adhesive tape assembly

Abstract

To provide an improved fastener tape assembly.SOLUTION: A fastener tape assembly includes a carrier component including a non-woven layer and a polymer film layer, an adhesive layer, and a release layer. The fastener tape assembly described herein may also be included in a z-fold assembly.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 092,626, filed October 16, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 188,304, filed May 13, 2021, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] [Technical field] The present invention relates generally to fastening tabs, and particularly to adhesive tape assemblies, such as those found in connection with disposable absorbent articles such as diapers and other applications. The present invention provides enhanced or improved performance for adhesive tape assemblies. [Background technology]

[0003] Fastening tabs are sometimes used in connection with disposable absorbent articles, such as diapers, and other applications. Disposable absorbent articles, such as baby diapers and / or adult incontinence diapers, are generally known in the art. Disposable articles (e.g., diaper chassis) often consist of a liquid-absorbent core (which facilitates the separation of liquids from the user). The liquid-absorbent core is enclosed between a liquid-permeable topsheet (which is positioned adjacent to the wearer when the disposable article is worn) and a liquid-impermeable backsheet (which forms the outer surface of the disposable article when worn, and which is made of, for example, a nonwoven fabric laminated with a water-impermeable layer such as a polyethylene film). Disposable articles generally have a rear portion for covering the wearer's rear, a front portion for covering the wearer's front, and a crotch portion therebetween.

[0004] Disposable articles may be used in a reusable form that requires washing after each use, or in a disposable form that is used only once. Disposable forms include one or more adhesive tape assemblies. The adhesive tape assemblies are typically used to maintain a used diaper in a "rolled" configuration after use, allowing for easier handling and disposal. The disposal tape must adhere to the exterior of the diaper. However, the outer surface of the diaper is designed to become increasingly soft. This necessitates a flexible yet strong adhesive that can adhere well to the nonwoven portion of the diaper. While the adhesive of the disposal tape can provide acceptable adhesion to the nonwoven diaper backsheet, it can cause problems such as blocking in the rolled adhesive tape assembly.

[0005] Conventional disposal tapes are typically stored in roll form. These disposal tapes comprise a nonwoven fabric layer and an adhesive layer, with the nonwoven fabric layer having a release layer on one surface thereof and a polymer layer on the opposite surface thereof, with the adhesive layer disposed on the surface of the polymer layer facing away from the nonwoven fabric. This disposal tape configuration makes it prone to blocking, i.e., damage, when peeling one layer of the disposal tape from an adjacent layer. While the release layer is designed to protect the underlying structure, it cannot completely protect the underlying nonwoven fabric layer due to the absorbent nature of the nonwoven fabric. As a result, portions of the adhesive layer tend to penetrate into the adjacent nonwoven fabric material. For example, when peeling one tape layer from an adjacent tape layer, such as when unwinding a roll of tape or peeling a sheet of tape, the peel force increases as the adhesive layer peels from the nonwoven fabric, undesirably pulling some of the nonwoven fabric fibers out of the nonwoven fabric material. This can damage the tape and prevent it from rewinding cleanly from the roll, and in some cases, the tape may tear, or even if it doesn't break, it may not be able to be rewound completely.

[0006] Attachment of fastening tapes (fastening tapes) to disposable articles is typically performed to provide a strong and durable attachment. Several techniques have been used to provide such attachment, including mechanical bonding processes and the use of high-strength adhesives. However, developing a fastening system that can achieve a certain degree of elongation and / or stretch can be challenging. Such limitations on the degree of elongation and / or stretch are particularly desirable for diapers designed for children, because excessive stretch in fastening tapes can pose a strangulation risk to young children. Some jurisdictions impose regulations that limit the total allowable stretch of fastening systems. For example, some international toy regulations limit the total allowable stretch to less than 200 mm. A means is desired that can provide the typical strength of fastening tape assemblies while reducing the amount of stretch in the fastening tape assembly. Improved flexibility through thinner films compared to current systems is also desirable. Furthermore, reduced plastic deformation when the tape is attached to the diaper compared to current unoriented polypropylene (PP) structures, along with the attendant aesthetic improvements, are also desirable. Furthermore, it is desirable for the tape not to exhibit blocking.Therefore, there is a need for a fixed tape assembly that has at least one of the above characteristics. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The embodiments of the present invention described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the following embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present invention.

[0008] An improved fastening tape assembly (adhesive tape assembly, fastening tape assembly) is shown and described below. The fastening tape assembly described herein comprises (1) a carrier element, (2) an adhesive layer (adhesive layer), and (3) a release layer. The carrier element comprises (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side, and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side, the second side of the polymeric film layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer being at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer. In many embodiments, the carrier element comprises multiple layers formed by extrusion lamination, adhesive bonding, or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the nonwoven fabric layer comprises a spunbonded nonwoven fabric, a carded nonwoven fabric, a spunlaced nonwoven fabric, a meltblown nonwoven fabric, or a combination thereof. Other types of nonwoven fabrics are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the polymer film layer comprises a polyolefin. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises an acrylic adhesive, a rubber adhesive, a silicone adhesive, or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the rubber adhesive comprises a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer (SIS), a styrene-butadiene (SB), or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer is pressure-sensitive. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer is patterned. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer is continuous. In many embodiments, the release layer comprises a silicone, a fluoropolymer, or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using heat. In many embodiments, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using ultraviolet or infrared curing.

[0009] The Z-fold fastening tape assembly described herein comprises (1) a fastening element (fastening element), (2) a connecting element, and (3) an extension element (extension element), wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the connecting element and is at least partially connected to the fastening element and the connecting element, and at least one of the fastening element, the connecting element, and the extension element comprises the fastening tape assembly described above.

[0010] Also described herein is a Z-fold fastening tape assembly comprising: (1) a fastening element (fastening element); (2) a joining element; and (3) an extension element (extension element), wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the joining element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; and the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the joining element and provides at least some adhesive between the fastening element and the joining element. The fastening element is at least partially connected to the carrier element, the fastening element comprising: (i) a carrier element; (ii) an adhesive layer; and (iii) a release layer, the carrier element comprising: (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side, the second side of the polymeric film layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer being at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer.

[0011] Further, the Z-fold fastening tape assembly described herein comprises (1) a fastening element (fastening element), (2) a joining element, and (3) an extension element (extension element), wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the joining element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, and the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the joining element and provides at least some adhesive between the fastening element and the joining element. and the bonding element is at least partially connected to the carrier element, the bonding element comprising: (i) a carrier element; (ii) an adhesive layer; and (iii) a release layer, the carrier element comprising: (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side, the second side of the polymeric film layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer being at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer.

[0012] Still further, the Z-folded fastening tape assembly described herein comprises (1) a fastening element (fastening element), (2) a connecting element, and (3) an extension element (extension element), wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, and the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the connecting element and provides a fastening force to the fastening element and the connecting element. The extension element is at least partially connected, and comprises (i) a carrier element, (ii) an adhesive layer, and (iii) a release layer, wherein the carrier element comprises (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side, and (b) a polymer film layer having a first side and a second side, wherein the second side of the polymer film layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymer film layer.

[0013] Furthermore, the Z-folded fastening tape assembly described herein comprises a fastening element (fastening element), a joining element, and an extension element (extension element), the fastening element having a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the joining element having a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the extension element being disposed between the fastening element and the joining element and at least partially connected to the fastening element and the joining element, the extension element having a first surface and a second surface, the extension element being substantially inextensible, and at least one of the fastening element and the joining element comprising the fastening tape assembly described above.

[0014] Embodiments herein also describe methods for manufacturing Z-folded fastening tape assemblies. Furthermore, embodiments herein also describe articles that include Z-folded fastening tape assemblies. In many embodiments, the article is a diaper.

[0015] Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the following detailed description of various embodiments and specific examples merely indicates preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention and is given by way of illustration and not limitation. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention may be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and the present invention includes all such changes and modifications. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] Advantages of embodiments of the present invention may become apparent from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, which should be considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are designated with like reference numerals, and in which:

[0017] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a disposable article having attached fastening tabs including fastening tape assemblies, according to aspects described herein. [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a disposable article including a fastening tape assembly according to aspects described herein. [Figure 2] 1 is an exemplary diagram showing a partial cross section of a fixed tape assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is an exploded side view of a Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is an exploded side view of a Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] FIG. 1 is an exploded side view of a Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3D]FIG. 1 is an exploded side view of a Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3E] FIG. 1 is an exploded side view of a Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a graph showing the percentage of initial unwind force over a six-week period for a fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and a conventional tape. [Figure 5] 1 is a graph showing the percentage of initial unwind force over a six-week period for a fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and two conventional tapes. [Figure 6] 1 is a graph showing the percentage of initial unwind force over a six-week period for a fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure and two conventional tapes. [Figure 7] 1 is a graph showing total stretch for (i) a Z-folded fixed tape assembly having a non-extensible extension element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and (ii) two conventional Z-fold tapes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Several aspects of the present invention are disclosed in the following description of specific embodiments of the invention and in the associated drawings. Alternative embodiments are possible without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Also, in exemplary embodiments of the present invention, well-known elements may not be described in detail or may be omitted so as not to obscure details relevant to the present invention. Furthermore, to facilitate understanding of this specification, some terms used herein are discussed below.

[0019] The term "exemplary," as used herein, means serving as an example. The embodiments described herein are not limiting, but rather exemplary only. It is to be understood that any embodiment described herein is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Moreover, the terms "embodiments of the invention," "embodiments," or "the present invention" do not require that all embodiments of the invention include all features, advantages, or modes of operation discussed herein.

[0020] The fastening tape assembly includes a carrier element. The carrier element includes a nonwoven fabric layer, a polymeric film layer, and an adhesive layer. The nonwoven fabric layer has a first side and a second side facing opposite the first side. The polymeric film layer has a first side and a second side facing opposite the first side. In some embodiments, the second side of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer. In some embodiments, the polymeric film layer is disposed completely or substantially completely on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is disposed at least partially on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is disposed completely or substantially completely on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer. In some embodiments, a release layer is disposed at least partially on the first side of the polymeric film layer. In some embodiments, the release layer is disposed completely or substantially completely on the first side of the polymeric film layer.

[0021] As previously mentioned, conventional tapes suffer from the drawback of blocking, which occurs when adhesive from one tape layer transfers to the nonwoven material on an adjacent tape layer. As used herein, "blocking" refers to the inability or impairment of one layer of tape to be successfully peeled from another layer of tape due to increased interlayer bond strength. Without blocking, one layer of tape can be easily removed from an adjacent tape layer without significant force. Blocking occurs when the interlayer bond strength is high, requiring significant force to separate the layers. High interlayer bond strength can impede tape roll unwinding. In some situations, effective tension can be concentrated in one or more locations on the tape or at the edges of the tape, which can cause damage or breakage of the tape at or near those locations. It has been unexpectedly discovered that blocking can be overcome by placing a nonwoven layer between the polymer film layer and the adhesive layer and placing a release layer on the side of the polymer film layer opposite the nonwoven layer. As a result, the adhesive layer, which is the first layer of the fastening tape assembly, is separated from the adjacent nonwoven fabric layer, which is the second layer of the fastening tape assembly, by both the release layer and the polymer film layer. In this configuration, the adhesive cannot penetrate the nonwoven fabric layer of the fastening tape assembly. Therefore, when the adhesive layer (first layer) of the fastening tape assembly is removed, the nonwoven fabric fibers of the underlying nonwoven fabric layer (second layer) of the fastening tape assembly are not pulled out by the adhesive of the adhesive layer, and the nonwoven fabric layer remains intact. Because blocking is thus reduced or prevented, each layer of the fastening tape assembly can be smoothly peeled from the adjacent layer.

[0022] The nonwoven layer may be made of any suitable material. In many embodiments, the nonwoven layer comprises a spunbonded nonwoven, a carded nonwoven, a spunlaced nonwoven, a meltblown nonwoven, or a combination thereof. The nonwoven layer may also comprise other nonwovens not described herein. In many embodiments, the nonwoven layer has a thickness ranging from 10 to 70 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the nonwoven layer has a thickness ranging from 20 to 60 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the nonwoven layer has a thickness ranging from 30 to 50 grams per square meter.

[0023] The polymer film layer may be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the polymer film layer comprises a polyolefin. In some embodiments, the polymer film layer comprises polypropylene, biaxially oriented polypropylene, polyethylene, or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises an acrylic adhesive, a rubber adhesive, a silicone adhesive, or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the polymer film layer comprises polypropylene, biaxially oriented polypropylene, polyethylene, or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the polymer film layer has a thickness in the range of 5 to 50 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the polymer film layer has a thickness in the range of 10 to 40 grams per square meter. In other embodiments, the polymer film layer has a thickness in the range of 15 to 35 grams per square meter.

[0024] In many embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises an acrylic adhesive, a rubber adhesive, a silicone adhesive, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the rubber adhesive comprises a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer (SIS), a styrene-butadiene (SB), or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer is pressure-sensitive. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is patterned. As used herein, "patterned" means that the adhesive is disposed in a discontinuous manner, i.e., in a manner that forms a pattern. The pattern may be uniform, non-uniform, symmetrical, or asymmetrical. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is continuous or substantially continuous.

[0025] The release layer may be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the release layer comprises a silicone, a fluoropolymer, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the release layer comprises a silicone. While a silicone release layer may be used, other release layers are contemplated. In some embodiments, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using heat. In some embodiments, the release layer is completely or substantially completely bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using heat. In some embodiments, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using ultraviolet or infrared curing. In some embodiments, the release layer is completely or substantially completely bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using ultraviolet or infrared curing.

[0026] The force required to peel one layer of tape from another is affected by at least one of the type of adhesive and the amount of silicone in the tape. It has been unexpectedly discovered that the amount of silicone required for the fastening tape assembly of the present invention is significantly less than that required for conventional tapes. In some embodiments, the weight of the release layer (release coat) in the fastening tape assembly is 3 to 6 times less than the weight of the silicone layer (silicone coat) in conventional nonwoven-based tapes. In some embodiments, the weight of the release layer (release coat) is less than 6 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the weight of the release layer (release coat) is less than 5 grams per square meter, less than 4 grams per square meter, less than 3 grams per square meter, or less than 2 grams per square meter.

[0027] In many embodiments, the carrier element can be manufactured using any suitable method, hi some embodiments, the carrier element comprises multiple layers of extrusion laminates, adhesive bonds, or combinations thereof.

[0028] The fixed tape assembly may be in any suitable form. In some embodiments, the fixed tape assembly is in the form of a roll. In some embodiments, the fixed tape assembly is in the form of a sheet.

[0029] The fastening tape assembly can be used in any closure or disposal tape structure for a diaper or other article. In some embodiments, the fastening tape assembly of the present invention is included as at least a portion of a non-fold fastening tape or a bi-fold fastening tape assembly. In some embodiments, the non-fold fastening tape or the bi-fold fastening tape assembly may further include at least one mechanical closure mechanism, such as a hook.

[0030] In some embodiments, the fixed tape assembly of the present disclosure is included in at least a portion of a Z-fold (tri-fold) fixed tape assembly. The Z-fold fixed tape assembly includes a fixed element (fastening element), a connecting element (joint element), and an extension element (extension element). The extension element is disposed between the fixed element and the connecting element. At least one of the fixed element, the connecting element, and the extension element includes the fixed tape assembly described above. In some embodiments, each of the fixed element, the connecting element, and the extension element includes the fixed tape assembly described above. In some embodiments, the fixed element includes the fixed tape assembly described above.

[0031] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fastening element of the Z-fold fastening tape assembly is configured for application to a disposable article or disposable material. In some embodiments, the fastening element defines a first surface for application to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface oriented opposite the first surface. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first surface of the fastening element is configured for application to a disposable article or disposable material. In some embodiments, all or substantially all of the first surface of the fastening element is configured for application to a disposable article or disposable material.

[0032] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the coupling elements of the fastening tape assembly are configured for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material. In some embodiments, the coupling elements define a first surface for attachment to the disposable article or disposable material and a second surface oriented opposite the first surface. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first surface of the coupling elements is configured for attachment to the disposable article or disposable material. In some embodiments, all or substantially all of the first surface of the coupling elements is configured for attachment to the disposable article or disposable material.

[0033] The extension element is generally disposed between the fixation element and the coupling element. As used herein, "generally disposed between" means that at least a portion of the extension element is located between the fixation element and the coupling element. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the extension element is at least partially connected to (attached to) the fixation element. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the extension element is at least partially connected to (attached to) the coupling element. In some embodiments, the extension element is directly connected to (attached to) at least one of the fixation element and the coupling element. For example, at least a portion of the extension element may be affixed to at least a portion of the fixation element and the coupling element. In some embodiments, the extension element is indirectly connected to (attached to) at least one of the fixation element and the coupling element. For example, at least a portion of the extension element may be affixed to another structure (element) that is affixed to the fixation element or the coupling element. For example, the other structure may form a U-shaped connection between the extension element and the fixation element or the coupling element.

[0034] In some embodiments, the fastening element of the Z-fold fastening tape assembly includes a carrier element as described above, an adhesive layer, and a release layer. The carrier element includes a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side, and a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side. At least a portion of the second side of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer. At least a portion of the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer. At least a portion of the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer of the fastening element is provided in an adhesive region on the first side of the fastening element. The fastening element is at least partially bonded (joined) to the extension element in the adhesive region. In some embodiments, the first side of the fastening element is at least partially covered by the adhesive layer, thereby bonding (joining) the fastening element to the extension element. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the first side of the fastening element is patterned. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the first side of the fastening element is continuous. In some embodiments, the distal end of the fastening element is folded over to form a folded edge. The fastening element is connected (attached) to the extension element at the folded edge. In some embodiments, a film strip is attached to the distal end of the fastening element to form a U-shaped joint connecting the fastening element to the extension element. The film strip is made of any suitable material with high tear resistance (tear strength), such as a non-oriented polypropylene film layer or a PET film layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments, the fastening element further includes at least one mechanical closure mechanism, such as a hook. The at least one mechanical closure mechanism can be used to attach the fastening tape assembly to a disposable article or material. The at least one mechanical closure mechanism can be used in combination with an adhesive.

[0035] In some embodiments, the bonding element of the Z-folded fastening tape assembly includes a carrier element as described above, an adhesive layer, and a release layer. The carrier element includes a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side, and a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side. At least a portion of the second side of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer. At least a portion of the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer. At least a portion of the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer of the bonding element is provided in an adhesive region on the first side of the bonding element. The bonding element can be at least partially bonded (joined) to a disposable article or disposable material in the adhesive region. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the first side of the bonding element is patterned. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the first side of the bonding element is continuous. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments, the distal end of the joining element is folded over to form an edge (folded edge). The joining element is connected (attached) to the extension element at the edge (folded edge), forming a Y-shaped bond. In some embodiments, a first surface of the joining element is at least partially covered by an adhesive layer, thereby bonding (joining) the joining element to the extension element. In some embodiments, a filmy strip is attached to the distal end of the joining element to form a U-shaped bond connecting the joining element to the extension element. The filmy strip is made of any suitable material, such as a biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film layer. In some embodiments, the joining element has at least one perforation. In some embodiments, the joining element has multiple perforations. In some embodiments, the at least one perforation is located at the Y-shaped bond connecting the joining element to the extension element. In some embodiments, the connecting element is connected (attached) to the extension element by two spaced apart Y-shaped connecting portions, one of the Y-shaped connecting portions including at least one perforation.The perforations allow the joining element to remain intact before use of the fixation tape assembly and to break at the perforation location upon deployment of the fixation tape assembly. For example, perforations in a Y-shaped joint can reduce the risk of the joining element and the extension element becoming detached from each other before deployment of the fixation tape assembly.

[0036] In some embodiments, the extender element of the Z-folded fastening tape assembly includes a carrier element as described above, an adhesive layer, and a release layer. The carrier element includes a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side, and a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side. At least a portion of the second side of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer. At least a portion of the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer. At least a portion of the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer of the extender element is provided in an adhesive region on the first side of the extender element. The extender element is at least partially bonded (joined) to the bonding element in the adhesive region. In some embodiments, the first side of the extender element is at least partially covered by the adhesive layer, thereby bonding the extender element to the bonding element. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the first side of the extender element is patterned. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the first side of the extender element is continuous. In some embodiments, the second surface of the extension element is at least partially covered with an adhesive layer, thereby bonding the extension element to the fixation element. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the second surface of the extension element is patterned. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer on the second surface of the extension element is continuous. In some embodiments, the distal end of the extension element is folded over to form an edge (folded edge). The fixation element is attached to the extension element at the edge (folded edge) to form a Y-shaped bond. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer of the extension element is provided in an adhesive region on the first surface of the extension element, thereby at least partially bonding the bond element to the extension element. In some embodiments, the first distal end of the extension element is folded over to form an edge (folded edge) at which the fixation element is attached to the extension element to form a first Y-shaped bond.The second distal end of the extension element is folded over to form an edge (folded edge) where the securing element is attached to the extension element, forming a second Y-shaped bond. In some embodiments, an adhesive layer on the extension element is provided in an adhesive region on the first surface of the extension element, thereby at least partially bonding the extension element to the securing element and the connecting element. In some embodiments, a film strip is attached to the distal end of the extension element to form a U-shaped bond connecting the extension element to the securing element or the connecting element. The film strip may be made of any suitable material, such as a biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film layer. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0037] In some embodiments, a Z-folded fastening tape assembly comprises: (1) a fastening element; (2) a connecting element; and (3) an extension element, wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the connecting element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the connecting element and is at least partially connected to the fastening element and the connecting element; and at least one of the fastening element, the connecting element, and the extension element comprises the fastening tape assembly described above.

[0038] In some embodiments, a Z-folded fastening tape assembly includes (1) a fastening element, (2) a connecting element, and (3) an extension element, wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, and the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the connecting element and at least partially connects the fastening element and the connecting element. The fastening element is electrically connected to the carrier element, the fastening element comprising: (i) a carrier element; (ii) an adhesive layer; and (iii) a release layer, the carrier element comprising: (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side, the second side of the polymeric film layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer being at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer.

[0039] In many embodiments, the carrier element of the Z-fold fastening tape assembly can be manufactured using several different methods: In some embodiments, the carrier element comprises multiple layers of extrusion lamination, adhesive bonding, or a combination thereof.

[0040] The nonwoven layer of the Z-fold fastening tape assembly may be made of any suitable material. In many embodiments, the nonwoven layer comprises a spunbond nonwoven, a carded nonwoven, a spunlaced nonwoven, a meltblown nonwoven, or a combination thereof. The nonwoven layer may also comprise other nonwovens not described herein. In many embodiments, the nonwoven layer has a thickness ranging from 10 to 70 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the nonwoven layer has a thickness ranging from 20 to 60 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the nonwoven layer has a thickness ranging from 30 to 50 grams per square meter.

[0041] The polymer film layer of the Z-fold fastening tape assembly may be made of any suitable material. In many embodiments, the polymer film layer comprises polypropylene, biaxially oriented polypropylene, polyethylene, or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the polymer film layer has a thickness in the range of 5 to 50 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the polymer film layer has a thickness in the range of 10 to 40 grams per square meter. In many embodiments, the polymer film layer has a thickness in the range of 15 to 35 grams per square meter.

[0042] The adhesive layer of the carrier element in the Z-folded fixed tape assembly is made of any suitable material. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises an acrylic adhesive, a rubber adhesive, a silicone adhesive, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the rubber adhesive comprises a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer (SIS), or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer is pressure-sensitive. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is patterned as described above. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is continuous.

[0043] The release layer of the carrier element in the Z-folded fixed tape assembly may be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the release layer comprises silicone. The release layer may be bonded to the polymer film layer by any suitable method. In some embodiments, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using heat. In some embodiments, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first side of the polymer film layer using ultraviolet or infrared curing.

[0044] In some embodiments, the Z-folded fastening tape assembly includes a lifting tab (finger lift) at least partially attached (attached) to the fastening element. In some embodiments, at least a portion of at least one surface of the lifting tab is adhesive-free. In some embodiments, at least a portion of both surfaces of the lifting tab are adhesive-free. In some embodiments, the lifting tab is substantially adhesive-free. The lifting tab provides an extension tab that can be grasped by a user, allowing the user to easily open the Z-folded fastening tape assembly.

[0045] In many embodiments of the Z-folded fixed tape assembly, the fixed tape assembly is in a roll form.In many embodiments of the Z-folded fixed tape assembly, the fixed tape assembly is in a sheet form.

[0046] In some embodiments, a Z-folded fastening tape assembly includes (1) a fastening element, (2) a connecting element, and (3) an extension element, wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, and the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the connecting element and at least partially connects the fastening element and the connecting element. The bonding element is electrically connected to the carrier element, the bonding element comprising: (i) a carrier element; (ii) an adhesive layer; and (iii) a release layer, the carrier element comprising: (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side, the second side of the polymeric film layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer being at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer.

[0047] In some embodiments, a Z-folded fastening tape assembly includes (1) a fastening element, (2) a connecting element, and (3) an extension element, wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, and the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the connecting element and at least partially connects the fastening element and the connecting element. The extension element is electrically connected to the carrier element, the extension element comprising: (i) a carrier element; (ii) an adhesive layer; and (iii) a release layer, the carrier element comprising: (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side, the second side of the polymeric film layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer being at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer being at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer.

[0048] In many embodiments, at least one of the fastening element, extension element, or bonding element is inextensible or substantially inextensible. In this context, "inextensible" means that there is no plastic deformation or material flow after the yield point (the end of elastic elongation), which causes the film to break after the yield point. When attached to a disposable article or disposable material, the bonding element can be partially, completely, or substantially completely attached to the disposable article or disposable material. When the bonding element is completely or substantially completely attached to the disposable article or disposable material, the bonding element has little effect on the elongation of the fastening tape assembly. In many embodiments, the extension element is inextensible or substantially inextensible. In many embodiments, the fastening element and the extension element are inextensible or substantially inextensible. When both the fastening element and the extension element are inextensible, the total elongation of the fastening tape assembly due to the application of an elongation force is even less than the total elongation if only the extension element is inextensible or substantially inextensible. As used herein, "total stretch" refers to the sum of the original length and the additional length due to the application of a stretching force.

[0049] In some embodiments, the extension element of the Z-folded fastening tape assembly is inextensible or substantially inextensible, and the fastening element comprises the fastening tape assembly described above. In some embodiments, the Z-folded fastening tape assembly comprises a fastening element, a connecting element, and an extension element, the fastening element having a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface oriented opposite the first surface, the connecting element having a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface oriented opposite the first surface, the extension element being disposed between and at least partially connected to the fastening element and the connecting element, the extension element being substantially inextensible, and at least one of the fastening element and the connecting element comprising the fastening tape assembly described above.

[0050] In many embodiments, the Z-folded fastening tape assembly can be stretched to an amount of 1% or less, 2.5% or less, 5% or less, 10% or less, 20% or less, 25% or less, or 35% or less beyond its original length. In many embodiments, the Z-folded fastening tape assembly can be stretched to a total stretch of 200 mm or less. In some embodiments, the Z-folded fastening tape assembly has a total stretch of 200 mm or less after being stretched at an extension rate of 1500 mm / min until the Z-folded fastening tape assembly ruptures or breaks.

[0051] The inextensible or substantially inextensible extension element may be made of any suitable material, such as, for example, an oriented film. In some embodiments, the extension element comprises polyester. In some embodiments, the extension element comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET), oriented polypropylene (OPP), biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), blown film, or any combination thereof. In many embodiments, the inextensible or substantially inextensible extension element is a reinforced film or a laminate film. In many embodiments, the inextensible or substantially inextensible extension element has a tear resistance (tear strength) of at least 200 millinewtons as measured by the Elmendorf Tear Strength Test. In many embodiments, the inextensible or substantially inextensible extension element has a tear resistance (tear strength) of at least 400 millinewtons or at least 500 millinewtons as measured by the Elmendorf Tear Strength Test. In many embodiments, at least one of the extension element and the fastening element is inelastic or substantially inelastic. In many embodiments, the extension element is inelastic or substantially inelastic. The inextensibility of at least one of the fastening element and the extension element limits the deployed length of the Z-folded fastening tape assembly. This advantageously provides improved safety for use of the fastening tape assembly or any article on which the fastening tape assembly is provided, particularly when the tape is used on articles designed for children. In many embodiments, the fastening tape assembly complies with the International Organization for Standardization's ISO 8124, Toy Safety Standard.

[0052] In many embodiments, the inextensible or substantially inextensible extension element is at least partially covered by an adhesive layer on a first side of the extension element and at least partially covered by a release layer on a second side of the extension element. In many embodiments, the inextensible or substantially inextensible fixation element is at least partially covered by an adhesive layer on a first side of the fixation element and at least partially covered by a release layer on a second side of the fixation element. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises an acrylic adhesive, a rubber adhesive, a silicone adhesive, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the rubber adhesive comprises a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer (SIS), or a combination thereof. In many embodiments, the adhesive layer is pressure-sensitive. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is patterned. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is continuous. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0053] The above Z-folded fastening tape assembly can be manufactured by any suitable method. The Z-folded fastening tape assembly can be included in a disposable article. In many embodiments, the disposable article is a diaper.

[0054] FIG. 1A shows a disposable article 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1A, the disposable article 1 has a front portion 4, a back portion 5, and a crotch portion 6 between the front portion 4 and the back portion 5. A chassis 11 is provided across the front portion 4, the back portion 5, and the crotch portion 6. The chassis 11 may include a topsheet 2, a backsheet 3, and an absorbent core (not shown) disposed between the topsheet 2 and the backsheet 3. The topsheet 2 may be liquid permeable. The backsheet 3 may be liquid impermeable and is associated with the topsheet 2.

[0055] In many embodiments, the backsheet 3 may be suitably formed from a suitable film-like material, such as a laminate (laminate film) comprising a polymer film and a nonwoven fabric. In some embodiments, the backsheet 3 comprises a nonwoven material. The nonwoven material may have a weight, for example, within the range of about 7 to about 25 grams per square meter, about 10 to about 20 grams per square meter, or about 12 to about 18 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the nonwoven material may suitably comprise a spunbond material. In some embodiments, the nonwoven material is a polypropylene nonwoven fabric. In some embodiments, the polymer film is a polyethylene film or a polypropylene film. In some embodiments, the nonwoven material may suitably comprise a collection of entangled or otherwise arranged fibers or filaments, which may be thermally or adhesively bonded to a polymer web or polymer backing (e.g., a polyethylene and / or polypropylene backing). Of course, alternatively, other known nonwoven materials may be used as well and / or other known methods for producing nonwoven materials may be employed.

[0056] The disposable article 1 may further include an inner rear panel (not shown) and an outer rear panel 7, each extending from a first side portion 15 to a second side portion 16 of the disposable article 1 in the rear portion 5, and an inner front panel 8 and an outer front panel 9, each extending from the first side portion 15 to the second side portion 16 of the disposable article 1 in the front portion 4. The inner rear panel (not shown) and the outer rear panel 7 meet the inner front panel 8 and the outer front panel 9 at an outermost edge line 17 of each of the first side portion 15 and the second side portion 16 of the disposable article 1. Portions of edges 14 between the inner rear panel (not shown) and the outer rear panel 7 and the inner front panel 8 and the outer front panel 9 define (constitute) two leg openings 12. Portions of edges 18 between the inner rear panel (not shown) and the outer rear panel 7 and the inner front panel 8 and the outer front panel 9 define (constitute) a waist opening 13. The disposable article 1 includes a fastening tape assembly 10 (see FIG. 1B ). A fastening element 20 (reference number 201 in FIGS. 3A-3D ) of the fastening tape assembly 10 is visible on the outer rear panel 7 of the disposable article 1. It will be understood that in some embodiments, the fastening element 20 may be visible on the outer front panel 9 of the disposable article 1. FIG. 1B also shows an extension element 30 (reference number 202 in FIGS. 3A-3D ) and a joining element 40 (reference number 203 in FIGS. 3A-3D ). The fastening tape assembly 10 is attached to the wound disposable article 1 in the extended position to secure the disposable article 1. In some embodiments, the fastening tape assembly 10 may include a finger lift 50. While the fastening tape assembly 10 is described herein with reference to, for example, FIGS. 2 and 3A-3D , it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to the fastening tape assembly 10 and may include other fastening tape assemblies.

[0057] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a fastening tape assembly 100 (reference number 10 in FIG. 1B). The fastening tape assembly 100 comprises a carrier element 150, an adhesive layer 140, and a release layer 110. The carrier element 150 comprises a nonwoven layer 130 having a first side 131 and a second side 132, and a polymer film layer 120 having a first side 121 and a second side 122. The adhesive layer 140 has a first side 141 and a second side 142. The release layer 110 has a first side 111 and a second side 112. The second side 122 of the polymer film layer 120 is at least partially disposed on the first side 131 of the nonwoven layer 130. The adhesive layer 140 is at least partially disposed on the second side 132 of the nonwoven layer 130. The second side 112 of the release layer 110 is at least partially disposed on the first side 121 of the polymer film layer 120 .

[0058] 3A-3E illustrate various embodiments of a Z-folded fastening tape assembly 200. The Z-folded fastening tape assembly 200 includes a fastening element 201, a bonding element 203, and an inextensible extension element 202. The fastening element 201 defines a first surface 204 for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface 205 facing in the opposite direction from the first surface 204. In FIG. 3A, the fastening element 201 includes an adhesive layer 219 located on the first surface 204 of the fastening element 201, a release layer 220 located on the second surface 205 of the fastening element 201, a nonwoven fabric layer 221B adjacent to the adhesive layer 219, and a polymeric film layer 221A adjacent to the nonwoven fabric layer 221B. The nonwoven fabric layer 221B is interposed between the adhesive layer 219 and the polymeric film layer 221A. 3B-3E, any one of the fastening element 201, the extension element 202, or the joining element 203 may include a carrier element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this case, at least one carrier layer (carrier element) 221, 224, or 227 includes a polymer film layer and a nonwoven fabric layer (not shown separately) disposed adjacent to one another (the carrier layer 221 of the fastening element 201, the carrier layer 227 of the extension element 202, and the carrier layer 224 of the joining element 203 are shown collectively in the figures). The polymer film layer (not shown separately) of the carrier layer 221, 224, or 227 is sandwiched between the corresponding nonwoven fabric layer (not shown separately) and the corresponding release layer 220, 223, or 226 of the carrier layer. Each nonwoven fabric layer (not separately shown) in the carrier layers 221, 224, and 227 is sandwiched between a corresponding adhesive layer 219, 222, or 225 and a corresponding polymeric film layer (not separately shown) in the carrier layer. In some embodiments, the fastening element 201 of FIGS. 3B-3E includes a carrier element according to aspects of the present disclosure. The fastening element 201 includes an adhesive layer 219 located on the first side 204 of the fastening element 201, a release layer 220 located on the second side 205 of the fastening element 201, a nonwoven fabric layer (see reference numeral 221B in FIG. 3A) adjacent to the adhesive layer 219, and a polymeric film layer (see reference numeral 221A in FIG. 3A) adjacent to the nonwoven fabric layer.A nonwoven fabric layer (see reference numeral 221B in FIG. 3A) is interposed between the adhesive layer 219 and the polymer film layer (see reference numeral 221A in FIG. 3A). In FIGS. 3A-3C, the adhesive layer 219 is continuous. In FIGS. 3D and 3E, the adhesive layer 219 is patterned. The bonding element 203 defines a first surface 206 for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface 207 oriented opposite the first surface 206. An adhesive layer 222 is located on the first surface 206 of the bonding element 203, and a release layer 223 is located on the second surface 207 of the bonding element 203. A carrier layer (carrier element) 224 is interposed between the adhesive layer 222 and the release layer 223. The extension element 202 has a first surface 208 and a second surface 209 and is generally disposed between the fixation element 201 and the coupling element 203. An adhesive layer 225 is disposed on the first surface 208 of the extension element 202, and a release layer 226 is disposed on the second surface 209 of the extension element 202. A carrier layer (carrier element) 227 is interposed between the adhesive layer 225 and the release layer 226. In FIGS. 3A and 3B, the adhesive layer 225 is continuous. In FIGS. 3C-3E, the adhesive layer 225 is patterned. The fixation element 201 is attached to the extension element 202. A first end (distal end) 210 of the extension element 202 is folded over to form a folded edge 214. The folded edge 214 of the extension element 202 is attached to the first surface 204 of the fixation element 201 to form a Y-shaped coupling 211. In this manner, a portion of one end of the extension element 202 is at least partially attached to the fixation element 201. The extension element 202 is also attached to the coupling element 203. In FIGS. 3A and 3C-3E, the first end (distal end) 216 of the coupling element 203 is folded over to form a folded edge 217. The folded edge 217 of the coupling element 203 is attached to the first surface 208 of the extension element 202 to form a Y-shaped coupling 218. In FIG. 3B, a film strip 215 is attached to the first end (distal end) 216 of the coupling element 203. This forms a U-shaped coupling that attaches the first end 216 of the coupling element 203 to a portion of the first surface 208 of the extension element 202.3A-3E, a portion of one end of the extension element 202 is at least partially attached to the connecting element 203. In FIGS. 3A-3D, the Z-folded fixation tape assembly 200 further includes a lifting tab (finger lift) 212 attached to the first surface 204 of the fixation element 201. The lifting tab 212 is located at the first end (distal end) 213 of the fixation element 201. It should be noted that while FIGS. 3A-3D show the fixation element 201, extension element 202, and connecting element 203 in an exploded view solely for the purpose of illustrating the different components of the fixation tape assembly 200, these components are still attached (connected) to one another as described above.

[0059] The present invention contemplates the following embodiments: In the following embodiments, all combinations of features and embodiments are contemplated.

[0060] [Embodiment 1] 1. A fastening tape assembly comprising: (1) a carrier element; (2) an adhesive layer; and (3) a release layer, wherein the carrier element comprises: (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first side and a second side; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first side and a second side, wherein the second side of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second side of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first side of the polymeric film layer.

[0061] [Embodiment 2] In embodiment 1, the carrier element comprises multiple layers of an extrusion laminate, an adhesive bond, or a combination thereof.

[0062] [Embodiment 3] In any one of the first and second embodiments, the nonwoven fabric layer comprises a spunbond nonwoven fabric, a carded nonwoven fabric, a spunlace nonwoven fabric, a meltblown nonwoven fabric, or a combination thereof.

[0063] [Embodiment 4] In any one of the first to third embodiments, the polymer film layer comprises a polyolefin.

[0064] [Embodiment 5] In any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the adhesive layer comprises an acrylic adhesive, a rubber adhesive, a silicone adhesive, or a combination thereof.

[0065] [Embodiment 6] In embodiment 5, the rubber adhesive comprises a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), a styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer (SIS), a styrene-butadiene (SB), or a combination thereof.

[0066] [Embodiment 7] In any of embodiments 1 to 6, the adhesive layer is pressure sensitive.

[0067] [Embodiment 8] In any of the first to seventh embodiments, the adhesive layer is patterned.

[0068] [Embodiment 9] In any of embodiments 1 to 7, the adhesive layer is continuous.

[0069] [Embodiment 10] In any of embodiments 1-9, the release layer comprises a silicone, a fluoropolymer, or a combination thereof.

[0070] [Embodiment 11] In any of embodiments 1 to 9, the release layer is a silicone release layer.

[0071] [Embodiment 12] In any of embodiments 1-11, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first surface of the polymeric film layer using heat.

[0072] [Embodiment 13] In any of embodiments 1-11, the release layer is at least partially bonded to the first surface of the polymer film layer using ultraviolet or infrared curing.

[0073] [Embodiment 14] 10. A Z-folded fastening tape assembly comprising: (1) a fastening element; (2) a connecting element; and (3) an extension element, wherein the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the connecting element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the extension element is disposed between the fastening element and the connecting element and is at least partially connected to the fastening element and the connecting element; and at least one of the fastening element, the connecting element, and the extension element comprises the fastening tape assembly of embodiment 1.

[0074] [Embodiment 15] (1) a securing element; (2) a connecting element; and (3) an extension element, wherein the securing element has a first surface for affixing to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for affixing to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the extension element is disposed between the securing element and the connecting element and is at least partially connected to the securing element and the connecting element, and the securing element comprises: (i) a cap; a carrier element comprising (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first surface and a second surface; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer.

[0075] [Embodiment 16] In embodiment 15, the first surface of the fixation element is at least partially covered by an adhesive layer to bond the fixation element to the extension element.

[0076] [Embodiment 17] In any of embodiments 14 to 15, the adhesive layer on the first surface of the fixing element is patterned.

[0077] [Embodiment 18] In any of embodiments 14-15, the adhesive layer on the first surface of the fixing element is continuous.

[0078] [Embodiment 19] In any of embodiments 14 to 18, the adhesive layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0079] [Embodiment 20] In any of embodiments 14 to 19, the fixing element further comprises a hook.

[0080] [Embodiment 21] In any of embodiments 14 to 19, the adhesive layer of the fixing element is provided in an adhesive area on the first surface of the fixing element to at least partially bond the fixing element to the extension element.

[0081] [Embodiment 22] In any one of embodiments 14 to 21, the device further comprises a lifting tab at least partially attached to the fixing element.

[0082] [Embodiment 23] In any of embodiments 14 to 22, the coupling element further comprises at least one perforation.

[0083] [Embodiment 24] In any one of embodiments 14 to 23, the fixing tape assembly is in the form of a roll.

[0084] [Embodiment 25] (1) a securing element; (2) a connecting element; and (3) an extension element, wherein the securing element has a first surface for affixing to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for affixing to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the extension element is disposed between the securing element and the connecting element and is at least partially connected to the securing element and the connecting element, and the connecting element comprises: (i) a cap; a carrier element comprising (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first surface and a second surface; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer.

[0085] [Embodiment 26] In embodiment 25, a first surface of the coupling element is at least partially covered by the adhesive layer to bond the coupling element to the extension element.

[0086] [Embodiment 27] In any of embodiments 25-26, the adhesive layer on the first surface of the bonding element is patterned.

[0087] [Embodiment 28] In any of embodiments 25-26, the adhesive layer on the first surface of the joining element is continuous.

[0088] [Embodiment 29] In any of embodiments 25 to 28, the adhesive layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0089] [Embodiment 30] In any of embodiments 25 to 29, the coupling element further comprises a hook.

[0090] [Embodiment 31] In any of embodiments 25 to 30, the adhesive layer of the joining element is provided in an adhesive area on the first surface of the joining element to at least partially join the joining element to the extension element.

[0091] [Embodiment 32] In any of embodiments 25 to 31, the coupling element further comprises at least one perforation.

[0092] [Embodiment 33] In any one of embodiments 25 to 32, the fixing tape assembly is in the form of a roll.

[0093] [Embodiment 34] (1) a securing element; (2) a connecting element; and (3) an extension element, wherein the securing element has a first surface for affixing to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the connecting element has a first surface for affixing to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the extension element is disposed between the securing element and the connecting element and is at least partially connected to the securing element and the connecting element, and the extension element is configured to: (i) attach to a carrier; a carrier element comprising (a) a nonwoven fabric layer having a first surface and a second surface; and (b) a polymeric film layer having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer, the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven fabric layer, and the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer.

[0094] [Embodiment 35] In embodiment 34, a first surface of the extension element is at least partially covered by the adhesive layer to bond the extension element to the bonding element.

[0095] [Embodiment 36] In embodiment 34, the second surface of the extension element is at least partially covered by the adhesive layer to bond the extension element to the fixing element.

[0096] [Embodiment 37] In any of embodiments 34 to 36, the adhesive layer on the first surface of the extension element is patterned.

[0097] [Embodiment 38] In any of embodiments 34 to 36, the adhesive layer on the first surface of the extension element is continuous.

[0098] [Embodiment 39] In any of embodiments 34-38, the adhesive layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0099] [Embodiment 40] In any of embodiments 34 to 39, the adhesive layer of the extension element is provided in an adhesive region on a first surface of the extension element to at least partially bond the bonding element to the extension element.

[0100] [Embodiment 41] In any of embodiments 34 to 39, the adhesive layer of the extension element is provided in an adhesive area on the first surface of the extension element so as to at least partially bond the extension element to the fixing element and the connecting element.

[0101] [Embodiment 42] In any of embodiments 34 to 41, the coupling element further comprises at least one perforation.

[0102] [Embodiment 43] In any of embodiments 34 to 44, the fixing tape assembly is in the form of a roll.

[0103] [Embodiment 44] 10. A Z-folded fastening tape assembly comprising: a fastening element, a joining element, and an extension element, the fastening element having a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the joining element having a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or disposable material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface, the extension element being disposed between the fastening element and the joining element and at least partially connected to the fastening element and the joining element, the extension element having a first surface and a second surface, the extension element being substantially inextensible, and at least one of the fastening element and the joining element comprising the fastening tape assembly of embodiment 1.

[0104] [Embodiment 45] In embodiment 44, the extension element comprises polyester.

[0105] [Embodiment 46] In embodiment 44, the extension element comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET), oriented polypropylene (OPP), biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), or any combination thereof.

[0106] [Embodiment 47] In any of embodiments 44-46, the first surface of the extension element is at least partially covered by an adhesive layer.

[0107] [Embodiment 48] In any of embodiments 44-47, the second surface of the extension element is at least partially covered by a release layer.

[0108] [Embodiment 49] A method for manufacturing a Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of embodiments 14 to 48.

[0109] [Embodiment 50] An article comprising a Z-folded fastening tape assembly according to any one of embodiments 14 to 48.

[0110] [Embodiment 51] In embodiment 50, the article is a diaper.

[0111] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings illustrate the principles, and preferred embodiments and modes of operation, of the present invention. However, the present invention should not be construed as limited to the particular embodiments described above. Additional variations of the above-described embodiments (e.g., features associated with particular configurations of the present invention may alternatively be associated with any other configuration of the present invention, as appropriate) will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0112] Accordingly, the above-described embodiments should be considered as illustrative rather than restrictive, and it should be understood that modifications to the above-described embodiments could be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

[0113] [Example] [Deterioration test] The unwinding force (unwinding release force) of a fixed tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure was compared with that of three different conventional tapes. The conventional tapes had a silicone nonwoven fabric laminated with a polyolefin layer. A summary of the fixed tape assemblies of the tested examples and comparative tapes is shown in Table 1 below. As can be seen from Table 1, the same adhesive (PSA) was used in Examples 1 to 3. However, different adhesives (PSA-C1, PSA-C2, and PSA-C3) were used in Comparative Examples 1, 2, 3, and 4, 5, respectively. Each adhesive used in the examples and comparative examples was a rubber-based pressure-sensitive adhesive. The silicone coating weight of each comparative tape was varied as shown in Table 1. A rewinding test was performed on a roll of 66 mm wide tape using an Instron® Model 5943 tensile tester (Instron, Massachusetts, USA) at a rewind speed of 1000 mm / min. The test was repeated for each tape at weekly intervals for six weeks. Between tests, the tapes were stored at a temperature of 50°C.

[0114] [Table 1: Tape composition] [Table 1]

[0115] The results of the degradation test can be seen in Table 2 below and in FIGS.

[0116] [Table 2: Rewind and release results] [Table 2]

[0117] As can be seen from the degradation test results, the fixed tape assemblies according to the present disclosure unwound cleanly even after six weeks and with low silicone coating weights. In contrast, with conventional tapes, the adhesive at least partially transferred to the nonwoven fabric of the adjacent tape layer, which undesirably pulled nonwoven fibers from the nonwoven fabric layer during unwinding, damaging the nonwoven fabric. As a result, as shown in Table 2, conventional tapes suffered damage to the nonwoven fabric in tapes with a moderate silicone coating weight, and required a higher silicone coating weight to achieve clean unwinding. Figures 5 and 6 show how the unwinding force (unwinding release force) of the tape behaves over various time intervals compared to the initial unwinding force (unwinding release force) for each example and comparative example.

[0118] [Extension test] The total elongation of a Z-folded fastening tape assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (Example 4) was compared with that of two conventional Z-fold tapes (Comparative Examples 6 and 7). Table 3 below lists the materials constituting each Z-fold tape. The fastening element of the nonwoven fabric laminate of Example 4 was a fastening tape assembly including a rubber-based pressure-sensitive adhesive layer adjacent to a nonwoven fabric layer, which in turn was adjacent to a polyolefin polymer film layer, which in turn was adjacent to a silicone release layer. Elongation tests were conducted on 13 mm wide tapes using an Instron® Model 5943 tensile tester (Instron, Massachusetts, USA) at an elongation rate of 1500 mm / min. The increase in gauge length of each tape at break or failure was recorded. The total elongation of each tape was calculated by adding the increase in length of the stretched tape to the original tape length. The results of the elongation tests are shown in Figure 7. The total elongation of Example 4, which included the fixation tape assembly of the present disclosure as the fixation element and an extension element made of non-extensible polyester, was significantly smaller than the total elongation of Comparative Examples 6 and 7. As can be seen from Figure 7, the total elongation of Comparative Example 6 was about four times that of Example 4, and the total elongation of Comparative Example 7 was more than twice that of Example 4.

[0119] [Table 3: Z-fold tape composition] [Table 3]

Claims

1. a fixing element, a coupling element, and an extension element; the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the joining element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the extension element is disposed between the fixing element and the coupling element and at least partially connects the fixing element and the coupling element; at least one of the fastening element, the connecting element, and the extension element includes a fastening tape assembly; The fastening tape assembly comprises a carrier element, an adhesive layer, and a release layer; The carrier element comprises: a nonwoven layer having a first surface and a second surface; a polymer film layer having a first surface and a second surface; the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer; the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven layer; the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer; The thickness of the nonwoven fabric layer is 30 grams / square meter or more and less than 50 grams / square meter. Z-fold fastening tape assembly.

2. a fixing element, a coupling element, and an extension element; the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the joining element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the extension element is disposed between the fixing element and the coupling element and at least partially connects the fixing element and the coupling element; the fastening element comprises a carrier element, an adhesive layer, and a release layer; The carrier element comprises: a nonwoven layer having a first surface and a second surface; a polymer film layer having a first surface and a second surface; the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer; the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven layer; the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer. Z-fold fastening tape assembly.

3. a first surface of the fixation element being at least partially covered by the adhesive layer to bond the fixation element to the extension element; 2. The Z-folded fixed tape assembly of claim 1.

4. the adhesive layer on the first surface of the fixation element is patterned; 3. The Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. the adhesive layer on the first surface of the fixation element is continuous; 3. The Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. The adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

6. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The fixation element further comprises a hook.

7. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the adhesive layer of the fixation element is provided in an adhesive area on a first surface of the fixation element to at least partially bond the fixation element to the extension element; 7. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. and further comprising a lifting tab at least partially attached to the securing element. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. further comprising at least one perforation in the coupling element; A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The fixed tape assembly is in the form of a roll. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. a fixing element, a coupling element, and an extension element; the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the joining element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the extension element is disposed between the fixing element and the coupling element and at least partially connects the fixing element and the coupling element; the bonding element comprises a carrier element, an adhesive layer, and a release layer; The carrier element comprises: a nonwoven layer having a first surface and a second surface; a polymer film layer having a first surface and a second surface; the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer; the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven layer; the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer. Z-fold fastening tape assembly.

13. a first surface of the coupling element being at least partially covered by the adhesive layer to couple the coupling element to the extension element; 13. The Z-folded fastening tape assembly of claim 12.

14. the adhesive layer on the first surface of the bonding element is patterned; 14. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to claim 12 or claim 13.

15. the adhesive layer on the first surface of the joining element is continuous; 14. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to claim 12 or claim 13.

16. The adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

16. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 15.

17. the coupling element further comprises a hook; 17. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 16.

18. the adhesive layer of the joining element is provided in an adhesive region on a first surface of the joining element to at least partially join the joining element to the extension element; 18. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 17.

19. further comprising at least one perforation in the coupling element; 19. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 18.

20. The fixed tape assembly is in the form of a roll.

20. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 12 to 19.

21. a fixing element, a coupling element, and an extension element; the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the joining element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the extension element is disposed between the fixing element and the coupling element and at least partially connects the fixing element and the coupling element; the extension element comprises a carrier element, an adhesive layer, and a release layer; The carrier element comprises: a nonwoven layer having a first surface and a second surface; a polymer film layer having a first surface and a second surface; the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer; the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven layer; the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer. Z-fold fastening tape assembly.

22. a first surface of the extension element being at least partially covered by the adhesive layer to bond the extension element to the bonding element; 22. The Z-fold fastening tape assembly of claim 21.

23. a second surface of the extension element being at least partially covered by the adhesive layer to bond the extension element to the fixation element; 22. The Z-fold fastening tape assembly of claim 21.

24. the adhesive layer on the first surface of the extension element is patterned; 24. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 23.

25. the adhesive layer on the first surface of the extension element is continuous; 24. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 23.

26. The adhesive layer is a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

26. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 25.

27. the adhesive layer of the extension element is provided in an adhesive region on a first surface of the extension element to at least partially bond the joining element to the extension element; 27. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 26.

28. the adhesive layer of the extension element is provided in an adhesive region on a first surface of the extension element to at least partially bond the extension element to the fixing element and the connecting element; 27. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 26.

29. further comprising at least one perforation in the coupling element; 29. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 28.

30. The fixed tape assembly is in the form of a roll.

30. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 21 to 29.

31. a fixing element, a coupling element, and an extension element; the fastening element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the joining element has a first surface for attachment to a disposable article or material and a second surface facing opposite the first surface; the extension element is disposed between the fixing element and the coupling element and at least partially connects the fixing element and the coupling element; the extension element comprises a first surface and a second surface; the extension element is substantially inextensible; at least one of the fastening element and the joining element includes a fastening tape assembly; The fastening tape assembly comprises a carrier element, an adhesive layer, and a release layer; The carrier element comprises: a nonwoven layer having a first surface and a second surface; a polymer film layer having a first surface and a second surface; the second surface of the polymeric film layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the nonwoven fabric layer; the adhesive layer is at least partially disposed on the second surface of the nonwoven layer; the release layer is at least partially disposed on the first surface of the polymeric film layer; The thickness of the nonwoven fabric layer is 30 grams / square meter or more and less than 50 grams / square meter. Z-fold fastening tape assembly.

32. the extension element comprises polyester; 32. The Z-fold fastening tape assembly of claim 31.

33. the extension element comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET), oriented polypropylene (OPP), biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP), or any combination thereof; 32. The Z-fold fastening tape assembly of claim 31.

34. the first surface of the extension element is at least partially covered by an adhesive layer; 34. A Z-folded fastening tape assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 33.

35. the second surface of the extension element is at least partially covered by a release layer; 35. A Z-folded fixed tape assembly according to any one of claims 31 to 34.

36. A method for manufacturing a Z-folded fixed tape assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 35.

37. An article comprising a Z-folded fixed tape assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 35.

38. 38. The article of claim 37, wherein the article is a diaper.

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