the moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric from coming into contact with the indicator 1070. A method for suppressing false detection by the indicator 1070 in the diaper 1001 will be described below.

[0197] <Regarding false detection suppression for Indicator 1070> 16A and 16B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the arrangement of the indicator 1070 and the movement of moisture in the diaper 1001. 16A and 16B show a schematic cross section of the laminated portion of the absorbent main body 1010 and the front waistline portion 1030 (outer member). Here, the movement of moisture in the laminated portion of the absorbent main body 1010 and the front waistline portion 1030 (outer member) will be described, but the same can be said for the rear waistline portion 1040.

[0198] FIG. 16A shows the movement of water (hereinafter also referred to as "excreted liquid") contained in excreta absorbed by the absorbent core 1011. When excretion such as urine occurs while wearing the diaper 1001, the excreted liquid is first absorbed by the absorbent core 1011. At least a portion of the absorbed excreted liquid diffuses within the absorbent core 1011 and moves from the skin side to the non-skin side in the thickness direction, and reaches the indicator 1070 provided adjacent to the non-skin side of the absorbent core 1011. Then, the indicator 1070 undergoes a color reaction (color change) at the portion where the indicator 1070 comes into contact with the water. This makes it possible to detect excretion such as urine.

[0199] 16B shows the movement of moisture, such as sweat, contained in the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the front waistband portion 1030 (outer member). As described above, the outer member of the diaper 1001 contains hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, which absorbs moisture, such as sweat, and is therefore more likely to absorb moisture than conventional absorbent articles. If moisture contained in the outer member migrates from the non-skin-side to the skin-side in the thickness direction and comes into contact with the indicator 1070, the moisture may cause a color reaction in the indicator. In other words, moisture other than the excrement absorbed by the absorbent core 1011 may be detected by the indicator 1070, which may result in a decrease in the accuracy of excrement detection.

[0200] In contrast, in the diaper 1001 of this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 16B, a leak-proof liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film) is disposed between the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) and the indicator 1070. Therefore, the movement of moisture in the thickness direction is blocked in the area where the liquid-impermeable film is disposed. In other words, even if moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric moves from the non-skin side to the skin side, it is difficult for the moisture to reach the indicator 1070, which is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), and therefore the color reaction of the indicator 1070 due to moisture such as sweat is unlikely to occur.

[0201] In this manner, in the diaper 1001, the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), and the indicator 1070 is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film). In other words, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator 1070 are disposed on opposite sides in the thickness direction, sandwiching the leak-proof liquid-impermeable film therebetween. This makes it difficult for moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric to come into contact with the indicator 1070, thereby preventing the indicator 1070 from erroneously detecting liquids other than excretory liquid.

[0202] Furthermore, in the diaper 1001, in order to widen the range in which excrement can be detected, the indicator 1070 is disposed from one end to the other end in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the absorbent main body 1010. As a result, when viewed in the thickness direction, there is a portion where the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric of the waistline member 1020 (front waistline portion 1030, rear waistline portion 1040) and the indicator 1070 overlap (see FIGS. 13 and 16B). In this case, if the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator 1070 were disposed on the same side in the thickness direction relative to the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), there is a high possibility that moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric would come into contact with the indicator 1070, resulting in false detection. In contrast, in diaper 1001, by arranging the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and indicator 1070 on opposite sides of the thickness direction of the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), it is possible to ensure a wide range of excrement detection by indicator 1070 while making it easier to suppress false detections caused by moisture such as sweat.

[0203] In particular, the rear waistband 1040 of the outer cover member (waistband member 1020) of the diaper 1001 is located in an area from the back to the buttocks of the wearer where sweating is likely to occur when the diaper 1001 is worn. Therefore, the non-skin-side sheet 1042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the rear waistband 1040 is configured to easily absorb sweat and retain moisture on the back side of the wearer. When viewed in the thickness direction, the non-skin-side sheet 1042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) and the indicator 1070 overlap each other. Therefore, if the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator 1070 were located on the same side in the thickness direction of the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), moisture (sweat) contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric would likely cause erroneous detection by the indicator 1070. However, in the diaper 1001, as described above, the indicator 1070 and the non-skin-side sheet 1042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) are arranged on opposite sides of the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), which prevents moisture such as sweat from coming into contact with the indicator 1070 on the back side of the wearer. Therefore, false detection of the indicator 1070 can be effectively prevented even on the back side where the wearer is likely to sweat.

[0204] Furthermore, in a so-called three-piece type absorbent article such as the diaper 1001, only a portion of the absorbent main body 1010 is arranged to overlap with the outer covering members (the front waistline portion 1030 and the rear waistline portion 1040) when viewed in the thickness direction. That is, when viewed in the thickness direction, there are portions where the absorbent main body 1010 and the indicator 1070 overlap with the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric of the outer covering members (the front waistline portion 1030 and the rear waistline portion 1040) and portions where they do not overlap. In a diaper configured in this manner, it is desirable that the number of sheet members laminated on the far side of the indicator 1070 in the region where the indicator 1070 and the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) overlap is greater than the number of sheet members laminated on the far side of the indicator 1070 in the region where the indicator 1070 and the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) do not overlap.

[0205] For example, in FIG. 16A , the area where the indicator 1070 and the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) overlap is designated as A1, and the area where the indicator 1070 and the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) do not overlap is designated as A2. In this case, four sheet members are stacked on the non-skin-side side of the indicator 1070 in area A1, and two sheet members are stacked on the non-skin-side side of the indicator 1070 in area A2. That is, the number of stacked sheet members in area A1 is greater than the number of stacked sheet members in area A2. As described above, the greater the number of stacked sheet members in area A1, the less moisture, such as sweat, contained in the non-skin-side hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin-side sheet 1032) will migrate to the skin side, which can more easily prevent erroneous detection by the indicator 1070. On the other hand, the fewer the number of stacked sheet members in area A2, the more flexible the diaper 1001 will be, and the better its fit will be when worn.

[0206] As illustrated in FIG. 15 , the outer cover (front waistband 1030, rear waistband 1040) of the diaper 1001 includes a skin-side sheet 1031 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric) on the skin side of a non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric). That is, the hydrophobic nonwoven fabric is interposed between the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film) and the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric). This configuration makes it difficult for moisture, such as sweat, contained in the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) to migrate toward the skin-side sheet 1031 (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), which has low hydrophilicity. This further reduces the migration of moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side) toward the liquid-impermeable film (skin side). This further reduces false detections by the indicator 1070.

[0207] In this case, it is desirable that the hydrophobic fibers contain long fibers. Long fibers refer to fibers with an average length (average fiber length) of 100 mm or more, or fibers that are continuous from one end of the exterior member (front waistband portion 1030, rear waistband portion 1040) in the horizontal or vertical direction to the other. Using a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric containing long fibers facilitates moisture diffusion in the planar direction of the hydrophobic fibers, making it easier to suppress moisture migration in the thickness direction of the hydrophobic fibers. In other words, it is easier to suppress moisture from permeating the hydrophobic fibers in the thickness direction and migrating toward the indicator 1070 (skin side). This reduces false detection by the indicator 1070.

[0208] The average fiber length of the fibers is the length-weighted average fiber length L(l) measured by the centerline fiber length (Cont). The length-weighted average fiber length is measured as the L(l) value using the Kajaani FiberLab fiber properties (off-line) manufactured by Metso Automation. This is also the method recommended in JIS P 8226-2 (Pulp - Fiber length measurement method by optical automatic analysis, conforming to the non-polarized light method).

[0209] In addition, when viewed in the thickness direction, it is desirable that an adhesive layer be formed in the region where the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric (non-skin side sheets 1032, 1042) of the exterior member (waistline portions 1030, 1040) and the indicator 1070 overlap. In Figures 16A and 16B, at least a first adhesive layer HMA1 that bonds the exterior member (front waistline portion 1030) and the absorbent main body 1010, and a second adhesive layer HMA2 that bonds the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film) and the exterior sheet 1013b (sheet member adjacent to the non-skin side of the liquid-impermeable film) are provided between the non-skin side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) and the indicator 1070. The first adhesive layer HMA1 and the second adhesive layer HMA2 are both layers formed by applying an adhesive such as a hot melt adhesive between two sheet members using spiral coating or Ω-shaped coating, and the adhesive layers HMA1 and HMA2 join the two sheet members adjacent in the thickness direction.

[0210] In the diaper 1001, the adhesive layers (adhesive layers HMA1, HMA2) are provided between the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) and the indicator 1070 in the thickness direction, and therefore the adhesive layers tend to prevent moisture from moving in the thickness direction. That is, moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric tends to be prevented from moving to the skin side in the thickness direction and coming into contact with the indicator 1070. This makes it easier to prevent false detection by the indicator 1070.

[0211] Furthermore, in the diaper 1001, the first adhesive layer HMA1 and the second adhesive layer HMA2 are arranged to overlap when viewed in the thickness direction (see FIG. 16A). Since the amount of adhesive per unit volume increases in the overlapping portion of the two adhesive layers, the migration of moisture in the thickness direction is more likely to be suppressed in the overlapping portion. Therefore, moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is more likely to migrate toward the skin in the thickness direction and come into contact with the indicator 1070, further suppressing erroneous detection by the indicator 1070. Note that, when the diaper 1001 is actually manufactured, there is a high possibility that other adhesive layers will be formed in addition to the first adhesive layer HMA1 and the second adhesive layer HMA2. Therefore, erroneous detection by the indicator 1070 can be more unlikely to occur.

[0212] The outer cover member (waist portion 1030, 1040) of the diaper 1001 is provided with waist elastic members 1035, 1045 and curved elastic members 1047 that are stretchable in the lateral direction (left-right direction), and it is desirable that these elastic members 1035, 1045, 1047 are less likely to exert a contractile force in the portion overlapping with the indicator 1070. That is, it is desirable that the stress of the elastic members 1035, 1045, 1047 in the portion overlapping with the indicator 1070 is smaller than the stress of the elastic members 1035, 1045, 1047 in the portion not overlapping with the indicator 1070. In other words, it is desirable that the stress of the elastic members in the lateral (left-right) central portion is smaller than the stress of the elastic members on both lateral (left-right) sides of the central portion. In diaper 1001, as shown in FIG. 12, at least a portion of these elastic members 1035, 1045, 1047 are cut in the horizontal center, thereby reducing the stress in elastic members 1035, 1045, 1047 in the area overlapping with indicator 1070 (i.e., the area that overlapped before being cut).

[0213] If the contractile force of the elastic members 1035, 1045, and 1047 were to be large in the portions overlapping with the indicator 1070, a force would be generated that would press the waist portions 1030 and 1040 toward the indicator 1070 (i.e., toward the wearer's skin) when the diaper 1001 is worn. In this case, moisture contained in the non-skin-side sheets 1032 and 1042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) provided in the waist portions 1030 and 1040 would be more likely to come into contact with the indicator 1070, which could result in erroneous detection by the indicator 1070. In response to this, the diaper 1001 reduces the stress of the elastic members 1035, 1045, and 1047 in the portions overlapping with the indicator 1070, making it difficult for the contractile force to act in those portions, thereby preventing the non-skin-side sheets 1032 and 1042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) from being pressed against the indicator 1070. This makes it possible to make it less likely that the indicator 1070 will be detected erroneously.

[0214] The stress of the elastic members can be measured as follows, for example, using an autograph tensile tester (e.g., AG-1KN1) manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation. First, the waist member 1020 (1030, 1040) of the diaper 1001 is stretched to the extent that its surface is free of wrinkles. Then, the lateral dimension of the region to be measured (the lateral center and both side regions of the absorbent main body 1010) where each of the elastic members 1035, 1045, and 1047 is located is measured. The region to be measured is then cut to that dimension using a cutter to obtain a sample. Next, one end of the sample is clamped in a fixed chuck and the other end in a movable chuck. The sample is stretched at a speed of 300 mm / min to approximately 90% of its initial dimension, then inverted. The tensile load (N) at which each sample contracts to approximately 75% of its initial dimension is determined, and this value is converted into stress per unit length (mm) (N / mm).

[0215] <Modifications of the indicator 1070> In the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the indicator 1070 is continuously arranged from one end side to the other end side in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the absorbent main body 1010 has been described, but the arrangement of the indicator 1070 is not limited to this. Fig. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing one modified example of the arrangement of the indicator 1070. Fig. 17 is a view corresponding to Fig. 13.

[0216] In the modified example shown in Fig. 17, the length of the indicator 1070 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) is shorter than that in Fig. 13. Such an indicator 1070 makes it possible to detect the presence or absence of excretion near the crotch area of ​​the wearer (i.e., near the excretory opening for urine, etc.) while the diaper 1001 is being worn, while keeping the cost of the indicator 1070 low. Also, in Fig. 17, the indicator 1070 does not overlap the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the front waistband 1030 when viewed in the thickness direction. This reduces the possibility that moisture such as sweat contained in the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) in the front waistband 1030 will come into contact with the indicator 1070, making it easier to prevent erroneous detection of excretion on the front side (abdominal side) of the diaper 1001.

[0217] === Sixth Embodiment === In the sixth embodiment, a pants-type diaper 1002 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1002") partially different in configuration from the fifth embodiment will be described. Fig. 18A is a plan view of the diaper 1002 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 18B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line DD in Fig. 18A. Note that the directions (e.g., vertical direction, horizontal direction, etc.) in Figs. 18A and 18B are the same as those defined in the fifth embodiment. Figs. 18A and 18B also commonly depict a diaper 2002, which will be described later.

[0218] The diaper 1002 of the sixth embodiment includes a liquid-absorbent main absorber 1010 and a waistband member 1020 as an outer covering member joined to the non-skin side of the absorber 1010. As shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, the waistband member 1020 of the diaper 1002 is integrally formed so as to be continuous in the vertical direction (the longitudinal direction of the absorber 1010). In other words, the diaper 2 is a so-called two-piece disposable diaper formed of two components: the absorber 1010 and the outer covering member (waistband member 1020). In the following description, the portion of the outer covering member (waistband member 1020) of the diaper 2 that is forward of a vertical center position CL will be referred to as a front waistband section 1030, and the portion behind the center position CL will be referred to as a rear waistband section 1040 (see FIG. 18A).

[0219] When the diaper 1002 in the unfolded state shown in Fig. 18A is formed into a pants-type diaper, the absorbent main body 1010 and the waist member 1020 are folded in half at a longitudinal center position CL. In this folded state, the opposing front waist portion 1030 and rear waist portion 1040 are joined and connected to each other at the side portions 1030sw and 1040sw on both the left and right sides to form a pair of side joining portions 1050, 1050. This results in a pants-type diaper 1002 having a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH, similar to the diaper 1 (diaper 1001) in Fig. 1.

[0220] In the diaper 1002, the basic structure and function of the absorbent main body 1010 are substantially the same as those of the diaper 1001 of the fifth embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted. However, the back sheet 1013 of the diaper 1002 may include only a liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film) and may not include an outer sheet 1013b. This is because, in the diaper 1002, the waist member 1020 is provided on the entire non-skin side of the absorbent main body 1010, and the waist member 1020 functions as an outer sheet for the absorbent main body 1010. Therefore, the back sheet 1013 of the absorbent main body 1010 of the diaper 1002 may not include a sheet member corresponding to the outer sheet 1013b of the diaper 1001 (see FIG. 18B ).

[0221] Furthermore, in the diaper 1002, an indicator 1070 similar to that described in the fifth embodiment is provided between the absorbent core 1011 and the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film) in the thickness direction. That is, a strip-shaped indicator 1070 is arranged in the vertical direction (longitudinal direction of the absorbent main body 1010) at the center in the horizontal direction of the absorbent main body 1010.

[0222] The waistline member 1020 includes a skin-side sheet 1021, a non-skin-side sheet 1022 laminated adjacent to the non-skin-side of the skin-side sheet 1021, and waistline elastic members 1035, 1045 arranged between the skin-side sheet 1021 and the non-skin-side sheet 1022 in the thickness direction (see FIG. 18B ). The skin-side sheet 1021 is a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric similar to the skin-side sheets 1031, 1041 of the diaper 1001. The non-skin-side sheet 1022 is a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric similar to the non-skin-side sheets 1032, 1042 of the diaper 1001. That is, in the diaper 1002, the non-skin-side sheet 1022 is a nonwoven fabric that is more hydrophilic than the skin-side sheet 1021. The waist elastic members 1035, 1045 are made of rubber thread or the like, similar to the diaper 1001, and are attached between the skin side sheet 1021 and the non-skin side sheet 1022 in a state stretched in the left-right direction.

[0223] The diaper 1002 of the sixth embodiment also achieves the same effects as the diaper 1001. That is, in the diaper 1002, the indicator 1070 is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), and the non-skin-side sheet 1022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film). With this configuration, even if moisture such as sweat absorbed by the non-skin-side sheet 1022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) moves from the non-skin side to the skin side, it is difficult for the moisture to reach the indicator 1070, which is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable film, and therefore the color reaction of the indicator 1070 due to moisture such as sweat is unlikely to occur. In other words, moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is unlikely to come into contact with the indicator 1070, which can prevent the indicator 1070 from erroneously detecting liquids other than excretory fluids. In addition, the diaper 1002 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 1001 described in the fifth embodiment.

[0224] Furthermore, the outer cover member (waist member 1020) of the diaper 1002 has a portion where the non-skin-side sheet 1022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) and the indicator 1070 overlap when viewed in the thickness direction (see FIG. 18B ). In the overlapping portion between the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator 1070, moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric may come into contact with the indicator 1070. However, by arranging the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric and the indicator 1070 on opposite sides of the liquid-impermeable film as described above, erroneous detection by the indicator 1070 can be suppressed. Therefore, in the diaper 1002, the indicator 1070 can be disposed in a wide area overlapping the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. That is, it is possible to ensure a wide excrement detection range for the indicator 1070 while easily suppressing erroneous detection due to moisture such as sweat.

[0225] When viewed in the thickness direction, the diaper 1002 has an overlapping portion between the indicator 1070 and a portion (rear waistband 1040) of the outer cover member (waistband member 1020) that is rearward of the longitudinal center line CL. The rear waistband 1040 is located on the back side of the diaper 1002, where the wearer is likely to sweat. Therefore, the non-skin-side sheet 1022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) is likely to absorb sweat and retain moisture. In contrast, the diaper 1002 has the indicator 1070 positioned on the opposite side of the non-skin-side sheet 1022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) with the liquid-impermeable film sandwiched therebetween. This prevents moisture, such as sweat, from coming into contact with the indicator 1070 on the back side of the wearer. Therefore, false detection by the indicator 1070 can be effectively prevented, even on the back side where the wearer is likely to sweat.

[0226] Furthermore, in the diaper 1002, the entire absorbent body 1010 is disposed so as to overlap the skin-facing side of the outer covering member (waistline member 1020), and when viewed in the thickness direction, the entire indicator 1070 overlaps with the non-skin-side sheet 1022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) (see FIG. 18B). A liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film) is provided between the indicator 1070 and the non-skin-side sheet 1022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric). This prevents the entire area of ​​the indicator 1070 from coming into contact with moisture contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. In this way, in the diaper 1002, by disposing the indicator 1070 over a wide area, the detection range for excrement can be widened while reducing the likelihood of false detection.

[0227] === Seventh Embodiment === In the seventh embodiment, a pants-type diaper 1003 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1003") having a configuration partially different from that of the above-described embodiments will be described. Fig. 19A is a plan view of the diaper 1003 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 19B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line EE in Fig. 19A. Note that the directions (e.g., vertical direction, horizontal direction, etc.) in Figs. 19A and 19B are the same as those defined in the fifth embodiment. Figs. 19A and 19B also commonly depict a diaper 2003, which will be described later.

[0228] The diaper 1003 of the seventh embodiment includes a liquid-absorbent main absorber 1010 and a waistband member 1020 as an outer covering member joined to the non-skin side of the absorber 1010. As shown in FIGS. 19A and 19B, the waistband member 1020 of the diaper 1003 is integrally formed so as to be continuous in the longitudinal direction (the lengthwise direction of the absorber 1010). That is, the skin-side sheet 1021 is formed as an integral sheet member that is continuous from one end to the other end in the longitudinal direction. Meanwhile, the non-skin-side sheet 1032 (front non-skin-side sheet) disposed on the front side in the longitudinal direction and the non-skin-side sheet 1042 (rear non-skin-side sheet) disposed on the rear side in the longitudinal direction are formed as different sheet members that are not continuous in the longitudinal direction. A diaper with this structure is also called a simple three-piece disposable diaper. In the following description, the portion of the outer cover member (waist member 1020) of the diaper 1003 that is forward of the central position CL in the vertical direction will be referred to as the front waist portion 1030, and the portion that is rearward of the central position CL will be referred to as the rear waist portion 1040 (see Figure 19A).

[0229] When the diaper 1003 in the unfolded state shown in Fig. 19A is formed into a pants-type diaper, the absorbent main body 1010 and the waist member 1020 are folded in half at a longitudinal center position CL. In this folded state, the opposing front waist portion 1030 and rear waist portion 1040 are joined and connected to each other at the side portions 1030sw and 1040sw on both the left and right sides to form a pair of side joining portions 50, 50. This results in a pants-type diaper 1003 having a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH, similar to the diaper 1 (diaper 1001) in Fig. 1.

[0230] In the diaper 1003, the basic structure and function of the absorbent main body 1010 are substantially the same as those of the absorbent main body 1010 of the diaper 1002 of the sixth embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0231] Of the outer covering members (waist members 1020) of the diaper 1003, the front waist portion 1030 has a skin-side sheet 1021 extending from one longitudinal end (ventral side) to the other longitudinal end (dorsal side) on the skin side in the thickness direction, a non-skin-side sheet 1032 laminated adjacent to the non-skin side of the skin-side sheet 1021 on the front longitudinal side (ventral side), and waist elastic members 35 disposed in the thickness direction between the skin-side sheet 1021 and the non-skin-side sheet 1032. The rear waist portion 1040 has the skin-side sheet 1021 shared with the front waist portion 1030, a non-skin-side sheet 1042 laminated adjacent to the non-skin side of the skin-side sheet 1021 on the rear longitudinal side (dorsal side), and waist elastic members 45 disposed in the thickness direction between the skin-side sheet 1021 and the non-skin-side sheet 1042.

[0232] The skin-side sheet 1021 is a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric similar to the skin-side sheets 1031 and 1041 of the diaper 1001. The non-skin-side sheets 1032 and 1042 are hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics similar to the non-skin-side sheets 1032 and 1042 of the diaper 1001. That is, in the diaper 1003, the non-skin-side sheets 1032 and 1042 are nonwoven fabrics that are more hydrophilic than the skin-side sheet 1021. The waist-surrounding elastic members 1035 and 1045 are made of rubber thread or the like, similar to the diaper 1001, and are attached between the skin-side sheet 1021 and the non-skin-side sheets 1032 and 1042 in a state stretched in the left-right direction.

[0233] The diaper 1003 of the seventh embodiment also achieves the same effects as the diaper 1001 and the diaper 1002. That is, in the diaper 1003, the indicator 1070 is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), and the non-skin-side sheets 1032, 1042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics) are disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film). With this configuration, even if moisture such as sweat absorbed by the non-skin-side sheets 1032, 1042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics) moves from the non-skin side to the skin side, it is difficult for the moisture to reach the indicator 1070, which is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable film, and therefore the color reaction of the indicator 1070 due to moisture such as sweat is unlikely to occur. Therefore, moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is unlikely to come into contact with the indicator 1070, which can prevent the indicator 1070 from erroneously detecting liquids other than excretory liquid. In addition, the diaper 1003 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 1002 described in the sixth embodiment.

[0234] === Eighth Embodiment === In the eighth embodiment, a "tape-type diaper" (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1004") different from the "pants-type diapers" described in the fifth to seventh embodiments will be described as an example of an absorbent article. Fig. 20A is a plan view of the diaper 1004 in an unfolded and stretched state. Fig. 20B is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line FF in Fig. 20A. Note that the directions (e.g., vertical direction, horizontal direction, etc.) in Figs. 20A and 20B are the same as those defined in the fifth embodiment. Figs. 20A and 20B also commonly depict a diaper 2004, which will be described later.

[0235] 20A and 20B, the diaper 1004 comprises an absorbent core 1011 for absorbing bodily waste, a liquid-permeable top sheet 1012 positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core 1011, a liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core 1011, an outer sheet 1025 positioned closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a, and a pair of side sheets 1018 joined to the skin side on both left-right sides of the top sheet 1012. Furthermore, vertically stretchable leg elastic members 1017 (e.g., rubber threads) are arranged on both left-right sides of the diaper 1004.

[0236] The absorbent core 1011, top sheet 1012, and liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a of the diaper 1004 correspond to the absorbent main body 1010 of the diaper 1001, and have the same functions as the absorbent core 1011, top sheet 1012, and liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a that constitute the absorbent main body 1010 of the diaper 1001. For example, the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a is a liquid-impermeable film that allows moisture such as urine absorbed by the absorbent core 1011 to pass through as water vapor.

[0237] The outer sheet 1025 of the diaper 1004 is an outer member corresponding to the waist member 1020 of the diaper 1001, and is made of a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, similar to the non-skin-side sheets 1032, 1042 constituting the waist member 1020 of the diaper 1001. The outer member of the diaper 1004 may have a similar structure to the waist member 1020 of the diaper 1001. For example, a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric (not shown in FIG. 20B ) may be provided adjacent to the skin-side of the outer sheet 1025 made of a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, and the outer member of the diaper 1004 may be made of two sheet members.

[0238] For ease of explanation, the portion of the diaper 1004 in front of the central position CL in the longitudinal direction will also be referred to as the front waistline portion 1030, and the portion behind the central position CL will also be referred to as the rear waistline portion 1040 (see FIG. 20A).

[0239] The pair of side sheets 1018 are made of a liquid-permeable nonwoven fabric similar to the top sheet 1012, and the inner left and right edges of the side sheets 1018 are provided with longitudinally stretchable leakage barrier elastic members 1016 such as rubber threads. When the diaper 1004 is worn, the inner left and right edges of the side sheets 1018 rise up against the wearer's skin due to the contractile force exerted by the leakage barrier elastic members 1016, thereby forming leakage barrier portions 15 similar to those of the diaper 1001.

[0240] A pair of fastening tapes 1026 extending outward in the left-right direction is provided on the back side (rear waistband portion 1040) in the longitudinal direction of the diaper 1004. A hook-and-loop fastener 1026f having a plurality of hook members (not shown) is provided on the skin-facing side of the free end side (outer side in the left-right direction) of the fastening tape 1026. A target sheet 1027 for engaging the fastening tapes 1026 when the diaper 1004 is put on is provided on the non-skin-facing side of the ventral side (front waistband portion 1030) in the longitudinal direction of the diaper 1004. The target sheet 1027 is a member that can engage with the hook-and-loop fastener 1026f (hook members) of the fastening tape 1026, and is formed of, for example, nonwoven fabric.

[0241] The diaper 1004 is provided on its rear side (rear waist portion 1040) in the longitudinal direction with a rear-side elastic member 1019 that stretches in the left-right direction (lateral direction). The rear-side elastic member 1019 is a strip-shaped elastic member made of a stretchable nonwoven fabric or the like, and is attached to the diaper 1004 in a stretched state in the left-right direction. The stretching force exerted by the rear-side elastic member 1019 allows the diaper 1004 to fit easily around the waist of the wearer when the diaper 1004 is put on the wearer's body. As with the waist elastic members 1035, 1045 and the curved elastic member 1047 described in the diaper 1001 of the fifth embodiment, the rear-side elastic member 1019 in the diaper 1004 is arranged so that the portion overlapping the indicator 1070 does not exhibit stretching. This prevents the wet exterior sheet 1025 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) from being pressed against the indicator 1070, making it less likely that the indicator 1070 will detect incorrectly.

[0242] When putting on the diaper 1004, for example, the diaper 1004 in the unfolded state shown in Fig. 20A is placed around the crotch area of ​​the wearer, with the front waistline section 1030 placed against the wearer's abdominal area and the rear waistline section 1040 placed against the wearer's dorsal area (buttocks). Then, the pair of fastening tapes 1026, 26 are wrapped around the wearer's waist from the dorsal area to the abdominal area, and the hook-and-loop fastener 1026f is engaged with the target sheet 1027 on the abdominal area of ​​the wearer. This forms a waistline opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH, LH that are substantially the same as those of the diaper 1001, and the diaper 1004 can be fixed in place around the wearer's body (crotch area).

[0243] The target sheet 1027 does not necessarily have to be provided in the diaper 1004. For example, instead of placing the target sheet 1027 on the non-skin side of the outer sheet 1025, the diaper 1004 may be put on by directly engaging the hook-and-loop fastener 1026f with the nonwoven fabric that constitutes the outer sheet 1025.

[0244] The diaper 1004 of the eighth embodiment also achieves the same effects as the diaper 1001. That is, in the diaper 1004, the indicator 1070 is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film), and the outer sheet 1025 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable sheet 1013a (liquid-impermeable film). With this configuration, even if moisture such as sweat absorbed by the outer sheet 1025 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) migrates from the non-skin side to the skin side, it is difficult for the moisture to reach the indicator 1070, which is disposed closer to the skin than the liquid-impermeable film, and the color reaction of the indicator 1070 due to moisture such as sweat is unlikely to occur. Therefore, moisture such as sweat contained in the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is unlikely to come into contact with the indicator 1070, thereby preventing the indicator 1070 from erroneously detecting liquids other than excretory fluids. The diaper 1004 also has essentially the same features as the diaper 1001 described in the fifth embodiment.

[0245] ===Ninth Embodiment=== The absorbent article according to the present invention will be described by taking a disposable diaper (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 2001") as an example.

[0246] <Composition of Diaper 2001> FIG. 21 is a plan view of the diaper 2001 in an unfolded and stretched state. FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 21. FIG. 23A is a plan view of the absorbent main body 2010, and FIG. 23B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the absorbent main body 2010. The diaper 2001 is a pants-type disposable diaper having a configuration substantially similar to that of the diaper 1 of the first embodiment, except that it is provided with a "post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive)" described below. Therefore, detailed description of the configuration of the diaper 2001 other than the post-treatment tape 2080 will be omitted. Furthermore, in the diaper 2001, as described in FIGS. 15A to 15C, highly hydrophilic nonwoven fabrics are provided on the non-skin-facing sides of the exterior members (the front waistband 2030 and the rear waistband 2040), which allows the diaper 2001 to absorb moisture such as sweat from the wearer's skin and evaporate the absorbed moisture into the atmosphere.

[0247] 21 and 22, a post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) described below is attached to the non-skin side of the rear waistline portion 2040. Note that, in addition to the post-treatment tape 2080, an information display sticker indicating information such as the front and back sides and size of the diaper may be attached as an adhesive to the diaper 2001. Furthermore, the adhesive is not limited to being attached to the rear waistline portion 2040 of the outer covering member, and the adhesive may be attached to the front waistline portion 2030.

[0248] In the ninth embodiment, the liquid-impermeable sheet 2013a is also called a "breathable film." That is, the breathable film is a sheet member that has "leakproof properties" that do not allow liquid to pass through, but has "moisture permeability" and "breathability" that allow water vapor and air to pass through.

[0249] (Post-processing tape 2080) The rear waistband portion 2040 of the diaper 2001 is provided with a post-treatment tape 2080 on the non-skin-side surface thereof, which is used when disposing of the diaper 2001. Fig. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the post-treatment tape 2080 provided on the non-skin-side surface of the rear waistband portion 2040. Fig. 25A is a schematic perspective view of the diaper 2001, seen from the back, with the post-treatment tape 2080 unfolded. Fig. 25B is a schematic perspective view showing the diaper 2001 in the state of Fig. 25A rolled up and ready for disposal. For ease of explanation, Figs. 24 and 25 are simplified, omitting the elastic member 2045 and the like.

[0250] 21 and 25, the post-treatment tape 2080 is a long, strip-shaped member extending in the up-down direction, and is attached (adhered) with an adhesive or the like to the non-skin side of the non-skin side sheet 2042 of the rear waistband portion 2040. The post-treatment tape 2080 is provided with a tape main body 2081, a tape gripping portion 2082, a tape gripping member 2083, an attachment portion 2084, and a plurality of tape adhesive portions 2085. With the lengthwise and widthwise directions of the rectangular post-treatment tape 2080 aligned with the up-down direction (vertical direction) and left-right direction (horizontal direction) of the diaper 2001, respectively, the tape gripping portion 2082 is provided at one end 2080e in the longitudinal direction of the post-treatment tape 2080, and the attachment portion 2084 is provided at the other end 2080f in the longitudinal direction.

[0251] One end 2080e of the post-treatment tape 2080 can be extended toward the waist opening BH by unfolding it as shown in Figure 25A. To compact the diaper 2001 when discarding it, for example, the left and right ends of the rear waist portion 2040 are folded toward the abdomen, and the diaper 2001 is rolled up from the crotch side toward the waist opening, resulting in the state shown in Figure 25B. At this time, the post-treatment tape 2080 can be adhered to a portion 1p beyond the waist opening BH by a tape adhesive portion 2085, thereby maintaining the diaper 2001 in a compact form.

[0252] The other end 2080f of the post-treatment tape 2080 is fixed to the non-skin side (non-skin side sheet 2042) of the rear waistline portion 2040 by an attachment portion 2084 formed with an adhesive. It is desirable that the post-treatment tape 2080 does not come off from the rear waistline portion 2040, i.e., the attachment portion 2084 does not peel off, even when one end 2080e is pulled when the post-treatment tape 2080 is unfolded as shown in FIG. 25A .

[0253] An unused post-treatment tape 2080 is folded longitudinally into a Z-shape, as shown in Fig. 24, for example. The tape body 2081 is folded into a Z-shape, resulting in three layers: a first layer 2081x located closest to the skin, a third layer 2081z located closest to the skin, and a second layer 2081y located between the first and third layers. In the Z-folded state, tape adhesive portions 2085 having peelable adhesive strength are provided between the non-skin side of the first layer 2081x and the skin side of the second layer 2081y, which are adjacent in the thickness direction, and between the non-skin side of the second layer 2081y and the skin side of the third layer 2081z, which are adjacent in the thickness direction. That is, the tape adhesive portion 2085 allows the first layer 2081x and the second layer 2081y to be adhered to each other, and the second layer 2081y and the third layer 2081z to be adhered to each other again after peeling.

[0254] The unused post-treatment tape 2080 is temporarily fixed in a Z-folded state by the tape adhesive portions 2085. The tape adhesive portions 2085 do not necessarily need to be provided over the entire area between the non-skin side of the first layer 2081x and the skin side of the second layer 2081y, or between the non-skin side of the second layer 2081y and the skin side of the third layer 2081z. Each tape adhesive portion 2085 only needs to have adhesive strength sufficient to temporarily fix the unused post-treatment tape 2080 in a Z-folded state, and any adhesive range can be used. Furthermore, all of the tape adhesive portions 2085 do not need to be adhesive. For example, the second layer 2081y and the third layer 2081z may be temporarily fixed by squeezing, crimping, or the like, instead of using an adhesive.

[0255] Then, when the tape gripping portion 2082 is pulled in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) as shown by the two-dot chain line in Figure 25A, the adhesive surface-to-surface state created by the tape adhesive portion 2085 is released, and the post-processing tape 2080 is unfolded and can be extended toward the upper waist opening BH.

[0256] The tape body 2081 is a member that serves as the base material of the post-processing tape 2080, and examples of the material include resin materials such as polyethylene and polypropylene. The tape body 2081 in this embodiment uses a transparent resin material with smooth surfaces on both sides. The tape body 2081 may be made of a pulp material such as paper, and is not limited to a material with smooth surfaces on both sides, but may also be a fiber aggregate such as a nonwoven fabric or woven fabric. However, in order to be able to release the adhesive state between the surfaces of the post-processing tape 2080 while maintaining the Z-folded state due to the adhesion of the tape adhesive portion 2085, it is more preferable to use a resin material such as polyethylene or polypropylene with smooth surfaces on both sides.

[0257] The tape gripping portion 2082 is a portion where a person who performs post-treatment of the diaper 2001 grips the post-treatment tape 2080. The tape gripping portion 2082 is provided at an end of the post-treatment tape 2080, and a tape gripping member 2083 is provided at the tape gripping portion 2082. More specifically, the tape gripping member 2083 is fixed to the skin-facing side of the tape main body 2081 with an adhesive (not shown) or the like so that it cannot be peeled off, and no adhesive is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the tape gripping portion 2082. The tape gripping member 2083 is made of a colorless and transparent resin material such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The tape gripping portion 2082 may be, for example, simply a portion of one end 2080e of the tape main body 2081 where no adhesive is provided, or may be a portion where one end 2080e of the tape main body 2081 is folded back toward the skin and the tape main bodies 2081 are attached to each other.

[0258] Although the post-treatment tape 2080 of the diaper 2001 itself is substantially non-stretchable in the longitudinal direction, this is not limiting. The tape body 2081 may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber and have stretchability in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the post-treatment tape 2080 does not necessarily have to be folded in a Z-shape, but may be folded in two to form a V-shape, or in four to form a W-shape, or may be folded with more folds than a W-shape.

[0259] <How to dispose of Diaper 2001> Next, problems that may arise when disposing of the diaper 2001 after use will be described. When disposing of the used diaper 2001, as explained with reference to FIGS. 25A and 25B, the post-treatment operation is performed in which the post-treatment tape 2080 is unfolded and the diaper 2001 is rolled up with the absorbent main body 2010, which has absorbed bodily waste, facing inward, and then secured using the post-treatment tape 2080. In the post-treatment operation, in order to unfold the folded post-treatment tape 2080, the tape gripping portion 2082 (one end 2080e) is pulled toward the non-skin side. At this time, there is a risk that the attachment portion 2084 may peel off. In other words, there is a risk that the post-treatment tape 2080 (attachment) may come off from the non-skin-side sheet 2042 of the rear waistband portion 2040 when the tape gripping portion 2082 is pulled.

[0260] 26A and 26B are diagrams for explaining factors that cause the post-treatment tape 2080 to come off during the post-treatment operation of the diaper 2001. FIG.

[0261] 26A is a diagram illustrating the influence of a decrease in adhesive strength of the affixing portion 2084 as a first factor. As described above, in the post-treatment tape 2080, the first layer 2081x of the tape body 2081, which is closest to the skin, is attached to the non-skin side sheet 2042 of the rear waistband portion 2040 via the affixing portion 2084 formed with an adhesive. That is, the first layer 2081x and the non-skin side sheet 2042 are fixed to each other by the adhesive strength of the affixing portion 2084 while facing each other. When the tape gripping portion 2082 (one end 2080e) of the post-treatment tape 2080 is pulled toward the non-skin side from this state, a force acts in a direction that peels the first layer 2081x (affixing portion 2084) of the tape body 2081 from the non-skin side sheet 2042.

[0262] In the diaper 2001, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric that has been hydrophilically treated with a specific oil is used as the non-skin side sheet 2042, and the non-skin side sheet 2042 contains an oil. Therefore, the oil may cause the attachment portion 2084 to peel off easily. That is, the adhesive strength of the attachment portion 2084 may be reduced compared to when the attachment portion 2084 is attached to a nonwoven fabric that does not contain an oil (a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric). In this case, as shown in FIG. 26A , there is a risk that the attachment portion 2084 will peel off from the non-skin side of the non-skin side sheet 2042, causing the post-treatment tape 2080 to come off.

[0263] Next, Fig. 26B is a diagram illustrating the influence of inter-fiber bonding in a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric as a second factor. Generally, nonwoven fabrics are formed by entanglement of multiple fibers, and the more points where each fiber is entangled with other fibers (also called "intertwining points"), the stronger the bonding strength between the fibers and the less likely the nonwoven fabric is to tear. When the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) attached to the surface of such a nonwoven fabric is pulled toward the non-skin side during the post-treatment operation of the diaper 2001, a force acts in a direction that peels the attachment portion 2084 from the non-skin-side sheet 2042.

[0264] When the post-treatment tape 2080 is pulled, the bonds between the fibers constituting the nonwoven fabric may break, causing part of the nonwoven fabric to tear. For example, when a force is applied in a direction to peel the attachment portion 2084 from the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), the non-skin side sheet 2042 may tear if the bonding strength between the fibers in the non-skin side sheet 2042 is weaker than the adhesive strength between the non-skin side sheet 2042 and the attachment portion 2084. That is, the entanglement (intertwining) between the fibers near the surface of the non-skin side sheet 2042 may come undone, causing the non-skin side sheet 2042 near the surface to tear and separate, as shown in FIG. 26B . As a result, the post-treatment tape 2080 (attachment portion 2084) may come off the non-skin side sheet 2042.

[0265] To address this problem, the diaper 2001 of this embodiment prevents the post-treatment tape 2080 from coming off during post-treatment operations by adjusting the length of the fibers that make up the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) to which the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached.

[0266] FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the fibers constituting the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the diaper 2001 and the post-treatment tape 2080. In the diaper 2001 of this embodiment, the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) is configured to have fibers with a fiber length longer than the width dimension of the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive). Here, the width dimension of the adhesive tape refers to the smaller of the lengthwise and widthwise dimensions of the adhesive tape. In the diaper 2001, when the adhesive tape is a longitudinally elongated strip-shaped post-treatment tape 2080, the widthwise dimension of the adhesive tape is the width dimension of the adhesive tape.

[0267] In the case of Figure 27, the fiber length LfHy of a certain fiber fHy in its natural state, among the fibers constituting the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) that is the adherend, is longer than the lateral dimension W2080 of the post-treatment tape 2080 that is the adherend (LfHy>W2080). The longer the fiber length LfHy of the fiber fHy that constitutes the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the more intertwining points with other fibers there are, making it easier for the fibers to become entangled, and the stronger the bonding strength, making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. Furthermore, because the fiber length LfHy is longer than the width W2080 of the post-treatment tape 2080, it becomes easier for the fibers to become entangled over an area wider than the width W2080 of the post-treatment tape 2080. That is, because fiber entanglement points are formed in an area wider than W2080, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to tear in the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached, even when a force is applied in a direction pulling the post-treatment tape 2080. Therefore, peeling of the post-treatment tape 2080 due to weak bonding strength between the fibers that make up the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, as described at least in Fig. 26B, is less likely to occur. This makes it possible to make the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) less likely to peel from the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven).

[0268] 27, the fiber fHy is arranged so as to straddle the direction (horizontal direction) perpendicular to the direction (vertical direction) in which the post-processing tape 2080 (attached object) is pulled. In other words, in the horizontal direction, the left end fHyel of the fiber fHy is located to the left of the left end 2080el of the post-processing tape 2080, and the right end fHyer of the fiber fHy is located to the right of the right end 2080er of the post-processing tape 2080. In this case, the fiber fHy is likely to have points of entanglement with other fibers in regions outside the ends 2080el and 2080er of the post-processing tape 2080 in the left-right direction. Therefore, in regions of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on both sides in the left-right direction outside the portion of width W2080 where the post-processing tape 2080 is attached, the entanglement of the fibers becomes difficult to untangle, and the bonding strength becomes stronger. This makes the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear when subjected to a pulling force on the post-processing tape 2080 (attached portion 2084), making it easier to prevent the post-processing tape 2080 from coming off.

[0269] The direction in which the fibers constituting the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) are arranged is not limited to the horizontal direction as shown in FIG. 27 , and some of the fibers may be arranged in other directions (for example, the vertical direction). However, as described above, if the fibers are arranged so as to straddle the patch in a direction (horizontal direction) perpendicular to the direction (vertical direction) in which the post-treatment tape 2080 (patch) is pulled, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric can be made less likely to tear. In other words, the patch can be made less likely to peel off from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. Therefore, it is desirable that the fiber orientation of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric be in a direction (horizontal direction) perpendicular to the direction in which the post-treatment tape 2080 (patch) is pulled. In other words, it is desirable that the number of fibers per unit volume arranged across the patch in the horizontal direction be greater than the number of fibers per unit volume arranged across the patch in the vertical direction. With this configuration, the patch can be made more resistant to peeling.

[0270] In the diaper 2001, the post-treatment tape 2080, which is an adhesive attached to the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven), is designed to be pulled in a direction to be peeled off from the hydrophilic nonwoven during post-treatment operations after use of the diaper 2001. Therefore, if the attachment portion 2084 easily peels off, the function of the post-treatment tape 2080 is lost, and the user will be unable to perform the post-treatment operations comfortably. In contrast, in this embodiment, by adjusting the fiber length and orientation of the fibers constituting the hydrophilic nonwoven and the positioning of the post-treatment tape 2080 as described above, it is possible to easily prevent the post-treatment tape 2080 from detaching from the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven) during post-treatment operations of the diaper 2001. This reduces the stress and discomfort experienced by the user during post-treatment operations of the diaper 2001.

[0271] Furthermore, the structure of the post-processing tape 2080 itself may be modified to make it difficult for the post-processing tape 2080 (adhesive) to separate from the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric. Fig. 28 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a modified example of the post-processing tape 2080. Figs. 29A and 29B are diagrams illustrating the forces acting on the modified post-processing tape 2080 when performing a post-processing operation.

[0272] The post-treatment tape 2080 described in Fig. 24 is composed of a tape main body 2081, which is a single tape substrate folded into a Z-shape, but the post-treatment tape 2080 of a modified example is composed of two different tape substrates, a first member 2086 and a second member 2087 provided on the non-skin side thereof, as shown in Fig. 28. However, other substrates (for example, a third member) may also be provided. The configuration other than the members 2086 and 2087 that form the tape substrates and the joint 2088 that joins them is basically almost the same as the post-treatment tape 2080 described in Fig. 24.

[0273] The first member 2086 and the second member 2087 are both strip-shaped members made of a resin material such as polyethylene or polypropylene, similar to the above-described tape body 2081. The first member 2086 is fixed to the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the back waistband portion 2040 by an attachment portion 2084. Meanwhile, the second member 2087 is folded in a V-shape and has two layers: a first layer 2087y located on the skin side and a second layer 2087z located on the non-skin side. The first layer 2087y and the second layer 2087z are releasably bonded by a tape adhesive portion 2085. Meanwhile, the first member 2086 and the second member 2087 are inseparably bonded by a bonding portion 2088 formed of an adhesive or the like. The bonding portion 2088 is provided between one end and the other end of the first member 2086 in the longitudinal direction. In other words, the joint portion 2088 is provided at a predetermined distance from the upper end and the lower end of the first member 2086 in the vertical direction in Fig. 28. That is, the first member 2086 and the second member 2087 have portions at the upper end portion RU and the lower end portion RD in the vertical direction that are not joined to each other, as shown in Fig. 29.

[0274] When performing post-treatment of the diaper 2001 using the modified post-treatment tape 2080, first, the tape gripping member 2083 (one end 2080e in the longitudinal direction) is pulled toward the non-skin side to peel off the tape adhesive portion 2085, and the post-treatment tape 2080 is unfolded in the longitudinal direction. At this time, the second member 2087 is in a state in which it stands from the first member 2086 toward the non-skin side, starting from the joint 2088 as shown in FIG. 29A . When the second member 2087 (tape gripping member 2083) is pulled further toward the non-skin side from this state, the portion (where the joint 2088 is provided) located between both ends of the first member 2086 in the longitudinal direction (the vertical direction in FIG. 29A ) is pulled toward the non-skin side. Therefore, the pulling force on the first member 2086 (attachment portion 2084) acts in a distributed manner on both sides in the longitudinal direction, centered on the joint 2088.

[0275] The post-processing tape 2080 described in FIG. 24 has a configuration in which the integral tape body 2081 is folded in a Z-shape. Therefore, when the tape gripping member 2083 (one end 2080e) is pulled during a post-processing operation, the pulling force on the affixed portion 2084 is concentrated on the top end in the vertical direction of the first layer 2081x of the tape body 2081 (the boundary between the first layer 2081x and the second layer 2081y in FIG. 24). In other words, the pulling force tends to concentrate on one location in the longitudinal direction of the affixed portion 2084 (the top end in the vertical direction). In contrast, with the post-processing tape 2080 of the modified example, the pulling force on the affixed portion 2084 can be distributed in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction), making it possible to make the affixed portion 2084 less likely to peel off compared to when a large force is applied to one location in the affixed portion 2084.

[0276] 29A, when the second member 2087 (tape gripping member 2083) is pulled further toward the non-skin side, the portion of the first member 2086 that is adhered to the second member 2087 by the joint 2088 is pulled toward the non-skin side as shown in Fig. 29B. Meanwhile, of the first member 2086, an end RU on one side in the longitudinal direction from the joint 2088 (upper side in the vertical direction) and an end RD on the other side in the longitudinal direction from the joint 2088 (lower side in the vertical direction) are attached to the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) by the attachment part 2084, and the ends RU and RD can withstand the pulling force.

[0277] 29B, the first member 2086 has adhesive portions (attached portions 2084) provided on both side portions RU and RD in the longitudinal direction of the portion where the tensile force of the second member 2087 acts (the portion of the joint 2088) to bond to the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven). Therefore, the two attached portions 2084 on both sides can withstand the tensile force acting on the first member 2086, making it more difficult for the first member 2086 to peel off. This makes it more difficult for the post-treatment tape 2080 to detach from the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven), making it easier to perform post-treatment operations on the diaper 2001.

[0278] FIG. 30 is a plan view showing an enlarged view of region B in FIG. 21, and is a view for explaining the state of the surface of the non-skin side sheet 2042 in the portion where the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached. As shown in FIG. 30, a plurality of squeezing portions 2042e for squeezing the non-skin side sheet 2042 in the thickness direction are provided on the surface of the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic non-woven fabric). The squeezing portions 2042e are formed by performing so-called embossing during the production of the hydrophilic non-woven fabric. By providing such squeezing portions 2042e, the strength of the hydrophilic non-woven fabric can be increased. In FIG. 30, each squeezing portion 2042e is, for example, circular with a diameter of about 0.5 mm, and is arranged side by side so as to form a lattice pattern with an interval G2042e between adjacent squeezing portions 2042e, 2042e of about 2 mm. Thereby, the non-skin side sheet 2042 is less likely to break, and it is possible to make it difficult for the post-treatment tape 2080 (the adhered object) to be detached as described in FIG. 26B.

[0279] Note that the minimum value G2042e of the intervals between the plurality of squeezing portions 2042e, 2042e formed in the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic non-woven fabric) is preferably shorter than the fiber length LfHy of the fibers fHy constituting the hydrophilic non-woven fabric (G2042e < LfHy). If the interval G2042e is shorter than the fiber length LfHy, there is a high possibility that the squeezing portion 2042e will be formed at a position overlapping the fiber fHy. That is, there is a high possibility that the fiber fHy itself will be squeezed when forming the squeezing portion 2042e. In the portion where the fiber fHy is squeezed, since the fiber fHy and other fibers are likely to be crimped, the bonding force between the fibers becomes stronger compared to the case where the fibers are only entangled with each other, and the hydrophilic non-woven fabric is less likely to break. Thereby, it is possible to make the adhered object more difficult to peel off.

[0280] Furthermore, when viewed in the thickness direction of the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven), it is desirable that at least one compressed portion 2042e be arranged in the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) and the non-skin side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven) overlap. As described above, the strength of the hydrophilic nonwoven is increased in the area where the compressed portion 2042e is arranged, making the nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. Therefore, by attaching the adhesive to such a tear-resistant area, it is possible to more easily prevent the adhesive from peeling off. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 30 , multiple compressed portions 2042e are arranged in the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached (attachment portion 2084), making it possible to prevent the post-treatment tape 2080 from coming off.

[0281] In this case, it is more desirable that the width W2080 of the post-processing tape 2080 (which is also the width of the attachment portion 2084) be larger than the spacing G2042e between the compressed portions 2042e (W2080 > G2042e). If the width W2080 of the post-processing tape 2080 is larger than the spacing G2042e between the compressed portions 2042e, at least one compressed portion 2042e will be arranged in the lateral direction (short direction) of the post-processing tape 2080, and there is a high possibility that two or more compressed portions 2042e will be arranged. Therefore, as described above, the bonding strength between the fibers in the portion where the post-processing tape 2080 (attachment) is attached is stronger, making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. This makes it possible to make the post-processing tape 2080 less likely to come off.

[0282] Furthermore, when viewed in the thickness direction of the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven), it is desirable that at least one aperture 2042h be arranged in the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 (patch) and the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven) overlap. In the area where the aperture 2042h is arranged, the adhesive forming the attachment portion 2084 adheres to the skin-side sheet 41 (hydrophobic nonwoven) arranged on the skin side of the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven). In other words, in the area of ​​the aperture 2042h, the post-treatment tape 2080 (patch) is directly bonded to a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric that does not contain an oil agent, and the adhesive strength can be stronger than when the post-treatment tape 2080 (patch) is bonded to a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric that contains an oil agent. Therefore, compared to when the opening 2042h and the affixed portion 2084 do not overlap, it is possible to more easily prevent the post-treatment tape 2080 (affixed portion 2084) from peeling off from the rear waistband portion 2040.

[0283] ===Tenth Embodiment=== In the tenth embodiment, a pants-type diaper 2002 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 2002") having a configuration partially different from that of the ninth embodiment will be described. The diaper 2002 has a configuration substantially similar to that of the diaper 1002 described in Figures 18A and 18B. However, the diaper 2002 does not necessarily have to be provided with an indicator 1070, and is instead provided with a post-treatment tape 2080.

[0284] A post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) used when performing post-treatment operations on the diaper 2002 is affixed to the non-skin-side sheet 2022 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the rear waistband portion 2040 of the diaper 2002. The function and configuration of the post-treatment tape 2080 are substantially the same as those of the post-treatment tape 2080 described in the ninth embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted (see Figures 24 and 28, etc.).

[0285] The diaper 2002 of the tenth embodiment also achieves the same effects as the diaper 2001. That is, in the diaper 2002, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric constituting the non-skin side sheet 2022 of the rear waistband portion 2040 has fibers whose fiber length is longer than the smaller of the longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive). With this configuration, the multiple fibers constituting the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are more likely to entangle with each other, strengthening the bonding strength and making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. Furthermore, because the fiber length is longer than the width of the post-treatment tape 2080, the fibers are more likely to entangle with each other even outside the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached. Therefore, even when the post-treatment tape 2080 is pulled, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to tear against the tensile force. Therefore, it is possible to make it difficult for the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) to peel off from the non-skin side sheet 2022 (hydrophilic nonwoven). In addition, the diaper 2002 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 2001 described in the ninth embodiment.

[0286] ===Eleventh Embodiment=== In the eleventh embodiment, a pants-type diaper 2003 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 2003") having a configuration partially different from that of the above-described embodiments will be described. The diaper 2003 has substantially the same configuration as the diaper 1003 described in Figures 19A and 19B. However, the diaper 2003 does not necessarily have to be provided with an indicator 1070, and is instead provided with a post-treatment tape 2080.

[0287] A post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) used when performing post-treatment operations on the diaper 2003 is affixed to the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the rear waistband portion 2040 of the diaper 2003. The function and configuration of the post-treatment tape 2080 are substantially the same as those of the post-treatment tape 2080 described in the ninth embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted (see Figures 24 and 28, etc.).

[0288] The diaper 2003 of the eleventh embodiment also achieves the same effects as the diaper 2001. That is, in the diaper 2003, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric constituting the non-skin-side sheet 2042 of the rear waistband portion 2040 has fibers whose fiber length is longer than the smaller of the longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive). With this configuration, the multiple fibers constituting the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are more likely to entangle with each other, strengthening the bonding strength and making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. Furthermore, since the fiber length is longer than the width of the post-treatment tape 2080, the fibers are more likely to entangle with each other even outside the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached. Therefore, even when the post-treatment tape 2080 is pulled, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to tear against the tensile force. Therefore, the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) is less likely to peel off from the non-skin-side sheet 2042 (hydrophilic nonwoven). In addition, the diaper 2003 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 2001 described in the ninth embodiment.

[0289] ===Twelfth Embodiment=== In the twelfth embodiment, a "tape-type diaper" (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 2004"), which is different from the "pants-type diapers" described in the ninth to eleventh embodiments, will be described as an example of an absorbent article. The diaper 2004 has substantially the same configuration as the diaper 1004 described in Figs. 20A and 20B. However, the diaper 2004 does not necessarily have to be provided with an indicator 1070, and is instead provided with a post-treatment tape 2080.

[0290] A post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) used when performing post-treatment operations on the diaper 2004 is affixed to the exterior sheet 2025 (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric) of the rear waistband portion 2040 of the diaper 2004. The function and configuration of the post-treatment tape 2080 are substantially the same as those of the post-treatment tape 2080 described in the ninth embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted (see Figures 24 and 28, etc.).

[0291] The diaper 2004 of the twelfth embodiment also achieves the same effects as the diaper 2001. That is, in the diaper 2004, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric constituting the exterior sheet 2025 of the rear waistband portion 2040 has fibers whose fiber length is longer than the smaller of the longitudinal and lateral dimensions of the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive). With this configuration, the multiple fibers constituting the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric are more likely to entangle with each other, strengthening the bonding strength and making the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric less likely to tear. Furthermore, because the fiber length is longer than the width of the post-treatment tape 2080, the fibers are more likely to entangle with each other even outside the area where the post-treatment tape 2080 is attached. Therefore, even when the post-treatment tape 2080 is pulled, the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is less likely to tear against the tensile force. Therefore, the post-treatment tape 2080 (adhesive) can be made less likely to peel off from the exterior sheet 2025 (hydrophilic nonwoven). In addition, the diaper 2004 basically has substantially the same features as the diaper 2001 described in the ninth embodiment.

[0292] ===Other embodiments=== Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the above embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and it goes without saying that the present invention includes equivalents thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0293] 1 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (first embodiment), 2 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (second embodiment), 3 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (third embodiment), 4 Diaper (absorbent article, tape-type diaper) (fourth embodiment), 10. Absorbent body; 11 absorbent core, 11b core wrap sheet, 11c constricted portion, 11s slit portion, 12 top sheet, 13 back sheet, 13a liquid impermeable sheet, 13b exterior sheet, 15 leak-proof wall portion, 16 leak-proof wall elastic member, 17 leg-around elastic member, 18 side seats, 20 girth member, 21 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 22 Non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 25 outer sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 26 Fastening tape, 26f Velcro, 27 Target sheet, 30 front waistband, 30sw side, 31 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 32 non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 32f folded part, 32h perforated part, 35 waist elastic member; 36 Skin-facing sheet, 40 rear waistband, 40b buttocks cover, 40sw side, 41 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 42 non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 42f folded part, 42h perforated part, 45 waist elastic member; 46 skin-facing sheet, 47 curved elastic member, 50 side joints, 60 Welds, 60s welded joint pair, 1001 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (fifth embodiment), 1002 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (sixth embodiment), 1003 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (7th embodiment), 1004 Diaper (absorbent article, tape-type diaper) (8th embodiment), 1010 absorbent body, 1011 absorbent core, 1011b core wrap sheet, 1011c neck portion, 1012 top sheet, 1013 back seat, 1013a liquid-impermeable sheet (liquid-impermeable film), 1013b exterior sheet, 1015 leak-proof wall portion, 1016 leak-proof wall elastic member, 1017 leg-around elastic member, 1018 Side sheet, 1019 Back elastic member, 1020 waist member; 1021 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 1022 Non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 1025 Exterior sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 1026 fastening tape, 1026f hook-and-loop fastener, 1027 target sheet, 1030 front waistband, 1030sw side, 1031 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 1032 Non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 1032f Folded portion, 1032h Opening part, 1035 waist elastic member; 1036 Skin-facing sheet, 1040 back waistband, 1040b buttocks cover, 1040sw side, 1041 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 1042 Non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 1042f Folded portion, 1042h opening, 1045 waist elastic member; 1046 Skin-facing sheet, 1047 Curved elastic member, 1050 side joint, 1060 Welded part, 1060s welded joint pair, 1070 indicator, 2001 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (9th embodiment), 2002 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (10th embodiment), 2003 Diaper (absorbent article, pants-type diaper) (11th embodiment), 2004 Diaper (absorbent article, tape-type diaper) (12th embodiment), 2010 absorbent body, 2011 absorbent core, 2011b core wrap sheet, 2011c neck portion, 2012 top sheet, 2013 Back Seat, 2013a Liquid-impermeable sheet (breathable film), 2013b Exterior sheet, 2015 Leak prevention wall section, 2016 Leak prevention wall elastic member, 2017 Leg elastic member, 2018 Side seat, 2019 Back elastic member, 2020 waistband member, 2021 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 2022 Non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 2025 exterior sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 2026 fastening tape, 2026f hook-and-loop fastener, 2027 target sheet, 2030 front waistband, 2030sw side, 2031 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 2032 Non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 2032f Folded part, 2032h Opening part, 2035 waist elastic member; 2036 Skin-facing sheet, 2040 rear waistband, 2040b buttocks cover, 2040sw side, 2041 Skin side sheet (hydrophobic nonwoven fabric), 2042 Non-skin side sheet (hydrophilic nonwoven fabric), 2042f Folded part, 2042e Pressing part, 2042h Opening part, 2045 waist elastic member; 2046 Skin-facing sheet, 2047 Curved elastic member, 2050 side joint, 2060 Welded part, 2060s welded joint pair, 2080 Post-treatment tape (sticker), 2080e one end, 2080f other end, 2081 tape body, 2081x 1st layer, 2081y 2nd layer, 2081z 3rd layer, 2082 tape gripping portion, 2083 tape gripping member, 2084 application portion, 2085 tape adhesive portion, 2086 first member, 2087 second member, 2087y 1st layer, 2087z 2nd layer, 2088 joint, BH waist opening, LH leg opening, CL Center position (vertical, longitudinal)

Claims

1. An absorbent article having an absorbent main body including a liquid-absorbent core and a breathable film provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric on the non-skin side of the breathable film; When viewed in the thickness direction of the absorbent main body, the absorbent core, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric at least partially overlap each other, an absorbent body having the absorbent core, an outer member including a front waistband portion joined to one side of the absorbent main body in the longitudinal direction and a rear waistband portion joined to the other side of the absorbent main body in the longitudinal direction; The absorbent main body is folded in half at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction, and has a pair of side joining portions that connect both left and right side portions of the front waistline portion and the rear waistline portion to each other, a hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is provided on at least a portion of the exterior member, the exterior member includes a skin side sheet, a non-skin side sheet laminated adjacent to the non-skin side of the skin side sheet, and a rubber thread provided between the skin side sheet and the non-skin side sheet in the thickness direction, the non-skin-side sheet is the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, the non-skin side sheet of the front waistline portion and the non-skin side sheet of the rear waistline portion are discontinuous, the skin side sheet is a sheet closest to the rubber thread from the skin side, the non-skin side sheet is a sheet closest to the rubber thread from the non-skin side, the non-skin side sheet has the most non-skin side surface of the exterior member, a slit portion penetrating the absorbent core in the thickness direction; An absorbent article characterized in that, when viewed in the thickness direction, there is a portion where the slit portion, the breathable film, and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap each other.

2. An absorbent article according to claim 1, the exterior member has the rubber thread as an elastic member that stretches in the left-right direction, An absorbent article, characterized in that the stress of the elastic member at the center portion of the absorbent core in the left-right direction is smaller than the stress of the elastic member at both side portions of the absorbent core in the left-right direction.

3. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, The absorbent article is characterized in that the exterior member has a hydrophobic nonwoven fabric, which is less hydrophilic than the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric, on the skin side of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric.

4. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The absorbent article is characterized in that the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric is provided on the outer cover member closest to the skin.

5. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, It has a left-right direction, The width of the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric in the left-right direction is larger than the width of the breathable film in the left-right direction, An absorbent article, characterized in that the width of the breathable film in the left-right direction is equal to or greater than the width of the absorbent core in the left-right direction.

6. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, An absorbent article characterized in that, when viewed in the thickness direction, it has a portion where the absorbent core and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric overlap, and a portion where the absorbent core and the hydrophilic nonwoven fabric do not overlap.

7. An absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 6, An absorbent article characterized in that the breathable film has a moisture permeability of 1000 g / m2·24 h or more and 3500 g / m2·24 h or less.

Images