MXPA01001078A - Absorbent article which has a high air exchange rate and maintains skin temperature when wet - Google Patents

Abstract

An absorbent article includes a vapor permeable backsheet, a liquid permeable topsheet positioned in facing relation with the backsheet;and an absorbent body located between the backsheet and the topsheet. The absorbent body may include multiple zones of high air permeability. The absorbent article may also include a ventilation layer between the absorbent body and the backsheet and a surge management layer between the absorbent body and the topsheet. The article exhibits improved air exchange within the article during use. As a result, the article maintains the temperature and exhibits substantially reduced levels of hydration of the wearer's skin when in use which renders the skin less susceptible to the viability of microorganisms.

Description

p.

ABSORBENT ARTICLE HAVING A HIGH AIR EXCHANGE RATE THAT MAINTAINS THE TEMPERATURE OF THE SKIN WHEN IT WAS MOIST Background of the Invention inside the diaper when worn which results in level: hydration of the skin relatively high. Interior diapers with moisture environment and occlusives incorporating such lower sheets can promote the growth of microorganisms including Candida albicans, which can undesirably lead to the onset of diaper rash (diaper rash).

Diaper rash can afflict almost every infant at some point during the years of diaper use. The most severe form of this condition is usually caused by secondary infection with the fungus Candida albicans. Although other factors may influence the pathogenesis of these fungi, a critical factor is the relative humidity within the diaper which is directly related to the occlusion or semi-occlusion of the diaper area.

In order to reduce the level of moisture within the diapers, breathable polymer films have been used as outer covers for absorbent garments, such as disposable diapers. Breathable films are typically constructed with micropores to provide desired levels of liquid impermeability and air permeability. Other disposable diaper designs have been arranged to provide regions with capacity in the form of panels capable of breathing or ? Perforated regions in lower sheets of another ma was vapor impermeable to help ventilate the garment.

Conventional absorbent articles, such as those described above, have not been completely satisfactory. For example, articles which employ perforated films or breathable panels may exhibit excessive drainage of liquids from the article and may excessively soil the outer clothing of the article. user in the regions of the perforations or panels. In addition, when the absorbent material of the article is charged with the liquid, the wet absorbent can block the leakage of moisture from the wearer's skin. Such absorbent garment designs have not been able to maintain a high level of ability to breathe when wetted to sufficiently reduce the hydration of the user's skin. As a result of this, the user's skin has remained susceptible to rash, abrasion and irritation.

Synthesis of the Invention In response to the difficulties and problems discussed above, a new and disposable absorbent article which has an air exchange rate has been discovered. when moisturized, at reduced levels of skin hydration and reduced growth of microorganisms.

As used herein, the reference to "air exchange" refers to the transfer of air from the interior of a diaper, when in use over a wearer, to the diaper exterior (ambient atmosphere).

As used herein, an essential liquid impervious material is constructed to provide a hydro head of at least about 60 cm / centimeter desirably of at least about 80 centimeter. more desirably of at least about 10 centimeters. A suitable technique for determining the hydro head value is the Hydrostatic Pressure Test which is described in more detail below.

As used herein, an essentially vapor permeable material is constructed to provide a rate of water vapor transmission (WVTR) of at least about 100 g / square meter / 24 hours, desirably at least around of 250 g / square meter / 24 hours, and more desirably of at least about 500 g / square meter / 24 hours. A suitable technique for determining the water vapor transmission rate is the Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test which is described in detail in May below. 25 In one aspect, the present invention relates to an absorbent article which comprises an absorbent, a front waist section, a rear waist section, and an intermediate section which interconnects the front and rear waist sections. The absorbent article defines a Humidity Exchange Rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to the Gas Tracker Test as set forth herein. In a particular embodiment, the article defines a Wet Air Exchange Rate of at least about 200, desirably of at least about 225 and more desirably of at least about 250 cubic centimeters per minute calculated from according to the Gas Tracker Test. The absorbent article can further define a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to the Tracer Gas Test and / or a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test as established here.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a disposable absorbent article which comprises an absorbent, a front waist section, a rear waist section and an intermediate section which interconnects the front and back waist sections. Absorbent article m * 6 defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test set forth herein. In a particular embodiment, the absorbent article can define a skin hydration value of less than about 15, desirably less than about 12 and more desirably less than about 10 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test. The absorbent article can also define an Exchange Rate of Humid Air of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute and / or Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to the Gas Starter Test as established here . In another aspect, the present invention relates to a disposable absorbent article which defines a front waist section, a rear waist section and an intermediate section which interconnects the front waist sections and later. The absorbent article includes a) a lower vapor permeable sheet which defines a Water Vapor Transmission rate of at least about 1,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to the Water Vapor Transmission Test as established here; b) a sheet upper permeable liquid which is placed in a frontal relationship with the lower sheet; and c) an absorbent body located between the upper sheet and the lower sheet which defines multiple zones of superior air permeability for improved air exchange. In a particular embodiment, the high air permeability zones in the absorbent body define a Frazier Porosity which is at least about 10 percent greater than a Frazier Porosity of absorbent body parts adjacent to the high permeability zones. of air. The absorbent article may further include a ventilation layer located between the topsheet and the absorbent body.

In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to a disposable absorbent article which defines a front waist section, a rear waist section, and an intermediate section which interconnects the front and back waist sections. The absorbent article includes a) a vapor-permeable liquid impermeable lower sheet which defines a Water Vapor Transmission Rate of at least about 1,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to the Transmission Test of Water Steam as established here; b) a liquid-permeable upper sheet which is placed in a frontal relationship with the lower sheet; c) an absorbent body located between the lower sheet and the upper sheet; d) a ventilation layer located between the lower sheet and the absorbent body; and e) an emergence management layer located between the leaf upper and absorbent body. In a particular embodiment, the absorbent body of the absorbent article includes a plurality of areas of high air permeability for improved air exchange which define a Frazier Porosity which is at least about 10 percent or greater than a Frazier porosity of absorbent body parts adjacent to the zones.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a disposable absorbent article which includes an absorbent, a front waist section, a rear waist section and an intermediate section which interconnects the front and back waist sections. The absorbent article defines a Candida albicans growth which is less than about 85 percent of the growth of Candida albicans from a control calculated according to a growth test of Candida albicans as set forth herein. In a particular embodiment, the growth of Candida albicans is less than about 80 percent and desirably less than about 60 percent of the growth of Candida albicans from the control calculated according to the growth test Candida albicans. The absorbent article may further define a Wet Air Exchange Rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute and / or a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute calculated in accordance to the Gas Tracker Test as set forth herein, and / or a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test as set forth herein.

The present invention advantageously provides improved absorbent articles which exhibit essentially reduced levels of skin hydration of the wearer when in use compared to conventional absorbent articles. The reduced level of skin hydration promotes a more comfortable and drier skin and makes the skin less susceptible to the growth of microorganisms. Therefore, the user of the absorbent articles made according to the present invention has a reduced Skin Hydration which can lead to a reduction in the incidence of skin irritation and skin rash.

Brief Description of the Drawings The invention will be more fully understood and the additional advantages will become apparent when reference is made to the following detailed description of the invention and the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 representatively shows a plan view partially cut away of an absorbent article according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 representatively shows a sectional view of the absorbent article of Fig. 1 taken along line 2-2.

Figure 3 representatively shows a top plan view partially in section of an absorbent body for an absorbent article according to another embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 representatively shows a sectional view of the absorbent body of Figure 3 taken along line 4-4.

Figure 5 representatively shows a top plan partially cut away view of an absorbent body for an absorbent article according to another embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6 representatively shows a sectional view of the absorbent body of Fig. 5 taken along line 6-6; and Figure 7 representatively shows a graph of the data of Example 15 and Comparative Example 6.

Detailed description of the invention The following detailed description will be in the context of a disposable diaper article which is adapted for use by infants around the lower torso. It is readily apparent, however, that the absorbent article of the present invention will also be suitable for use as other types of absorbent article, such as pads for women's care, incontinence garments, training briefs, and the like. .

The absorbent articles of the present invention advantageously exhibit an essentially reduced level of hydration of the user's skin in use when compared to conventional absorbent articles. Therefore, the user of the absorbent articles of the different aspects of the present invention has a reduced skin hydration which makes the skin less susceptible to the growth of microorganisms which can lead to a reduction in the incidence of hydration and rashes. of the skin. It has been found that the ability of the absorbent articles of the present invention to exhibit a low level of hydration on the user's skin during use depends, at least in part, on the ability of the absorbent article to achieve a high exchange rate. of air inside the article. Furthermore, it has been found that achieving such low levels of skin hydration also depends on the ability of the absorbent article to maintain the high rate of air exchange even when wet.

The capacity of an absorbent article to achieve superior air exchange rate, both when it is dry and when it is wet, has been qualified, for the purposes of this application, as the Dry Air Exchange Rate, the Air Exchange Rate Humid and the Humid Air Exchange Rate Ratio / Dry Air Exchange Rate as determined according to the Gas Tracker Test as set forth below. Briefly, the Gas Tracker Test involves injecting a tracking gas at a constant rate into the absorbent article near the user's skin while the item is being used. Simultaneously, the concentration of the tracer gas in the air space between the article and the user is measured by removing a sample at the same constant rate as the injection. The exchange of air is then determined based on the mass balances of the tracer gas and the air within the space in question.

To achieve the desired low levels of hydration of the skin, the absorbent articles of the various aspects of the present invention can be constructed to define a wet air exchange rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute, generally from at least about 200 cubic centimeters per minute, desirably from at least about 225 cubic centimeters per minute, more desirably from at least about 250 cubic centimeters per minute and even more desirably from at least about 35 cubic centimeters per minute. of 300 cubic centimeters per minute. For example, absorbent articles can define a Wet Air Exchange Rate of from about 175 to about 1500 cubic centimeters per minute and desirably from about 225 to about 1500 cubic centimeters per minute. Absorbent articles which exhibit lower rates of wet air exchange than those mentioned above do not allow a sufficient amount of air exchange and undesirably result in increased levels of skin hydration. Such increased hydration levels of the skin can make the skin more susceptible to the growth of microorganisms which can undesirably lead to an increase in the incidence of skin irritation and skin rash.

The absorbent articles of the various aspects of the present invention may also be constructed to define a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute, generally of at least about 575 cubic centimeters. per minute, desirably from at least about 625 cubic centimeters per minute, more desirably from at least about 675 cubic centimeters per minute, and even more desirably from at least about 750 cubic centimeters per minute to improved performance For example, absorbent articles can define a Dry Air Exchange Rate of from about 525 to about 2500 cubic centimeters per minute, and desirably from about of 575 to around 2500 cubic centimeters per minute. Absorbent articles which exhibit Dry Air Exchange Rates lower than those mentioned above do not allow a sufficient amount of air exchange and undesirably result in increased levels of hydration of the skin. Such increased levels of skin hydration can make the skin more susceptible to the growth of microorganisms which undesirably leads to an increase in the incidence of skin irritation and rashes.

The absorbent articles of the various aspects of the present invention can further be constructed to define a ratio of Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 0.20, generally of at least about from 0.23, desirably of at least about 0.27, and more desirably of at least about 0.30 for a ^^^^ || s ^^^^^^ Jjg! ¡__ improved performance. For example, absorbent articles may define a ratio of Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate of from about 0.20 to about 1 and desirably from about 0.23 to about 1 for improved performance.

The ability of an absorbent article to maintain a more constant skin temperature when wet has been quantified, for the purposes of this application, as the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature as determined according to Test the Skin Temperature as stated below. Briefly, the Skin Temperature Test involves placing the item to be tested around the forearms of; Test participants and measuring the temperature of the skin under the article before and after the article has been moistened with a known amount of salt water solution. The Dry Skin Temperature is recorded after the dry item has been used for 5 minutes. The item is then moistened and the Wet Skin Temperature is recorded after the moistened item has been used for 120 minutes.

Absorbent articles of the various aspects of the present invention may be constructed to define a ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature of not more than about 1.010, generally not more than 1.005, desirably not more than about 1000, more desirably from no more than about 0.995 and even more desirably from no more than about 0.990 5 for improved performance. For example, absorbent articles may define a Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature ratio of from about 0.950 to about 1.010 and desirably from about 0.970 to about 1.005 for improved performance. The absorbent articles which exhibit proportions of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature greater than those mentioned above does not maintain the temperature of the skin when it is wet which makes the skin more susceptible to the viability of the microorganisms which can undesirably lead to an increase in the incidence of skin irritation and skin rash.

The ability of the absorbent articles of the present invention to exhibit a foot temperature L more Constant and higher levels of the air exchange rate both when they are dry and when they are wet have led to reduced levels of skin hydration. The ability of the absorbent article to achieve a low level of hydration of the skin has been quantified, for the purposes of that request, as the Skin Hydration Value. As used herein the term "Skin Hydration Value" refers to the , r ^^ ~ - + * ******** ..; ... __ ^ _ L A__ J iijjgjgs ^^ value determined according to the Skin Hydration Test established below. In general, the Skin Hydration Value has been quantified, for the purposes of this application, as the Skin Hydration Value. As used herein, the term "Skin Hydration Value" refers to the value determined according to the Skin Hydration Test set forth below. In general, the Skin Hydration Value is determined by measuring the loss of evaporative water on the skin of the test objects after use of the absorbent article for a fixed period of time. In particular embodiments, the absorbent articles of the present invention can be constructed to define a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour, generally less than about 15 grams per square meter per hour. , desirably less than about 12 grams per square meter per hour, more desirably less than about 10 grams per square meter per hour, still more desirably less than about 8 grams per square meter per hour, and even more desirably less than about 5 grams per square meter per hour for improved performance. For example, the absorbent articles of the present invention can define a Skin Hydration Value of from about 0.1 to about 18 grams per square meter per hour, and desirably from about 0.1 to about 12 grams per square meter. per hour. Absorbent articles which exhibit Skin Hydration Values greater than those indicated above may make the skin more susceptible to the growth of microorganisms which may undesirably lead to an increase in the incidence of skin irritation and skin rash.

The absorbent articles of the present invention may also exhibit reduced viability rates of microorganisms which may lead to a reduction in skin irritation. It is theorized that the reduced viability of the microorganisms is a direct result of the increased ability to breathe and exchange of air within the articles of the present invention. The capacity of the absorbent article to achieve a low viability rate in microorganisms has been quantified, for the purposes of this application, as the viability value of Candida albicans since there is a theory that the presence of Candida albicans is directly related to the incidence of irritation and, in particular, to the rash. As used here, the term "viability of Candida albicans" refers to the value determined according to the Candida albicans Viability Test set forth below. The Viabilideid Test of Candida albicans, in general, is a comparison of the viability of Candida albicans under a patch of absorbent test article with the viability of Candida albicans under a control patch of a conventional absorbent article that it has; an outer cover without breathing capacity, for example, a outer covering that has a Water Vapcr Transmission Rate of less than 100 grams per square meter per 24 hours.

In particular embodiments, the absorbent articles of the various aspects of the present invention may be constructed to define the viability of Carbidade albicans of less than about 85 percent, generally less than about 80 percent, desirably mentions of about 60 percent, more desirably less than about 40 percent, and even more desirably less than about 20 percent of the viability of Candida albi cans of control for improved performance. For example, the absorbent articles of the present invention can define a viability of Candida albicans of less than about 2.5, desirably less than about 2.0 and more desirably less than about 1.75 log of colony forming units of Candida albicans when were inoculated with a suspension of about 5-7 log of colony forming units of Candida albicans according to the Feasibility Test of Candida albicans. Absorbent articles when exhibiting the viability values of Candida albicans greater than those mentioned above can undesirably lead to an increase in the incidence of skin irritation and skin rash. Desirably, the aforementioned Candida albicans viability values are obtained without the incorporation of the antimicrobial agents into the absorbent articles. * > F- which can be perceived by consumers in a negative way.

It has been found that the acceptable improved performance of the absorbent articles can be achieved by selecting constructions having a combination of one or more of the properties described above. For example, a given level of acceptable improved performance can be achieved by employing an absorbent article which exhibits a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute and a Wet Air Exchange Rate. of at least about 175 cubic centimeters per minute, and desirably a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 675 cubic centimeters per minute and a Wet Air Exchange Rate of at least about 200 cubic centimeters per minute. Alternatively, the improved performance will be achieved by employing an absorbent article which exhibits a Humidity Air Exchange Taeia of at least about 175 cubic centimeters per minute and a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams. per square meter per hour, and desirably a Wet Air Exchange Rate of at least about 200 cubic centimeters per minute and a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 12 grams per square meter per hour.

In addition, it has been found that improved performance can be achieved by using absorbent articles having a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least 10%. about 525 cubic centimeters per minute and a ratio of Wet / Dry Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 0.20 and desirably a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 625 cubic centimeters per minute, and a ratio of Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 0.23.

Examples of suitable constructions of the absorbent articles for use in the present invention are described below and are representatively illustrated in Figures 1-6. Figure 1 is a representative plan view of an integral absorbent garment article, such as a disposable diaper 10, of the present invention in its non-contracted and flattened state (e.g., with all elastic-induced shrinkage and withdrawal removed) ). Parts of the structure are partially cut out to show more clearly the interior construction of the diaper 10, and the surface of the diaper which contacts the wearer is facing the observer. Fig. 2 shows representatively a sectional view of the absorbent article of Fig. 1 taken along line 2-2. With reference to figures 1 and 2, the The disposable diaper 10 generally defines a front waist section 12, a rear waist section 14, and an intermediate section 16 which interconnects the front and back waist sections. The front and back waist sections include the general parts of the article which are constructed to extend essentially over the front and back abdominal regions of the user, respectively, during use. The middle section of the article includes the general part of the article which is constructed to extend through the crotch region between the user's legs.

The absorbent article includes a vapor permeable lower sheet 20, a liquid permeable upper sheet 22 positioned in a front relationship with the lower sheet 20, and an absorbent body 24, such as an absorbent pad, which is located between lower sheet 20 and upper sheet 22. Lower sheet 20 defines a length and width which, in the illustrated embodiment, coincide with the length and width of diaper 10. Absorbent body 24 generally defines a length and width which are less than the length and width of the lower sheet 20, respectively. Therefore, the marginal portions of the diaper 10, such as the marginal sections of the lower sheet 20, may extend further away from the end edges of the absorbent body 24. In the illustrated embodiments, for example, the lower sheet 20 is w "-" t? it? ttfpÉfirfi? * M ^? ^ i ^. ^^ iÍa ^ extends outward beyond the marginal and terminal edges of the absorbent body 24 to form the side margins and end margins of the diaper 10. The topsheet 22 is generally coextensive with the lower sheet 20 but optionally covers an area which is larger or smaller than the area of the lower sheet 20 as desired.The lower sheet 20 and the upper sheet 22 are attempted to face the garment and the wearer's body, respectively, while in use 10 The permeability of the lower sheet is configured to increase the breathability of the absorbent article to reduce the hydration of the wearer's skin during the use without allowing excessive condensation of the vapor, such as of the urine, on the face facing the garment of the lower sheet 20 which may undesirably moisten the wearer's clothes.

To provide an improved notch and to help reduce the runoff of body exudates from the diaper 10, the diaper side margins and end margins may be elastified with suitable elastic members, such as single or multiple strands. of elastic. The elastic threads may be composed of natural or synthetic rubber and may optionally be heat-shrinkable or heat-elasticizable. For example, as illustrated^.? ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ _ ^ - ^. "^ ^ Fr-X. ^. ^.

Representatively in FIGS. 1 and 2, the diaper 10 may include the leg elastics 26 which are constructed to operably fold and fold the side margins of the diaper 10 to provide the elasticated leg bands, which can be closely knotted around the legs of the leg. user to reduce runoff and provide improved comfort and appearance. Similarly, the waist elastics 28 can be used to elasticize the end margins of the diaper 10 to provide the elasticized belts. The waist elastics are configured to operably gather and purse the waist sections to provide a comfortably close and elastic fit around the wearer's waist. In the illustrious incorporations, the elastic members are illustrated in their stretched condition and not contracted for the purposes of clarity.

The fastening means, such as the hook and loop fasteners 30, are employed to secure the diaper to a wearer. Alternatively, other fastening means, such as buttons, pins, snap fasteners, adhesive tape fasteners, cohesives, mushroom and curl fasteners, or the like, may be employed.

The diaper 10 can further include other layers between the absorbent body 24 and the upper sheet 22 or the lower sheet . For example, as representatively illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the diaper 10 may include a ventilation layer 32 located between the absorbent body 24 and the lower sheet 20 to isolate the lower sheet 20 from the absorbent body 24 to improve the circulation of air and effectively reduce wetting of the garment face surface of the lower sheet 20. The ventilation layer 32 can also assist in distributing the fluid exudates to parts of the absorbent body 24 which do not directly receive the discharge. The diaper 10 may also include an emergence management layer 34 located between the topsheet 22 and the absorbent body 24 to prevent stagnation of fluid exudates and to further improve air exchange and distribution of fluid exudates within of the diaper 10.

The diaper 10 can be in various suitable shapes.

For example, the diaper 10 can have a global rectangular shape, a T-shape or an approximately hourglass shape. In the embodiment shown, the diaper 10 has a generally I-shape. The diaper 10 further defines a longitudinal direction 36 and a lateral direction 38. Other suitable diaper components which can be incorporated in the absorbent articles of the present invention include the containment fins, the waist flaps, the elastomeric side panels and the like. which are generally known to those with a skill in the art.

Jfc & a. * * > a? &A »-« - > ^ > - -. jStr-m. '- £ > * «» V.

Examples of diaper configurations suitable for use in connection with the present application which may include other diaper components suitable for use on diapers are described in United States of America Patent No. 4,798,603 issued on January 17, 1989 to Meyer and others; U.S. Patent No. 5,176,668 issued January 5, 1993 to Bernardin; U.S. Patent No. 5,176,672 issued January 5, 1993 to Bruemmer et al .; U.S. Patent No. 5,192,606 issued March 9, 1993 to Proxmire et al., and U.S. Patent No. 5,509,915 issued April 23, 1996 to Hanson et al., whose descriptions are incorporated here by reference.

The various components of the diaper 10 are integrally assembled together using various types of suitable fastening means, such as adhesive, sonic bonds, thermal bonds or combinations thereof. In the embodiment shown, for example, top sheet 22 and bottom sheet 20 are assembled together and to absorbent body 24 with lines of adhesive, such as hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive. Similarly, other diaper components, such as the elastic members 26 and 28, the fastening members 30, and the ventilation and emergence layers 32 and 34 can be assembled into the diaper article by employing the attachment mechanisms above identified.

The lower sheet 20 of the diaper 10, as illustrated representatively in Figures 1 and 2, and is composed of a material essentially permeable to vapor. The lower sheet 20 is generally constructed to be permeable to at least water vapor and has a Water Vapor Transmission Rate of at least about 1000 grams per square meter per 24 hours, desirably from at least about 1500 grams per square meter per 24 hours, more desirably from at least about 2000 grams per square meter per 24 hours, and even more desirably from at least about 3000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. For example, the lower sheet 20 can define a water vapor transmission rate of from about 1000 to about 6000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. Materials which have a water vapor transmission rate of less than those mentioned above do not allow a sufficient amount of air exchange and undesirably result in increased levels of skin hydration.

The lower sheet 20 is also desirable and essentially impermeable to liquid. For example, the bottom sheet can be constructed to provide a head water value of at least about 60 centimeters, desirably of at least about 80 centimeters, and more desirably of at least about 100 centimeters when subjected to the hydrostatic pressure test. Materials which have lower hydroheat values than those mentioned above undesirably result in the transfer of liquids, such as from urine, during use. Such transfer of fluid may undesirably result in a wet, sticky feeling on the lower sheet 20 during use.

The lower sheet 20 can be composed of any suitable materials which directly provide the desired above-mentioned levels of liquid impermeability and air permeability or, in an alternative, the materials which can be modified or treated in some way to provide such levels. In one embodiment, the lower sheet 20 can be a non-woven fibrous fabric constructed to provide the required level of liquid impermeability. For example, a non-woven fabric composed of polymer fibers spunbonded or meltblown can be selectively treated with a water repellent coating or laminated with a vapor permeable polymer film impervious to the liquid to provide the bottom sheet 20. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the lower sheet 20 may comprise a nonwoven fabric composed of a plurality of blown fibers "***" »» «- - - -. - - Aataafflfcat ,. ^ ~. J,. «- > - .. < - «.r. . . . : M¿, _ .-. with randomly deposited thermoplastic and hydrophobic melts which are sufficiently bonded or otherwise connected to each other to provide a fabric essentially vapor permeable and essentially impermeable to liquid. The lower sheet 20 may also comprise a vapor permeable nonwoven layer which has been partially coated or otherwise configured to provide liquid impermeability in selected areas.

Examples of suitable materials for the lower sheet 20 are also described in United States of America Patent No. 5,482,765 issued January 9, 1996 in the name of Bradley et al., Entitled "FABRIC LAMINATE WITHOUT PROPERTIES OF INCREMENTED BARRIER "; in the patent application of the United States of America series No. 08 / 622,903 filed on March 29, 1996 in the name of Odorzynski et al., entitled "ABSORBENT ARTICLE WHICH HAS A GRADIENT OF CAPACITY TO BREATHE"; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08 / 668,418 filed June 21, 1996, in the name of Good et al., and entitled "ABSORBENT ARTICLE WHICH HAS A LOWER SHEET WITH COMPOUND BREATHING CAPACITY"; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 08 / 882,712 filed June 25, 1997, in the name of McCormack et al., and entitled "LOW CALIBER FILMS AND FILM LAMINATES / NON-WOVEN", whose descriptions are incorporated herein by reference.

In a particular embodiment, the lower sheet 20 is provided by a nonwoven laminate / microporous film material comprising a non-woven material bonded with laminated yarn to a microporous film. The spunbonded nonwoven comprises filaments of about 1.8 denier extruded from an ethylene copolymer with about 3.5 weight percent propylene and which defines a basis weight of from about 17 grams per square meter to about 25 grams per square meter. The film comprises a co-extruded and set film having calcium carbonate particles there and which defines a basis weight of about 58 grams per square meter before stretching. The film is preheated, stretched and tempered to form micropores and then laminated to the non-woven fabric bonded with yarn. The resulting microporous film / nonwoven laminate based on the material has a basis weight of from about 30 to about 60 grams per square meter and a water vapor transmission rate of from about 3000 grams per square meter per 24 hours to around 6000 gram per square meter per 24 hours. Examples of such film / nonwoven laminates are described in greater detail in United States of America patent application No. 08 / 882,712 filed June 25, 1997 in the name of McCormack et al. And entitled "MOVIES. OF LOW CALIBER AND FILM / NON-WOVEN LAMINATES ", whose description has been incorporated herein by reference.

The topsheet 22, as representatively illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, suitably presents a face surface to the body which is docile, of soft feel and non-irritating to the wearer's skin. In addition, the topsheet 22 may be less hydrophilic than the absorbent body 24, to present a relatively dry surface to the user, and may be sufficiently porous to be permeable to the liquid, allowing the liquid to easily penetrate through its thickness. A suitable top sheet 22 can be made from a wide selection of fabric materials, such as porous foams, cross-linked foams, perforated plastic films, natural fibers (e.g., cotton or wood fibers), fibers synthetics (for example, polyester or polypropylene fibers), or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. The topsheet 22 is suitably employed to help isolate the user's skin from liquids maintained in the absorbent body 24.

The various woven and non-woven fabrics can be used for the top sheet 22. For example, the top sheet can be composed of a meltblown fabric or bonded with polyolefin fiber yarn. The top sheet may also be a bonded and carded fabric composed of natural and / or synthetic fibers. The top sheet can be composed of an essentially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material can, optionally, be treated with a surfactant or can be processed in another way to impart a desired level of wetting and hydrophilicity. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the topsheet 22 comprises a spin-linked and non-woven polypropylene fabric composed of denier fibers of about 2.8-3.2 formed into a fabric having a basis weight of about of 22 grams per square meter and a density of about 0.06 grams per cubic centimeter. Such top sheet 22 can be surface treated with an effective amount of a surfactant, such as about 0.3 percent by weight of a surfactant commercially available from Hodgson Textile Chemicals Co. under the trade designation AHCOVEL BASE N-62.

The absorbent body 24 of the diaper 10 as representatively illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 may suitably comprise a matrix of hydrophilic fibers, such as a cellulose fluff fabric., mixed with particles of a high-absorbency material commonly known as a superabsorbent material. In a particular embodiment, the absorbent body 24 comprises a cellulose fluff matrix, such as a wood pulp fluff, and superabsorbent hydrogel-forming particles. The wood pulp fluff can be exchanged with meltblown, polymeric and synthetic fibers or with a combination of meltblown fibers and natural fibers. The superabsorbent particles can be mixed in an essentially homogeneous way with the fibers . - ^. ^ ^ ^ L,. , ^.; * "",TO,, . ~ A $? ü ^ aa * g | g < ! ^ hydrophilic or they can be mixed not uniformly. Alternatively, the absorbent body 24 may comprise a laminate of fibrous fabrics and superabsorbenie material or other suitable means of maintaining a superabsorbent material in a localized area.

The absorbent body 24 can have a number of shapes. For example, the absorbent core can be rectangular, I-shaped or T-shaped. It is generally preferred that the absorbent body 24 be narrower in the middle section than in the front or back waist sections of the diaper. 10. The absorbent body 24 may be provided by a single layer or, alternatively, may be provided by multiple layers, all of which do not require extending to the full length and width of the absorbent body 24. In a particular aspect of the invention, the absorbent body 24 can be generally T-shaped with the transverse bar extending laterally from the "T" generally corresponding to the front waist section 12 of the absorbent article for improved performance, especially for male infants. In the embodiments illustrated, for example, of the absorbent body 24 through the front waist section 12 of the article has a width in the transverse direction of about 18 centimeters, the narrowest part of the intermediate section 16 has a width of about 7.5 centimeters and in the section ^ U. ^^ A ^ * £ ¿my **. ^. 1 || ffr ^^^^^^ of back waist 14 has a width of about 11.4 centimeters.

The size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent body 24 must be compatible with the size of the intended user and with the liquid load imparted by the intended use of the absorbent article. In addition, the size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent body 24 can be varied to accommodate users ranging from infants to adults. Furthermore, it has been found that with the present invention, the densities and / or base weights of the absorbent body 24 can be varied. In a particular aspect of the invention, the absorbent body 24 has an absorbent capacity of at least about 100%. 300 grams of synthetic urine.

In embodiments where the absorbent body 24 includes the combination of hydrophilic fibers and high-absorbency particles, the hydrophilic fibers and high-absorbency particles can form an average basis weight for the absorbent body 24 which is within the range of about around 400 grams per square meter - 900 grams per square meter. In certain aspects of the invention, the average composite basis weight of such an absorbent body 24 is within the range of about 500 grams per square meter-800 grams per square meter, and preferably is within the range of about 550 grams. per square meter - 750 grams per square meter to provide the desired performance.

To provide the dimension of thinness deepened to the various configurations of the absorbent article of the invention, the absorbent body 24 can be configured with a volume thickness which is not more than about 0.6 centimeters. Preferably, the volume thickness is not; more than about 0.53 centimeters, and more preferably no more than about 0.5 centimeters to provide the desired benefits. The volume thickness is determined under a restriction pressure of 0.2 pounds per square inch (1.38 kPa).

The high-absorbency material can be selected from polymers and natural, synthetic and modified natural materials. The high-absorbency materials may be inorganic materials, such as silica gels, or organic compounds, such as crosslinked polymers. The term "crosslinked" refers to any means for effectively making the materials normally water-soluble essentially insoluble but swellable in water. Such means may include, for example, physical entanglement, crystalline domains, covalent bonds, complexes and ionic associations, Hydrophilic associations such as hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic associations or Van der Waals forces.

Examples of the high-absorbency, polymeric and synthetic materials include the alkali metal and ammonium salts of poly (acrylic acid) and poly (methacrylic acid), poly (acrylamide), poly (vinyl ethers), anhydride copolymers maleic with vmyl ethers and alphadefins, poly (vinyl pyrrolidone), poly (vinyl morpholinone), poly (vinyl alcohol), and mixtures and copolymers thereof. Polymers further suitable for use in the absorbent core include natural and modified natural polymers, such as hydrolyzed acrylonitrile grafted starch, acrylic acid grafted starch, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and natural gums such as alginates, xanthan gum, locust bean gum and the like. Mixtures of natural and fully or partially synthetic absorbent polymers may also be useful in the present invention.

The high absorbency material can be in any of a wide variety of geometric shapes. As a general rule, it is preferred that the high-absorbency material be in the form of discrete particles. However, the high-absorbency material may also be in the form of fibers, flakes, rods, spheres, needles or J * 2gggg ^^^^^^^^^^ s ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ £? ^^^^^ & Similar. In general, the high-absorbency material is present in the absorbent body in an amount of from about 5 to about 90 percent by weight, desirably in an amount of at least about 30 percent by weight, and still more desirably in an amount of at least about 50 percent by weight based on the total weight of the absorbent body 24. For example, in a particular embodiment, the absorbent body 24 can comprise a laminate which includes at least about 50 percent by weight and desirably at least about 70 percent by weight of the high absorbency material overwrapped by a fibrous fabric or other suitable means to maintain the high absorbency material in a localized area.

An example of a high-absorbency material suitable for use in the present invention is the SANWET IM 3900 polymer available from Hoechst Celanese, a business having offices in Portsmouth, Virginia. Other suitable superabsorbents may include polymer W45926 or FAVOR SXM 880 obtained from Stockhausen, a business that has offices in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Optionally, an essentially hydrophilic tissue wrapping sheet (not shown) can be used to help maintain the integrity of the structure of the absorbent body 24. The tissue wrapping sheet is typically placed around the wearer's body over at least two. of the main face surfaces thereof and is composed of an absorbent cellulosic material, such as creped wadding or high wet strength tissue. In one aspect of the invention, the tissue wrap can be configured to provide a transmission layer which helps to rapidly distribute the liquid over the mass of absorbent fibers comprising the absorbent body.

The absorbent body 24 of the various aspects of the present invention further includes a plurality of high air permeability zones which allow air and vapors to pass easily through the absorbent body 24 and through the vapor permeable lower sheet 20. outward from diaper 10 to ambient air. For example, as representatively illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the absorbent body 24 may include a plurality of air passages 40 which provide the absorbent body 24 with the areas or regions of high air permeability 42. In the illustrated embodiment , the parts of the absorbent body 24 on one side of the air ducts 40 provide high absorption zones or regions 44. The high air permeability zones 42 e'St are designed to provide maximum air exchange of the absorbent body 24 while the high absorption zones 44 are designed to receive and retain most body exudates. Absorbent body 24 can define any A, (number of high air permeability zones 42 which provide improved air exchange Desirably, the absorbent body 24 defines at least three and more desirably at least five different areas of high air permeability 42 for improved performance.

Areas of high air permeability 42, such as air ducts 40 as representatively illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, are configured to increase the breathability of the article to reduce hydration of the user's skin during use without excessive condensation of steam, such as urine, on the garment facing surface of the lower sheet 20. Such condensation of steam on the outer surface of the diaper 10 may undesirably dampen the wearer's clothing. The high air permeability zones 42 are generally located in the area of the diaper over which air and vapor can be transferred from the topsheet 22, through the absorbent body 24 and any other intervening layer or layers of material and towards outside the vapor permeable lower sheet 20. For example, high air permeability zoncLS 42 may be located throughout the entire absorbent body 24 or may be selectively located in those regions of the absorbent body 24 which provide the maximum air exchange, such as the intermediate section 16 of the diaper 20. In a particular embodiment, the high air permeability zones 42 e; laiaiat & ^ Ai áUtH located in the front and intermediate sections 12 and 16, respectively, of the diaper 10 for a better air exchange.

The high absorption zones 44, on the other hand, are not designed to transfer a higher level of air and steam from the interior of the diaper. Therefore, the exchange of air from the upper sheet 22 of the V year 10 to the lower sheet 20 of the diaper and to the ambient atmosphere (outside of the diaper) generally occurs through the absorbent body 24 in the high air permeability zones 42. Some exchange of air through the absorbent body 24 can also occur in the high absorption zones 44 to a limited extent.

Areas of high air permeability may have any desired configuration including rectangular, circular, hourglass, oval and the like, and may also include selected longitudinal or lateral strips or multiple regions which may be located intermittently. For example, Figures 1 and 2, the high air permeability zones 42 are provided by a plurality of air passages 40 or openings through the absorbent body 24 which generally have a circular configuration. In such a configuration, the high absorption zones 44 will comprise the parts not The perforations of the absorbent body 24 between the air ducts 40 are described in FIG. 1.

Areas of high air permeability 42 can have any desired dimensions which effectively provide improved air exchange while preventing excessive condensation of steam from the absorbent body 24 through and on the garment face surface of the sheet Desirably, the high air permeability zones 42 can define a total area of from about 5 to about 75 percent, more desirably of at least about 10 percent, even more desirably from about 10 to about 70 percent, and even more desirably from about 10 to about 60 percent of the total surface area of the absorbent body 24 of the diaper 10. For example, in a diaper intended for use on an infant in size medium, the high air permeabilidaid zones 42 can define a total area of from about 6 to about 90 square centimeters.

When the total area of the area is of high air permeability 42 is greater than the above-mentioned amounts, the diaper 10 may exhibit an undesirable amount of vapor condensation on the surface facing the exposed garment of the lower sheet 20 resulting undesirably in a sticky sensation on the outer surface of the pa.ñal.

? ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ J ^^^^^^ While, that when the total area of the high air permeability zones 42 is smaller than the above mentioned amounts, the diaper 10 may exhibit a low level of air exchange resulting in higher levels of skin hydration which can undesirably lead to skin irritation and skin rash.

The high air permeability zones 42 of the absorbent body 24 of the diaper 10 as depicted representatively in Figures 1 and 2 are constructed to be essentially permeable to at least air and preferably permeable to water vapor. For example, the high air permeability zones 42 of the absorbent body 24 define a Frazier Porosity value which is at least about 10 percent, more desirably at least about 20 percent and even more desirably of at least about 50 percent more than the Frazier Porosity value of the high absorption zones 44 of the absorbent body 24. As used herein, the term "Frazier Porosity" refers to the value determined according to the Frazier Porosity Test established below. When areas of high air permeability exhibit lower Frazier Porosity values than those indicated above, diaper 10 may exhibit a low level of air exchange resulting in high levels of skin hydration which may undesirably lead to the irritation and skin rash. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ * ^^^^^ g ^^^^^ 2 ^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ High air permeability zones can be provided in a variety of ways. The high air permeability zones 42 may be integral parts of the absorbent body 24 of the absorbent article or may be provided; by openings, orifices, or open spaces in the absorbent body 24. For example, the parts of the absorbent body 24 can be discontinuous or can be removed to provide the zones 42. Alternatively, the high air permeability zones 42 can be provided by Absorbent body parts 24 which are constructed to absorb less fluid exudates thereby resulting in improved air flow through such parts in use. For example, the parts of the absorbent body 24 may be hollow or contain substantially less high-absorbency material than other parts of the absorbent body 24 to provide such improved air flow. The parts of the absorbent body 24 may otherwise be treated or coated with a solution which makes them hydrophobic to provide the air permeability zones 42 in selected areas. In other alternate configurations, areas of high air permeability 42 can be provided by creating voids or holes in the absorbent body 24 and by placing other materials having an air permeability higher than that of the absorbent body 24 so that all those materials described below as being suitable for the emergence management layer 34 in the holes or recesses. sBdaJiL ,,. *, - "" "Stet. -. .-., W. '^ The examples of various configurations of the absorbent body 24 according to different aspects of the present invention are representatively illustrated in Figures 1-6. For example, Figures 1 and 2, the air permeability zones 5 in the absorbent body 24 are provided by a plurality of air ducts 40 or openings through the absorbent body 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the air ducts 40 are placed intermittently along the entire length and width of the absorbent body 24. 24. The illustrated air ducts 40 are circular and define a diameter of about 1.27 centimeters and a total open area of about 12 percent of the total surface area of the absorbent body 24.

In figures 3 and 4, the absorbent body 24 is in the form of discrete segments 46 which are spaced apart and spaced along the longitudinal direction 36 of the diaper 10. In such a configuration the high air permeability zones 42 are provided by the spaces between the segments Discrete 46 of absorbent body 24. Absorbent body 24 may include any number of segments 46 that have a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the absorbent body 24 includes four different segments 46 spaced apart in the longitudinal direction 36 of the diaper 10. The segments illustrated 46 are generally rectangular in shape and define a width which is less than ^^^^^ ássfi = ¡ií =; i ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ The width of the absorbent body 24 which in the illustrated embodiment is defined by the width of the emergence management layer 34 and the ventilation layer 32 as described below. Alternatively, the segments 46 can define a width which is essentially equal to a width of the absorbent body 24. To help maintain the segments 46 e; n the spaced apart relationship, the segments 46 can be contained between two sheets of material such as a wrapping sheet (not shown) or the emergence management layer 34 and the ventilation layer 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the segments 46 include a laminate of high-absorbency material between two sheets or layers of material and the zones high air permeability 42 provided by the spaces between the segments 46 define an open area of about 40 percent of a total surface area of the absorbent body 2.

In Figures 5 and 6, the high air permeability zones 42 in the absorbent body 24 are provided by a plurality of air passages 40 or openings through the absorbent body 24 or similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 However, in the embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, the air passages 40 are located in the absorbent body 24 in the front waist section 12 and in the intermediate section 15 of the diaper 10 and not in the waist section. 14. In addition, in the embodiment illustrated in figures 5 and 6, the body The absorbent 24 includes an upper layer 48 and a lower layer 50 with the upper layer 48 extending only along a portion of the length of the absorbent body 24. In such a configuration, the majority of the absorbent body 24 may be located in the front and intermediate waist sections 12 and 16 of the diaper 10 for improved absorption and reduced cost. The illustrated air ducts 40 are circular and define a diameter of about 1.27 centimeters and a total open area of about 12 percent of a total surface area of the absorbent body 24.

Due to the thinness of the absorbent body 24 and the high absorbency material within the absorbent body 24, the liquid absorption rates of the absorbent body 24, by itself may be very low or may not adequately hold onto multiple discharges of liquid into the body. absorbent body 24. To improve air exchange and overall liquid absorption, the diaper of the various aspects of the present invention may further include a liquid permeable and porous layer of an emerging handling material 34, as representatively illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. The emergence management layer 34 is typically less hydrophobic than the absorbent body 24 and has an operable level of density and basis weight to quickly collect and temporarily retain liquid surges, to transport the liquid from its initial entry point and to completely release in shape essentially the liquid to other parts of the absorbent body 24. This configuration can help to prevent the liquid from stagnating and collecting on the part of the absorbent garment placed against the wearer's skin, thus reducing the sensation of moisture by the user. The structure of the emergence management layer 34 also generally increases the exchange of air within the diaper 10.

Various woven and non-woven fabrics can be used to construct the emergence management layer 34. For example, the emergence management layer 34 can be a composite layer of a fabric bonded with spinning or blown with synthetic fiber melting, such as of polyolefin fibers. the emergence management layer 34 may also be a cardid and attached fabric or an air-laid fabric composed of natural and synthetic fibers. The carded and united fabric, for example, it can be a thermally bonded fabric which is bonded using low melt binder fibers, powder or adhesive. The fabrics can optionally include a mixture of different fibers. The emergence management layer 34 may be composed of an essentially hydrophobic material, and the hydrophobic material may be optionally treated with a surfactant or otherwise processed to impart a desired level of wetting and hydrophilicity. In a particular embodiment, the emergence management layer 34 includes a non-woven material hydrophobic that has a basis weight of from about 30 grams to about 120 grams per square meter.

For example, in a particular embodiment, the emergence management layer 34 may comprise a carded and bonded fabric, a non-woven fabric which includes bicomponent fibers and which defines a global basis weight of about 83 grams per square meter. The emergence management layer 34 in such a configuration can be a homogeneous blend composed of about 60 weight percent bicomponent sheath / polyethylene / polyester (PE / PET) core fibers, which have a fiber denier. about 3 deniers and about 40 percent by weight of single component polyester fibers which have a fiber denier of about 6 deniers and which have fiber lengths from about 3.8 to about 5.08 centimeters.

In the illustrated embodiments, the emergence management layer 34 is arranged in a direct contact fluid communication with the absorbent body 24. The emergence management layer 34 can be operably connected to the topsheet 22 with a conventional adhesive pattern. , such as a swirl adhesive pattern. In addition, the emergence management layer 34 can be operably connected to the absorbent body 24 with a conventional pattern of adhesive. The amount of adhesive added should be sufficient to provide the desired levels of bonding, but should be sufficiently low to avoid excessive restriction of fluid movement from the topsheet 22, through the emergence management layer 34 and up to the body absorbent 24.

The absorbent body 24 is placed in communication with an emergence management layer 34 to receive the liquids released from the emergence management layer and to retain and store the liquids. In the illustrated embodiments, the emergence management layer 34 comprises a separate layer which is placed on another separate layer comprising the absorbent body 24, thereby forming a dual layer arrangement. The emergence management layer 34 serves to quickly collect and temporarily retain discharged liquids, to transport such liquids from the initial point of contact and to spread the liquid to other parts of the emergence management layer 34 and then to release in a essentially complete such liquids inside the layer or layers comprising the absorbent body 24.

The emergence management layer 34 can be of any desired shape. Suitable shapes include, for example, the circular, the rectangular, the triangular, the trapezoidal, the oblong, the dog bone, the hourglass shape, or the oval. In certain embodiments, for example, the emergence management layer may be generally corma. ¿^ ¡¡^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^^^ to ^^^^^^ rectangular. In the illustrated embodiments, the emergence management layer 34 is coextensive with the absorbent body 24. Alternatively, the emergence management layer 34 may extend over only a portion of the absorbent body 24. Where the emergence management layer 34 is extends only partially along the length of the absorbent body 24, the emergence management layer 34 can be selectively placed on either side along the absorbent body 24. For example, the surge management layer 34 can function more efficiently when it is off center towards the front waist section 12 of the garment. The emergence management layer 34 can also be centered approximately around the longitudinal center line of the absorbent body 24.

Additional materials suitable for the emergence management layer 34 are set forth in U.S. Patent No. 5,486,166 issued January 23, 1996 in the name of C. Ellis et al. And entitled 'NO FABRIC EMERGEMENT COAT. FIBROUS FABRIC FOR ABSORBENT ARTICLES FOR PERSONAL AND SIMILAR CARE "; US Pat. No. 5,490,846 issued February 13, 1996 in the name of Ellis et al. Entitled" FIBROUS FABRICS OF IMPROVED EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT FOR ARTICLES " ABSORBENTS FOR PERSONAL AND SIMILAR CARE "; and United States of America Patent No. 5,364,382 granted the L5 of £ t aL¡. t & ^^ | - * . ^ < "November, 1994 in the name of Latimer et al. Entitled" ABSORBENT STRUCTURE THAT HAS AN IMPROVED FLUID HANDLING AND PRODUCT INCORPORATED THEREOF "whose descriptions are incorporated herein by reference. As representatively illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the diaper 10 can also include a ventilation layer 32 located between the lower sheet 20 and the absorbent body 24. The ventilation layer 32 serves to facilitate movement of the air in and through the diaper 10 and to prevent the bottom sheet 20 from being in a surface contact with at least a part of the absorbent body 24. Specifically, the ventilation layer 32 serves as a conduit through which the air and water vapor can move from the absorbent body 24 through the lower vapor permeable sheet 20.

The ventilation layer 32 can be formed of materials described above as being suitable for the emergence management layer 34 such as non-woven fabrics, (eg Example spunbonded, meltblown or carded), woven or woven fibrous fabrics composed of natural fibers and / or synthetic polymer fibers. Suitable fibers include, for example, acrylic fibers, polyolefin fibers, polyester fibers or mixtures thereof. The The ventilation layer 32 can also be formed of a porous foam material such as a cell polyolefin foam - * "'- <' * - ^ ~ '-f ¥ # ,,, - nr. Am *.« AA *. - ^ ^ .. -. - ^ «A .. ¿U ** *., ... open, a cross-linked polyurethane foam, and the like. The ventilation layer 32 may include a single layer of material or a composite of two or more layers of material. In a particular embodiment, the ventilation layer 32 includes a hydrophobic nonwoven material having a thickness of at least about 0.10 centimeters determined under a restriction pressure of 0.050 pounds per square inch (0.34 kPa) and a basis weight from around 20 grams per square meter to around 120 grams per square meter. By For example, the ventilation layer 32 may comprise a bonded and carded fabric, a non-woven fabric, which includes bicomponent fibers and which defines an overall basis weight of about 83 grams per square meter. The ventilation layer 32 in such a configuration can be a homogeneous mixture composed of about 60 percent by weight of sheathed bicomponent / polyethylene / polyester (PE / PET) core of 60 percent by weight which have a fiber denier of about 3 deniers and about 40 percent by weight weight of single component polyester fibers which have a denier of fibers of about 6 deniers and which have fiber lengths of from about 3.8 to about 5.08 centimeters.

The ventilation layer 32 can have any desired form. Suitable shapes include, for example, circular, rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, oblong, the dog bone, the hourglass shape, or the oval. The ventilation layer 32 may extend further, completely over or partially on the absorbent body 24. For example, the ventilation layer 32 may suitably be located on the intermediate section 16 of the diaper 10 and e'Star essentially centered side by side with respect to the longitudinal centerline 36 of the diaper 10. It is generally desired; that the complete absorbent body 24 be covered with the ventilation layer 32 to avoid essentially any contact from surface to surface between the lower sheet 20 and the absorbent body 24. In the illustrated embodiments, the ventilation layer 32 is coextensive with the body absorbent 24. This allows the maximum degree of exchange of air with minimal moisture on the face facing the garment of the lower sheet 20.

In the illustrated embodiments, the ventilation layer 32 is arranged in a direct contact of liquid contact with the absorbent body 24. The ventilation hood 32 can be operably connected to the lower sheet 20 with a conventional pattern of adhesive, such a corao A pattern of swirl sticker. In addition, the ventilation layer 32 can be operably connected to the absorbent body 24 with a conventional pattern of adhesive. The amount of adhesive added must be sufficient to provide the desired levels of bonding, but it must be sufficiently low to avoid over restricting the movement of air and steam from the absorbent body 24 and through the lower sheet 20.

The ventilation layer 32 can also serve to quickly collect and temporarily retain the discharged liquids, which pass through the absorbent body 24 and, particularly through the high air permeability zones 42 within the absorbent body 24. The layer Ventilation 32 can then transport such liquids from the initial point of contact and spread the liquid to other parts of the ventilation layer 32, and then essentially complete the release of such liquids into the layer or layers comprising the absorbent body 24.

The various embodiments of the present invention, as representatively illustrated in Figures 1-6, advantageously provide improved absorbent articles which exhibit essentially reduced levels of hydration of the wearer's skin when in use as compared to conventional absorbent articles. Reduced levels of skin hydration promote drier and more comfortable skin and make the skin less susceptible to the viability of microorganisms. Thus, the wearer of the absorbent articles made according to the present invention have reduced skin hydration and can lead to a reduction in the incidence of skin irritation and skin rash.

^^^^^ ¡¡¡^ ^ ^ ^ ^ S ^. ^ S.G ^.

PROOF PROCEDURES Hydrostatic Pressure Test The Hydrostatic Pressure Test is a measure of the liquid barrier properties of a material. In general, the Hydrostatic Pressure Test determines the height of water (in centimeters) in a column that the material will support before a predetermined amount of water passes through it. A material with a higher hydro-head value indicates that this is a greater barrier to liquid penetration than a material having a lower hydro-head value. The Hydrostatic Pressure Test is carried out according to Method 5514- Standard of Federal Test Methods Number 191A.

Porosity test Frazier The Frazier Porosity Values mentioned in the present description can be determined using a Frazier air permeability tester (from the Frazier Precision Instrument Company, of Gaithersburg, Maryland) and the '5450 method, standard federal test methods number 191A. For the purposes of the present invention, the test was carried out with a sample which measures 8 inches by 8 inches. :. "£ *? > . i? &tt.

Aqua Steam Transmission Test A suitable technique for determining the WVTR (Water Vapor Transmission Rate) value of a material is as follows. For the purposes of the present invention, 3-inch diameter (76 millimeters) circular samples of the Celgard® 2500 test material and control material (from Hoeschst Celanese Corporation) are cut. Two or three samples are prepared for each material. The test cups used for the test are cast aluminum, flanged, 2 inches deep and come with a mechanical seal and a neoprene gasket. The cups are distributed by Thwing-Albert Instrument Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, under the designation Vapometer cup # 681. One hundred milliliters of distilled water are poured into each Vapometer cup and each of; The individual samples of the test materials and the control material are placed through the upper open area of an individual cup. The bolted flanges are tightened to form a seal along the edges of the cups that leave the associated test material or control material exposed to the ambient atmosphere over a circular area of 62 millimeters in diameter (an exposed and open area). of around 30 square centimeters). The cups are then weighed, placed on a tray, and placed in a forced air oven set at 100 degrees F (38 degrees Celsius). The oven is a constant temperature oven with an external air circulating at r-rfA - - mt ^ ¿^ ag ^^^^^^^^^ through it to avoid in the accumulation of water vapor. A suitable forced air furnace is, for example, a Blue M Power-O-Matic furnace 60 distributed by Blue M Elecbric Company of Blue Island, Illinois. After 24 hours, the cups are removed from the oven and are heavy. The preliminary value of the Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test is calculated as follows: Water Vapor Transmission Rate Test = [(weight loss grams over 24 hours) x 75711 (g / m2 / 24 hours] 24 The relative humidity inside the oven is not specifically controlled. Under predetermined set conditions of 100 ° F and ambient relative humidity, the Water Vapor Transmission Rate for Celgard 2500 has been determined to be 5000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. Therefore, the Celgard 2500 material is run as a control sample with each test. The Celgard 2500 is a 0.0025 centimeter thick film composed of a microporous polypropylene.

Skin Hydration Test The Skin Hydration Values are determined by measuring the total evaporative water (EL) loss and can be determined by using the following test procedure.

The test is conducted with infants who have partially learned the use of the toilet who do not have lotions or ointments on the skin and who have not bathed within two hours prior to the test. Each infant tests a diaper during each test assignment. The test diapers include a test code and a control code. The test diapers (test code and control code) are random.

Each test diaper is weighed before and after use to check the volume of fluid added to the diaper. A felt tip pen is used to mark an "X" in the target area within the diaper, with the "X" placed CL 6.5 inches below the upper front edge of the diaper and centered side by side. The EL measurements are taken with an evaporimeter, such as the EP1 evaporimeter instrument distributed by Servomed AB, from Stockholm, Sweden. Each test measurement is taken over a period of two minutes with the EWL values taken once per second (a total of 120 EWL values). The digital output of the Evapometer EP1 instrument gives the rate of evaporative water loss (EWL) in grams per square meter per hour. Skin Hydration Values (SHV) are in unit of total amount of water loss per unit area measured during a sampling period of two minutes and are calculated i as follows: 120 \ Skin Hydration Values (g / m2 / hour) = / _ (EWL) n n = 1 120 10 A Measurement of Preliminary Skin Hydration Value is taken after a 15 minute "drying" period when the infant is wearing only a long shirt or dress and is in the supine position. The measurement is taken on the lower abdomen of the infant, in a region corresponding to the target area of the diaper, using the evaporimeter for the purpose of establishing the value of the diaper.

Hydration of the initial skin of the infant's skin in the area diaper objective. If the Preliminary Skin Hydration Value is less than 10 grams per square meter per hour, a diaper is then placed over the infant. If the Value of Hydration of the preliminary skin is greater than 10 grams per square meter per hour, the drying period is extended until it reaches a reading below 10 grams per square meter per hour. Before securing the diaper over the infant, a tube is placed to direct a liquid flow to glue the pre-marked target area. Once the diaper has been secured, 210 milliliters of an aqueous salt water solution is added. ^^ ^ ^ ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^ 0.9 percent by weight adjusted in three discharges of 70 milliliters each at a rate of 15 milliliters / second with a delay of 45 seconds between discharges.

The infant wears the diaper for 60 minutes after which the diaper is removed and a test measurement of the hydration of the skin on the lower abdomen corresponding to the target zone mark of the diaper is taken. The measurement is taken over a period of 2 minutes. The used diaper is then weighed. Relative humidity and temperature measurements can be taken inside the diaper before the hydration measurements of the skin are taken. The test procedure is then repeated the following day for each infant using the type of diaper (test or control) which the infant has not yet worn. The control diaper provides a standardized basis for comparing the performance of the diaper configuration being tested and evaluated. The control diapers used in the tests carried out in connection with the examples were commercially available HUGGIES® Supreme diapers sold by Kimberly-Clark Corporation.

The data is discarded regarding any infant which has been added to the load of the saltwater solution. The value reported for the average Net Skin Hydration Value (grams per square meter in one hour) is the Ft? | ^ g¡E4 ^^^^^^^^^^ & * ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^~ after using the diaper, taken in the lower abdomen (target zone mark), minus the Skin Hydration Value measured in the lower abdomen before placing the diaper on the infant (after the "drying" period) . A separate average net Skin Hydration Value is determined for the test code diapers and for the control code diapers.

The Net Skin Hydration Value is determined as follows: Hydration Value of the Net Skin, ^ = Y-Z Where: Y = Skin Hydration Value measured e; n the target zone mark of an individual infant.

Z = Hydration value of the skin of the base line measured on the lower abdomen after the "drying" period before the diaper is placed on the infant.

Skin Hydration Value1 = Skin Hydration Value for an individual infant.

So, N \ Hydration Value of the Net Skin Medium = / SHVX Net, = 1 N Where: N = number of infants under study.

The percent reduction in hydration of the skin is determined as follows: N_ \% Reduction = / [((C-D) / C) x 100] N Where : C = Net Skin Hydration Value., For control diaper code.

D = Net Skin Hydration Value1 for test diaper code.

N = number of infants in the study.

Gas Tracker Test The Gas Tracker Test is a measure of the Air Exchange Rate on garments such as absorbent articles and is a steady state / stable flow test generally described in the TAPPI journal volume 80, No. S, September 1997. In general, the values of the Air Exchange Rate are calculated from the exchange of mass measured inside the garment. The test involves injecting ur tracer gas at a constant rate into the article near the outer surface of a manikin's torso while the article is secured around the manikin. Simultaneously the concentration of the tracer gas in the air space between the article and the manikin is measured by removing a sample at the same constant rate as that of the injection. The Air Exchange Rate is then determined based on the mass balances of the tracer gas and air within the space in question. The Gas Tracker Test is completed as follows: Equipment 1. A Manikin - The test was carried out with step size 3 or step 4 diapers designed for infants weighing from about 16 to about 28 pounds and from about 22 to about 37 pounds respectively. - - - »« * - «" - y ^ j j ^^ Í ljj | The diapers are placed on mannequins which have the following dimensions: Step 3 height (waist to knees) 26 centimeters waist circumference 42 centimeter; other circumference at the hips 44 centimeter; thigh circumference 22 centimeter; Step 4 height (waist to knees) 28 centimeter; waist circumference 48 centimeters circumference on hips 51 centimeter; thigh circumference 27 centimeter; 2. A test area which is environmentally controlled at 20 degrees Celsius and 50 percent relative humidity. 3. A C02 analyzer - An infrared C02 analyzer such as model 17515A commercially available from Vacu-Med Vacumetrics, 4483 McGrath Street # 102, Ventura, California. 4. Rotameters - Rotameters to maintain gas flow rates such as the Matheson rotameter TS-35 model commercially available from Specialty Gases Southeast Inc., 3496 Peachtree Parkway, Sunee, Georgia.

. Gas Cylinders - Two gau cylinders of medical grade calibrated at a pressure of 4 kPa from Specialty Gases Southeast Inc., 3496 Peachtree Parkway, Suwanee, Georgia. The tracking gas includes 5% C02 and air and the calibration gas is 100% air.

Process 1. Turn on the C02 analyzer. After the analyzer has been on for 30 minutes, calibrate the analyzer with the calibration gas and adjust the flow control to achieve a flow rate of 150 cubic centimeters per minute through the analyzer. 2. Place the diaper to be tested on the mannequin 3. Turn on the tracer gas flow of C02. The flow rate of the tracer gas injected into the space between the diaper and the manikin must be equal to the sample flow rate through the C02 analyzer (150 cubic centimeters per minute). 4. Measure and record the concentration (C) of the tracer gas (C02) in the air space between the diaper and the manikin every 10 seconds for 20 minutes. The data on 'the last 10 minutes are averaged and are used to calculate the Air Exchange Rate as follows: Air Exchange Rate = 150 cc / min * [(Ct-C) / (C-C0)] where, Ct = concentration of the tracer gas (5%).

C = concentration of the tracer gas in the space that is being measured.

C0 = concentration of tracer gas in the bed environment (, 04%).

The Dry Air Exchange Rate is the air exchange rate as determined according to the above mentioned procedure before the diaper had been subjected to any discharges. The Humid Air Exchange Rate is the air exchange rate determined according to the procedure mentioned above except that once the diaper is secured to the manikin, 180 milliliters (step 3) or 210 milliliters (step 4) of water were added. Aqueous salty of 0.9 - - * = -. * _ percent by weight in three discharges of 60 or 70 milliliters each at a rate of 15 milliliters / second with a delay of 45 seconds between discharges. The ratio of Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate is determined by dividing the Wet Air Exchange Rate by the Dry Air Exchange Rate for the same sample.

Viability test of Candida albicans The Feasibility Test of Candida albicans is a measure of the effect of absorbent garments, such as disposable diapers, on the viability of pathogenic microorganisms and, in particular of Candida albicans. In general, the Feasibility Test of Candida albicans involves inoculating delineated sites of each forearm fly test subjects with a known suspension of Candida albicans cells covering the sites with a full thickness patch from the absorbent garment, and determining the viability after a period of 24 hours.

A full thickness test sample patch that has a length of about 5 centimeters and a width of about 5 centimeters was cut off from the target area of each product that is to be tested. The target area is usually that part of the product intended to receive the lv urine discharge from the user and typically includes parts of the intermediate and front waist sections of the product somewhat forward of the product's lateral center line. In a typical diaper configuration, the full-thickness test sample patch includes the top sheet, the absorbent body, the bottom sheet and any inter-layer layers. Approximately 15 milliliters of a 0.9 percent by weight salt solution was added to the test sample patch and allowed to soak for 2 minutes before the samples were placed on the forearms of the test subjects. A test site area of about 6.15 square centimeters is marked on each of the forearms of the test subjects. Approximately 0.01 milliliter of a 0.9 percent by weight salt water solution containing a known suspension of Candida albicans cells is delivered to the test site with micropipettes and the suspension is then evenly spread through the test site. After drying with air, the test site is covered with the test sample patch which is secured in pos. using the adhesive tape completely surrounding the sample.

After 24 hours, the test sample patches are removed and the quantitative culture is obtained from the test site using the detergent rubbing method established in "A New Method for Investigation Quantitative Cutaneous Bacteria "by P. Williamson and A. M. ^ * ggi ^ ^! j ^ Klingman, Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 45: 498-503, 1965, the description of which is incorporated herein by reference. Briefly, a sterile gas cylinder spanning an area of 6.15 square centimeters is centered over the test site and held firmly in the skin. One milliliter of 0.1 percent by weight of Triton-x-100 in 0.075M of phosphate buffer having a pH of 7.9 is pipetted into the gas cylinder and the area is rubbed for one minute using a sterile Teflon rod. The fluid is aspirated with a sterile pipette and a second milliliter or 0.1% by weight of Triton-x-100 in 0.075M phosphate buffer having a pH of 7.9 is added to the glass cylinder. The rubbing step is repeated and the two washes are combined. Each combined sample is diluted in steps of ten times with 0.05% by weight of Triton-x-100 in 0.0375M of 5-phosphate buffer having a pH of 7.9. An aliquot of 0.01 milliliter of each dilution is inoculated onto Sabourands agar containing antibiotics. Duplicate cultures are prepared and incubated at room temperature for 48 hours. 0 After incubation, the number of colony forming units is counted using the standard microbiological methods. The viability of Candida albicans under a patch of the test sample can then be compared to the viability of Candida albicans under a control patch from a conventional absorbent article having an outer cover without breathing capacity, for example, an outer cover ttWhMiWlllli _ Ss! i £ a * '** "without breathing ability, for example an outer cover having a water vapor transmission rate of less than 100 grams per square meter per 24 hours, such as the diaper described below in relation to the comparative example 4.

Skin Temperature Test The temperature values of the skin can be determined by using the following test procedure. The test is carried out on the bare forearm of adult humans who do not have lotions, powders or ointments on the skin and who do not have skin disorders. Subjects have not bathed, swum, smoked, exercised or caffeinated within two hours before and during the test. Each subject tests two items such as diapers during each test session. The test diapers may include a test code and a control code such as the code identified on the Axis; Comparative mplo 6. The test diapers (test code and control code) are randomized and are diapers in size step 3, for example for infants weighing 16 to 28 pounds.

Each test diaper is weighed before and after use to verify the volume of fluid added into the diaper. A pen was used to mark a 1-inch square | ^^ j ^ m "* -" ** "~ * ^ x 1 inch in the target area on the inside and outside of the diaper, with the center of the square placed 6.0 inches below the upper front edge of the diaper and centered side by side, the temperature and humidity measurements are taken with a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple probe with a 10-carat gold-covered disc sensor insulated with vinyl distributed by Cole-Parmer, a business that has offices located in Vernon Hills, Illinois under the designation ® brand P-08506-80 which is linked to a Digi-Sense Temperature / Humidity Logger distributed by Cole-Palmer, a business that has an office located in Vernon Hills, Illinois under the brand designation Model # 91090-00 The thermocouple probe is calibrated to a precalibrated probe (370C-52) built into the data logger.The skin temperature measurements are taken continuously once per minute.

Upon arrival, each test subject is subjected to an acclimatization period of 15 minutes in a controlled environment at 40% relative humidity and at 71 ° F. A temperature sensor is attached to each forearm, approximately halfway between the elbow and the wrist. The front of the sensor is placed towards the elbow and the sensor is secured in place with a piece of tape such as a commercially available 3M Steri-Strip (0.25"x 1.5") suture tape over the top of the sensor and another piece of tape to hold the front of the ~ x ¿* > 5 ^ - £ sensor in the place. The baseline skin temperatures are recorded for a period of 5 minutes (total test time of 5 minutes) without a diaper attached to the forearm.

The sample diapers are then attached to the respective forearms of each test subject so that the 1"x 1" objective zones on the diaper are located on the temperature sensor. Before securing the parales on the forearms of the subject, a fluid-dispensing nozzle is placed, acclimated at room temperature, in each diaper above the temperature sensor to direct a flow of liquid so that it sticks in the pre-marked target area. Each diaper does not overlap in the target area and is secured in place by the masking tape which holds the upper and lower parts of the diaper together without contacting the wearer's skin. A resilient restraint of size 3 commercially available from Glenwood, Inc., is placed over the entire diaper and forearm. Once the diapers are secured, the skin temperature of the dry diaper is recorded for 5 minutes.

The diapers are then loaded with 180 milliliters of aqueous salt water solution of 0.9% by weight adjusted to body temperature in three discharges of 60 milliliters each at a rate of 15 milliliters / second with a delay of 45 seconds between discharges . The mouthpiece < ** fluid dispenser is removed from each diaper. The subject uses each diaper for an additional 120 minutes while the skin temperature readings are recorded every minute. The diapers are then removed and weighed.

The reported value for skin temperature is the arithmetic medium for all subjects at the specific time during the test period for each sample. The ratio of moist skin temperature / dry skin temperature is then determined by dividing the temperature value of the skin after 120 minutes of carrying the wetted sample (130 minutes of total test time) by the temperature value of the skin after 5 minutes of carrying the dry sample (10 minutes of total test time).

The following examples are presented to provide a more detailed understanding of the invention. The specific materials and parameters are exemplary and are not intended to specifically limit the scope of the invention.

Examples Example 1 Disposable diapers that have the same ® general construction as diapers step 3 of HUGGIES Supreme .fifii - »^ & > The descriptions in relation to Comparative Example 2 given below were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the Supreme diapers except that the bottom sheet, the absorbent core, the emergence layer and the elasticized leg bands of the diapers were replaced or modified and a layer of ventilation was added between the bottom sheet and the bottom sheet. absorbent core.

In the tested diapers the bottom sheet included a non-woven laminate / microporous film comprising a non-woven material bonded with laminated yarn to a microporous film. The spunbonded nonwoven purchased filaments of about 1.8 denier extruded from an ethylene copolymer with about 3.5% by weight of propylene and defined a basis weight of from about 20 grams per square meter. The film comprised a set co-extruded film having calcium carbonate particles there and defined a basis weight of about 58 grams per square meter before stretching. The film was preheated, stretched and tempered to form the micropores and then laminated to the nonwoven material bonded with yarn. The resulting nonwoven laminate / microporous film base material had a basis weight of 45 grams per square meter and a water vapor transmission rate of about 4000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. Examples of such nonwoven / film laminates are described in more detail in i ^^^ M ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^ US Patent Application No. 08 / 882,712 filed on June 25, 1997 in the name of McCormack et al. and entitled "LOW CALIBER FILMS AND FILM / NON-WOVEN LAMINATES" , whose description has been incorporated herein by reference.

The absorbent core in the tested diapers was a dual layer absorbent having the general configuration set forth in Figures 5 and 6 except that there are no openings or openings through any layer of the absorbent. The absorbent core included a top layer and a bottom layer with the top layer extending from the front edge of the absorbent core to a location about 2/3 of the total length of the absorbent core. The absorbent core included from about 10 to about 11 grams of wood pulp fibers and from about 10 to about 11 grams of superabsorbent material and therefore, included about 50% by weight of pulp fibers of wood and around 50% by weight of superabsorbent material. The lower layer had a basis weight of about 230 grams per square meter and the upper layer had a basis weight of about 560 grams per square meter to provide a total basis weight of about 790 grams per square meter in the section front of the core and a basis weight of about 230 grams per square meter in the rear section of the core. The absorbent core also defined a width in the crotch section of about 6.35 centimeters.

The emergence layer was located between the absorbent core and the topsheet and was of the same material as the emergence layer in the Supreme diapers described in Comparative Example 2 except that it was modified to be coextensive with the absorbent core. The diapers also included a ventilation layer between the absorbent core and the lower sheet of the diaper. The ventilation layer was made of the same material as that of the sprouting layer and also. It was coextensive with the absorbent core. The diapers also included a set of elasticated leg band along about 2/3 of the length of each longitudinal side edge of the diaper. The assembly had six (6) strands of elastomeric material laminated to a layer of non-woven fabric capable of breathing. The elastic threads were composed of LYCRA elastomer lined up along the longitudinal extension of the diaper to stretch and collect the diaper leg bands.

Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test set above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below. ®jk ^^ ¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡^ ^ **. ^ --..... «fe ^ Example 2 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as the diapers described in relation to example 1 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 1 except that the absorbent body was modified to include a plurality of holes therethrough in the region where the upper layer covered the lower layer as illustrated in FIGS. 6. The orifice had a diameter of 1.27 centimeters to provide an open area of about 12% based on the total surface area of the absorbing body. Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test established above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below.

Example 3 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as the diapers described in relation to Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the ventilation layer between the absorbent body and the lower sheet was removed. Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test as stated above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below.

Example 4 Disposable diapers having the same general construction that the diapers described in relation to Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the holes in the absorbent body had a diameter of 2.54 centimeters which also defined an opening are about 12% of the total surface area of the absorbent body. Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test established above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below.

Example 5 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation in Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the layered absorbent body was replaced with an absorbent body without layer which included about 62% by weight of wood pulp fibers and about 38% by weight of superabsorbent and defined a basis weight in the frontal section of about 750 grams per square meter to about 850 grams per square meter and a basis weight in the posterior section of about 375 grams per square meter. Four samples * ^ .'- ^ and * »** -,» *, > 5¡, f. * Faith > * & amp; - of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test set above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below.

Example 6 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation in Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the dual layered absorbent core was replaced with a laminate which included about 80% by weight of the commercially available superabsorbent material of Stockhaiusen under the trade designation FAVOR SXM 880 overwrapped by a tissue layer of cellulosic fibers having a basis weight of about 26 grams per square meter. The absorbent body also included apertures therethrough which have a diameter of 1.27 centimeters to provide an open area of about 12% of the total surface area of the absorbent body. Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test established above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below. ^ * ^ mü ^^^ £. - *? i: & ££ ít? c & Example 7 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation in Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the absorbent body was replaced with a laminate which included about 80% by weight of commercially available superabsorbent material from Stockhausen under the trade designation FAVOR SXM 880 overwrapped with a layer of tissue of cellulose fibers having a basis weight of about 26 grams per square meter. The laminate was provided in four segments as representatively illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 which resulted in an open area for the absorbent body of about 40% of the total surface area of the absorbent body. Four diaetrates of the diapers were subjected to the gas tracer test established above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below.

Example 8 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in connection in Example 2 were made by hand and tested. Pairs were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 . < * & except that the lower sheet was modified to define a water vapor transmission rate of about 1870 grams per square meter per 24 hours. Four samples of the parales were subjected to the tracer gas test established above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below. , The Comparative Example 1 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as that of the Supreme Step 3 diapers as described in connection with Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the bottom sheet was replaced with a 1 mil polyethylene film material having a water vapor transmission rate of less than 100 grams per meter square per hour. Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test established above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below.

Comparative Example 2 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as those commercially available diapers of Kimberly-Clark Corporation under the designation of - > - ** ^ * LS¿- - HUGGIES® trade "Supreme step 3.

Essentially the Supreme diapers comprised an absorbent core consisting of a mixture of wood pulp fibers and superabsorbent material surrounded by a 2-piece cellulose wrap sheet having a basis weight of about 16 grams per square meter to 21 grams per square meter. The absorbent core included from about 12.5 grams to about 13.5 grams of pulp fibers from wood placed by air and from about 7.0 grams to about 8.5 grams of superabsorbent material. The superabsorbent mate- rial was purchased from Stockhausen under the trade designation FAVOR SXM 880. The superabsorbent material was mixed homogeneously with the pulp fibers to form a unit layer that has a density within the range of 0.25 to 0.35 grams per cubic centimeter. The homogeneous mixture of the superabsorbent material and the wood pulp fibers were zoned along the machine direction to provide a basis weight of from about 600 to about of 700 grams per square meter in the front section of the absorbent core and a basis weight of from about 300 to about 350 grams per square meter in the back section of the absorbent core.

Supreme diapers also included a composite bottom sheet comprising a barrier layer permeable to vapor laminated adhesively to a laminated material bonded with spinning / blowing with fusion / bonding with spinning (hereinafter "SMS"). The yarn-bound / meltblown / spin-linked material had a basis weight of about 27 grams per square meter. The vapor permeable barrier layer consisted of a polyolefin film which had a thickness of about 0.7 mils and a basis weight of about 19.5 grams per square meter. The polyolefin film material was commercially available from Exxon Chemical Patents Incorporated, under the trademark EXXAIRE. The vapor permeable barrier layer was adhered to the spunbond / meltblown / spunbonded laminate and placed between the absorbent core and the spunbond / meltblown laminate bonded to the bottomsheet. The lower sheet had a water vapor transmission rate of around 1,500 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The absorbent core was placed in the form of a sandwich between the bottom sheet and a top sheet composed of a fabric bonded with polypropylene fiber yarn having a basis weight of about 17 grams per square meter. An emergence management layer composed of a carded and unidc fabric was located between the top sheet and the absorbent core. The emergence layer included bicomponent fibers and defined a global basis weight of about 83 grams per square meter. The emergence layer was a homogeneous mixture composed of about 60% by weight of bicomponent fibers of + e? ? ±. Ar .. ^ = áiiüta "*? ¿? Fc sheath / core of polyethylene / polyester (PE / PET) which had a fiber denier of about 3 denier and about 40% by weight of single component polyester fibers which had a fiber denier of around 6 denier and which had fiber lengths from about 3.8 to about 5.08 centimeters. The emergence layer also defined a width of about 10.2 centimeters and a length of about 16.5 centimeters. The front edge of the emergence layer was located 5.1 centimeters from the front edge of the absorbent core.

The Supreme diapers also included a set of waist flap and single component elasticized waistband at each longitudinal end of the diaper. The assembly had multiple threads of elastomeric material placed in sandwich form and laminated between the polymer film layer and a nonwoven fabric layer. The polymer film was a 0.0075 inch thick film composed of a mixture of a linear low density polyethylene and an ultra low density polyethylene. The non-woven fabric layer was composed of a fabric of 20 grams per square meter of material bonded with polypropylene yarn. The elastic strands were composed of about ® 8-16 LYCRA elastomer yarn aligned along the transverse direction of the diaper to elasticize and gather the diaper waistbands and the internal waist flaps. The Supreme diapers also included the fins of - ^ '^' ¿^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ IEI ^^^^^ containment longitudinally which extended to the full length of the diaper and elasticized bands along each longitudinal side edge of the diaper. The elastic strands in the leg band and in the containment fins ® were composed of a LYCRA elastomer aligned along the longitudinal extension of the diaper to stretch and collect the diaper leg bands and the containment flaps.

Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the tracer gas test established above. The results are set forth in Table 1 given below.

Table 1 Exchange Rate Exchange Rate Dry Air Ratio Humid Medium Humid Medium / Echo (cm3 / m? N.) (Cm3 / mm.) Example 1 822 224 0 .. '7 Example 2 794 310 0.1.9 Example 3 679 220 0.1.2 Example 4 1050 360 0.1.4 Eg 5 758 190 0..5 Example 6 724 240 0..3 Example 7 677 153 0..3 Example 8 495 316 0.63 Ex. Comparative 1 51 110 2.-6 E. Comparative 2 513 171 0..3 * & .

The test results of Examples 1-8 and Examples 1-2 indicate that diapers made according to the present invention generally have mejoradoe levels of air exchange both when dry and when wet when they are compared to conventional diapers.

Example 9 Four samples of diapers having the same general construction as the diapers described in connection in Example 2 were hand and tested according to the test of skin hydration established above. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the diapers were similar in size to the commercially available Step 4 diapers, the absorbent body was a single layer having the same thickness through it and the openings had a diameter of 2.54 centimeters. The diapers defined an average skin moisturization value of 8.1 grams per square meter per hour. The results are set out in Table 2 given below.

Example 10 Four diaper samples that have the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation to ^ - - - ^^ g ^ in Example 2 were made by hand and tested according to the skin hydration test set forth above. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 2 except that the diapers were of size similar in size to the commercially available Step 4 diapers, the absorbent body defined a basis weight of about 560 grams per square meter and the openings They had a diameter of 2.54 centimeters. The diapers defined a skin hydration value of 2.8 grams per square meter per hour. The results are also established in Table 2 given below.

Example 11 Four diaper samples having the same construction as the diapers described in relation in Example 7 were fabricated and tested according to the skin hydration test set forth above. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Example 7 except that the diapers were similar in size to commercially available Step 4 diapers. The diapers defined an average skin hydration value of 1.6 grams per square meter per hour. The results are also established in Table 2 given below.

Comparative Example 3 Disposable diapers having the same general construction as those diapers commercially available from Kimberly-Clark Corporation under the trade designation HUGGIES Supreme Step 4 were tested. In esercia, Supreme diapers of size Step 4 were similar to the Supreme diapers of size 3 described above in relation to Comparative Example 2 except that the size of the diapers materials was higher.

Four samples of the diapers were subjected to the skin hydration test established above. The diapers defined an average skin hydration value of 19.3 grams per square meter per hour. The results are also set forth in Table 2 given below.

Table 2 Skin Hydration Value (g / m2 / hour) 20 Example 9 8. 1 Example 10 2. 8 Example 11 1. 6 Comparative Example 3 19. 3 The test highlights of Examples Al and Comparative Example 3 indicate that diapers made according to the teachings of the present invention exhibited significantly improved skin hydration values when compared to conventional diapers. Specifically, the diapers made according to the present invention exhibited a reduction of 58 to 92% in the hydration value of the skin. Even though some reduction in the hydration value of the skin was anticipated due to the increased amount of air exchange within the diapers, the magnitude of the reduction was unexpected.

Example 12 Samples of diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in connection with Comparative Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Comparative Example 2 except that the bottom sheet was modified to define a water vapor transmission rate of about 3,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The diapers were subjected to the albicans Cardida viability test established above. The samples of Example 12 of Comparative Example 4 (control) were tested on the volar forearms of each of the seven test subjects. Approximately 0.01 milliliters of a 0.9% by weight salt solution containing a suspension of 5.71 log of colony forming units of Candida albicans was delivered to the test site with micropipettes and the suspension was then spread evenly throughout the site. proof. The sample diapers according to this example defined a viability of Candida albicans main of 1.96 log of colony forming units Candida albicans. Therefore, compared to the viability of Candida albicans main control (Comparative Example 4) the diapers of this example defined a reduction in the viabilidaid value of Candida albicans of 26%.

Example 13 Samples were made of diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation to Example 2 except that the lower sheet defines a water vapor transmission rate of about 5,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The diapers were subjected to the Candida albicans viability test established above. The samples of Example 13 and Comparative Example 4 (control) were tested on each of the volar forearms of each of the seven test subjects.

Approximately 0.01 milliliters of a salt water solution of 0.9% by weight containing a suspension of 5.71 log of colony forming units of Candida albicans was delivered *. * BS "~ - i r i? ^ * I» A ¿¿., U ',; Test site with micropipettes and the suspension was then spread evenly through the test site. It was anticipated that the sample diapers according to this example would define an average Candida albicans viability of possibly less than 1.75 and possibly less than 1.50 log of colony forming units Candida albicans. Therefore, in comparison to the viability of Candida albicans average of the control (Comparative Example 4) it was anticipated that the diapers according to this example will define a reduction in the viability value of Candida albicans of more likely about 34% and feasibly around 43%.

Comparative Example 4 Samples of diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation to Comparative Example 2 were made by hand and tested. The diapers were essentially the same as the pads of Comparative Example 2 except that the lower sheet was replaced with a 1.0 mil thick polyethylene film material having a water vapor transmission rate of less than 100 grams per sheet. square meter for 24 hours. The diapers were subjected to the Candida albicans viability test established above on the volar forearms of each of the seven test subjects. Approximately, 0.01 milliliters of a 0.9% salt water solution by weight : Sfa.SFilgA, #i containing a suspension of 5.71 log colony-forming units of Candida albicans were delivered to the test site with micropipettes and the suspension was then spread evenly through the test site. The sample diapers according to this example defined an average Candida albicans viability of 2.65 log of colony forming units Candida albicans.

Example 14 10 The diaper samples having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in connection with Example 13 were machine-made and tested. In particular, the lower sheet of the diapers defined a rate of Water vapor transmission of around 5,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The diapers were subjected to the Candida albicans viability test established above. Samples of Example 14 and Comparative Example 5 (control) were tested on the volar forearms of each of the twenty test subjects. Approximately 0.01 milliliters of a 0.9% by weight salt water solution containing a 4.92 log suspension of colony forming units of Candida albicans were delivered to the test site with micropipettes and the suspension was then uniformly spread. through the test site. The sample diapers according to this example defined a viability of Candida albicans % ** ** - .. «- A .. & tí¿»: ^^^^^^^ g ^^^^^^^^^ - ^ __ ¡^^^ * ^^ fr ^ ? ^ > ^^ average of 1.26 log of colony forming units Candida albicans. Therefore, compared to the viability of Candida albicans control medium (Comparative Example 5) the diapers of this example defined a reduction in the viability value of Candida albicans of 61%.

Comparative Example 5 Samples of diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation to Comparative Example 4 were machine-made and tested. In particular, the bottom sheet of the diapers included a 1.0 mil polyethylene film material having a water vapor transmission rate of less than 100 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The diapers were subjected to the Candida albicans viability test established above on the volar forearms of each of the twenty test subjects. Approximately, 0.01 milliliters of a 0.9% by weight salt solution containing a 4.92 log suspension of colony forming units of Candida albicans were delivered to the micropipette test site and the suspension was then uniformly spread through the test site . The sample diapers according to this example defined a viability of Candida albi cans average of 3.26 log of colony forming units Candida albicans.

The test results of Examples 12 and 14 and the expected results of Example 13 showed that diapers made in accordance with the present invention exhibited reduced viability and an incidence of microbial infection compared to conventional absorbent diapers and diapers. Test results of Comparative Examples 4 and 5. It is clear that such reduced microbial viability is achieved by reducing the occlusion of the test by increasing the diaper's ability to breathe both when it is dry and when it is wet.

Example 15 Samples were made of diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation to Example 2 except that the lower sheet defined a water vapor transmission rate of about 5,000 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The diapers were subjected to the skin temperature test established above. The samples were tested on one of the forearms of each of the eleven test subjects. The results of the test are shown in Figure 7. The sample diapers according to this example defined a wet skin temperature / dry skin temperature ratio of 0.970. ^^^ ngm ^ jj¡ ^ j ^ Comparative Example 6 Samples were made of diapers having the same general construction as that of the diapers described in relation to Comparative Example 2. The diapers were essentially the same as the diapers of Comparative Example 2 except that the lower sheet was replaced with a matte; of 1.0-mil thick polyethylene film that has a water vapor transmission rate of less than 100 grams per square meter per 24 hours. The diapers were subjected to the skin temperature test established above. The samples were tested on one of the forearms of each of the eleven test subjects. The results of the test are shown in Figure 7. The sample diapers according to this example defined a wet skin temperature / dry skin temperature ratio of 1.014.

The test results of Example 15 as shown in Figure 7 show that diapers made according to the present invention are able to maintain a more constant reduced skin temperature when wet compared to conventional absorbent diapers and the results of Comparative Example 6. There is a theory that a more constant reduced skin temperature is achieved by reducing skin clogging by increasing the breathing capacity of the diaper when it is wet. In addition, as shown in Figure 7, diapers made in accordance with the present invention are capable of maintaining a skin temperature when wetted which is essentially the same as the user's diaper-free skin temperature. Such maintained skin temperature can result in improved comfort for the user.

Having thus described the invention in quite complete detail, it will be readily apparent to a person of ordinary skill that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. All such changes and modifications are contemplated as being within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (67)

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. A disposable absorbent article comprising an absorbent, a front waist section, a rear waist section and an intermediate section which interconnects said front and back waist sections wherein said absorbent article defines a Wet Air Exchange Rate of less than about 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to the Gas Tracker Test established here.

2. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the Wet Air Exchange Rate of said absorbent article is of; at least about 200 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

3. The absorbent article such as is claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the Humid Air Exchange Rate of said absorbent article is at least about 225 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

4. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the Rate of Wet Air Exchange of said absorbent article is for and? .. at least about 250 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

5. The absorbent article comci is claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

6. The absorbent article such as eats, is claimed in clause 2, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 575 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

7. The absorbent article such as eats is claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of menc > s about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test established here.

8. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 15 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the established Skin Hydration Test. here .

9. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 12 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the established Skin Hydration Test. here .

10. The disposable absorbent article comprising an absorbent, a front waist section, a rear waist section and an intermediate section which interconnects said front and back waist sections wherein said absorbent article defines a Dry Air Exchange Rate of less than about 525 cubic centimeters per minute and a Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate ratio of at least about 0.20 calculated according to the Gas Tracker Test established here.

11. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Wet Air Exchange Rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Tracer Gas Test.

12. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Wet Air Exchange Rate of MM888 ^ - - ~ - - - - * - 8 '* ^ • - - -. - «- * - -.A- ^ r -. at least about 225 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

13. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Dry Air Exchange Rate of pc > At least about 575 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

14. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 625 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

15. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said ratio of Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate of said absorbent article is at least about 0.23 calculated according to said Test of Gas Tracker.

16. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said ratio of Dry Air Exchange Rate of said absorbent article is at least about 625 centimeters *, «< , - - »" --- - - - * rfrilisaafe * "': ** ~. ~ ^ - ~ * -n. -. ^ "... * .. ± ^ cubic per minute, and said ratio of Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate of said absorbent article is at least about 0.23 calculated according to said Test of Gas Tracker.

17. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test such and how it is established here.

18. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 10, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 15 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test such and how it is established here.

19. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 16, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 15 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test such and how it is established here.

20. A desirable absorbent article which comprises a) a lower vapor permeable sheet which defines a Water Vapor Transmission Rate of about 1000 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to a Water Vapor Transmission Rate as established here; b) a liquid-permeable upper sheet which is placed in a frontal relation with said lower sheet; Y c) an absorbent body located between said lower sheet and said upper sheet wherein said absorbent article defines a Wet Air Exchange Rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to the Gas Tracker Test as shown in FIG. set here

21. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said lower vapor-permeable sheet is essentially impermeable to liquid.

22. The absorbent article such and such is claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said sheet vapor permeable bottom is constructed to j? appporcionar a Hydrohead Value of at least about; 60 centimeters calculated according to a Hydrostatic Pressure Test as established here.

23. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said lower vapor-permeable sheet is constructed to provide a Hydrohead Value of at least about; 80 10 centimeters calculated according to a Hydrostatic Pressure Test as established here.

24. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said rate of 15 Water vapor transmission of said lower vapor permeable sheet is at least about 1500 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to said Water Vapor Transmission Test.

25. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said Wet Air Exchange Rate of said absorbent article is of; at least about 225 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test. 25

26. The absorbent article comci is claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said Humid Air Exchange Rate of said absorbent article is at least about 250 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

27. Absorbent article such and eat. is claimed in clause 20, characterized in that the absorbent article defines a Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to said Gas Tracker Test.

28. The absorbent article such as eats is claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test as It is established here.

29. The absorbent article such as is claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 15 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test as It is established here.

30. The absorbent article such as is claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 12 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test as It is established here.

31. The absorbent article such as is claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said absorbent article defines a ratio of Wet Air Exchange Rate / Dry Air Exchange Rate of at least about 0.20 calculated according to said Test of Gas Tracker

32. The disposable absorbent article comprising an absorbent, a front waist section, a rear waist section and an intermediate section which interconnects said front and back waist sections wherein the absorbent article defines a Skin Hydration Value of less than about 18 grams per hour calculated according to the Skin Hydration Test established here.

33. Absorbent article such and eat. is claimed in clause 32, characterized in that said Skin Hydration Value of said absorbent article is less ^^^% i '^^ &' ^ ~ tju "jj .. • * ^ of about 15 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to Test Skin Hydration.

34. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 32, wherein said Hydration Value Skin of said absorbent article is less than about 12 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to Test Skin Hydration .

35. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 32, wherein said Hydration Value Skin of said absorbent article is less than about 10 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to Test Skin Hydration .

36. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 32, wherein said absorbent article defines a rate Exchange Dry Air at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute and a rate of air exchange Wet least of around 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to. a Gas Tracker Test as stated here.

37. A disposable absorbent article comprising an absorbent, a front waist section, a rear waist section and an intermediate section which * ¥ ~ 107 interconnects said front and back waist sections wherein said absorbent article defines a ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature of not more than about 1.010 calculated according to the Temperature Test of the Skin as established here.

38. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature does not 10 is more than about 1,005 calculated according to said Skin Temperature Test.

39. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that the proportion 15 of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is not more than about 1,000 calculated according to said Skin Temperature Test.

40. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is not more than about 0.995 calculated according to said Skin Temperature Test. .

41 41. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that the proportion of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is from about 0.950 to about 1.010 calculated according to the Skin Temperature Test.

42. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is from about 0.970 to about 1.005 calculated according to the Temperature Test of the Skin .

43. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that said absorbent article further defines a wet air exchange rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to a tracer gas test as It is established here.

44. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that said absorbent article further defines a dry air exchange rate of at least about 525 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to a tracer gas test as It is established here.

45. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 37, characterized in that said article Absorbent further defines a skin hydration value of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the skin hydration test set forth herein.

46. A disposable absorbent article which comprises: a) a lower vapor permeable sheet which defines a water vapor transmission rate of at least about 1000 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to a Water Vapor Transmission Test as set forth herein; b) a liquid-permeable upper sheet which is placed in a face-to-face relationship with said lower sheet; Y c) an absorbent body located between said lower sheet and said upper sheet wherein said absorbent article defines a ratio of wet skin temperature / dry skin temperature of not more than about 1.010 calculated according to the temperature test of the skin as established here.

47. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 46, characterized in that said ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is not more than about 1.005 calculated according to the Skin Temperature Test.

48. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 46, characterized in that the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is not more than about 1,000 calculated according to said Skin Temperature Test.

49. The absorbent article, such and eaten, is claimed in clause 46, characterized in that the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is not more than about 0.995 calculated according to said Skin Temperature Test. .

50. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 46, characterized in that the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is from about 0.950 to about 1.010 calculated according to said Temperature Test of the Skin .

51. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 46, characterized in that said item # - ^!.; 111 absorbent further defines a wet air exchange rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to a tracer gas test as set forth herein. 5

52. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 46, wherein said absorbent article further defines a value ass of skin hydration of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour 10 calculated according to the skin hydration test established here.

53. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 46, characterized in that the sheet The lower permeable vapor is essentially impermeable to liquid.

54. The absorbent article, such and comci is claimed in clause 46, characterized in that the rate of

The water vapor transmission of said lower vapor permeable sheet is of at least about 1500 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to the water vapor transmission test. 25 55. A disposable absorbent article which defines a front waist section, a waist section back and an intermediate section which interconnects said front and back waist sections, said absorbent article comprises: a) a lower vapor permeable sheet which defines a water vapor transmission rate of at least about 1000 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to a Water Vapor Transmission Test as set forth herein; b) a liquid-permeable upper sheet which is placed in a face-to-face relationship with said lower sheet; c) an absorbent body located between said lower sheet and said upper sheet which defines zones of high air permeability for an improved air exchange; Y d) a ventilation layer located between said backsheet and said absorbent body wherein said absorbent article defines a temperature ratio of wet / temperature skin dry skin of no more than about 1.010 calculated according to the test temperature of the skin as stated here.

56. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said kj ^ ^ í Eea TSSs. ^ ratio Temperature Wet / Dry Skin Temperature Skin is not more than about 1,000 calculated according to said test skin temperature.

57. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that the ratio of Wet Skin Temperature / Dry Skin Temperature is not more than about 0.995 calculated according to said Skin Temperature Test. 10

58. The absorbent article as claimed in clause 55, wherein the proportion of Temperature Wet / Dry Skin Temperature Skin is not more than about 0.990 calculated according to said 15 Skin Temperature Test.

59. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that the ratio of Dry Skin Temperature / Wet Skin Temperature is 20 from about 0.950 to about 1.010 calculated according to said Skin Temperature Test.

60. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said article The absorbent further defines a wet air exchange rate of at least about 190 cubic centimeters per minute calculated according to a tracer gas test as set forth herein.

61. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said absorbent article further defines a hydration value of the skin of less than about 18 grams per square meter per hour calculated according to the hydration test of the skin established here.

62. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said vapor permeable sheet is essentially impermeable to liquid.

63. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said water vapor transmission rate of said lower vapor permeable sheet is at least about 1500 grams per square meter per 24 hours calculated according to to the Water Vapor Transmission Test.

64. The absorbent article, such and eat, is claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said high air permeability zones in said absorbent body define a Frazier Porosity which is at least about 30% by weight. 115 10% greater than a Frazier Porosity of parts of said absorbent body adjacent to said air passages.

65. The absorbent article, as it is 5 claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said zones of high air permeability comprise from about 5 to about 75% of a total surface area of said absorbent body.

66. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, characterized in that said ventilation layer comprises a hydrophobic nonwoven material having a thickness of at least about 0.10 centimeters and a basis weight of from about 20 centimeters. at around 120 grams per meter 15 square.

67. The absorbent article, as claimed in clause 55, further characterized in that it comprises an emergence management layer which is located between said top sheet and said absorbent in the said emergence management layer comprises a nonwoven material that It has a basis weight of from around 30 to around 120 grams per square meter. 25 R S U M E N An absorbent article includes a vapor permeable lower sheet, a liquid permeable upper sheet 5 placed in a front relation with the lower sheet; and an absorbent body located between the bottom sheet and the top sheet. The absorbent body may include multiple zones of high air permeability. The absorbent article may also include a ventilation layer between the absorbent body and the 10 lower leaf and an emergence management layer between the absorbent body and the top sheet. The article exhibits an improved air intercavity within the article during use. I run a result, the article maintains the temperature and exhibits essentially reduced levels of hydration of the skin of the 15 user when in use and makes the skin less susceptible to the viability of microorganisms. "LOL. - -l 'a », Sfe" ».U, ^ a» ¿Bgás.