JP2021525641A - Odor-suppressing absorbent materials and absorbent articles and related methods of use and fabrication - Google Patents

Abstract

Absorbent materials configured to block trimethylamine (TMA), absorbent articles made from absorbent materials, related methods of use, methods of measuring the reduction of free TMA, and related absorbent articles. How to do it is described. [Selection diagram] Fig. 1

Description

Trimethylamine (TMA) is a chemical that has a strong fish odor, even at low concentrations, and is responsible for the fish odor, which is a sign of bacterial vaginosis.
Increased pH in the vaginal environment is common during and after menstruation. Vaginal pH is usually 4-4.5, but vaginal pH can increase to 6.6 during menstruation. This increase in pH can promote the overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria, sometimes resulting in an increase in the amount of TMA released from the more alkaline environment of the vagina.

Women's hygiene products, such as sanitary napkins, are commonly used products to absorb menstrual fluid, bleeding, and urinary incontinence leaks. These products absorb malodorous fluids (eg, those containing TMA), are kept close to the body with minimal air flow, and are worn for several hours, so the malodor is concentrated in these products. There is a risk of For this reason, TMA is a chemical substance of great interest for women's hygiene products in terms of suppressing odors.

Currently, absorbent hygiene products that promote odor control do so using fragrances, antibacterial properties, activated carbon, or "odor lock" technology. However, conventional absorbent hygiene products have not specifically attempted to address the malodor associated with TMA, eg, by blocking TMA.

TMA is also associated with meat products, especially fish products. Bacterial and fish meat enzymes convert TMA oxides present in fish meat to TMA. The absorbent pad included in the meat packaging absorbs gravy and other liquids associated with the meat product. However, conventional absorbent pads for meat packaging do not block TMA, especially associated with meat products, or otherwise reduce TMA malodor.

Therefore, there is a long-standing need for absorbent products that absorb liquids and block TMA, thereby reducing TMA malodor. This disclosure seeks to meet these needs and provide additional relevant benefits.

An overview of the invention is provided in a simplified form to introduce an excerpt of the concepts further described below in the form for carrying out the invention. The outline of the present invention is not intended to identify the important features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In one aspect, the disclosure provides a method of reducing free TMA, comprising contacting a trimethylamine (“TMA”) molecule with an absorbent material containing a cellulose fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the cellulose fiber matrix. And here, the reduction of free TMA is a comparison with the control.

In another aspect, the disclosure provides a method of sealing a TMA molecule, comprising contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material containing a cellulose fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the cellulose fiber matrix.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure provides an absorbent article comprising an absorbent material, wherein the absorbent material comprises a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix, where the fiber matrix is a cellulose fiber. The absorbent article is a women's hygiene product or meat packaging pad, comprising fibers selected from the group consisting of fibers returning from and cellulose.

In another aspect, the present disclosure involves contacting an absorbent material placed in a container with an amount of TMA; withdrawing a portion of the gas headspace of the container; withdrawing one of the gas headspaces. A method of measuring the reduction of free TMA sealed by an absorbent material, including measuring the amount of free TMA in a portion; determining the reduction of free TMA in a gaseous headspace relative to a control. I will provide a.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure comprises preparing an absorbent material containing a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix; a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet linked to the absorbent material. To provide a method of making an absorbent article, including.

Many of the concomitant benefits of the aforementioned aspects and claimed subject matter, when considered in conjunction with the accompanying figures, are better understood by reference to the embodiments for carrying out the invention below. Therefore, it will be more easily recognized.

FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating trimethylamine (TMA) levels in the gas headspace of a container holding an absorbent material and a control according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each infiltrated with different concentrations of TMA solution.

Absorbent material configured to block trimethylamine (TMA), absorbent articles made from it, methods of related use, methods of measuring free TMA, methods of measuring the reduction of free TMA in comparison to controls. , And methods of making the associated absorbent article are described herein.

The detailed description described below is intended as a description of various embodiments of the subject matter disclosed in connection with the accompanying figures and is not intended to represent the embodiments alone. Each embodiment described in the present disclosure is provided merely as an example or an example and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The exemplary examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the claimed subject matter to the exact form disclosed.

In the following description, a number of specific details are described to provide a complete understanding of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented without some or all of the specific details. In some cases, well-known methods / processes are not described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the various aspects of the present disclosure. Moreover, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the present disclosure may use any combination of features described herein.
Absorbent Material In one aspect, the present disclosure provides an absorbent material configured to seal the TMA. As used herein, "blocking" means absorbing, adsorbing, reducing, binding, neutralizing, and / or removing TMA. In this regard, the absorbent materials described herein are configured to remove the TMA by sealing the TMA, eg, from the gas and liquid phases in contact with the absorbent material. As further discussed herein, such blockade reduces the level of free TMA in the gas and liquid phases.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material described herein comprises a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix. As further described herein, many carboxylic acids are water soluble and therefore aqueous treatments or other solution-based treatments can be applied to link the carboxylic acids to the fiber matrix. Certain conventional absorbent materials use powders of non-carboxylic acid compositions, such as activated charcoal and activated carbon, for odor control. In practice, the odor-suppressing components of these powders tend to agglomerate, are often flammable, and can become levitating, which poses a risk of contamination and inhalation.

In addition, many carboxylic acids are readily available and inexpensive, making it suitable to include them in products containing absorbent materials. Moreover, many carboxylic acids are also colorless and can therefore be included in the absorbent material, for example, without changing the color of the fiber matrix of the absorbent material. This is in contrast to certain conventional odor control components that have a dark color, such as activated charcoal and activated carbon that are used in some conventional absorbent articles to darken the color of the absorbent articles.

In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is a polycarboxylic acid. In one embodiment, the polycarboxylic acid is a partially or completely neutralized salt. Without being bound by theory, the carboxylic acid groups of carboxylic acids are believed to aid in the blockade of TMA, as further discussed herein with respect to FIG. 1 and Example 1. Thus, since polycarboxylic acids have two or more carboxylic acid groups per carboxylic acid molecule, each polycarboxylic acid molecule is configured to help block more TMA molecules than, for example, monocarboxylic acids. it is conceivable that.

In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. .. In yet another embodiment, the carboxylic acids are citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and their salts. Selected from a group of combinations. In another embodiment, the carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid salt includes a carboxylic acid salt selected from the group consisting of sodium salts, potassium salts, ammonium salts, other metal salts, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01 wt% and about 10 wt% (also referred to herein as% by weight). In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.05% by weight and about 5% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.1% by weight and about 1% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 0.01% by weight, 0.02% by weight, 0.03% by weight, 0.04% by weight, 0.05% by weight, 0.06% by weight, 0.07. It contains a carboxylic acid content of% by weight, 0.08% by weight, or 0.09% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 0.1% by weight, 0.2% by weight, 0.3% by weight, 0.4% by weight, 0.5% by weight, 0.6% by weight, 0.7. Includes carboxylic acid content of% by weight, 0.8% by weight, or 0.9% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 1% by weight, 2% by weight, 3% by weight, 4% by weight, 5% by weight, 6% by weight, 7% by weight, 8% by weight, or 9% by weight of carboxylic acid. Includes content.

Moreover, since the absorbent materials and absorbent articles described herein block TMA, components that cover the TMA malodor (eg, fragrances) are not required to reduce the TMA malodor. Thus, in one embodiment, the absorbent materials described herein do not contain fragrances. Such fragrance-free absorbent materials may be advantageous, for example, to users who are sensitive or allergic to fragrances or who prefer not to use fragrance-containing products. It should also be noted that the absorbent materials and articles described herein are capable of reacting and blocking other malodorous basic molecules.

In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises a cellulose pulp structure. In one embodiment, the cellulosic pulp structure comprises cellulose fibers, cellulose-based fibers, or a matrix of combinations thereof, and carboxylic acids linked to the fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises fluff pulp. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises southern bleached softwood kraft pulp.

In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises synthetic fibers. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises non-woven synthetic fibers. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises a mixture of synthetic and natural fibers.

As further discussed herein, the absorbent materials described herein include carboxylic acids linked to a fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is linked directly between the carboxylic acid and the fiber matrix, eg, without a binder, linker, or other intermediate composition or molecule. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix comprises a carboxylic acid covalently bonded to the fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix comprises a non-covalently bonded carboxylic acid to the fiber matrix. Such non-covalent connections can occur, for example, by hydrogen bonds, van der Waals forces, ionic bonds, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material described herein does not include a binder that is linked to the carboxylic acid and binds the carboxylic acid to the fiber matrix, eg, an organic silicone polymer binder. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that carboxylic acids, in certain embodiments, do not require a binder and are configured to be directly linked to the fiber matrix itself. For example, in some embodiments, the fiber matrix is a natural fiber containing a binder, eg, a hydroxyl group that connects to a carboxylic acid without an organic silicone polymer binder.

In this regard, the absorbent material containing the carboxylic acid directly linked to the fiber matrix and the absorbent article made from it may leak from the absorbent material or the absorbent article, eg, powder (eg, activated carbon or No pouch or other closed container is required to contain the activated carbon).

In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is applied to the fiber matrix in solid form, eg powder or granular form. In one embodiment, the solid carboxylic acid is glued to the fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the adhesive is a physical adhesive. In one embodiment, the adhesive is a chemical adhesive.

In one embodiment, the solid carboxylic acid is applied to a fiber matrix having a water content above the fiber saturation point (“FSP”), which is typically about 20% to about 25% by weight of water. Will be done. Without being bound by theory, in certain embodiments, the solid carboxylic acid is believed to dissolve at least partially and connect to the wet fiber matrix when in contact with the wet fiber matrix. Therefore, for the fiber matrix in this embodiment, a water content of about 20% to about 99.9% by weight of water is sufficient to at least partially dissolve the solid carboxylic acid.

In one embodiment, the absorbent materials described herein are free or substantially free of inorganic peroxides (in this case, "substantially free of inorganic peroxides" means. As limited by known detection methods, it will be understood to mean the amount of inorganic peroxide between 0 wt% and 1 wt%).

The TMA sequestering action can be produced by utilizing a cellulose oxide fiber that can be produced by a known method (eg, see US Pat. No. 8,007,635, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). Can also be observed.

As mentioned above, the absorbent materials of the present disclosure are configured to seal the TMA. In one embodiment, the absorbent material of the present disclosure is in equilibrium at 25 ° C. (in this case, "equilibrium" means when the TMA in the gas headspace of the test apparatus reaches steady state. ^{It should be understood), configured to seal more than about 6.15409 x 10-5} g of TMA per about 1 g of absorbent material, wherein the absorbent material is of the group provided herein. It is treated with 0.01% by weight of a carboxylic acid selected from one of them. ^{In one embodiment, the absorbent material is configured to block more than about 6.15409 × 10-5} g of TMA per about 1 g of the absorbent material in equilibrium at 25 ° C., where the absorbent material is , 0.01% by weight treated with citric acid.

As further discussed herein with respect to the methods of the present disclosure, in one embodiment, the amount of TMA sealed by the absorbent material described herein is in a closed container holding the absorbent material. Determined by measuring the amount of TMA in the gas headspace and the initial amount of TMA. In one embodiment, determining the amount of free TMA upon closure of TMA with an absorbent material is to bring a known amount of absorbent material placed in a closed container into contact with an initial known amount of TMA. And; after exposing the absorbent material to an initial amount of TMA and reaching equilibrium within the gas headspace, withdrawing a portion of the gas headspace from the closed container; withdrawing a portion of the gas headspace. Includes measuring the gas concentration of TMA in (eg, in ppm).

In one embodiment, the gas headspace has a volume of less than 1 L. In one embodiment, the gas headspace has a volume of about 0.5 L. In one embodiment, the container is a flexible container.

As further discussed herein, in one embodiment, the amount of TMA sealed by the absorbent material is as further discussed herein with respect to the control absorbent material, eg, Example 1. , Measured relative to a carboxylic acid-free control absorbent material linked to a fiber matrix, or the control sample can be performed using an absorbent material-free container (ie, an empty control). ..

In one embodiment, the absorbent material described herein is configured to block the TMA from a solution in contact with the absorbent material and from the gas phase in contact with the absorbent material. In this regard, the absorbent material is configured to eliminate or reduce the TMA malodor by sealing both the gaseous TMA and the dissolved or liquid TMA.

As further discussed herein, the absorbent materials of the present disclosure are configured to block TMA. In one embodiment, by quantifying the ability of TMA blockade, the gas concentration of free TMA in the gas headspace of the test equipment (described in detail below) is made into a control (see above for consideration of appropriate controls). The absorbent material is configured to be reduced by 50% as compared. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is configured to reduce the amount of free TMA that enters (or would otherwise enter) the gas headspace by 75% compared to controls. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is configured to reduce the amount of free TMA that enters (or would otherwise enter) the gas headspace by 85% compared to controls. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is configured to reduce the amount of free TMA that enters (or would otherwise enter) the gas headspace by 90% compared to controls. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is configured to reduce the amount of free TMA that enters (or would otherwise enter) the gas headspace by 95% compared to controls. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is configured to reduce the amount of free TMA that enters (or would otherwise enter) the gas headspace by 99% compared to controls. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is configured to reduce the amount of free TMA that enters (or would otherwise enter) the gas headspace by substantially 100% compared to controls (this). In this case, "substantially 100%" should be understood to mean an amount between 99% and 100%, as limited by the detection methods described herein).

As further discussed herein, in one embodiment, the cellulose fiber matrix of the absorbent material can reduce free TMA from the gaseous headspace by sealing the TMA. In one embodiment, the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.034% by weight, and the control contains substantially any added carboxylic acid. When the same amount of absorbent material consists of no southern bleached coniferous kraft fluff pulp, the cellulose fiber matrix of the absorbent material can reduce free TMA by at least about 95 ppm in a gas headspace of about 0.5 L. In this case, "equal amount" should be understood to mean the amount of control fluff pulp having a mass between 95% and 105% of the mass of the absorbent material, as limited by known detection methods. be.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.027% by weight, and the control contains substantially any added carboxylic acid. When the same amount of absorbent material consists of no southern bleached coniferous kraft fluff pulp, the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 99% in a gas headspace of about 0.5 L. In one embodiment, the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.05% by weight, and the control contains substantially any added carboxylic acid. When the same amount of absorbent material consists of no southern bleached coniferous kraft fluff pulp, the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 50% in a gas headspace of about 0.5 L.

As further discussed herein with respect to methods of reducing the amount of free TMA, in one embodiment, the measurement of reduction of free TMA sealed by the absorbent material of the present disclosure is an absorbent placed in a container. Bringing the material into contact with an amount of TMA; removing a portion of the gas headspace of the container; measuring the amount of free TMA in the extracted portion of the gas headspace; in the gas headspace Determining the reduction of free TMA relative to controls.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material described herein may optionally further comprise an additive selected from the group consisting of activated charcoal, activated carbon, fragrances, zeolites, and combinations thereof. While the absorbent materials of the present disclosure are configured to seal the TMA without such additives, in certain embodiments, the absorbent material non-selectively absorbs certain other malodors, for example. It also includes, but is not limited to, materials comprising activated charcoal, activated carbon, zeolites, or fragrances, which are configured to cover or supplement other TMA malodor control components of the absorbent material.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material further comprises a superabsorbent polymer to aid in the absorption of the fluid.
Absorbent Articles In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an absorbent article comprising the absorbent materials of the present disclosure. As further discussed herein, the control and prevention of odors in feminine hygiene products and meat packaging products, especially related to TMA malodor, is of concern. Since the absorbent materials of the present disclosure are configured to seal the TMA, they are particularly suitable for use in women's hygiene products and meat packaging products.

Thus, in one embodiment, the absorbent article comprises a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises a fiber selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers, cellulosic-based fibers, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the absorbent article comprises a fluid permeable top sheet. The fluid permeable topsheet includes, for example, a highly fluid permeable material configured to move the liquid from the wearer to the absorbent material. In one embodiment, the fluid permeable top sheet is a material selected from the group consisting of hydrophilic woven fabrics, hydrophilic non-woven fabrics, air-laid sheets, wet sheets, membranes with openings, open cell foam, and batting. including.

In one embodiment, the absorbent article comprises a fluid impermeable back sheet. The fluid impermeable back sheet is configured to prevent the liquid from moving from the absorbent material through the fluid impermeable sheet, for example to the wearer's clothing.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material forms at least a portion of the absorbent core of the absorbent article. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is placed between the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet. In one embodiment, the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet are suitably sealed around the absorbent material. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is placed within a fluid permeable top sheet.

In one embodiment, the absorbent article is a feminine hygiene product. As further described herein, in one embodiment, the absorbent material described herein comprises a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix. In this regard, without being bound by theory, as further discussed herein, absorbent articles containing the absorbent materials of the present disclosure have at least two TMA malodors associated with vaginal fluid. It is believed that the method reduces: (1) carboxylic acid reduces vaginal pH, thereby inhibiting the growth of anaerobic bacteria, and (2) carboxylic acid blocks the TMA molecule, thereby free TMA. To reduce.

In one embodiment, the women's hygiene product is selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipinal pads, disposable menstrual protective underwear, and tampons. In one embodiment, the women's hygiene product is selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipid pads, and disposable menstrual protective underwear. In some embodiments, the absorbent articles of the present disclosure are not in the form of tampons. Women's hygiene products can be manufactured by known methods (see, eg, US Pat. No. 9,717,817, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and the patents referred to therein). ..

In one embodiment, the feminine hygiene product is configured to be worn externally. As used herein, feminine hygiene products configured to be worn externally are configured to be worn externally to the vagina. In one embodiment, feminine hygiene products are not configured to be worn internally. As used herein, a feminine hygiene product configured to be worn internally is a feminine hygiene product configured to be at least partially worn inside the vagina.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material in a women's hygiene product comprises a fiber matrix and an absorbent material containing a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix, wherein the absorbent material is from about 0.01 wt% to about 10 wt%. Includes carboxylic acid content between%.

In one embodiment, the absorbent article is a meat packaging pad. Meat packaging pads may include those known in the art, such as known methods (eg, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,908,649 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,655,829. The whole may be manufactured by reference). As further described herein, the TMA malodor needs to emanate from meat products, such as fish products, and block TMA in meat packaging products. The absorbent materials described herein are configured to seal the TMA and are particularly suitable for use in meat packaging products. In one embodiment, the meat packaging product is a meat packaging pad. In one embodiment, the meat packaging pad is a fish packaging pad. In one embodiment, the meat packaging pad containing the absorbent material of the present disclosure is configured to absorb gravy, such as fish juice, and other liquids and block the TMA.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material in the meat packaging pad comprises a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix, where the absorbent material is between about 0.01 wt% and about 10 wt% carboxylic acid. Includes content. In one embodiment, the meat packaging pad comprises a superabsorbent polymer to aid in the absorption of fluid. In one embodiment, the superabsorbent polymer is placed within the absorbent material.
Methods of Reducing Free TMA As further described herein, for example, TMA molecules from vaginal fluid or gravy, and the resulting TMA malodor, are transmitted through the blockade of TMA with an absorbent material or article of the present disclosure. , Can be reduced. By sealing the TMA into an absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it, for example, free TMA is present at a level that cannot be smelled by the human nose, or at a significantly reduced level. The TMA malodor is reduced compared to a similar scenario in which the TMA is not blocked so that it can be smelled by the nose.

Therefore, in another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of reducing free TMA. As used herein, "free TMA" is in a gas headspace or will be equilibrated to a gas headspace, in a measurable and / or amount that can be smelled by the human nose. It means TMA. Free TMA is in contrast to TMA molecules that are blocked, for example, by absorbent materials or articles, and are therefore not available for measurement or detection by the human nose.

In one embodiment, the method of reducing the level of free TMA comprises contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material containing a cellulose fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the cellulose fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the method further comprises blocking the TMA molecule.

As further described herein, the absorbent materials of the present disclosure and the absorbent articles made from them are configured to block the TMA from either or both of the liquid and / or gas phases. Thus, in one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or article comprises contacting the TMA in a solution phase, for example, a TMA dissolved in vaginal fluid, menstrual discharge, or meat juice. In one embodiment, the TMA molecule is in a liquid. In one embodiment, the liquid TMA is a TMA molecule dissolved in a solution or suspension. In one embodiment, the liquid TMA is a pure TMA liquid. In one embodiment, contacting the TMA with the absorbent material or the absorbent article comprises contacting the menstrual fluid containing the TMA with the absorbent material or the absorbent article. In one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or an absorbent article comprises contacting a meat fluid, such as a fish fluid containing the TMA, with the absorbent material or the absorbent article.

Similarly, in one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or article comprises contacting the TMA in the gas phase with TMA volatilization from, for example, vaginal fluid, menstrual discharge, or meat juice. ..

In one embodiment, the absorbent material is any of the absorbent materials described herein. In one embodiment, the absorbent article is any of the absorbent articles described herein. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix is a cellulose fiber matrix (see below).

In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. .. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid consists of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. Selected from the group. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.05% by weight and about 5% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.1% by weight and about 1% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 0.01% by weight, 0.02% by weight, 0.03% by weight, 0.04% by weight, 0.05% by weight, 0.06% by weight, 0.07. It contains a carboxylic acid content of% by weight, 0.08% by weight, or 0.09% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 0.1% by weight, 0.2% by weight, 0.3% by weight, 0.4% by weight, 0.5% by weight, 0.6% by weight, 0.7. Includes carboxylic acid content of% by weight, 0.8% by weight, or 0.9% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 1% by weight, 2% by weight, 3% by weight, 4% by weight, 5% by weight, 6% by weight, 7% by weight, 8% by weight, or 9% by weight of carboxylic acid. Includes content.

In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises a cellulose pulp structure. In one embodiment, the cellulosic pulp structure comprises cellulose fibers, cellulose-based fibers, or a matrix of combinations thereof, and carboxylic acids linked to the fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises fluff pulp. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises southern bleached softwood kraft pulp.

In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises synthetic fibers. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises non-woven synthetic fibers. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix comprises a mixture of synthetic and natural fibers.

In one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it can be used to exit or re-enter the absorbent material or the absorbent article as a gaseous compound. Reduce at least 50% of free TMA. In one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it can be used to exit or re-enter the absorbent material or the absorbent article as a gaseous compound. Reduce at least 75% of free TMA. In one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it is at least a free TMA available to exit or re-enter the absorbent material or the absorbent article. Reduce by 85%. In one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it is at least a free TMA available to exit or re-enter the absorbent material or the absorbent article. Reduce 95%. In one embodiment, contacting the TMA with an absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it is at least a free TMA available to exit or re-enter the absorbent material or the absorbent article. Reduce 99%.
Methods of Measuring Free TMA Reduction In another aspect, the present disclosure is a method of measuring free TMA reduction sealed by an absorbent material, eg, an absorbent material of the present disclosure or an absorbent article made from it. I will provide a. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is placed in a closed container and comes into contact with an amount of TMA. After the absorbent material has the opportunity to block at least a portion of the amount of TMA, for example, after the amount of TMA reaches equilibrium between the gas headspace of the closed container and the absorbent material, from the closed container Part of the gas headspace is removed. In one embodiment, the amount of TMA can be contacted with the absorbent material for a sufficient amount of time to reach equilibrium before a portion of the gas headspace is withdrawn from the closed container, thereby initial. It also provides sufficient time for at least a portion of the amount of TMA to be sealed within the absorbent material. One of ordinary skill in the art will readily know how to create an equilibrium curve or other suitable method for monitoring and confirming equilibrium.

In one embodiment, the closed container is a flexible container configured to collapse at least partially as part of the gas headspace is withdrawn. In this respect, it is easier for the user to remove a portion of the gas headspace from the closed container.

The extracted portion of the gas headspace is analyzed to determine the gas concentration of free TMA present in the headspace. In one embodiment, measuring the amount of free TMA in the extracted portion is on a stationary phase loaded with a colorimetric analysis marker that changes the color of the extracted portion of the gas headspace upon contact with the TMA. And measuring the amount of discoloration in the stationary phase in response to passing a stripped portion of the gas headspace over the stationary phase. In one embodiment, analyzing a stripped portion of the gas headspace to measure the gas concentration of free TMA uses a colorimetric gas detector tube, eg, a Sensidyne® gas detector tube system. Including doing. While colorimetric detection methods have been described, it has been understood that other methods of TMA detection, such as, but not limited to, gas chromatography can be used consistently with the methods of the present disclosure. Will be.

The reduction in free TMA is measured compared to controls. In one embodiment, the control is an empty control, wherein the empty control comprises a control that does not involve contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material. In one embodiment, the control is a control of an absorbent material, wherein the control of the absorbent material is an absorbent material that is substantially free or free of the added carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix. Yes (in this case, "substantially free of added carboxylic acid" or "substantially free of added carboxylic acid" means 0 wt% as free of added carboxylic acid or limited by known detection methods. It should be understood to mean the amount of added carboxylic acid between ~ 1 wt%). As used herein, the "added carboxylic acid" is added to the absorbent material during processing or manufacture, in addition to any of the carboxylic acids present in the untreated absorbent material, or otherwise linked. It should be understood to mean the amount of carboxylic acid produced. In one embodiment, the control absorbent material comprises fluff pulp, eg, southern bleached softwood kraft pulp that has not been treated with carboxylic acid or otherwise linked to carboxylic acid. In this regard, the user can determine the amount of TMA reduction by the carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix of the absorbent material described herein as compared to the control selected.

In one embodiment, the amount of TMA that is unobstructed by the absorbent material and equilibrated in the gas headspace (TMA _g ) is the amount of unencapsulated TMA in the control experiment that is equilibrated in the control gas headspace (TMA _c ). Compare with. The reduction in gas concentration of free TMA measured in the headspace above the absorbent material can be expressed as _{a percentage reduction in free TMA (% TMA red) as compared to that of the control.} This percentage reduction can be calculated using the following formula.

Fluids containing TMA, such as those used to penetrate absorbent materials or articles, that are present on one side or other part of the closed container can distort the results of TMA reduction. Should be noted. Such TMA-containing fluids that do not come into contact with absorbent materials or articles can result in increased volatilization of TMA from the TMA-containing solution into the gas headspace of a closed container. This increased TMA volatilization results in a higher relative gaseous TMA concentration than if the TMA-containing solution penetrated directly onto the absorbent material or the absorbent article, and the absorbent material or the absorbent article would block the TMA. May inaccurately indicate ability (or lack thereof).
Methods of Sealing TMA As further described herein, absorbent materials and absorbent articles made from them can seal TMA. Therefore, in another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of blocking the TMA molecule. In one embodiment, the method of sealing the TMA comprises contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material containing a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix, or an absorbent article made from it. In one embodiment, the method further comprises sealing the TMA molecules in the absorbent material or the absorbent article made from it.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material is any of the absorbent materials described herein. In one embodiment, the absorbent article is any of the absorbent articles described herein. In one embodiment, the fiber matrix is a cellulose fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the cellulose fiber matrix comprises a cellulose pulp structure. In one embodiment, the cellulosic fiber matrix comprises fibers selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers and cellulosic-based fibers. In one embodiment, the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. .. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid consists of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. Selected from the group. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.05% by weight and about 5% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.1% by weight and about 1% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 0.01% by weight, 0.02% by weight, 0.03% by weight, 0.04% by weight, 0.05% by weight, 0.06% by weight, 0.07. It contains a carboxylic acid content of% by weight, 0.08% by weight, or 0.09% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 0.1% by weight, 0.2% by weight, 0.3% by weight, 0.4% by weight, 0.5% by weight, 0.6% by weight, 0.7. Includes carboxylic acid content of% by weight, 0.8% by weight, or 0.9% by weight. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is about 1% by weight, 2% by weight, 3% by weight, 4% by weight, 5% by weight, 6% by weight, 7% by weight, 8% by weight, or 9% by weight of carboxylic acid. Includes content.

In one embodiment, contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material or an absorbent article comprises contacting a liquid, eg, a menstrual fluid containing TMA, with the absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it. .. In one embodiment, contacting the TMA molecule with the absorbent material comprises contacting the meat fluid containing the TMA molecule with the absorbent material or an absorbent article made from it. In one embodiment, the TMA molecule is in the gas phase and is in contact with an absorbent material or article.

In one embodiment, when the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid, the fiber matrix of the absorbent material of the present disclosure and the absorbent article made from it will be about 0.5 L gas head in equilibrium. TMA molecules can be sealed such that the space contains less than about 1 ppm, 2 ppm, 3 ppm, 4 ppm, 5 ppm, 10 ppm, 20 ppm, 30 ppm, 40 ppm, or 50 ppm of free TMA. In one embodiment, if the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution between about 0.0005% by weight and about 0.034% by weight, the present invention. The fiber matrix of the disclosed absorbent material and the absorbent article made from it seals the TMA molecule such that about 0.5 L of gas headspace in equilibrium contains less than about 50 ppm of free TMA in equilibrium. can do. In one embodiment, the absorbent material comprises 0.01% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are approximately 0.0005% by weight, 0.001% by weight, 0.005% by weight, 0.01% by weight, When introduced into a solution of 0.015% by weight, 0.02% by weight, 0.025% by weight, 0.027% by weight, 0.03% by weight, 0.034% by weight, or 0.035% by weight. The fiber matrix of the absorbent materials of the present disclosure and the absorbent articles made from them, in equilibrium, seal the TMA molecules such that about 0.5 L of gas headspace contains less than about 50 ppm of free TMA. Can be done. In one embodiment, if the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.034% by weight, the cellulose fiber matrix will be about 0 in equilibrium. The TMA molecule can be sealed so that the .5 L gas headspace contains less than about 10 ppm of free TMA. In one embodiment, if the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.027% by weight, the cellulose fiber matrix will be about 0 in equilibrium. The TMA molecule can be sealed so that the .5 L gas headspace contains less than about 5 ppm of free TMA.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.034% by weight, and the control contains substantially any added carboxylic acid. When the same amount of absorbent material consists of no southern bleached coniferous kraft fluff pulp, the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 95 ppm in a gas headspace of about 0.5 L.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.027% by weight, and the control contains substantially any added carboxylic acid. When the same amount of absorbent material consists of no southern bleached coniferous kraft fluff pulp, the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 99% in a gas headspace of about 0.5 L. In one embodiment, the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.05% by weight, and the control contains substantially any added carboxylic acid. When the same amount of absorbent material consists of no southern bleached coniferous kraft fluff pulp, the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 50% in a gas headspace of about 0.5 L.

In one embodiment, the determination of the amount of free TMA after the TMA is sealed with the absorbent material described herein is to contact the absorbent material placed in the container with the initial amount of TMA in solution. Includes: withdrawing a portion of the gas headspace of the container; measuring the amount of free TMA in the extracted portion of the gas headspace, for example in ppm units. The measurement can be carried out by any suitable method including the solid phase colorimetric gas detector tube described herein, gas chromatography and the like. Without being bound by theory, the TMA in solution in contact with the absorbent material reacts with the carboxylic acid to ^{reduce the RCOO −} N ⁺ (Me) ₃ salt, thus producing a TMA that can be used for volatilization. It is believed that the reduction seals the TMA and equilibrates it into the gas headspace of the laboratory vessel device, thereby removing the TMA malodor.
Methods of Making Absorbent Articles As further described herein, the absorbent materials of the present disclosure and the absorbent articles made from them are absorbent articles, eg, due to their ability to block TMA. Suitable as, for example, an absorbent core or other absorbent portion of a women's hygiene product. Thus, in another aspect, the disclosure provides a method of making an absorbent article comprising the absorbent materials of the present disclosure, such as feminine hygiene products and meat packaging pads. In one embodiment, the method involves preparing an absorbent material containing a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix; connecting a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet to the absorbent material. Including that. In one embodiment, preparing an absorbent material comprises forming a cellulose pulp structure from a cellulose pulp slurry and by forming a matrix of cellulose fibers from the cellulose pulp sheet. In one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is added by applying an aqueous form of acid to the pulp sheet. As further described herein, in one embodiment, the carboxylic acid is added in solid form, eg, with a binder or adhesive.

In one embodiment, the absorbent material is any of the absorbent materials described herein, including a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix. In one embodiment, the fluid permeable top sheet is any of the fluid permeable top sheets described herein. In one embodiment, the fluid impermeable back sheet is any of the fluid impermeable back sheets described herein.

In one embodiment, the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet are absorptive by a ligation method selected from the group consisting of sewing, adhesive ligation, heat sealing, ultrasonic welding, and combinations thereof. Connected to the material.

In one embodiment, the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet are coupled around the absorbent material, and the absorbent material is placed between the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet. NS. In this regard, the absorbent material forms at least a portion of the absorbent core of the absorbent article. In one embodiment, the absorbent material is placed within a fluid permeable top sheet.

In one embodiment, the women's hygiene product is selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipinal pads, disposable menstrual protective underwear, and tampons. In one embodiment, the women's hygiene product is selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipid pads, and disposable menstrual protective underwear. In some embodiments, the absorbent articles of the present disclosure are not in the form of tampons. Women's hygiene products can be manufactured by known methods (see, eg, US Pat. No. 9,717,817, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

In one embodiment, the feminine hygiene product is configured to be worn externally. In one embodiment, feminine hygiene products are not configured to be worn internally.
In one embodiment, the absorbent article is a meat packaging pad. In one embodiment, the meat packaging pad is a fish packaging pad. Meat packaging pads may include those known in the art and may be manufactured by known methods (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,908,649 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,655,829. All of them are incorporated herein by reference).

Example 1: Closure of TMA using fluff pulp treated with citric acid Fluff pulp treated with citrate (0.45 wt%) and untreated fluff pulp are decomposed into fibers, formed into pads, and sealed container. And invaded with TMA solution. The untreated fluff pulp is from the same grinder as the fluff pulp treated with citric acid, but does not include buffering treatment.

The fluff pulp sheet was broken down into fibers and then fluff pulp was formed into pads with an average weight of 0.94 ± 0.02 g and a diameter of 5.08 cm (2 inches). These pads were compressed with a press at a pressure of 13.79 MPa (2000 psi).

Test vessels were assembled from 500 mL water bottles and the water bottles were selected for their compressibility. A 16-gauge needle was passed through the plastic lid of the water bottle, glued in place, and sealed with silicone caulking. A rubber tube was placed around the needle handle (hilt) to allow an airtight seal between the handle and the measuring device.

A compressed fluff sphere was introduced into a test vessel, infiltrated with 15 g of solution, sealed, and then after 2 hours the above headspace was tested for TMA. TMA solutions were tested at four concentrations: 0.0005% by weight, 0.027% by weight, 0.034% by weight, and 0.05% by weight. Normal vaginal fluid that is not associated with bacterial vaginosis has a TMA level of 0.0005% by weight, according to literature values.

Concentrations of TMA in the headspace of the vessel were tested on both control and test pulp 2 hours after invasion. A 105SE model Sensidyne® tube was used. These tubes are labeled for use with ammonia, but can also be used with TMA. The actual TMA concentration is found by multiplying the Sensidyne® reading by a conversion factor of 0.5.

A total of 25 samples: 11 untreated control fluff pulp samples and 14 citrate-treated test fluff pulp samples were tested. At least 2 samples per concentration were averaged. If the first two results fluctuated, three or more samples per concentration were tested. Prior to measuring TMA in the gas headspace of the vessel, 25 samples were allowed to interact with TMA invasion at 25 ° C. for approximately 2 hours to ensure equilibration.

TMA concentrations in the headspace above the pads were compared for test fluff pulp treated with citrate and untreated control fluff pulp. As summarized in Table 2 and FIG. 1, fluff pulp treated with citric acid has been found to reduce TMA headspace concentrations in varying amounts. As shown, the citrate-treated fluff was found to eliminate TMA volatility at a literature concentration of 0.0005% by weight in healthy vaginal fluid and 0.027% by weight, which is 60 times this concentration. It was issued. At 0.034% by weight, which is 70 times the literature value, the citric acid-treated fluff was found to reduce the volatilization of odorous substances into the headspace by an average of 95%. The ability of the citrate-treated fluff to steadily inhibit TMA volatilization into the headspace was not overwhelming up to 0.05% by weight, which is 100 times the TMA concentration found in healthy vaginal fluid. Even at this concentration, the citrate-treated fluff had an average of 71.1% less headspace odorant level than the untreated fluff.

For the 0.027% TMA solution, the average concentration of TMA in the headspace relative to the citrate-treated fluff pad was 0.33 ppm. The untreated pulp had an average concentration of TMA in headspace of 72 ppm. The citrate-treated fluff reduced TMA in headspace by 99.5%.

At 0.034% TMA solution, the citrate-treated fluff had an average concentration of TMA at 5 ppm headspace on reading, and the untreated pulp had an average TMA level of 100 ppm at gas headspace. Note that the detection limit for Sensidyne® tubes is 100 ppm. Therefore, the actual average TMA level in the gas headspace may have been higher than 100 ppm. The citrate-treated fluff reduced TMA by at least 95% on headspace readings.

At 0.05% solution, the citrate-treated fluff had an average concentration of TMA with a reading of 26.8 ppm headspace. However, the readings of the citric acid-treated fluff were in the range of 10-51 ppm at this concentration. In contrast, the maximum variation between all two sample points at other concentrations was 7 ppm (between 68 ppm and 75 ppm relative to untreated pulp at 0.03%).

The TMA concentration in the headspace on the untreated fluff exceeded the maximum reading of the sensor for two of the three readings adopted. Since it is not possible to know the exact concentration, these data were reported as 100 ppm sensor readings. How quickly the sensor reaches its maximum, how far the colorimetric readings stop past the maximum, and the stench encountered by the tester (although at low concentrations of TMA it has the stench of fish meat, It may be estimated how much the actual concentration is above the maximum reading (which has an ammonia-like odor at high concentrations), but this is just an estimate. These observations were recorded in the test record.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, for example, "above", "below", "vertical", "horizontal", "inside", "outside", "inside", "outside", "front" It should be noted that terms such as "part" and "rear" are descriptive and should be construed as not limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. In addition, the use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents and additional items. Is. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "connected," "connected," and "attached" and variations thereof herein are widely used, with direct and indirect connections, connections, and attachments. Including. The term "about" means plus or minus 5% of the stated value.

The principles, representative embodiments, and operating modes of the present disclosure are described in the previous description. However, the aspects of the present disclosure intended to be protected should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Moreover, the embodiments described herein should be considered exemplary rather than limiting. It will be appreciated that modifications and changes may be made by others without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure and that equivalents are used. Accordingly, all such modifications, variations, and equivalents are expressly intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the claims set forth in the claims.

Embodiments of the invention claiming exclusive properties or privileges are defined as follows.

[Aspects of the Invention]
[1]
A method of reducing free trimethylamine (“TMA”), which comprises contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material containing a cellulose fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the cellulose fiber matrix, the reduction of free TMA being controlled. How to compare with.
[2]
The method according to 1, wherein the TMA molecule is in a liquid.
[3]
2. The method according to 2, wherein the TMA molecule is in the menstrual fluid.
[4]
2. The method according to 2, wherein the TMA molecule is in the meat fluid.
[5]
The method according to 1, wherein the TMA molecule is in a gas.
[6]
The method according to 1, wherein the control is an empty control.
[7]
The method according to 1, wherein the control is a control of an absorbent material.
[8]
The method according to 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix comprises a cellulose pulp structure.
[9]
The method according to 1, wherein the cellulosic fiber matrix comprises fibers selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers and cellulosic-based fibers.
[10]
9. The method according to 9, wherein the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof.
[11]
1. The carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. Method.
[12]
Carboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. The method according to 1.
[13]
The method according to 1, wherein the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof.
[14]
The method according to any one of 1 to 13, wherein the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight.
[15]
Southern bleached softwood craft in which the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.034% by weight, and the control is substantially free of any added carboxylic acid. The method according to 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 95 ppm in a headspace of about 0.5 L when the same amount of absorbent material consists of fluff pulp.
[16]
Reduction of free TMA,
Bringing the absorbent material placed in the container into contact with an amount of TMA;
Extract a portion of the gas headspace of the container;
15. The amount of free TMA in a extracted portion of the gas headspace; and measured by a process involving determining the reduction of free TMA in the gas headspace relative to a control, according to 15. Method.
[17]
Southern bleached softwood craft in which the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.027% by weight, and the control is substantially free of any added carboxylic acid. The method according to 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 99% in a headspace of about 0.5 L when the same amount of absorbent material consists of fluff pulp.
[18]
Southern bleached softwood craft in which the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.05% by weight, and the control is substantially free of any added carboxylic acid. The method according to 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 50% in a headspace of about 0.5 L when the same amount of absorbent material consists of fluff pulp.
[19]
Reduction of free TMA,
Bringing the absorbent material placed in the container into contact with an amount of TMA;
Extract a portion of the gas headspace of the container;
To 17 or 18, measured by a process involving determining the amount of free TMA in a extracted portion of the gas headspace; and determining the reduction of free TMA in the gas headspace compared to a control. The method described.
[20]
A method of sealing a TMA molecule, comprising contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material containing a cellulose fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the cellulose fiber matrix.
[21]
The method according to 20, wherein the TMA molecule is in a liquid.
[22]
21. The method according to 21, wherein the TMA molecule is in the menstrual fluid.
[23]
21. The method according to 21, wherein the TMA molecule is in the meat fluid.
[24]
The method according to 20, wherein the TMA molecule is in a gas.
[25]
The method according to 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix comprises a cellulose pulp structure.
[26]
The method according to 20, wherein the cellulosic fiber matrix comprises fibers selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers and cellulosic-based fibers.
[27]
26. The method of 26, wherein the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof.
[28]
20. The carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. Method.
[29]
Carboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. , 20.
[30]
The method according to 20, wherein the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof.
[31]
The method according to any one of 20 to 30, wherein the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight.
[32]
When the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.05% by weight, the headspace of about 0.5 L in equilibrium is less than about 50 ppm. The method according to 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can block the TMA molecule so as to contain the free TMA of.
[33]
When the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.034% by weight, the headspace of about 0.5 L in equilibrium is less than about 10 ppm. The method according to 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can block the TMA molecule so as to contain the free TMA of.
[34]
When the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.027% by weight, the headspace of about 0.5 L in equilibrium is less than about 5 ppm. The method according to 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can block the TMA molecule so as to contain the free TMA of.
[35]
The amount of free TMA,
Contacting the absorbent material placed in the container with an amount of TMA in solution;
32 to 34, wherein a portion of the gas headspace of the container is removed; and measured by a process comprising measuring the amount of free TMA in the extracted portion of the gas headspace. Method.
[36]
An absorbent article comprising an absorbent material, the absorbent material containing a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix, the fiber matrix containing fibers selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers and cellulose-based fibers. And the absorbent article is a women's hygiene article or meat packaging pad, an absorbent article.
[37]
36. The absorbent article according to 36, wherein the absorbent material does not contain an organic silicone polymer binder linked to a carboxylic acid, and the absorbent material does not contain an inorganic peroxide.
[38]
36. The absorbent article according to 36, wherein the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof.
[39]
36. The absorbent article of 36, further comprising a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet, wherein the absorbent material is disposed between the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet.
[40]
36. The absorbent article of 36, further comprising a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet, wherein the absorbent material is placed within the fluid permeable top sheet.
[41]
The absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 40, wherein the absorbent material forms at least a part of the absorbent core of the absorbent article.
[42]
The absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 41, further comprising a superabsorbent polymer.
[43]
The absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 42, wherein the carboxylic acid is a polycarboxylic acid.
[44]
43. The absorbent article of 43, wherein the polycarboxylic acid is a partially or completely neutralized salt.
[45]
Carboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof, 36-42. The absorbent article according to any one item.
[46]
Carboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. , 36-42.
[47]
The absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 42, wherein the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof.
[48]
The absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 47, wherein the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight.
[49]
Absorbent articles are women's hygiene products, and women's hygiene products are selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipid pads, tampons, and disposable menstrual protective underwear. The absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 48.
[50]
49. Women's hygiene products, wherein the women's hygiene products are configured to be worn externally.
[51]
49. Feminine hygiene products, wherein the women's hygiene products are not configured to be worn internally.
[52]
The absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 48, wherein the absorbent article is a meat packaging pad and the meat packaging pad is a fish meat packaging pad.
[53]
A method of measuring the reduction of free TMA blocked by an absorbent material.
Contacting the absorbent material placed in the container with any amount of TMA;
Extract a portion of the gas headspace of the container;
A method comprising measuring the amount of free TMA in a extracted portion of a gas headspace; and determining the reduction of free TMA in a gas headspace relative to a control.
[54]
53. The method of 53, wherein the absorbent material comprises a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix.
[55]
53. The method of 53, wherein a portion of the headspace is withdrawn after the free TMA reaches equilibrium.
[56]
53. The method of 53, wherein the control is an empty control.
[57]
53. The method of 53, wherein the control is a control of an absorbent material.
[58]
Measuring the amount of free TMA in the extracted portion of the gas headspace can be
A stripped portion of the gas headspace is passed over a stationary phase loaded with a colorimetric marker that changes color upon contact with the TMA; and a stripped portion of the gas headspace is passed over the stationary phase. 53. The method of 53, comprising measuring the amount of discoloration in the stationary phase as it passes.
[59]
A method of making absorbable articles
A method comprising linking a fiber matrix and an absorbent material containing a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix; and connecting a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet to the absorbent material.
[60]
59. The method of 59, wherein the absorbent material is placed between the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet.
[61]
59. The method of 59, wherein the absorbent material is placed within a fluid permeable top sheet.
[62]
59. The method of 59, wherein the absorbent article is a feminine hygiene product.
[63]
62. The method of 62, wherein the women's hygiene product is selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipid pads, and disposable menstrual protective underwear.
[64]
62 or 63, wherein the feminine hygiene product is configured to be worn externally.
[65]
The method of any one of 62-64, wherein the feminine hygiene product is not configured to be worn internally.
[66]
59. The method of 59, wherein the absorbent article is a meat packaging pad.
[67]
59. The method of 59, wherein the absorbent article is the absorbent article according to any one of 36 to 52.

Embodiments of the invention claiming exclusive properties or privileges are defined as follows.

Claims (67)

A method of reducing free trimethylamine (“TMA”), which comprises contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material containing a cellulose fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the cellulose fiber matrix, the reduction of free TMA being controlled. How to compare with. The method of claim 1, wherein the TMA molecule is in a liquid. The method of claim 2, wherein the TMA molecule is in the menstrual fluid. The method of claim 2, wherein the TMA molecule is in the meat fluid. The method of claim 1, wherein the TMA molecule is in a gas. The method of claim 1, wherein the control is an empty control. The method of claim 1, wherein the control is a control of an absorbent material. The method of claim 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix comprises a cellulose pulp structure. The method of claim 1, wherein the cellulosic fiber matrix comprises fibers selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers and cellulose-based fibers. The method of claim 9, wherein the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof. The carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof, according to claim 1. The method described. Carboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. , The method according to claim 1. The method of claim 1, wherein the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight. Southern bleached softwood craft in which the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.034% by weight, and the control is substantially free of any added carboxylic acid. The method of claim 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 95 ppm in a headspace of about 0.5 L when the same amount of absorbent material consists of fluff pulp. Reduction of free TMA,
Bringing the absorbent material placed in the container into contact with an amount of TMA;
Extract a portion of the gas headspace of the container;
15. A measure of 15 is measured by a process comprising measuring the amount of free TMA in a extracted portion of the gas headspace; and determining the reduction of free TMA in the gas headspace relative to a control. The method described. Southern bleached softwood craft in which the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.027% by weight, and the control is substantially free of any added carboxylic acid. The method of claim 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 99% in a headspace of about 0.5 L when the same amount of absorbent material consists of fluff pulp. Southern bleached softwood craft in which the absorbent material contains 0.01% by weight citric acid, TMA is introduced into a solution of about 0.05% by weight, and the control is substantially free of any added carboxylic acid. The method of claim 1, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can reduce free TMA by at least about 50% in a headspace of about 0.5 L when the same amount of absorbent material consists of fluff pulp. Reduction of free TMA,
Bringing the absorbent material placed in the container into contact with an amount of TMA;
Extract a portion of the gas headspace of the container;
17 or 24, which is measured by a process comprising measuring the amount of free TMA in a extracted portion of the gas headspace; and determining the reduction of free TMA in the gas headspace relative to a control. 18. The method according to 18. A method of sealing a TMA molecule, comprising contacting the TMA molecule with an absorbent material containing a cellulose fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the cellulose fiber matrix. The method of claim 20, wherein the TMA molecule is in a liquid. 21. The method of claim 21, wherein the TMA molecule is in the menstrual fluid. 21. The method of claim 21, wherein the TMA molecule is in the meat fluid. The method of claim 20, wherein the TMA molecule is in a gas. The method of claim 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix comprises a cellulose pulp structure. The method of claim 20, wherein the cellulosic fiber matrix comprises fibers selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers and cellulose-based fibers. 26. The method of claim 26, wherein the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof. 20. The carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. The method described. Carboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. , The method according to claim 20. The method of claim 20, wherein the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof. The method of any one of claims 20-30, wherein the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight. When the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.05% by weight, the headspace of about 0.5 L in equilibrium is less than about 50 ppm. 20. The method of claim 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can block the TMA molecule so as to contain the free TMA of. When the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.034% by weight, the headspace of about 0.5 L in equilibrium is less than about 10 ppm. 20. The method of claim 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can block the TMA molecule so as to contain the free TMA of. When the absorbent material contains 0.45% by weight citric acid and the TMA molecules are introduced into a solution of about 0.027% by weight, the headspace of about 0.5 L in equilibrium is less than about 5 ppm. 20. The method of claim 20, wherein the cellulose fiber matrix can block the TMA molecule so as to contain the free TMA of. The amount of free TMA,
Contacting the absorbent material placed in the container with an amount of TMA in solution;
13. The method described. An absorbent article comprising an absorbent material, the absorbent material containing a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix, the fiber matrix containing fibers selected from the group consisting of cellulosic fibers and cellulose-based fibers. And the absorbent article is a women's hygiene article or meat packaging pad, an absorbent article. The absorbent article according to claim 36, wherein the absorbent material does not contain an organic silicone polymer binder linked to a carboxylic acid, and the absorbent material does not contain an inorganic peroxide. 36. The absorbent article of claim 36, wherein the cellulose-based fibers are selected from the group consisting of viscose fibers, modal fibers, lyocell fibers, and combinations thereof. 36. The absorbent article of claim 36, further comprising a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet, wherein the absorbent material is disposed between the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet. 36. The absorbent article of claim 36, further comprising a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet, wherein the absorbent material is disposed within the fluid permeable top sheet. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein the absorbent material forms at least a part of the absorbent core of the absorbent article. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 41, further comprising a superabsorbent polymer. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 42, wherein the carboxylic acid is a polycarboxylic acid. The absorbent article of claim 43, wherein the polycarboxylic acid is a partially or completely neutralized salt. From claim 36, the carboxylic acid is selected from the group consisting of malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. The absorbent article according to any one of 42. Carboxylic acids are selected from the group consisting of citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid, formic acid, pyruvate, propionic acid, butyric acid, isobutyric acid, glycolic acid, salts thereof, and combinations thereof. , The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 42. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 42, wherein the carboxylic acid is citric acid or a salt thereof. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 47, wherein the absorbent material comprises a carboxylic acid content between about 0.01% by weight and about 10% by weight. Absorbent articles are women's hygiene products, and women's hygiene products are selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipid pads, tampons, and disposable menstrual protective underwear. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 48. The women's hygiene product according to claim 49, wherein the women's hygiene product is configured to be worn externally. The women's hygiene product of claim 49, wherein the women's hygiene product is not configured to be worn internally. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 36 to 48, wherein the absorbent article is a meat packaging pad and the meat packaging pad is a fish meat packaging pad. A method of measuring the reduction of free TMA blocked by an absorbent material.
Contacting the absorbent material placed in the container with any amount of TMA;
Extract a portion of the gas headspace of the container;
A method comprising measuring the amount of free TMA in a extracted portion of a gas headspace; and determining the reduction of free TMA in a gas headspace relative to a control. 53. The method of claim 53, wherein the absorbent material comprises a fiber matrix and a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix. 53. The method of claim 53, wherein a portion of the headspace is withdrawn after the free TMA reaches equilibrium. 53. The method of claim 53, wherein the control is an empty control. 53. The method of claim 53, wherein the control is a control of an absorbent material. Measuring the amount of free TMA in the extracted portion of the gas headspace can be
A stripped portion of the gas headspace is passed over a stationary phase loaded with a colorimetric marker that changes color upon contact with the TMA; and a stripped portion of the gas headspace is passed over the stationary phase. 53. The method of claim 53, comprising measuring the amount of discoloration in the stationary phase as it passes. A method of making absorbable articles
A method comprising linking a fiber matrix and an absorbent material containing a carboxylic acid linked to the fiber matrix; and connecting a fluid permeable top sheet and a fluid impermeable back sheet to the absorbent material. 59. The method of claim 59, wherein the absorbent material is placed between the fluid permeable top sheet and the fluid impermeable back sheet. 59. The method of claim 59, wherein the absorbent material is placed within a fluid permeable top sheet. The method of claim 59, wherein the absorbent article is a feminine hygiene product. 62. The method of claim 62, wherein the women's hygiene product is selected from the group consisting of panty liners, sanitary napkins, postpartum absorbent pads, light incontinence pads, interlipid pads, and disposable menstrual protective underwear. 62 or 63, wherein the feminine hygiene product is configured to be worn externally. The method of any one of claims 62-64, wherein the feminine hygiene product is not configured to be worn internally. 59. The method of claim 59, wherein the absorbent article is a meat packaging pad. 59. The method of claim 59, wherein the absorbent article is the absorbent article of any one of claims 36-52.

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