Absorbent article and package for absorbent article

Abstract

Provided is an absorbent article (1) having an absorbent body (12) that has liquid absorbing properties, a skin-side sheet (11) that is positioned at the side of the absorbent body (12) that is toward a skin side, and a film sheet (13) that has liquid non-permeating properties and that is positioned at the side of the absorbent body (12) that is toward a non-skin side, the absorbent article being characterized in that the skin-side sheet (11) comprises an odor suppression function and the absorbent article is configured to exhibit an odor masking function at the side of the film sheet (13) that is toward the non-skin side.

Description

Absorbent article and package for absorbent article

[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent article and a package for an absorbent article.

[0002] Conventionally, absorbent articles such as disposable diapers, absorbent pads, and sanitary napkins for absorbing excrement have been known. When an absorbent article is worn, if it absorbs excrement, the odor of the excrement may be released to the outside, which may cause discomfort to the wearer himself or others around. Therefore, in order to reduce the odor of this excrement, the absorbent articles of Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 are disclosed. Patent Document 1 discloses a pad that reduces the odor of excrement by providing an odor control material between a liquid-permeable top sheet and an absorbent layer. Patent Document 2 discloses a diaper in which an antibacterial substance that controls the generation of odor is provided between the top sheet and the liquid absorption layer, and an odor masking substance is provided between an intermediate layer provided between the top sheet and the liquid absorption layer and a back sheet.

[0003] Japanese Patent Translation of PCT International Publication No. 2017-509357, Japanese Patent Translation of PCT International Publication No. 2010-533051

[0004] However, the pad of Patent Document 1 has a problem that even if an odor suppressing material is provided between the top sheet and the absorbent layer, it cannot reduce the odor of excrement emitted from the absorbent layer that has absorbed excrement toward the non-skin side of the pad. Further, the diaper of Patent Document 2 suppresses the generation of the odor of excrement in the liquid absorption layer by the constituent material provided between the top sheet and the liquid absorption layer, and masks the odor of excrement with an odor masking substance provided between the intermediate layer and the back sheet. However, since this odor masking substance is provided closer to the skin side than the liquid-impermeable back sheet (paragraph

[0020] ), and further, an outer cover sheet (paragraph

[0021] ) may be provided on the non-skin side of the back sheet, there is a problem that the effect of the odor masking substance is difficult to be exhibited on the non-skin side surface of the diaper 1.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to make it easier to reduce the odor derived from excrement as an entire absorbent article.

[0006] The main invention for achieving the above objective is an absorbent article comprising a liquid-absorbing absorbent, a skin-side sheet located on the skin side of the absorbent, and a liquid-impermeable film sheet located on the non-skin side of the absorbent, wherein the skin-side sheet has an odor-suppressing function and is configured to exhibit an odor-masking function on the non-skin side of the film sheet. Other features of the present invention will be made clear by description in this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0007] According to the present invention, the absorbent article as a whole becomes more effective at reducing odors derived from excrement.

[0008] This is a schematic perspective view of the pant-type disposable diaper 1 as seen from the ventral side. This is a schematic plan view of the diaper 1 in its unfolded and stretched state as seen from the skin side. This is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A in Figure 2. This is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B in Figure 2. This is an explanatory diagram of the fragrance application area 40. This is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D in Figure 5. This is a diagram showing the measurement results of the odor of artificial urine. This is a graph showing the measurement results of Figure 7. This is a diagram showing the measurement results of the fragrance odor. This is a graph showing the measurement results of Figure 9. This is a schematic perspective view of the package 100.

[0009] The following matters will become clear from the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings: (Aspect 1) An absorbent article having a liquid-absorbing absorbent, a skin-side sheet located on the skin side of the absorbent, and a liquid-impermeable film sheet located on the non-skin side of the absorbent, wherein the skin-side sheet has an odor-suppressing function and is configured to exhibit an odor-masking function on the non-skin side of the film sheet.

[0010] According to Embodiment 1, the odor suppression function provided on the skin-facing sheet makes it easier to suppress the odor of excrement absorbed by the absorbent material that smells from the skin side of the absorbent article, while the odor masking function is provided on the non-skin side of the film sheet. As a result, the odor of excrement that smells from the non-skin side of the absorbent article is reduced, and the odor of the absorbent article as a whole is reduced.

[0011] (Aspect 2) The absorbent article of Aspect 1 is characterized in that the substance that exhibits the odor suppression function is activated carbon.

[0012] According to embodiment 2, since the substance that exhibits odor suppression is activated carbon, it is easier to suppress the odor of excrement absorbed by the absorbent material that smells from the skin side of the absorbent article, and the color of the activated carbon makes it visually clear to the wearer that the absorbent article has an odor suppression function, making it easier to feel the odor suppression emotionally as well.

[0013] (Aspect 3) An absorbent article according to aspect 1 or 2, characterized in that it has an odor-suppressing layer equipped with a substance that exhibits the odor-suppressing function, and the odor-suppressing layer is provided on the non-skin side of the skin-side sheet.

[0014] According to embodiment 3, since the skin-facing sheet that receives excrement when worn and the absorbent body that absorbs and retains the excrement are materials that tend to emit odors derived from excrement, by providing an odor suppression layer on the non-skin side of the skin-facing sheet, which is located on the skin side of the absorbent body, it becomes easier to efficiently suppress odors derived from excrement in the skin-facing sheet and the absorbent body.

[0015] (Aspect 4) The absorbent article of aspect 3 is characterized in that the odor-suppressing layer is provided at least in the crotch area corresponding to the wearer's crotch when worn.

[0016] According to embodiment 4, when worn, the crotch area is the part where excrement is absorbed, so by providing an odor suppression layer in the crotch area, it becomes easier to efficiently suppress odors originating from excrement.

[0017] (Aspect 5) The absorbent article according to aspect 3, characterized in that the odor suppression layer is provided over the entire area of ​​the skin-facing sheet.

[0018] According to embodiment 5, it becomes easier to apply the deodorizing effect of a substance that exhibits a wide range of odor suppression functions to the absorbent material.

[0019] (Aspect 6) The absorbent article of aspect 5, characterized in that, when viewed in the thickness direction, the entire area of ​​the absorbent body overlaps with the skin-side sheet.

[0020] According to embodiment 6, it becomes easier to obtain the deodorizing effect of the deodorizing inhibitory member over a wide range of areas on the absorbent material.

[0021] (Aspect 7) The absorbent article of aspect 2, characterized in that the skin-facing sheet is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black, and the film sheet is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black covering 50% or more of the area of ​​the film sheet.

[0022] According to embodiment 7, the skin-facing sheet and the film sheet each have a color reminiscent of activated carbon, which is used as a substance that exhibits odor-suppressing function, making it easier for the wearer to visually recognize the presence of the odor-suppressing function from both the skin-facing and non-skin-facing sides of the absorbent article.

[0023] (Aspect 8) The substance exhibiting the odor masking function is an absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, characterized in that it is not encapsulated in microcapsules.

[0024] According to embodiment 8, the odor masking effect can be obtained without physically damaging the microcapsules, such as when the substance exhibiting the odor masking function is encapsulated in microcapsules.

[0025] (Aspect 9) An absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 8, characterized in that it has an outer sheet on the non-skin side of the film sheet, and the substance that exhibits the odor masking function is provided between the film sheet and the outer sheet.

[0026] According to embodiment 9, it is possible to reduce the odor of excrement emitting from the non-skin side of the absorbent article, while also reducing the risk of the odor-masking substance adhering to the outside from the non-skin side of the absorbent article.

[0027] (Aspect 10) The absorbent article of aspect 9 is characterized in that the film sheet and the outer sheet are bonded together in an adhesive area to which an adhesive has been applied, and the area to which the odor-masking substance is provided is located inward from the outer edge of the adhesive area.

[0028] According to embodiment 10, the risk of the adhesive between the film sheet and the outer sheet being hindered by a substance that exhibits an odor masking function can be reduced.

[0029] (Aspect 11) An absorbent article according to any of aspects 1 to 10, characterized in that, when worn, it has an abdominal waist portion that covers the wearer's abdomen, a dorsal waist portion that covers the wearer's back, and a crotch region corresponding to the wearer's crotch, and the substance that exhibits the odor masking function is continuously provided from above the lower end of the abdominal waist portion through the crotch region to above the lower end of the dorsal waist portion.

[0030] According to embodiment 11, the odor of excrement emitting from the non-skin side of the absorbent article can be reduced over a wide area.

[0031] (Aspect 12) The substance that exhibits the odor masking function is an absorbent article according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, characterized in that it cannot be seen from the non-skin side of the absorbent article.

[0032] According to embodiment 12, the risk of the odor-masking substance interfering with the visibility of colors, patterns, designs, etc., that are visible from the non-skin side of the absorbent article can be reduced.

[0033] (Aspect 13) The absorbent article according to any of embodiments 1 to 12 is characterized in that, when an absorbent article contained in a storage member is removed from the package, and 40 ml of artificial urine is dropped onto the center of the absorbent article in an unfolded and extended state, the state immediately after this is defined as the first state of the absorbent article; 4 hours later, 40 ml of the artificial urine is dropped onto the center of the absorbent article in the first state, the state after which 40 ml of the artificial urine is dropped onto the center of the absorbent article in the second state, the state after another 4 hours later, the state after which 40 ml of the artificial urine is dropped onto the center of the absorbent article in the second state, the state after another 4 hours have passed since the absorbent article in the third state, the state after which 40 hours have passed since the absorbent article in the third state, the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in an odor test conducted at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the first state and the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in an odor test conducted at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fourth state is 0.5 or less.

[0034] According to embodiment 13, when the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the measurement results of the odor of artificial urine from the absorbent article in the first state and the average value of the measurement results of the odor of artificial urine from the absorbent article in the fourth state is greater than 0.5, the odor of artificial urine emitting from the non-skin side of the absorbent article in the fourth state can be reduced. Therefore, even when the absorbent article is worn for 12 hours and absorbs urine multiple times, the odor of excrement emitting from the non-skin side of the absorbent article can be reduced.

[0035] (Aspect 14) The absorbent article of the fourth state, characterized in that when the state of the absorbent article 12 hours after the fourth state is defined as the absorbent article in the fifth state, the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in the odor test at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fourth state and the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in the odor test at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fifth state is 0.5 or less.

[0036] According to embodiment 14, when the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the measurement results of the odor of artificial urine from the absorbent article in state 4 and the average value of the measurement results of the odor of artificial urine from the absorbent article in state 5 is greater than 0.5, the odor of artificial urine emitting from the non-skin side of the absorbent article in state 5 can be reduced. Therefore, even if the absorbent article is removed from the wearer's body after being worn for 12 hours and then stored in a trash can or the like for 12 hours, the odor of excrement emitting from the non-skin side of the absorbent article can be reduced.

[0037] (Aspect 15) The substance that exhibits the odor masking function is a fragrance that emits a predetermined scent, and the absorbent article contained in the containment member is removed from the package, and the state immediately after dropping 40 ml of artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in an unfolded and extended state is defined as the absorbent article in the first state, the state after dropping 40 ml of the artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in the first state four hours later is defined as the absorbent article in the second state, the state after dropping 40 ml of the artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in the second state four hours later is defined as the absorbent article in the third state, and the state after another four hours from the absorbent article in the third state is defined as the absorbent article in the fourth state, characterized in that the average value of the odor measurement result of the fragrance at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fourth state is 2.5 or higher.

[0038] According to embodiment 15, in the absorbent article in state 4, the fragrance makes it easier to mask odors derived from excrement compared to when the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of the absorbent article in state 4 is less than 2.5. Therefore, even when the absorbent article is worn for 12 hours and absorbs urine multiple times, the odor of excrement emitting from the non-skin side of the absorbent article can be reduced.

[0039] (Aspect 16) The absorbent article of the aspect 15, characterized in that when the state of the absorbent article after 12 hours has elapsed from the fourth state is defined as the absorbent article in the fifth state, the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fifth state is 2.5 or higher.

[0040] According to embodiment 16, compared to when the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of the absorbent article in state 5 is less than 2.5, the fragrance makes it easier to mask the odor derived from excrement even in the absorbent article in state 5. Therefore, even if the absorbent article is removed from the wearer's body after being worn for 12 hours and then stored in a trash can or the like for 12 hours, the odor of excrement emanating from the non-skin side of the absorbent article can be reduced.

[0041] (Aspect 17) An absorbent article package comprising an absorbent article according to Aspect 2 or 7, wherein the skin-side sheet is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black, and the absorbent member has achromatic and a portion of lightness between white and black covering 40% or more of the surface area of ​​the absorbent member.

[0042] According to embodiment 17, the skin-facing sheet and the containment member each have a portion with a color reminiscent of activated carbon, which is used as a substance that exhibits odor-suppressing function. This makes it easier for the wearer to visually recognize from the absorbent article and its packaging that it is an absorbent article with odor-suppressing function.

[0043] ===Embodiment=== As an example of the absorbent article according to this embodiment, we will describe using a pant-type disposable diaper for infants as an example. However, the absorbent article according to this embodiment is not limited to the above, and can also be applied to, for example, adult pant-type disposable diapers, shorts-type sanitary napkins, tape-type disposable diapers, urine absorption pads, sanitary napkins, pet diapers, etc.

[0044] === Basic Structure of Pant-Type Disposable Diaper 1 === FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a pant-type disposable diaper 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "diaper 1") seen from the ventral side. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of the diaper 1 in a deployed and stretched state seen from the skin side. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line A - A in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line B - B in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is an enlarged plan view of a part of the topsheet 11 seen from the skin side.

[0045] The deployed state of the diaper 1 is a state in which a pair of side joining parts 2 provided on both sides of the diaper 1 are separated from each other, and the diaper 1 is opened and flattened. The stretched state of the diaper 1 indicates a state in which the elastic member provided in the diaper 1 is stretched until the wrinkles of the diaper 1 are no longer visible. Specifically, it indicates a state in which the dimensions of each member constituting the diaper 1 are extended until they match or are close to the dimensions of the member alone (that is, the dimensions in a state where the elasticity of the elastic member is not manifested).

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, the diaper 1 has a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, and a front-rear direction that are perpendicular to each other, and a waist opening BH and a pair of leg openings LH are formed in the diaper 1. In the front-rear direction, the side on the ventral side of the wearer is defined as the front side, and the side on the dorsal side of the wearer is defined as the rear side. Also, in the deployed state, the diaper 1 has a horizontal direction, a vertical direction, and a thickness direction. The side that contacts the wearer in the thickness direction is defined as the skin side, and the opposite side is defined as the non-skin side.

[0047] The diaper 1 has an absorbent body 10 and waist parts 20 and 30 arranged on the non-skin side of the absorbent body 10. The diaper 1 of this embodiment is a so-called three-piece type, and the waist part has a ventral waist part 20 and a dorsal waist part 30. In the part of the absorbent body 10 below the ventral waist part 20 and the dorsal waist part 30, its non-skin surface is exposed to the outside. In the worn state of the diaper 1, the ventral waist part 20 covers the abdomen of the wearer, and the dorsal waist part 30 covers the back of the wearer. Also, in the deployed and stretched state of the diaper 1, the region between the ventral waist part 20 and the dorsal waist part 30 in the vertical direction is the crotch region 1C. The crotch region 1C is the region corresponding to the crotch of the wearer in the worn state of the diaper 1.

[0048] The non-skin side surface of the front end in the longitudinal direction (lengthwise direction) of the absorbent body 10 is joined to the skin side surface of the ventral body circumferential portion 20 by an adhesive or the like, and the non-skin side surface of the rear end in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent body 10 is joined to the skin side surface of the dorsal body circumferential portion 30 by an adhesive or the like. From the diaper 1 in the unfolded state of FIG. 2, the absorbent body 10 is folded in half so that the ventral body circumferential portion 20 and the dorsal body circumferential portion 30 face each other, and both lateral portions in the transverse direction of the ventral body circumferential portion 20 and both lateral portions in the transverse direction of the dorsal body circumferential portion 30 are joined by welding (for example, heat welding or ultrasonic welding) or the like to form a pair of side joints 2, whereby the diaper 1 becomes a pants type (see FIG. 1).

[0049] The absorbent body 10 has a liquid-permeable top sheet (skin side sheet) 11 provided on the skin side of the absorbent core 12, a liquid-absorbent absorbent core (absorbent body) 12, a leakage-preventing sheet 13 provided on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 12 and being liquid-impermeable or hardly liquid-permeable, and an outer package sheet 14 provided on the non-skin side of the leakage-preventing sheet (film sheet) 13, and they are adhered to each other by an adhesive or the like respectively.

[0050] The absorbent body 10 has leakage-preventing wall portions 16 that can stand up on the skin side at both lateral portions in the transverse direction. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, both lateral portions in the transverse direction of the outer package sheet 14 are folded back inward in the transverse direction so as to be located on the skin side surface of the top sheet 11, and a leakage-preventing wall elastic member 161 (for example, thread rubber) that expands and contracts in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) is provided at the folded-back portion, whereby the leakage-preventing wall portions 16 are formed. Also, although not shown, the absorbent body 10 preferably has leg-around elastic members (for example, thread rubber) that expand and contract in the longitudinal direction at both lateral portions in the transverse direction. Thereby, the diaper fits around the wearer's legs.

[0051] Examples of absorbent cores 12 include those made by molding a liquid-absorbent fiber, such as pulp fiber, containing a superabsorbent polymer into a predetermined shape. In this embodiment, the absorbent core 12 has a rectangular shape, with the longitudinal direction of the absorbent core 12 being aligned with the vertical direction of the diaper 1. The absorbent core 12 may be covered with a core wrap sheet 17 such as liquid-permeable tissue paper or nonwoven fabric, as in the diaper 1 of this embodiment. Other examples of absorbent cores 12 include SAP sheets, which have an SAP layer attached to a hydrophilic sheet, and airlaid sheets, which are made by molding liquid-absorbent fibers into a sheet shape using the airlaid method. The vertical direction of the unfolded diaper 1 is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the absorbent core 12 and corresponds to the vertical direction of the pant-type diaper 1.

[0052] In a plan view, the top sheet 11 covers the entire area of ​​the absorbent core 12 from the skin side, and both lateral edges are folded back to cover a portion of the non-skin side of the absorbent core 12 and the core wrap sheet 17, respectively. In Figure 2, for convenience, the top sheet 11 is shown with a diagonal line sloping downwards to the left. Examples of the top sheet 11 include liquid-permeable nonwoven fabrics (air-through nonwoven fabrics, spunbond nonwoven fabrics, etc.).

[0053] Examples of the outer sheet 14 include nonwoven fabrics (air-through nonwoven fabrics, spunbond nonwoven fabrics, etc.). The leak-proof sheet 13 is a film sheet such as a liquid-impermeable resin film.

[0054] As shown in Figure 3, the ventral waist section 20 and the dorsal waist section 30 each have a skin-facing sheet 21, 31 and a non-skin-facing sheet 22, 32 made of a flexible nonwoven fabric or the like, and a plurality of waist elastic members 23, 33 (e.g., elastic thread) that stretch in the lateral direction. The plurality of waist elastic members 23, 33 are arranged in the waist sections 20, 30 with gaps in the vertical direction and are fixed to the sheet in a state of being stretched in the lateral direction. Therefore, the ventral waist section 20 and the dorsal waist section 30 are stretchable in the lateral direction and fit the wearer's waist.

[0055] The basic structure of diaper 1 has been described above, but the structure of diaper 1 is not limited to that. For example, diaper 1 may be a so-called two-piece type diaper, in which the ventral waist portion 20 and the dorsal waist portion 30 are formed from a single continuous member, or an outer crotch member connecting the ventral waist portion 20 and the dorsal waist portion 30 may be provided. In that case as well, the portion of diaper 1 (outer crotch member) that overlaps with the side joint portion 2 in the longitudinal direction is considered the waist portion. In addition, the waist elastic members 23, 33 and the leg elastic members may be sheet-like elastic members (stretchable film or stretchable nonwoven fabric) instead of elastic threads.

[0056] ===Regarding the odor of excrement from diaper 1=== Absorbent items such as diaper 1 tend to produce an unpleasant odor from the excrement when they absorb it, both for the wearer and for the outside. Diaper 1 is an absorbent item having a liquid-absorbing absorbent core 12, a top sheet 11 located on the skin side of the absorbent core 12, and a liquid-impermeable leak-proof sheet 13 located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 12. As described above, the leak-proof sheet 13 is a liquid-impermeable film sheet. The top sheet 11 has an odor-suppressing function and an odor-masking function on the non-skin side of the leak-proof sheet 13.

[0057] Regarding diaper 1, the top sheet 11, located on the skin side of the absorbent core 12, is equipped with an odor suppression function. This makes it easier to suppress odors originating from the absorbent core 11 that emanate from the skin side of diaper 1, even when diaper 1 has absorbed excrement. Furthermore, diaper 1 is configured to exhibit an odor masking function not only on the odor suppression function but also on the non-skin side of the leak-proof sheet 13. This makes it easier to reduce odors originating from excrement that emanate from the non-skin side of diaper 1. As a result, diaper 1 as a whole is more effective at reducing unpleasant odors originating from excrement.

[0058] As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the diaper 1 has a top sheet 11 containing a substance 60 that provides odor suppression, and a non-skin-facing substance 40 that provides odor masking.

[0059] In this diaper 1, the odor suppression function is provided on the top sheet 11, which is located on the skin side of the absorbent core 12. This allows the odor suppression function to be exerted closer to the skin side of the diaper 1 than if it were located on the non-skin side of the absorbent core 12, making it easier to reduce unpleasant odors originating from excrement.

[0060] Furthermore, the leak-proof sheet 13 is made of a liquid-impermeable film or the like, and generally, fragrances are less likely to pass through it compared to nonwoven fabrics. Therefore, by having the odor masking function of the diaper 1 located on the non-skin side of the leak-proof sheet 13, the risk of the odor masking function being reduced by the leak-proof sheet 13 is reduced, while the fragrance is more easily released to the outside of the diaper 1, allowing the odor masking function to be exerted closer to the non-skin side of the diaper 1, making it easier to reduce unpleasant odors derived from excrement.

[0061] In this way, the odor derived from excrement absorbed by the absorbent core 12 can be reduced on both the skin-facing and non-skin-facing sides of diaper 1, making it easier to reduce the odor derived from excrement as a whole. In this invention, although the notation is different, "odor" and "smell" are described as having the same meaning.

[0062] The odor suppression function is a function that suppresses or reduces unpleasant odors originating from excrement. This odor suppression function can be achieved, for example, by using a substance that exhibits odor suppression, or by a structure that lowers the odor permeability of the top sheet 11 itself.

[0063] Examples of substances that exert odor-suppressing functions include odor-adsorbing or odor-absorbing deodorants, chemical substances such as alkaline substances like sodium bicarbonate that neutralize acidic excrement and acidic substances like citric acid that neutralize alkaline excrement, disinfectants that reduce odors originating from bacteria, fungi, viruses, or microorganisms, and antimicrobial substances such as antibiotics, antibacterial agents, antiviral agents, antifungal agents, antiprotozoal agents, or antiparasitic agents. Examples of odor-adsorbing or odor-absorbing deodorants include fine particle materials such as activated carbon, zeolite, and starch-based materials. Antimicrobial substances may include inorganic antimicrobial agents, cationic antimicrobial agents, antimicrobial substances containing natural materials such as tea leaves and coffee extraction residues, or alcohols, aldehydes, phenols, hydrogen peroxide, chlorine, hypochlorites, or surfactants. Inorganic antimicrobial agents may include inorganic antimicrobial agents containing inorganic substances such as Ag, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn. For example, metal oxide antimicrobial agents may be used, such as zinc oxide, silver oxide, aluminum oxide, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, and copper oxide. Cationic antimicrobial agents include, for example, quaternary ammonium salts (examples: alkyltrimethylammonium salt, polyoxyethylene alkylmethylammonium salt), guanidine-based antimicrobial agents (examples: chlorhexidine gluconate, chlorhexidine hydrochloride), biguanide-based antimicrobial agents (examples: polyaminopropyl biguanide hydrochloride, polyhexamethylene biguanide stearate), metal ion carriers (examples: metal salts such as silver nitrate and copper sulfate that can release metal ions such as silver ions and copper ions), hexetidine, metallonidazole, etc. Furthermore, as a substance to exert an odor suppression function, one (one type) may be used alone, or two (two or more types) may be used in combination.

[0064] The odor masking function is a function that masks unpleasant odors so that the wearer of diaper 1 or people around the wearer do not perceive unpleasant odors originating from excrement, or so that their sensitivity to unpleasant odors originating from excrement is reduced. It is preferable to select a substance or structure that can exert its odor masking function toward the non-skin side of diaper 1. The odor masking function can be exerted, for example, by a substance that exerts the odor masking function, or by a structure that reduces the odor permeability of the component (outer sheet 14) provided on the non-skin side of the leak-proof sheet 13.

[0065] Substances used to mask odors are generally substances that provide a "pleasant smell," such as aromatic essential oils and aromatic compounds. The fragrance may be an isolated fragrance or a fragrance composition consisting of multiple types of fragrances. The fragrance is not particularly limited as long as it is used in the art, and can be selected from, for example, floral, soft floral, floral oriental, soft oriental, oriental, woody oriental, wood, mossy wood, dry wood, citrus, fresh, green, water, fougère, fruity, and powdery, as well as mixtures thereof.

[0066] Regarding the odor-suppressing function of the diaper 1 in this embodiment, the substance 60 that exhibits the odor-suppressing function is activated carbon 60. Activated carbon can be obtained from raw materials such as coal, coconut shells, and wood. By using activated carbon as the substance that exhibits the odor-suppressing function, it becomes easier to suppress odors originating from excrement absorbed by the absorbent core 12 that emanate from the skin side of the diaper 1. Furthermore, activated carbon is generally black or gray in color. Absorbent articles such as diapers 1 are often made of light colors such as white, light blue, or pink. When black or gray activated carbon is used in absorbent articles made of such light colors, the black or gray color stands out and is easily visible. Therefore, by using activated carbon as the substance that exhibits the odor-suppressing function, the wearer can visually recognize from the color of the activated carbon that it is an absorbent article with odor-suppressing properties, and the odor-suppressing effect can be emotionally perceived more easily. In this embodiment, the color of the activated carbon (a substance that exhibits odor-suppressing function) 60 of the diaper 1 can be seen from the skin-facing side of the diaper 1 through the top sheet 11.

[0067] Furthermore, the diaper 1 of this embodiment is equipped with an odor suppression layer 61 containing activated carbon 60, which is a substance that exhibits odor suppression function. Preferably, this odor suppression layer 61 is provided on the non-skin side of the top sheet 11. The odor suppression layer 61 of the diaper 1 of this embodiment is a layer formed by mixing activated carbon 60 with black ink, and specifically, the odor suppression layer 61 is a black ink layer having 3% by weight of activated carbon 60. When worn, the top sheet 11 is a component that receives excrement when worn. The absorbent core 12 is a component that absorbs and retains excrement, and the absorbent core 12 is a component that easily emits odors derived from excrement. Therefore, by providing the odor suppression layer 61 on the non-skin side of the top sheet 11, which is provided on the skin side of the absorbent core 12, it becomes easier to efficiently suppress odors derived from excrement from the top sheet 11 and the absorbent core 12. Furthermore, in the odor-suppressing layer 61, by making not only the odor-suppressing substance (activated carbon) 60 but also other substances (black ink) that exhibit black or gray color, the color of the odor-suppressing layer 61 makes it easier for the wearer to visually recognize that it is an absorbent item with odor-suppressing properties, and emotionally, to feel the odor-suppressing effect. In this embodiment, the color of the odor-suppressing layer 61 of the diaper 1 can be seen from the skin side of the diaper 1 through the top sheet 11.

[0068] Furthermore, it is preferable that the odor-suppressing layer 61 is provided in the crotch area 1C, which corresponds to the wearer's crotch, at least when the garment is being worn. The crotch area 1C is the part that absorbs excrement when the garment is being worn. Therefore, by providing the odor-suppressing layer 61 in the crotch area 1C, even when the absorbent core 12 has absorbed and accumulated excrement when the garment is being worn, it becomes easier to efficiently suppress odors derived from excrement.

[0069] It is more preferable that the odor-suppressing layer 61 is provided over the entire surface of the top sheet 11. In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the odor-suppressing layer 61 is provided in the diagonally downward-sloping shaded area on the top sheet 11 shown in Figure 2. Specifically, a layer of black ink containing activated carbon 60 is applied evenly over the entire surface of the top sheet 11 to form the odor-suppressing layer 61. This makes it easier for the deodorizing effect of the activated carbon 60, which is the substance that exhibits the deodorizing function of the odor-suppressing layer 61, to act over a wide area of ​​the absorbent core 12, even when the absorbent core 12 has absorbed and accumulated excrement while the diaper is being worn. Furthermore, as in this embodiment, if the substance constituting the odor-suppressing layer 61 is black, gray, or other colored, similar to the activated carbon 60, it makes it easier for the wearer to recognize that the diaper 1 is an absorbent item with odor-suppressing functionality over a wide area.

[0070] Furthermore, if the odor-suppressing layer 61 is provided over the entire surface of the top sheet 11, it is preferable that the entire surface of the absorbent core 12 overlaps with the top sheet 11 when viewed in the thickness direction of the diaper 1. In other words, as shown in Figures 2 to 4, the entire surface of the absorbent core 12 is covered by the top sheet 11 from the skin side. This makes it easier for the deodorizing effect of the activated carbon 60, which is the substance that exerts the deodorizing function of the odor-suppressing layer 61, to act over a wide area of ​​the absorbent core 12, even when the absorbent core 12 has absorbed and accumulated excrement while being worn.

[0071] Furthermore, when the diaper 1 is equipped with activated carbon 60 as a substance that exhibits odor suppression function, the top sheet 11 is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black. It is preferable that the leak-proof sheet 13 has a portion of achromatic color with a lightness between white and black that is visible from the non-skin side of the diaper 1, covering 50% or more of the area of ​​the leak-proof sheet 13. The achromatic color with a lightness between white and black is similar in color to the activated carbon 60, and the achromatic color with a lightness between white and black easily evokes activated carbon. By having a portion of the top sheet 11 that is reminiscent of activated carbon 60, the presence of the odor suppression function is easily visually recognized by the wearer from the skin side of the diaper 1, and by having a portion of the leak-proof sheet 13 that is reminiscent of activated carbon 60, the presence of the odor suppression function is easily visually recognized by the wearer from the non-skin side of the diaper 1.

[0072] When diaper 1 is equipped with activated carbon 60 as a substance that exhibits odor suppression function, it is preferable that the top sheet 11 has achromatic areas with a brightness between white and black, at least in the crotch area 1C corresponding to the wearer's crotch when worn. By providing the top sheet 11 with achromatic areas with a brightness between white and black in the crotch area 1C, which is the part that absorbs excrement when worn, it becomes easier for the wearer to visually recognize that odor suppression function is provided at least in the crotch area 1C when viewed from the skin side of diaper 1. Furthermore, when diaper 1 is equipped with activated carbon 60 as a substance that exhibits odor suppression function, it is even more preferable that the top sheet 11 has achromatic areas with a brightness between white and black across the entire surface of the top sheet 11. This makes it easier for the wearer to visually recognize that odor suppression function is provided over a wide area of ​​the top sheet 11 when viewed from the skin side of diaper 1. Furthermore, regarding the odor-suppressing function of diaper 1, if diaper 1 contains substances other than activated carbon 60 or has a configuration that exhibits other odor-suppressing functions, the top sheet 11 may be provided with patterns or colors that evoke the substances or configurations that exhibit those odor-suppressing functions, making it easier for the wearer to recognize that diaper 1 has an odor-suppressing function.

[0073] Regarding substances that exhibit odor masking function, it is preferable that these substances are not encapsulated in microcapsules. Normally, when fragrances (air fresheners) are encapsulated in microcapsules, it is necessary to physically break the microcapsules to expose the encapsulated fragrance. On the other hand, if the substance that exhibits odor masking function is not encapsulated in microcapsules, the odor masking effect can be achieved without the need to break the microcapsules.

[0074] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, it is preferable that the diaper 1 has an outer sheet 14 on the non-skin side of the leak-proof sheet 13, and that a substance for exhibiting odor masking function is provided between the leak-proof sheet 13 and the outer sheet 14. The fragrance 40 in Figure 2, etc., is the fragrance itself, and is also the fragrance-coated area 40 to which the fragrance is applied. In this way, by providing a substance for exhibiting odor masking function between the leak-proof sheet 13 and the outer sheet 14, the odor derived from excrement can be easily reduced by the substance for exhibiting odor masking function provided in a position close to the non-skin side of the diaper 1, and the risk of the substance for exhibiting odor masking function, such as the fragrance, adhering to the outside (such as the wearer's clothing or the hands of the wearer or people around them) from the non-skin side of the diaper 1 can be reduced. In other words, the risk of the fragrance 40 itself adhering to the outside is reduced, while the fragrance of the fragrance 40 is more easily released to the outside of the diaper 1, thus making it easier to reduce odors originating from excrement. The type of outer sheet 14 is not particularly limited, but by using a nonwoven fabric as in this embodiment, the fragrance can easily pass through the gaps between the fibers of the outer sheet 14, making it easier for the fragrance 40 to be released to the outside of the diaper 1.

[0075] In this embodiment, during the manufacturing process of the diaper 1, fragrance 40 is applied to the skin-facing side of the outer sheet 14. It is sufficient that part or all of the fragrance 40 is applied (placed) on the non-skin side of the leak-proof sheet 13; the fragrance 40 may also be applied to the non-skin side of the leak-proof sheet 13 or the non-skin side of the outer sheet 14. The fragrance 40 in this embodiment is a volatile substance and is applied in liquid form. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the fragrance application area 40. Figure 4 is a schematic plan view of the absorbent body 10 when the diaper 1 is unfolded and viewed in the thickness direction, mainly showing the leak-proof sheet 13, outer sheet 14, fragrance application area 40, and adhesive part 51, while components such as the absorbent core 12 are omitted. For convenience, the leak-proof sheet 13, fragrance application area 40, and adhesive part 51 are shown with solid lines.

[0076] Figure 5 shows the adhesive portion 51 where the leak-proof sheet 13 and the outer sheet 14 are bonded together, and the non-adhesive portion 50 where the two sheets (13, 14) are not joined. The area enclosed by the outer ends in the vertical and horizontal directions of the multiple adhesive portions 51 is defined as the adhesive region 52, and in Figure 5, the adhesive region 52 is shown as a thick dotted rectangle. In this embodiment, the multiple adhesive portions 51 and the multiple non-adhesive portions 50 each extend linearly in the vertical direction and are arranged alternately in the horizontal direction. As an example of the joining method for the adhesive portions 51, a joining method using an adhesive such as hot melt adhesive HMA is shown. However, it is not limited to this, and joining methods such as welding or compression may also be used.

[0077] The fragrance application area 40 is located in the non-adhesive area 50 between the adhesive areas 51 which are arranged in the horizontal direction. Therefore, when the unfolded diaper 1 is viewed in the thickness direction (see Figure 5), the fragrance application area 40 has a portion that overlaps with the non-adhesive area 50 where the leak-proof sheet 13 and the outer sheet 14 (non-skin side sheet) are not joined. In this embodiment, the entire fragrance application area 40 overlaps with the non-adhesive area 50, but does not overlap with the adhesive area 51 (adhesive HMA).

[0078] In the case of absorbent articles having an elastic component, such as diaper 1, it is advisable to check the positional relationship between the fragrance application area 40 and the non-adhesive area 50 with the absorbent article unfolded and stretched, as shown in Figure 2.

[0079] Furthermore, generally speaking, if the adhesive portion 51 and the fragrance 40 overlap, or if the adhesive and fragrance 40 mix, the adhesive strength between the leak-proof sheet 13 and the outer sheet 14 may decrease, and the fragrance 40 may hinder the adhesion. In this regard, as shown in Figure 5, it is preferable that the area where the fragrance (a substance that exhibits odor masking function) 40 is provided (fragrance application area 40) is located inward from the outer edge of the adhesive area 52. In other words, there is at least a portion where the adhesive portion 51 is provided outside the fragrance application area 40 in the vertical or horizontal direction. Therefore, by providing the fragrance application area 40 inward from the outer edge of the adhesive area 52, the risk of the fragrance 40 or other odor-masking substance hindering the adhesion between the leak-proof sheet 13 and the outer sheet 14 can be reduced.

[0080] In the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the fragrance 40 is arranged in a long, linear pattern in a predetermined direction (here, the vertical direction), thereby allowing the fragrance 40 to exert its effect (odor masking function) over a wide area in that predetermined direction on the diaper 1. Furthermore, when applying a certain amount of fragrance 40 to the diaper 1, applying the fragrance 40 in a long, linear pattern increases the basis weight of the fragrance 40 (amount of fragrance 40 per unit area) compared to, for example, applying the fragrance to the entire flat surface of the leak-proof sheet 13. By applying the fragrance 40 more densely, the rate of evaporation of the fragrance can be suppressed. In other words, it is possible to increase the basis weight of the fragrance 40 while reducing the amount of fragrance 40 applied to the diaper 1, thereby increasing the persistence of the fragrance 40.

[0081] Furthermore, when viewed in the thickness direction, the fragrance-coated area 40 overlaps with the non-adhesive area 50. In other words, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the fragrance 40 is applied to the area where the leak-proof sheet 13 and the outer sheet 14 are separated in the thickness direction. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line D-D in Figure 5. In the non-adhesive area 50, the density of the material is lower and the air permeability resistance is lower compared to the adhesive area 51. Also, in the non-adhesive area 50, the volatilization of the fragrance 40 is not inhibited by the adhesive (HMA). Therefore, the fragrance 40 can easily volatilize into the space formed by the separation of the two sheets (13, 14) in the non-adhesive area 50, and the fragrance 40 applied to the diaper 1 can be effectively utilized. In addition, since the fragrance 40 can be retained in the space, the persistence of the fragrance 40 is also increased. According to the diaper 1 of this embodiment, the persistence of the fragrance 40 is increased, the user can more easily perceive the fragrance 40, and odors derived from excrement are more easily reduced.

[0082] The width of the fragrance application area 40 is preferably about 20 mm or less. This prevents the width of the non-adhesive area 50 from becoming too large to match the fragrance application area 40, thus preventing the two sheets (13, 14) from peeling off or lifting due to an increase in the width of the non-adhesive area 50.

[0083] Regarding the arrangement of the fragrance 40, as shown in Figure 2, it is preferable that the fragrance 40 is continuously provided from above the lower end 20e of the ventral waist portion 20 (ventral side), through the crotch region 1C, to above the lower end 30e of the dorsal waist portion 30 (dorsal side). This makes it easier to reduce the odor originating from excrement that wafts from the non-skin side of the diaper 1 over a wide area, even when the absorbent core 12 has absorbed excrement while the diaper 1 is being worn. In particular, by providing the fragrance 40 continuously from above the lower end 20e of the ventral waist portion 20 (ventral side), through the crotch region 1C, to above the lower end 30e of the dorsal waist portion 30 (dorsal side), the fragrance 40 is provided along the entire length in the vertical direction of the crotch region 1C, making it easier to reduce the odor originating from excrement with the scent of the fragrance 40.

[0084] In this embodiment, the fragrance application areas 40 of the diaper 1 are provided as two straight lines running vertically, but the embodiment is not limited to this configuration. The number, shape, size, etc., of the fragrance application areas (fragrance) 40 can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the fragrance application areas 40 may extend horizontally, or may extend in directions inclined with respect to both the vertical and horizontal directions. The fragrance 40 may also be arranged on the diaper 1 in well-known curved patterns such as an Ω pattern or a spiral pattern. Furthermore, the fragrance application areas 40 are not limited to linear shapes, but may be provided in predetermined shapes or patterns such as circles, rectangles, or polygons. The length and arrangement of the fragrance application areas 40 can also be arbitrarily selected.

[0085] Furthermore, it is preferable that the fragrance 40 cannot be seen from the non-skin side of the diaper 1. The fragrance 40 is located near the non-skin side of the diaper 1 and is generally designed with colors, patterns, or designs that are visible from the non-skin side of the diaper 1. Therefore, by positioning the fragrance 40 so that it cannot be seen from the non-skin side of the diaper 1, the risk of the fragrance 40 interfering with the visibility of the colors, patterns, or designs provided on the diaper 1 can be reduced.

[0086] The shape, size, and location of the fragrance-coated area 40 can be confirmed by well-known methods. For example, one method involves removing the target material (e.g., outer sheet 14) from the diaper 1, dividing it into small sections to form multiple samples, and then analyzing the components of each sample using a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (e.g., Shimadzu GCMS-QP2010 Plus or an equivalent device). The fragrance-coated area 40 may also be identified based on whether or not the divided samples contain fragrance. In addition, if the fragrance 40 applied to the diaper 1 is liquid, the material in the fragrance-coated area 40 will become wet, resulting in a different color from the surrounding area (for example, when fragrance is applied to a white nonwoven fabric, the whiteness of the fragrance-coated area 40 will increase), allowing the fragrance-coated area 40 to be identified visually.

[0087] It is preferable that, when wearing diaper 1, even after a predetermined time has elapsed with diaper 1 having absorbed excrement such as urine, the odor derived from the excrement is not amplified and the odor derived from the excrement is reduced, thanks to substances that exhibit odor suppression and odor masking functions. Furthermore, it is preferable that, even when diaper 1 has been worn for a predetermined time and has been removed from the wearer's body and stored in a trash can or the like, the odor derived from the excrement is not amplified and the odor derived from the excrement is reduced, thanks to substances that exhibit odor suppression and odor masking functions.

[0088] <<Regarding the Odor Test>> For diaper 1 in its unfolded and extended state, the center Cc of diaper 1 is defined as the center in both the vertical and horizontal directions. When conducting the odor test, diaper 1 does not necessarily have to be in its unfolded state (it does not have to be in a state where the side seams 2 are separated). If the position of the center Cc of diaper 1 can be determined in the pant-type state, the odor test may be conducted in the pant-type state.

[0089] Figure 7 shows the results of odor measurement of artificial urine. Figure 8 is a graph showing the measurement results of Figure 7. Figure 9 shows the results of odor measurement of fragrances. Figure 10 is a graph showing the measurement results of Figure 9.

[0090] In this embodiment, the odor test was conducted by an odor assessor, a national qualification certified by the Ministry of the Environment, who evaluated (measured) diaper 1 and a comparative example sample of diaper 1 five times each (n=5) using the olfactory measurement method. Figures 7 and 9 show the measurement results for diaper 1 and the comparative example sample of diaper 1 (hereinafter also referred to as "comparative example"), and the "odor level" on the vertical axis of the graphs shown in Figures 8 and 10 indicates the intensity of the odor. Figures 8 and 10 are graphs showing the average values ​​of the measurement results for diaper 1 and the comparative example in Figures 7 and 9, respectively. The comparative example sample of diaper 1 is a disposable diaper that is almost the same in composition and size as diaper 1, but it does not have odor suppression function (substance for exhibiting odor suppression function) or odor masking function (substance for exhibiting odor masking function).

[0091] The odor test was evaluated using a six-level scale, where the intensity of the odor was expressed numerically, with lower numbers indicating weaker odors and higher numbers indicating stronger odors. Specifically, 0: no odor, 1: very weak odor, 2: weak odor, 3: easily detectable odor, 4: strong odor, 5: intense odor. In this embodiment, the odor intensity of the artificial urine and fragrance was evaluated on a six-level scale for both diaper 1 and the comparative example.

[0092] For each condition of diaper 1, the odor of artificial urine and fragrance was measured at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center Cc of diaper 1. For the artificial urine, a solution was prepared by dissolving 200 g of urea, 80 g of sodium chloride, 8 g of magnesium sulfate, 3 g of calcium chloride, and approximately 1 g of the dye Blue No. 1 in 10 L of deionized water, and then dissolving 3% ammonia relative to the total volume.

[0093] The odor test for diaper 1 will be described below, but the same procedure applies to the comparative example. In this embodiment, the odor of the artificial urine and the fragrance in diaper 1 were measured at the same time, but it is also possible to measure only the odor of the artificial urine or only the fragrance in diaper 1.

[0094] First, the diaper 1, contained in the containment member 120 (described later), is removed from the package 100 (described later). Then, 40 ml of artificial urine is dropped into the center Cc of the diaper 1. The state immediately after dropping the artificial urine (0h) is designated as the first state of diaper 1. The odor of the artificial urine and the fragrance of this first state of diaper 1 are measured. The first state of diaper 1 is left at room temperature (approximately 25°C) for 1 hour. One hour after the first state of diaper 1, the odor of the artificial urine and the fragrance of diaper 1 are measured. The first state of diaper 1 is left at room temperature for 3 hours. After that (4 hours after the first state), 40 ml of artificial urine is dropped into the center Cc of the diaper 1. The state after dropping the artificial urine (4h), 4 hours after the first state, is designated as the second state of diaper 1. The odor of the artificial urine and the fragrance of this second state of diaper 1 are measured. Diaper 1 in state 2 is left at room temperature for 4 hours. After that (4 hours from state 2), 40 ml of artificial urine is dropped into the center Cc of diaper 1. The state after dropping the artificial urine 4 hours from state 2 (8h) is designated as diaper 1 in state 3. The odor of the artificial urine and the fragrance of diaper 1 in state 3 are measured. Diaper 1 in state 3 is left at room temperature for 4 hours. After that (4 hours from state 3), the state after 4 hours from state 3 (12h) is designated as diaper 1 in state 4, and the odor of the artificial urine and the fragrance of diaper 1 in state 4 are measured. Diaper 1 in state 4 is left at room temperature for 12 hours. Then, the state after 12 hours from state 4 (24h) is designated as diaper 1 in state 5, and the odor of the artificial urine and the fragrance of diaper 1 in state 5 are measured.

[0095] The results of measuring the odor of diaper 1 of this embodiment and the artificial urine and fragrance of the comparative example are shown in Figures 7 and 9, and the average values ​​(n=5) for each condition are as follows. [Odor of artificial urine] Average values ​​for diaper 1: State 1 (0h): 2.0, State 2 (4h): 2.0, State 3 (8h): 2.4, State 4 (12h): 2.2, State 5 (24h): 2.0 Average values ​​for comparative example: State 1 (0h): 3.8, State 2 (4h): 3.2, State 3 (8h): 3.4, State 4 (12h): 3.2, State 5 (24h): 3.2 [Odor of fragrance] Average values ​​for diaper 1: State 1 (0h): 4.0, State 2 (4h): 3.8, State 3 (8h): 3.4, State 4 (12h): 2.8, State 5 (24h): 3.0 Average values ​​for comparative example: State 1 (0h): 0.8, State 2 (4h): 0.6, State 3 (8h): 0.4, State 4 (12h): 0.4, State 5 (24h): 0.2

[0096] From the first state of diaper 1 to the third state of diaper 1, a predetermined amount of artificial urine is dripped into diaper 1 every four hours. The state from the first state of diaper 1 to the fourth state of diaper 1 simulates a situation where the wearer has worn diaper 1 for a long period of time (e.g., 12 hours), and during that time, diaper 1 has absorbed urine from multiple urinations (e.g., 3 times). Furthermore, diaper 1 in the fifth state is 12 hours after the fourth state of diaper 1, and this simulates a situation where the wearer has worn diaper 1 for a long period of time (e.g., 12 hours), urinated into diaper 1 multiple times (e.g., 3 times), removed diaper 1 from the wearer's body, and stored in a trash can or the like for a predetermined time (e.g., 12 hours).

[0097] The measurement results for the odor of the artificial urine indicate that a higher value indicates a stronger odor of urine emanating from the non-skin side of diaper 1. It is clear that the average values ​​for each state of diaper 1 in this embodiment are smaller than the average values ​​for each state of the comparative example. Therefore, even when diaper 1 absorbs excrement, diaper 1, equipped with an odor suppression function (substance for exhibiting odor suppression function: activated carbon 60) and an odor masking function (substance for exhibiting odor masking function: fragrance 40), can reduce the odor of excrement on the non-skin side of diaper 1 more effectively than the comparative example diaper, which lacks both odor suppression and odor masking functions.

[0098] Furthermore, it is preferable that the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the first state and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state is 0.5 or less. This makes it possible to reduce the odor of artificial urine smelling from the non-skin side of diaper 1 not only in the first state but also in the fourth state, compared to when the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the first state and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state is greater than 0.5. Therefore, even when diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time (12 hours) and absorbs urine multiple times, the odor of urine and other excretions smelling from the non-skin side of diaper 1 can be reduced.

[0099] In this embodiment, it is clear that the absolute difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the first state (2.0) and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state (2.2) (|2.0 - 2.2| = 0.2) is less than 0.5. Diaper 1 is equipped with an odor suppression function (a substance for exhibiting the odor suppression function, activated carbon 60) and an odor masking function (a substance for exhibiting the odor masking function, fragrance 40), and the strength of the odor suppression function (amount and arrangement of activated carbon 60), the strength of the odor masking function (amount and arrangement of fragrance 40), etc., can be made to be 0.5 or less in absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the first state and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state.

[0100] Furthermore, it is more preferable that the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fifth state is 0.5 or less. This makes it possible to reduce the odor of artificial urine emitting from the non-skin side of diaper 1, not only in the fourth state but also in the fifth state, compared to when the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fifth state is greater than 0.5. Therefore, even when diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time (12 hours), absorbs urine multiple times, and is removed from the wearer's body and stored in a trash can or the like for a predetermined time, the odor of urine and other excretions emitting from the non-skin side of diaper 1 can be reduced.

[0101] In this embodiment, it is clear that the absolute difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state (2.2) and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fifth state (2.0) (|2.2 - 2.0| = 0.2) is less than 0.5. Diaper 1 is equipped with an odor suppression function (a substance for exhibiting the odor suppression function, activated carbon 60) and an odor masking function (a substance for exhibiting the odor masking function, fragrance 40), and the strength of the odor suppression function (amount and arrangement of activated carbon 60), the strength of the odor masking function (amount and arrangement of fragrance 40), etc., can be made to be 0.5 or less in absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state and the average value of the odor measurement results of artificial urine in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fifth state.

[0102] The odor measurement results for the fragrance indicate that a higher value indicates a stronger odor of the fragrance emanating from the non-skin side of diaper 1. The stronger the odor of the fragrance emanating from the non-skin side of diaper 1, the greater the masking effect on the odor of excrement such as urine. It is clear that the average value of the odor measurement results for diaper 1 in each state in this embodiment is greater than the average value of each state in the comparative example. Therefore, even when diaper 1 absorbs excrement, diaper 1, which has an odor masking function (substance for exhibiting the odor masking function: fragrance 40), can reduce the odor of excrement on the non-skin side of diaper 1 more effectively than the comparative example diaper, which does not have an odor masking function.

[0103] Furthermore, it is preferable that the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state be 2.5 or higher. In this embodiment, the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state is 2.8. Of the six levels of evaluation for the odor test, evaluation "3" means "easily detectable odor," and evaluation "2" means "weak odor." Evaluation "2" is ineffective in masking the odor of excrement such as urine on the non-skin side of diaper 1. On the other hand, evaluation "3" is ineffective in masking the odor of excrement on the non-skin side of diaper 1. Therefore, if the average measurement value of the odor test results for diaper 1 in state 4 is 2.5 or higher, the masking effect of the odor masking function (fragrance 40) against odors derived from excrement becomes higher than when the average measurement value of the fragrance odor test for diaper 1 in state 4 is less than 2.5, making it easier to reduce the odor of artificial urine that smells from the non-skin side of diaper 1 in state 4. As a result, even when diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time (12 hours) and absorbs urine multiple times, the odor of excrement such as urine that smells from the non-skin side of diaper 1 can be reduced. Diaper 1 is equipped with an odor masking function (a substance that exhibits the odor masking function, fragrance 40), and the strength of the odor masking function (for example, the amount of fragrance 40 and the application area of ​​fragrance 40) makes it easier to make the average measurement value of the fragrance odor test for diaper 1 in state 4 2.5 or higher.

[0104] Furthermore, it is more preferable that the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of the diaper 1 in the fifth state is 2.5 or higher. In this embodiment, the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of the diaper 1 in the fifth state is 3.0. When the average value of the measurement results of the odor test of the diaper 1 in the fifth state is 2.5 or higher, the masking effect of the odor masking function (fragrance 40) against odors derived from excrement is higher than when the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of the diaper 1 in the fifth state is lower than 2.5, making it easier to reduce the odor of artificial urine that smells from the non-skin side of the diaper 1 in the fifth state. Therefore, even when the diaper 1 is worn for a long period of time (12 hours), absorbs urine multiple times, and is removed from the wearer's body and stored in a trash can or the like for a predetermined time, the odor of excrement such as urine that smells from the non-skin side of the diaper 1 can be reduced. Diaper 1 is equipped with an odor masking function (a substance for exhibiting the odor masking function, fragrance 40), and the strength of the odor masking function (for example, the amount of fragrance 40 and the area to which fragrance 40 is applied) makes it easier to achieve an average value of 2.5 or higher in the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test of diaper 1 in the fourth state.

[0105] ===About the diaper 1 package 100=== <<Basic configuration of package 100>> Generally, diapers 1 are distributed and stored in a state in which they are contained in a storage member 120. Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view of package 100. Package 100 has the above-mentioned multiple absorbent articles such as diapers 1 and a storage member 120 that contains the multiple diapers 1. As shown in Figure 11, in this embodiment, package 100 in the state in which the diapers 1 are contained in the storage member 120 (hereinafter also referred to as the "contained state") is a roughly hexahedron having multiple faces 200 (front 200A, side 200B, rear (not shown), top 200D, bottom (not shown)), but is not limited to this and may be other polyhedra.

[0106] When diaper 1 is equipped with activated carbon 60 as a substance that exhibits odor suppression function, it is preferable that the top sheet 11 is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black, as described above (see Figure 2). Furthermore, it is preferable that the containment member 120 has achromatic and lightness portion 121 of a portion of lightness between white and black covering 40% or more of the surface area of ​​the containment member 120 (see Figure 11). By having a portion of the top sheet 11 that is reminiscent of activated carbon 60, the presence of the odor suppression function is visually recalled and recognized by the wearer from the skin side of diaper 1. Furthermore, if the containment member 120 of the package 100 is achromatic and has a lightness portion 121 between white and black that accounts for 40% or more of the surface area of ​​the containment member 120 within a range visible from the outside of the package 100, the appearance of the package 100 will be more likely to give the impression of being achromatic and having a lightness portion between white and black, that is, a gray color, compared to if the achromatic and lightness portion between white and black accounted for less than 40% of the surface area of ​​the containment member 120. Therefore, it becomes easier for the wearer to recognize from the appearance of the containment member 120 and the package 100 that the diaper 1 contained inside the containment member 120 of the package 100 is an absorbent article equipped with activated carbon 60 (odor suppression function). In other words, the achromatic parts of the diaper 1 that are between white and black in brightness, and the achromatic parts 121 of the package 100 that are between white and black in brightness, make it easier for the wearer to visually recognize that the diaper 1 is equipped with an odor-suppressing function (activated carbon 60).

[0107] Regarding the odor-suppressing function of diaper 1, if diaper 1 contains substances other than activated carbon 60 or has a configuration that exhibits other odor-suppressing functions, the package 100 and the containment member 120 may be equipped with patterns or colors that evoke the substances or configurations that exhibit the odor-suppressing function, making it easier for the wearer to recognize that diaper 1 has an odor-suppressing function.

[0108] If diaper 1 contains a floral scent or a scent reminiscent of flowers as a substance that exhibits odor masking function, then the outer surface of the containment member 120, visible from the outside of the package 100, should not only have a portion 121 of a neutral color with a brightness between white and black that easily evokes activated carbon 60 (odor suppression function), but also a floral pattern 122 or other design, or a color such as pink or red that easily evokes fragrance 40 (odor masking function), making it easier for the wearer to recognize the odor suppression function and odor masking function of diaper 1 from the outside of the package 100 (container member 120). Furthermore, if a fragrance is used as the substance that exhibits odor masking function, or if the containment member 120 has a configuration that exhibits odor masking function, the color and design used for the containment member 120 may be selected according to the scent and configuration.

[0109] The embodiments described above are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit its interpretation. The present invention can be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and it goes without saying that equivalents thereof are included.

[0110] 1. Pants-type disposable diaper (absorbent material), 2. Side seams, 10. Absorbent main body, 11. Top sheet (skin-side sheet), 11a. Skin-side layer, 11b. Non-skin-side layer, 12. Absorbent core (absorbent material), 13. Leak-proof sheet (film sheet), 14. Outer sheet, 16. Leak-proof wall section, 17. Core wrap sheet, 20. Abdominal waist section, 21. Skin-side sheet, 22. Non-skin-side sheet, 23. Waist elastic member, 24. Cover sheet, 30. Back waist section, 31. Skin-side sheet, 32. Non-skin-side sheet, 33. Waist elastic member, 34. Cover sheet, 40. Fragrance, substance for exhibiting odor masking function, 50. Non-adhesive section, 51. Adhesive section, 60. Activated carbon, substance for exhibiting odor suppression function, 61. Odor suppression layer, 100. Package (package for diaper 1, package for absorbent material), 120 containment member, 200 surface

Claims

1. An absorbent article comprising: a liquid-absorbing absorbent; a skin-side sheet located on the skin side of the absorbent; and a liquid-impermeable film sheet located on the non-skin side of the absorbent, wherein the skin-side sheet has an odor-suppressing function and is configured to exhibit an odor-masking function on the non-skin side of the film sheet.

2. An absorbent article according to claim 1, characterized in that the substance that exhibits the odor suppression function is activated carbon.

3. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, comprising an odor-suppressing layer containing a substance that exhibits the odor-suppressing function, wherein the odor-suppressing layer is provided on the non-skin side of the skin-side sheet.

4. An absorbent article according to claim 3, characterized in that the odor-suppressing layer is provided at least in the crotch area corresponding to the wearer's crotch when worn.

5. An absorbent article according to claim 3, characterized in that the odor-suppressing layer is provided over the entire area of ​​the skin-facing sheet.

6. An absorbent article according to claim 5, characterized in that, when viewed in the thickness direction, the entire area of ​​the absorbent body overlaps with the skin-side sheet.

7. An absorbent article according to claim 2, wherein the skin-facing sheet is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black, and the film sheet is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black covering 50% or more of the area of ​​the film sheet.

8. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the substance exhibiting the odor masking function is not encapsulated in microcapsules.

9. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer sheet is located on the non-skin side of the film sheet, and the substance that exhibits the odor masking function is provided between the film sheet and the outer sheet.

10. An absorbent article according to claim 9, characterized in that the film sheet and the outer sheet are bonded together in an adhesive region to which an adhesive is applied, and the region to which the odor-masking substance is provided is located inward from the outer edge of the adhesive region.

11. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, when worn, it has an abdominal torso portion that covers the wearer's abdomen, a dorsal torso portion that covers the wearer's back, and a crotch region corresponding to the wearer's crotch, and the substance that exhibits the odor masking function is continuously provided from above the lower end of the abdominal torso portion through the crotch region to above the lower end of the dorsal torso portion.

12. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the substance exhibiting the odor masking function cannot be seen from the non-skin side of the absorbent article.

13. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the absorbent article contained in a storage member is removed from the package, and the state immediately after dropping 40 ml of artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in an unfolded and extended state is defined as the absorbent article in a first state; the state after dropping 40 ml of the artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in the first state four hours later is defined as the absorbent article in a second state; the state after dropping 40 ml of the artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in the second state four hours later is defined as the absorbent article in a third state; and the state after a further four hours from the absorbent article in the third state is defined as the absorbent article in a fourth state. An absorbent article characterized in that the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in an odor test conducted at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the first state and the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in an odor test conducted at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fourth state is 0.5 or less.

14. An absorbent article according to claim 13, wherein, when the state of the absorbent article 12 hours after the state of the absorbent article in the fourth state is defined as the absorbent article in the fifth state, the absolute value of the difference between the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in the odor test at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fourth state and the average value of the odor measurement results of the artificial urine in the odor test at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fifth state is 0.5 or less.

15. An absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the substance that exhibits the odor masking function is a fragrance that emits a predetermined scent, and the absorbent article contained in a storage member is removed from the package, and the state immediately after dropping 40 ml of artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in an unfolded and extended state is defined as the absorbent article in a first state; the state after dropping 40 ml of the artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in the first state four hours later is defined as the absorbent article in a second state; the state after dropping 40 ml of the artificial urine onto the center of the absorbent article in the second state four hours later is defined as the absorbent article in a third state; and the state after a further four hours from the absorbent article in the third state is defined as the absorbent article in a fourth state, wherein the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the absorbent article in the fourth state is 2.5 or higher.

16. An absorbent article according to claim 15, characterized in that, when the state of the absorbent article 12 hours after the fourth state is defined as the fifth state absorbent article, the average value of the odor measurement results of the fragrance in the odor test at a position 10 cm away from the non-skin side of the center of the fifth state absorbent article is 2.5 or higher.

17. A package for an absorbent article, wherein the absorbent article described in claim 2 or 7 is contained in a containing member, characterized in that the skin-side sheet is achromatic and has a portion of lightness between white and black, and the containing member has achromatic and a portion of lightness between white and black covering 40% or more of the surface area of ​​the containing member.

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