Absorbent items

Abstract

The invention relates to an absorbent item comprising a superabsorbent polymer, which exhibits a deodorizing function while simultaneously inhibiting discomfort when worn. The absorbent item (1) comprises an absorbent core (31) comprising an absorbent material containing a superabsorbent polymer (81), a liquid-absorbent top plate (21) which is positioned on the skin-contact side relative to the absorbent core and in contact with the wearer's skin, and a non-liquid-absorbent back plate (25) which is positioned on the non-skin-contact side relative to the absorbent core. The absorbent item comprises deodorizing particles (82) which contain a deodorizing component and are separate from the superabsorbent polymer. In the absorbent state in which the absorbent item absorbs body fluids, the average particle diameter of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle diameter of the superabsorbent polymer.

Description

absorbent articles

[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent article comprising an absorbent polymer.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an odor control composition in which an odor control agent is attached to water-absorbent polymer particles. The odor control composition in Patent Document 1 is obtained by injecting a first odor control agent into water-absorbent polymer particles and mixing the injected water-absorbent polymer particles with a second odor control agent, and is used in absorbent articles such as diapers, diaper pads, and feminine hygiene products.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-512196

[0004] However, absorbent articles containing the above-mentioned odor control compositions have the following problem: The odor control agent is integrated with the absorbent polymer, and therefore, there is a risk that the odor suppressant may inhibit the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer.

[0005] Furthermore, because the odor control agent and absorbent polymer are integrated, when the absorbent polymer swells, gel blocking can occur, making it difficult for the odor control agent to come into contact with odors and body fluids, making it difficult for the odor control agent to exert its deodorizing function.

[0006] When the absorbent polymer and odor control agent are integrated, the particle size of the absorbent polymer increases, which can cause discomfort when the particles come into contact with the wearer.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of such problems, and aims to provide an absorbent article containing an absorbent polymer that can continue to exert its deodorizing function while suppressing discomfort when worn.

[0008] The absorbent article according to one embodiment comprises an absorbent core having an absorbent material containing an absorbent polymer, a liquid-permeable top sheet positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core and in contact with the wearer's skin, and a liquid-impermeable back sheet positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core. The absorbent article also comprises deodorizing particles that contain a deodorizing component and are separate from the absorbent polymer. When the absorbent article is in an absorbed state after absorbing body fluids, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer.

[0009] Fig. 4 is a front view of the absorbent article according to the first embodiment. Fig. 5 is a plan view of the absorbent article according to the first embodiment in an unfolded state. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in Fig. 2. Fig. 7 is a plan view of the absorbent article according to the second embodiment in an unfolded state. Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB shown in Fig. 4.

[0010] (1) Overview of the Embodiments The present specification and accompanying drawings make at least the following clear. The invention according to Aspect 1 is an absorbent article comprising an absorbent core having an absorbent material containing an absorbent polymer, a liquid-permeable top sheet positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core and in contact with the wearer's skin, and a liquid-impermeable back sheet positioned closer to the skin than the absorbent core. The absorbent article contains a deodorizing component and deodorizing particles separate from the absorbent polymer. When the absorbent article is in an absorbed state after absorbing body fluids, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer. According to this aspect, because the absorbent polymer and the deodorizing particles are separate, the deodorizing component is less likely to cover the surface of the absorbent polymer, thereby hindering the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer, and the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer can be maintained. Furthermore, because the absorbent polymer and the deodorizing particles are separate, even when the absorbent polymer swells, the deodorizing particles remain independently arranged, allowing the deodorizing function to continue. Furthermore, because the absorbent polymer and the deodorizing particles are separate entities, the particle size of the absorbent polymer is prevented from increasing due to the addition of the deodorizing component, thereby reducing discomfort when worn. At least in the absorbed state after absorbing body fluids, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, reducing discomfort when worn due to the presence of substances with large particle sizes resulting from the addition of the deodorizing particles.

[0011] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to Aspect 2 may have the following feature in the invention according to Aspect 1. In a non-absorbing state in which the absorbent article is not absorbing body fluids, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer. According to this aspect, in a non-absorbing state, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, and from the time the absorbent article is first worn until it has absorbed body fluids and is removed, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, thereby suppressing any discomfort felt when worn due to the presence of substances with large particle sizes throughout the entire wear period.

[0012] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to aspect 3 may have the following feature in the invention according to aspect 1 or aspect 2. The deodorizing particles are disposed within the absorbent core. According to this aspect, the deodorizing function can be exerted not only in the process of introducing body fluid into the absorbent core, but also on body fluid absorbed into the absorbent core.

[0013] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to Aspect 4 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3. The absorbent core is covered by a core wrap having fibers. The average particle size of the deodorizing particles is larger than the inter-fiber distance of the core wrap. According to this aspect, the deodorizing particles are less likely to pass through the core wrap, and the deodorizing particles are retained within the absorbent core, allowing the deodorizing function to continue to be exerted. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles are prevented from passing through the core wrap, and the deterioration of wearing comfort due to the deodorizing particles passing through the core wrap coming into contact with the skin can be suppressed.

[0014] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to Aspect 5 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of Aspects 1 to 4. The absorbent core has a skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center of the absorbent core in the thickness direction, and a non-skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center of the absorbent core in the thickness direction. The basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the skin-side region is higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the non-skin-side region. According to this aspect, because the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the skin-side region is higher, the deodorizing particles are more likely to come into contact when urine is absorbed and when odors are released toward the skin side of the absorbent article, allowing the deodorizing function to be exerted.

[0015] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to Aspect 6 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of Aspects 1 to 4. The absorbent core has a skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center of the absorbent core in the thickness direction, and a non-skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center of the absorbent core in the thickness direction. The basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the non-skin-side region is higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the skin-side region. According to this aspect, body fluid drawn into the absorbent core migrates from the skin-side region to the non-skin-side region, and when a large amount of body fluid is excreted, it accumulates on the liquid-impermeable backsheet side. At this time, the high basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the non-skin-side region allows them to exert their deodorizing function against body fluid drawn into the non-skin side of the absorbent core. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles have a low basis weight in the skin-side region, making them less likely to come into contact with the skin. This reduces the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles coming into contact with the skin when worn.

[0016] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to aspect 7 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of aspects 1 to 6. The absorbent core has a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located closer to the skin than the first absorbent core. The basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the first absorbent core is higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the second absorbent core. According to this aspect, since the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the first absorbent core located closer to the skin is higher, the deodorizing particles are more likely to come into contact when urine is absorbed and when odors are released toward the skin side of the absorbent article, allowing the deodorizing function to be exerted.

[0017] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to Aspect 8 may be the invention according to any one of Aspects 1 to 7, and may have the following features. The absorbent core includes a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located closer to the skin than the first absorbent core. The core wrap includes a first core wrap covering at least the surface of the first absorbent core that faces away from the skin, and a second core wrap covering at least the surface of the second absorbent core that faces the skin. The deodorizing particles are disposed between the first core wrap and the second core wrap. According to this aspect, the deodorizing function can be exerted during the process of guiding bodily fluids from the first absorbent core to the second absorbent core. Furthermore, since the absorbent polymer is disposed within the absorbent core and the deodorizing particles are disposed outside the absorbent core, the SAP and the deodorizing particles can be disposed separately and continue to exert their respective functions. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles are disposed closer to the skin than the first absorbent core, making them less likely to come into contact with the skin. This reduces the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles coming into contact with the skin when worn.

[0018] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to Aspect 9 may be the invention according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8, and may have the following features: The deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin-facing surface of the absorbent core and the backsheet. Body fluid drawn into the absorbent core migrates from the skin-facing region to the non-skin-facing region, and when a large amount of body fluid is excreted, it accumulates on the liquid-impermeable backsheet side. Since the deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin-facing surface of the absorbent core and the backsheet, they can exert their deodorizing function on the body fluid drawn into the non-skin-facing surface of the absorbent core. Furthermore, the user can easily sense the deodorizing particles from the outside of the absorbent article through the backsheet, making them aware of their presence. Because the deodorizing particles are disposed on the backsheet side, the deodorizing particles are prevented from directly contacting the wearer's skin, and the wearer can be made aware of their presence by touch.

[0019] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to aspect 10 may have the following feature in the invention according to any one of aspects 1 to 9. The deodorizing particles are composed of porous particles having a large number of pores. According to this aspect, the porous particles are likely to physically adsorb odorous components and are therefore more likely to exhibit deodorizing function.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to Aspect 11 may have the following characteristics in the invention according to any one of Aspects 1 to 10. The deodorizing particles contain a chelating agent and an antioxidant. According to this embodiment, the chelating agent undergoes a chelate reaction with nutrients containing nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) to generate stable compounds, preventing odor generation due to decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of the nutrients. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles contain an antioxidant, which prevents oxidation of the chelating agent (organic zinc compound) and the nutrients.

[0021] According to a preferred aspect, the invention according to aspect 12 may have the following characteristics in the invention according to any one of aspects 1 to 11. The deodorizing particles contain a chelating agent and an antibacterial agent. According to this aspect, the chelating agent undergoes a chelate reaction with nutrients containing nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) to generate stable compounds, thereby preventing the generation of odors due to the decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of the nutrients. Furthermore, the inclusion of an antibacterial agent prevents the growth of microorganisms.

[0022] (2) Absorbent Article According to the Embodiment Hereinafter, an absorbent article according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic, and the ratios of the dimensions and the like may differ from those of the actual product. Therefore, specific dimensions and the like should be determined with reference to the following description. Furthermore, the drawings may include parts in which the dimensional relationships and ratios differ from one another.

[0023] The absorbent article according to the present invention is an absorbent article that is worn by a wearer and can absorb the wearer's bodily fluids. Examples of the wearer include, but are not limited to, infants and the elderly. The absorbent article may be a diaper or incontinence pad that absorbs urine, a sanitary napkin that absorbs menstrual blood, or a panty liner that absorbs vaginal discharge. More specifically, the absorbent article may be a pants-type diaper, a tape-type diaper, swim pants, a sanitary napkin, an incontinence pad, or a panty liner.

[0024] The absorbent article 10A according to the first embodiment is a pants-type disposable diaper. Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of the absorbent article 10A according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of the absorbent article 10A according to the first embodiment in an unfolded state, as seen from the skin side T1. The schematic plan view shown in Fig. 2 shows the absorbent article 10A in an extended state in which the side joining portion 60, which will be described later, is unfolded and the absorbent article 10A is extended to a state in which no wrinkles are formed. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown in Fig. 2.

[0025] The absorbent article 10A has a front waist region S1, a rear waist region S2, and a crotch region S3. The front waist region S1 faces the front waist (abdomen) of the wearer. The rear waist region S2 faces the rear waist (back) of the wearer. The crotch region S3 is located between the front waist region S1 and the rear waist region S2 and is positioned below the crotch of the wearer.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1 , a side joint 60 may be provided, joining the end of the front waist region S1 in the width direction W with the end of the rear waist region S2 in the width direction W. As shown in FIG. 1 , with the side joint 60 formed, the absorbent article 10A is provided with a waist opening 62 through which the torso of the wearer is passed and which encloses the waist of the wearer, and a pair of leg openings 66 through which the legs of the wearer are inserted and which enclose the legs of the wearer. The waist opening 62 may be defined by the front edge of the front waist region S1 and the rear edge of the rear waist region S2. FIG. 2 shows the absorbent article 10A unfolded after the side joint 60 has been released. In pants-type absorbent articles, the boundaries between the front waist region S1 and the crotch region S3 and the boundaries between the rear waist region S2 and the crotch region S3 may be defined by the inner edges of the side joint 60. The crotch region S3 may also be the region in which the leg openings 66 are provided.

[0027] In the present invention, the outer portion refers to a portion occupying a certain range in the width direction W including the outer edge in the width direction W, and the outer edge refers to the outer edge in the width direction W. In the present invention, the inner portion refers to a portion occupying a certain range in the width direction W including the inner edge in the width direction W, and the inner edge refers to the inner edge in the width direction W. In addition, the front end and rear end refers to a portion occupying a certain range in the front-to-back direction L including edges in the front-to-back direction L, and the front edge and rear edge are edges in the front-to-back direction L. The outer end includes the front end and rear end, and the outer edge includes the front edge and rear edge.

[0028] The absorbent article 10A may have an outer body 50 and an absorbent main body 15. The outer body 50 covers at least the waist of the wearer on the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent core 30. The outer body arranged in the front waist region S1 and the outer body arranged in the rear waist region S2 may be integrated, or may be separated in the front-to-rear direction L as in the first embodiment.

[0029] The absorbent main body 15 may be arranged across the front waist region S1, the rear waist region S2, and the crotch region S3. The absorbent main body 15 may be configured as a separate body from the outer casing 50 and may be joined to the outer casing 50 in the front waist region S1 and the rear waist region S2. The absorbent main body 15 may have at least an absorbent core 30, a top sheet 21, and a back sheet 25.

[0030] The absorbent core 30 contains an absorbent material that absorbs bodily fluids. The absorbent material must contain at least super absorbent polymers (SAP) and may contain other absorbent materials such as pulverized pulp. The absorbent polymer is in particle form. The absorbent core 30 may contain only the absorbent polymer as the absorbent material, and may form a so-called SAP sheet together with the core wrap 33 that sandwiches the absorbent polymer 81. Alternatively, the absorbent core 30 may be a laminate containing the absorbent polymer 81 and pulp. The absorbent core 30 may be a single layer or multiple layers. The absorbent core 30 of the first embodiment includes a first absorbent core 31 and a second absorbent core 32 located closer to the skin side T2 than the first absorbent core 31. The length in the width direction W of the first absorbent core 31 may be shorter than the length in the width direction W of the second absorbent core 32.

[0031] The absorbent core 30 may have a skin-side region R11 located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction T of the absorbent core 30, and a non-skin-side region R12 located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction T of the absorbent core 30. In a single-layer absorbent core 30, the skin-side region R11 and the non-skin-side region R12 are provided on either side of the center in the thickness direction T of the single-layer absorbent core 30. In a multi-layer absorbent core 30, the skin-side region R11 and the non-skin-side region R12 are provided on either side of the center in the thickness direction T of the multiple absorbent layers stacked together. Note that when the thickness of the first absorbent core 31 and the thickness of the second absorbent core 32 are substantially the same (the thickness error is within 5% of one thickness), the first absorbent core 31 may constitute the skin-side region R11, and the second absorbent core 32 may constitute the non-skin-side region.

[0032] The absorbent core 30 may have a core wrap 33 containing fibers. Examples of the core wrap 33 include tissue and nonwoven fabric. In a configuration having multiple absorbent cores, the core wrap 33 may be arranged to completely wrap the two-layer absorbent core 30, or a core wrap covering the first absorbent core 31 and an absorbent core having the second absorbent core 32 may be arranged separately. The core wrap 33 in the first embodiment may have a first core wrap 33a covering at least the non-skin side T2 surface of the first absorbent core 31 and a second core wrap 33b covering at least the skin side T1 surface of the second absorbent core 32. The first core wrap 33a may cover not only the non-skin side T2 surface of the first absorbent core 31 but also other surfaces of the first absorbent core 31. The second core wrap 33b may cover not only the skin side T1 surface of the second absorbent core 32 but also other surfaces of the second absorbent core 32.

[0033] The top sheet 21 is a liquid-permeable sheet located closer to the skin than the absorbent core 30 and in contact with the wearer's skin. The top sheet 21 can be, for example, a nonwoven fabric and can be composed of a single sheet or multiple sheets. The top sheet 21 of the first embodiment has a center sheet 21a covering the center of the absorbent core 30 in the width direction W, and side sheets 21b covering the outer sides of the absorbent core 30 or the outer sides of the center sheet 21a. The side sheets 21b have leakage-preventing gathers 36 fixed thereto and standing toward the wearer's skin. The leakage-preventing gathers 36 are arranged on both sides of the center of the width direction W of the absorbent article 10A. The back sheet 25 is located closer to the non-skin side T2 than the absorbent core 30 and is liquid-impermeable. The back sheet 25 can be, for example, a film and can form the surface of the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent article 10A. Alternatively, a non-skin side sheet 26 that constitutes the non-skin side surface of the absorbent article may be disposed on the non-skin side T2 of the back sheet 25. The non-skin side sheet 26 does not need to be liquid impermeable, and an example of the non-skin side sheet 26 is a nonwoven fabric.

[0034] The absorbent article 10A is configured to be able to continue to exhibit its deodorizing function while suppressing any discomfort caused by the absorbent polymer 81 when worn. Next, the configuration for continuing to exhibit its deodorizing function while suppressing any discomfort caused by the absorbent polymer 81 when worn will be described in detail. The absorbent article 10A includes deodorizing components and has deodorizing particles 82 that are separate from the absorbent polymer 81. The deodorizing particles 82 only need to have a deodorizing function, and may also contain other components (antibacterial components, aromatic components, etc.). The deodorizing particles 82 only need to be molded separately from the absorbent polymer 81, and may be in partial contact with the absorbent polymer 81 within the absorbent article 10A.

[0035] According to this configuration, because the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 are separate entities, the deodorizing component is less likely to inhibit the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer 81, such as by covering the surface of the absorbent polymer 81, and the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer 81 can be maintained. Furthermore, because the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 are separate entities, even if the absorbent polymer 81 swells, the deodorizing particles 82 remain independently arranged and can continue to exert their deodorizing function. Furthermore, because the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles are separate entities, the addition of the deodorizing component prevents the particle size of the absorbent polymer 81 from increasing, thereby reducing discomfort when worn.

[0036] In the absorbent article 10A's absorbed state after absorbing body fluids, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 is smaller than that of the absorbent polymer 81. In the absorbent state, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than that of the absorbent polymer, and the addition of the deodorizing particles reduces the discomfort felt when wearing the absorbent article due to the presence of large particle sizes. The particle size in the absorbent state after absorbing body fluids can be measured using the following method. First, the deodorizing particles and absorbent polymer are removed from the absorbent article. One liter each of 0.9 wt% saline at 25±1°C is prepared. The particles to be measured (absorbent polymer, deodorizing particles) are added to each saline solution at a ratio of 1 g per 1 L of saline. After leaving the solution for one hour, the particles are removed onto a coarse colander or net that prevents particles from falling out and left for 15 minutes to drain. The diameter of each particle is measured using an electron microscope, and the average value of 30 randomly selected particles is used as the average particle size.

[0037] In a non-absorbing state where the absorbent article is not absorbing bodily fluids, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 may be smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer 81. According to this configuration, from the time the absorbent article is first worn until it has absorbed bodily fluids and is removed, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, thereby reducing discomfort during wear due to the presence of large particle sizes resulting from the addition of the deodorizing particles. The non-absorbing state is the state before the absorbent article is used. For example, after the package is opened and the absorbent article is removed, the superabsorbent polymer and deodorizing particles are removed and their particle sizes are measured. The conditions, such as temperature and humidity, are the same as those in the absorbing state. To determine the particle size in the non-absorbing state, the deodorizing particles and absorbent polymer are removed from the absorbent article, the particle size of each particle is measured using an electron microscope, and the average value of 30 randomly selected particles is used as the average particle size.

[0038] The deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed in the absorbent core 30. The deodorizing particles 82 may be mixed in an absorbent material such as absorbent polymer 81 to form a laminate together with the absorbent material, or may be disposed together with the absorbent polymer 81 in an absorbent sheet. According to this embodiment, a deodorizing function can be exerted in the process of introducing body fluid into the absorbent core 30, and a deodorizing function can also be exerted on body fluid absorbed in the absorbent core 30. In the first embodiment, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed in the first absorbent core 31. In this embodiment, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed in the second absorbent core 32, or the deodorizing particles 82 may not be disposed in the second absorbent core 32.

[0039] The average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 may be larger than the interfiber distance of the core wrap 33. More specifically, it is sufficient that the average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 in the absorbent state is larger than the interfiber distance of the core wrap 33, and preferably the average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-absorbent state is larger than the interfiber distance of the core wrap. According to this aspect, the deodorizing particles 82 are less likely to pass through the core wrap 33, and the deodorizing particles 82 are retained within the absorbent core 30, allowing the deodorizing function to continue to be exerted. Furthermore, by preventing the deodorizing particles 82 from passing through the core wrap 33, it is possible to prevent the deodorizing particles that have passed through the core wrap 33 from coming into contact with the skin, thereby preventing a deterioration in wearing comfort.

[0040] The inter-fiber distance of the core wrap 33 can be measured by the following method. A rectangular cutout (cut in the thickness direction) of a portion corresponding to the sample to be measured was used as a sample, and a 3D image linking function of a microscope (KEYENCE VHX-2000, lens VH-Z20W, aperture open) was used to obtain an enlarged image (for example, a 500x image) in focus from the surface of the sample to a depth of 100 μm. Based on the enlarged image, the outside of the fibers in focus was extracted. The surface formed there was defined as the fiber space. The diameter of the maximum inscribed circle of the fiber space was defined as the fiber space distance, and the average value for 100 fiber spaces was defined as the average inter-fiber distance (Dp).

[0041] The basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the first absorbent core 31 may be higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the second absorbent core 32. More specifically, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed in both the first absorbent core 31 and the second absorbent core 32, but may have different basis weights. Alternatively, as in the first embodiment, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed in the first absorbent core 31 and not in the second absorbent core 32. According to this aspect, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the first absorbent core 31 located on the skin side T1 is high, so that when urine is absorbed or when odor is released to the skin side T1 of the absorbent article 10A, the deodorizing particles 82 are easily contacted, thereby enabling the deodorizing function to be exerted. As a configuration that can obtain the same effect as this configuration, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the skin side region R11 may be higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-skin side region R12. Even with this configuration, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the skin side region R11 is high, so that when urine is absorbed or when odor is released to the skin side T1 of the absorbent article 10A, the deodorizing particles 82 come into contact with the skin, and the deodorizing function can be exerted.

[0042] In this modified example, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the second absorbent core 32 may be greater than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the first absorbent core 31. Body fluids migrate from the first absorbent core 31 to the second absorbent core 32, and when a large amount of body fluid is excreted, they accumulate on the liquid-impermeable backsheet 25 side. At this time, the high basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the second absorbent core 32 allows them to exert their deodorizing function against body fluids drawn into the non-skin side T2. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles 82 have a low basis weight in the first absorbent core 31 and are less likely to come into contact with the skin. This reduces the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles 82 coming into contact with the skin when worn. As a configuration that achieves the same effect as this modified example, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-skin side region R12 may be greater than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the skin side region R11. Even with this configuration, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-skin side region R12 is high, so they can exert their deodorizing function against body fluids drawn into the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent core 30. Furthermore, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the skin side region R11 is low, so they are less likely to come into contact with the skin. This reduces the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles 82 coming into contact with the skin when worn.

[0043] The deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed between the first core wrap 33a and the second core wrap 33b. According to this embodiment, the deodorizing function can be exerted during the process in which bodily fluid is guided from the first absorbent core 31 to the second absorbent core 32. Furthermore, since the absorbent polymer 81 is disposed within the absorbent core 30 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed outside the absorbent core 30, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 can be disposed separately and continue to exert their respective functions. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed on the non-skin side T2 of the first absorbent core 31, and are less likely to come into contact with the skin. This reduces the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles coming into contact with the skin when worn.

[0044] In a plan view of the absorbent article 10A, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed over the entire area of ​​the absorbent core 30, or may be disposed in a partial area of ​​the absorbent core 30. For example, the deodorizing region R82 in which the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed may be disposed across the center of the width direction W of the absorbent core 30. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 3 , the deodorizing region R82 may occupy 80% or less, or 50% or less, of the entire area of ​​the absorbent core 30 in the width direction W. The deodorizing region R82 in the first embodiment is provided in a partial area in the width direction W of the first absorbent core 31.

[0045] The basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 may be higher than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the second absorbent core 32. Similarly, the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the skin side region R11 may be higher than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the non-skin side region R12. According to this configuration, the absorption polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 (or the skin side region R11) blocks odors from escaping to the skin side T1, thereby achieving a deodorizing function against odors within the absorbent core 30.

[0046] In a modified example, the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 may be lower than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the second absorbent core 32. Similarly, the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the skin-side region R11 may be lower than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the non-skin-side region R12. With this configuration, the absorbent polymer 81 in the second absorbent core 32 (or the non-skin-side region R12) retains a large amount of body fluid, exhibiting a deodorizing function as the odor of the body fluid evaporates. Furthermore, blocking by the absorbent polymer in the first absorbent core 31 (or the skin-side region R11) is suppressed, so that body fluid can continue to be drawn into the absorbent core 30 even when body fluid is repeatedly discharged. Furthermore, since there is less absorbent polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 (skin-side region R11), the absorbent polymer 81 is less likely to come into contact with the skin, and discomfort caused by the absorbent polymer 81 coming into contact with the skin during wear can be suppressed.

[0047] In the first embodiment, the deodorizing particles are arranged within the first absorbent core 31 and between the first core wrap 33 a and the second core wrap 33 b. However, the arrangement of the absorbent article according to the first embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged only within the first absorbent core 31, or only between the first core wrap 33 a and the second core wrap 33 b, or may be arranged in a manner similar to that of the second, third, and fourth embodiments, modified examples, and other embodiments.

[0048] Next, an absorbent article 10B according to a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals and will not be described again. Fig. 4 is a plan view of the absorbent article 10B according to the second embodiment as seen from the skin side T1. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in Fig. 4. The absorbent article 10B according to the second embodiment is a light incontinence pad. The light incontinence pad has fastening parts 29 on the non-skin side T2 of the backsheet 25, and may be attached to the inner surface of a worn article such as underwear or a diaper.

[0049] The absorbent core 30 of the absorbent article 10B has a first absorbent core 31 and a second absorbent core 32. The length in the width direction W of the first absorbent core 31 and the length in the width direction W of the second absorbent core 32 may be the same. The first absorbent core 31 and the second absorbent core 32 may contain only absorbent polymer as the absorbent material and may constitute a so-called SAP sheet. The absorbent article 10B may have a liquid-permeable second sheet 27 disposed between the top sheet 21 and the absorbent core 30.

[0050] The deodorizing particles 82 of the absorbent article 10B are disposed within an SAP sheet. The SAP sheet is composed of an absorbent polymer 81 and a plurality of core wraps 33 that sandwich the absorbent polymer 81. The deodorizing particles 82 are sandwiched together with the absorbent polymer between the plurality of core wraps 33. With this configuration, the deodorizing function can be exerted during the process of introducing body fluid into the absorbent core, and the deodorizing function can also be exerted on body fluid absorbed into the absorbent core.

[0051] Next, modified examples will be described. In modified example 1, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed between the absorbent core 30 and the second sheet 27, or between the second sheet 27 and the top sheet 21. According to this configuration, the deodorizing particles come into contact with the body fluid in the process of guiding the body fluid from the top sheet side to the absorbent core side, thereby achieving a deodorizing effect. In particular, even when the amount of body fluid is small and the body fluid is not guided to the absorbent core, the deodorizing particles come into contact with the body fluid and achieve a deodorizing effect. Furthermore, because the absorbent polymer 81 is disposed within the absorbent core 30 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed outside the absorbent core 30, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 can be disposed separately, allowing each to continue to perform its respective functions.

[0052] In Variation 2, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed between the absorbent core 30 and the backsheet 25. Body fluids drawn into the absorbent core migrate from the skin-side region to the non-skin-side region, and when a large amount of body fluid is excreted, they accumulate on the liquid-impermeable backsheet side. Since the deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin-side surface of the absorbent core and the backsheet, they can exert their deodorizing function on the body fluid drawn into the non-skin-side surface of the absorbent core. Furthermore, the user can easily sense the deodorizing particles by touch from the outside of the absorbent article through the backsheet, making their presence more noticeable. Because the deodorizing particles are disposed on the backsheet side, the deodorizing particles are prevented from coming into direct contact with the wearer's skin, while the presence of the deodorizing particles can be made noticeable by touch. Furthermore, because the absorbent polymer 81 is disposed within the absorbent core 30 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed outside the absorbent core 30, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 can be disposed separately, allowing their respective functions to continue to be exerted. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles 82 are arranged closer to the skin side T2 than the absorbent core 30, and are less likely to come into contact with the skin. This reduces the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles coming into contact with the skin when worn.

[0053] In Modification 3, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged in the leak-preventing gathers. In particular, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged in the region where the side sheets are laminated, together with the leak-preventing elastic member 35. According to this configuration, the deodorizing particles are arranged in the leak-preventing gathers that stand up on both sides of the widthwise center of the absorbent article, and therefore the deodorizing function can be exerted as odors flow laterally from the absorbent article.

[0054] The above describes multiple arrangements of the deodorizing particles 82. The arrangement of the deodorizing particles is not limited to the described embodiments or variations. For example, in the absorbent article according to the first embodiment, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged only within the first absorbent core 31, or only between the first core wrap 33a and the second core wrap 33b, or may be arranged in a manner similar to that of the second, third, and fourth embodiments, variations, and the like. In other words, the arrangement of the deodorizing particles 82 can be selected from the arrangements described above as appropriate, and can also be combined as appropriate.

[0055] As a common configuration among the above-described embodiments and modifications, the deodorizing particles 82 of the present invention may be composed of porous particles having a large number of pores. Porous particles are more likely to physically adsorb odor components and more likely to exhibit deodorizing function. Examples of porous particles that can be used include silica gel, activated alumina, zeolite, calcium silicate, bentonite, acid clay, and calcium carbonate, with silica gel being preferred.

[0056] The deodorizing particles 82 can be made of inorganic components such as metal oxides, inorganic acids, chlorine compounds, and peroxides; organic components such as metal chelate compounds, surfactants, nitrogen compounds, organic acids, ester compounds, cyclodextrins, aldehydes, and organic silicon; and naturally occurring components such as polyphenol compounds and vitamins.

[0057] The deodorizing particles 82 may contain a chelating agent and an antioxidant. The chelating agent undergoes a chelate reaction with nutrients containing nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) to produce stable compounds, preventing odor generation due to the decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of the nutrients. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles 82 contain an antioxidant, which prevents oxidation of the chelating agent and the nutrients. An organic zinc compound can be suitably used as the chelating agent, and flavonoids and vitamin C can be suitably used as the antioxidant.

[0058] The deodorizing particles 82 may contain a chelating agent and an antibacterial agent. The chelating agent prevents odors caused by the decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of nutrients, while the antibacterial agent prevents the growth of microorganisms. Flavonoids and quaternary ammonium salts are suitable antibacterial agents.

[0059] Although the present invention has been described in detail using the above-described embodiments and modifications, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. The present invention can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description in this specification is intended to be illustrative and does not have any limiting meaning on the present invention.

[0060] The entire contents of Chinese Patent Application No. 202311630845.4, filed on December 1, 2023, are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0061] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10A, 10B: Absorbent article 21: Top sheet 25: Back sheet 30: Absorbent core 31: First absorbent core 32: Second absorbent core 33: Core wrap 33a: First core wrap 33b: Second core wrap 81: Absorbent polymer 82: Deodorant particles R11: Skin side region R12: Non-skin side region L: Front-to-rear direction W: Width direction T: Thickness direction T1: Skin side T2: Non-skin side

Claims

1. An absorbent article comprising an absorbent core having an absorbent material containing an absorbent polymer, a liquid-permeable top sheet located closer to the skin than said absorbent core and in contact with the wearer's skin, and a liquid-impermeable back sheet located closer to the non-skin side than said absorbent core, wherein said absorbent article contains deodorizing particles that contain a deodorizing component and are separate from said absorbent polymer, and wherein when said absorbent article has absorbed body fluids, the average particle size of said deodorizing particles is smaller than the average particle size of said absorbent polymer.

2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer when the absorbent article is in a non-absorbent state in which it has not absorbed any body fluid.

3. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles are disposed within the absorbent core.

4. The absorbent article according to claim 3, wherein the absorbent core is covered with a core wrap having fibers, and the average particle size of the deodorant particles is larger than the inter-fiber distance of the core wrap.

5. An absorbent article as described in claim 3, wherein the absorbent core has a skin side region located closer to the skin than the center of the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and a non-skin side region located closer to the skin than the center of the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the skin side region is higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the non-skin side region.

6. An absorbent article as described in claim 3, wherein the absorbent core has a skin side region located closer to the skin than the center of the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and a non-skin side region located closer to the skin than the center of the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the non-skin side region is higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the skin side region.

7. An absorbent article as described in claim 3, wherein the absorbent core has a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located closer to the skin than the first absorbent core, and the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the first absorbent core is higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the second absorbent core.

8. An absorbent article as described in claim 4, wherein the absorbent core has a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located closer to the skin than the first absorbent core, the core wrap has a first core wrap covering at least the non-skin side surface of the first absorbent core and a second core wrap covering at least the skin side surface of the second absorbent core, and the deodorizing particles are disposed between the first core wrap and the second core wrap.

9. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin facing surface of the absorbent core and the back sheet.

10. An absorbent article as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the deodorizing particles are composed of porous particles having a large number of pores.

11. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles include a chelating agent and an antioxidant.

12. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles include a chelating agent and an antibacterial agent.

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