RU224002U1 - DISPOSABLE ABSORBENT PRODUCTS, PRIMARILY DISPOSABLE DIAPERS OR DISPOSABLE WATERPROOF PANTS, WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT, HIGHLY GROSCOPIC ABSORBENT CORE - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a disposable absorbent article having a body (9) having a liquid-permeable top liner (28) that is in contact with the skin of a subject's body when in use, and a bottom liner (32) on the opposite side distal from the body, an absorbent core ( 11), which is located between the upper pad (28) and the lower pad (32) of the main part (9) and has a first absorbent layer (42) and a second absorbent layer (44) for absorbing liquid absorbed by the absorbent article (1), the first and the second absorbent layers (42, 44) lie on top of each other in the thickness direction (34) between the upper and lower pads (28, 32), the first absorbent layer (42) having granular superabsorbent polymer material (47) with a first particle diameter, and the second absorbent layer (44) has a granular superabsorbent polymer material (49) with a second particle diameter that is smaller than the first particle diameter, and wherein an intermediate layer (43) is introduced between the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44), which separates the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44) from each other to direct liquid from the first absorbent layer (42) to the second absorbent layer (44) and to distribute it superficially over the second absorbent layer (44), the intermediate layer (43) consisting of a non-woven material and has a fiber thickness, fiber length, and fiber orientation that ensures that the absorbed liquid is distributed in a planar direction (33). 5 ill.

Description

The utility model relates to a disposable absorbent article and, in particular, to a disposable diaper or disposable waterproof pants with a lightweight, highly hygroscopic absorbent core.

Disposable absorbent products, such as disposable diapers or disposable waterproof pants for infants, potty training pants for small children, and absorbent underwear for adults, serve to quickly absorb the subject's urine, feces, and other body fluids and securely contain them to prevent the release of bodily fluids to the outside, and the associated wetting or contamination of clothing, bedding or other items that come into contact with the absorbent product. Sometimes, in order to prevent backflow on the inner surface, significant volumes of excreted liquid, such as urine, must be diverted for a short time away from the inner surface of the diaper and into the absorbent layers of the diaper. The diaper must be capable of retaining fluid and preventing fluid from flowing back under pressure, such as for infants at night, for 12 hours or more. This pressure-induced backflow of fluid is also called backflow in the art. Despite the reliable protection against leakage, the diaper must also be breathable to prevent the heat dissipation of the diaper from being compromised. In other respects, especially for diapers for babies, particularly soft, anti-allergic, non-irritating materials that are non-toxic and meet environmental requirements are desirable, as well as allowing for a good fit and high wearing comfort of the diaper. Other properties required for diapers include low thickness and high flexibility to ensure ease and convenience of use and, where possible, compact packaging, transportation and storage. All explanations made above and below regarding diapers are valid, unless the context otherwise requires, equally also for waterproof pants, including potty training pants and absorbent underwear, as well as other similar disposable absorbent products, without the need in their mention explicitly.

To perform the above function and achieve the required properties, absorbent articles such as diapers are in most cases formed from several layers and have an absorbent core, which is placed in the main part. In general, the body has a top liner that, when in use, maintains direct contact with the skin of the subject and may be made of a soft, hydrophilic material, such as non-woven material, cotton fabric or the like. The bottom liner, which is located on the side of the diaper farthest from the body, in most cases contains a waterproof film, such as polypropylene, polyethylene or the like as protection against leakage, and an outer layer of soft textile material, such as non-woven fabric, cotton fabric or the like material. Between the top and bottom pads is an absorbent core that has absorbent material to absorb and retain the liquid released. Optionally, an absorbent and distribution layer may be provided between the topsheet and the absorbent core to quickly conduct liquid from the topsheet to the absorbent core and to distribute it as widely as possible over the surface to effectively utilize the absorbent material in the absorbent core.

The absorbent material of the absorbent core is specifically designed to quickly absorb liquid and retain it over a long period of time, as well as to prevent backflow and thereby maintain dryness of the subject's skin. Conventional absorbent cores of absorbent articles are typically composed of hygroscopic wood-rich fibers, primarily cellulosic fibers (also referred to as pulp), with additional absorbent material often incorporated into the absorbent core in a distributed manner to increase absorption capacity. The absorbent material can be represented by SAP - a superabsorbent polymer (SAP), which is a spatially cross-linked polymeric material that is capable of retaining multiple, for example at least ten times, a volume of liquid (fresh water) relative to its weight. When absorbing liquid, the SVP material swells and forms a hydrogel. SVP material is also called "polymer absorbent material", "gelling absorbent material" or simply "superabsorbent". There is a desire to provide an absorbent article with an absorbent core that has a high absorption rate and high absorption capacity with low weight and low backflow.

EP 3205318 A1 describes an absorbent core for a disposable absorbent article with at least first and second absorbent layers, which respectively have a fibrous absorbent material that is uniformly distributed in the longitudinal direction of the core. The absorbent layers are continuous and arranged stacked on top of each other. The absorbent material of the first absorbent layer has superabsorbent material, while the material of the second absorbent layer is substantially free of superabsorbent material. The absorbency of the second absorbent layer without superabsorbent material may be limited.

WO 2014/151544 A2 describes an absorbent core of synthetic tufted fiber material or non-woven material which forms a core base in which or on which two different SVP materials or compositions thereof are disposed which differ with respect to their absorption characteristics. The first SVP acts slowly but still has a large absorption capacity, while the other SVP acts quickly but has little absorption capacity. The base of the core with SVP materials is covered by a shell of non-absorbent thermoplastic fibrous woven or non-woven material, which prevents the SVP from falling out of the fibrous base of the core. Several different materials are required to construct the core, and manufacturing costs can be high.

DE 112008000010 B4 describes a disposable absorbent article, for example a diaper, with an absorbent core that is cellulose-free. The absorbent core has first and second absorbent layers that contain granular, polymeric superabsorbent material that is located on the first or second substrate. Granular, polymeric absorbent materials on respective substrates are respectively arranged or intermittently distributed within discontinuous patterns, and combined with each other in such a way that the corresponding patterns of granular, polymeric absorbent material define offset island regions that are connected to each other and immobilized by connecting regions of thermoplastic bonding material. The thermoplastic binder material can increase the weight and thickness of the absorbent article. In addition, thermoplastic binding materials, free from toxically and environmentally hazardous components, are expensive.

DE 69833127 T2 proposes the provision of two or more absorbent layer sections for increasing the liquid absorption capacity of the absorbent core, which sections have a superabsorbent polymer material and are suitable for interacting with each other in a special way to increase the absorbency. Superabsorbent polymer materials are mixed with fibers in two or more layers. Special superabsorbents are selected according to the required values of their controlled absorption intensity, which can also be adjusted using particle size to obtain a given ratio of surface area to volume. The particle size of the superabsorbent material must be no less than 140 microns and no more than 1000 microns in all absorbent layer areas.

EP 3357466 A1 describes an absorbent article with an absorbent core that has two polymeric absorbent layers that contain a superabsorbent polymer (SAP) and one hydrophilic fabric layer sandwiched between them. The absorbent core is surrounded by a shell layer structure, which has two hydrophilic fibrous layers, as well as a cellulose layer inserted between them. The cellulose fibers of the cellulose layer penetrate through the underlying hydrophilic fibrous layers and into the absorbent core, and maintain contact with the SVP material to ensure rapid liquid removal.

In addition, there is a need to improve the performance of disposable absorbent articles such as diapers or panties in terms of absorption rate and absorption capacity with reduced weight and simple absorbent core design using safe core materials.

Based on the foregoing, the purpose of the utility model is to create a disposable absorbent article, which, with a low weight and a relatively simple design of the absorbent core, makes possible good absorption of liquid with a high absorption rate and high absorption capacity, short drying time for surfaces, good distribution of liquid in the absorbent core and insignificant return flow.

To achieve this goal, a disposable absorbent product has been created, which has the characteristics according to independent claim 1 of the utility model formula. The most preferred embodiments of the utility model are the subject of dependent claims of the utility model.

A disposable absorbent product according to the utility model has a main part and an absorbent core. The body substantially has a liquid-permeable top pad that is in contact with the skin of the subject's body when in use, and a bottom pad on the opposite side distal from the body. The absorbent core is located between the upper pad and the lower body pad and has a first absorbent layer and a second absorbent layer for absorbing liquid received by the disposable absorbent article. The first and second absorbent layers are located in the thickness direction between the upper and lower pads stacked on top of each other. The first absorbent layer has a granular, superabsorbent polymeric material having a first particle diameter, and the second absorbent layer has a granular, superabsorbent polymeric material having a second particle diameter. The second particle diameter is smaller than the first particle diameter. An intermediate layer is introduced between the first and second absorbent layers, which separates the first and second absorbent layers from each other to direct liquid from the first absorbent layer to the second and to distribute it superficially over the second absorbent layer.

Without being bound by any theory, it has been discovered that smaller SVP particles can essentially accept a larger amount of liquid relative to their mass due to the larger total surface area, but reach the limits of their capacity more quickly, which carries with it the danger of residual liquid flowing back. Therefore, in this case, larger SVP particles are used in the first absorbent layer of the absorbent core, which ensures that they perform a buffer function. They receive the first pressure of liquid very quickly and in large quantities without reaching the limits of their capacity. The remaining volumes of liquid are quickly removed through the intermediate layer, and, when distributed over a large area, are transferred further to the second layer of the SVP. The small SVP particles in the second absorbent layer permanently encapsulate the liquid and do not release it under pressure, which minimizes backflow. By interacting the absorbent layers with each other and with the intermediate layer, as well as with other layers that convey liquid to the absorbent core, an absorbent article with very good absorbency can be obtained with a relatively simple design, reduced weight and volume of the absorbent core and the absorbent article as a whole. The absorbent core forms the basis for highly efficient, absorbent and wicking disposable absorbent products that feature high wicking rates and wicking capacities, fast surface drying times and low backflow. The superabsorbent polymeric material in both absorbent layers can absorb and retain ten times, preferably at least 50 or 60 times, volumes of its own weight under pressure.

The absorbent article is well suited, for example, for diapers, especially diapers for babies, waterproof pants for babies, potty training pants for small children and absorbent underwear for adults for absorbing and absorbing bodily fluids such as feces, urine and other body fluids , such as blood, vaginal drainage, sweat and the like. The absorbent core can also advantageously be used for other absorbent hygiene products such as bandages, breast pads, mattress pads, dressings or other similar materials.

The expression "disposable" is used here in its ordinary sense and means an item that is discarded and disposed of after a small number of uses, for example less than five uses, preferably after only one single use. "Diaper" means an absorbent article, primarily for infants, young children and adults, which is placed around the lower torso of a subject, and is secured by means of a clasp so that it encloses the waist and legs of the subject, and, when in use, can receive and hold the subject's urine, feces, and other fluids. The "waterproof pants" have the same function as a diaper, however, they are equipped with a pass-through waistband so that there is a waist hole and two leg holes through which, when putting on the waterproof pants, the subject's legs can be inserted to placing waterproof pants in place of the subject's lower torso. Potty training pants and other absorbent underwear are covered by the term “waterproof pants.” When reference is made in the following description to a diaper, this also includes waterproof pants or any other comparable absorbent or hygiene articles mentioned above. The term "granular" in conjunction with SVP material means SVP material in the form of granules, short fibers, plates, fiber bundles, beads, powder and other forms that may be referred to as corpuscles, particles or nuclei. First of all, SVP particles can also be made in the form of fibers, that is, with a somewhat oblong shape. However, the ratio of their diameter to their length should not be more than 1:10, and preferably less than 1:5. As the diameter of the particle or the diameter of the particle core, its average size can be used, that is, a value, for example, the average between the diameter and the length of a short-fiber SVP particle. The particle diameter or core diameter of the superabsorbent polymer material in each of the absorbent layers should be understood as the average particle diameter of all SVP particles in the corresponding layer.

In the structure of the absorbent core of a disposable absorbent article according to the utility model, the first absorbent layer on the body-closer, inner side is located closer to the top pad of the body, while the second absorbent layer on the body-distant, more outer side is located closer to the bottom pad of the body parts.

The particle diameter of the superabsorbent polymeric material in the second absorbent layer may be significantly smaller than in the first absorbent layer. In preferred embodiments, the particle diameter of the SVP material in the second absorbent layer is less than 70%, preferably less than 60%, most preferably less than 50%, of the particle diameter of the SVP material in the first absorbent layer. The smaller particle diameter promotes reliable water retention and long-term preservation. The small polymer SVP particles accordingly incorporate liquid in a durable manner. They are also particularly pressure resistant so that they effectively prevent backflow.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the superabsorbent polymeric material of the first absorbent layer has a particle diameter in the range of about 0.595-0.400 mm, which corresponds to a sieve number of 30-40, while the SVP material of the second absorbent layer has a particle diameter in the range of about 0.250-0.177 mm, which corresponds to sieve number 60-80.

Advantageously, any of the above-mentioned disposable absorbent articles may have an SVP material of the first absorbent layer with the ability to absorb a 0.9% NaCl solution of at least 40 ml, preferably at least 50 ml, per gram of SVP and with the ability to absorb fresh water. water at least 80 ml, preferably at least 100 ml, per gram of SVP. The SVP material of the second absorbent layer, in this case, may have a 0.9% NaCl solution absorption capacity of at least 60 ml, preferably at least 65 ml, per gram of SVP, and a fresh water absorption capacity of at least 120 ml , preferably at least 130 ml, per gram of SVP. In particularly preferred embodiments, the fresh water absorption capacity of the SVP material of the second absorbent layer is approximately 130-150 ml per gram of SVP. It has been found that with the values mentioned above for particle diameter and water absorption capacity, the best ratio of functionality, considered with respect to absorption rate and absorption capacity, to the size and cost of the absorbent core can be achieved.

In preferred embodiments, the first and second absorbent layers may be cellulose-free. Preferably, the entire absorbent core may be free of cellulose. It has been found that by avoiding the use of cellulose (also called cellulose or pulp), which is widely used as an absorbent and filler material in the absorbent cores of conventional absorbent articles, absorbency can be further increased while reducing the weight and dimensions of the absorbent core and absorbent article generally.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the SVP material may be the only absorbent material in the first and second absorbent layers. Thus, the content of SVP material in the entire absorbent material in each of the absorbent layers is approximately 100%. There is no other absorbent material. By using pure SVP material as the absorbent material in the absorbent layers, the absorbency capacity can be maximized while the weight and dimensions of the absorbent core and the absorbent article can be minimized. There is also no need for any adhesive that would otherwise be required to prevent the SVP material from separating from the fiber or other absorbent or filler material. Getting rid of the adhesive again increases the absorbent and filling capacity of the SVP material.

In addition, the thickness of the absorbent core can be reduced, which reduces the overall size of the absorbent article and improves wearing comfort. The reduced size ensures a reduction in packaging, especially bulk packaging, which requires smaller volumes of cargo compartments for transportation, storage facilities and retail space, and therefore provides savings on storage, transportation and handling costs. Volume savings of up to 20% can be achieved relative to conventional absorbent products with a pulp/SVP absorbent core. In this way, the corresponding volume of household waste can also be significantly reduced.

The weight of an absorbent core based primarily on pure SVP material can be significantly reduced compared to comparable pulp/SVP absorbent cores of the same functionality. In embodiments, the absorbent core for a size M/3 diaper for a subject weight of 6-11 kg may have a core weight of less than 20 g, preferably less than 17 g, most preferably about 15 g. For a size XXL/6 diaper for a subject weight of 16-28 kg core weight may be less than 25 g, preferably less than 21 g. This results in a weight reduction of up to 30-40% relative to conventional pulp/SVP absorbent cores.

In preferred embodiments of any of the above-mentioned disposable absorbent articles, the superabsorbent polymeric material may be distributed in a continuous manner in the first and second absorbent layers, respectively, longitudinally between opposing end edges, as well as laterally between opposing side edges of the absorbent core. Consequently, the absorbent layers form layers lying on top of each other and continuous in the longitudinal and lateral directions. The formation of discontinuous, separated island regions of SVP material in the individual absorbent layers should be avoided. This solution also helps to improve the diffusion of liquid in the absorbent layers of the SVP.

In preferred embodiments of any of the above-mentioned disposable absorbent articles, the nonwoven interlayer may be composed of a cotton material or a synthetic cotton-like material and have a fiber thickness, fiber length, and fiber orientation such that the absorbed liquid is distributed in a planar direction such that exists in the longitudinal and lateral directions on the plane or surface of the layer. The term “nonwoven material,” also referred to herein as “non-woven material,” throughout the specification refers to a product in the form of a film, web, or mat of directionally or randomly oriented fibers that are bonded by friction, adhesion, and/or adhesion. Products woven, knitted, tufted, quilted using filament or single yarns, or wet felted do not fall under the term “non-woven material.” The term "cotton-like material" as used herein means a material that has substantially the same fiber length as cotton fiber and may, for example, be a cottonized material or a two-component fiber material such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PE). PP).

The relatively thick, yet light and flexible non-woven interlayer provides effective separation of the absorbent layers from each other, their stabilization, liquid distribution over a large area and negligible backflow. Preferred for this purpose is a material with a long fiber length and strong septation, as well as with a predominant fiber orientation in the planar direction relative to the thickness direction. A nonwoven interlayer material can have many times better surface liquid distribution properties than comparable cellulose fibers. Due to this, an increase in moisture is achieved over the surface of the SVP material of the second absorbent layer located below in such a way that the efficiency of its use is increased. SVP material has the ability to swell more uniformly along the length of the absorbent layer.

In each of any of the above-mentioned disposable absorbent articles, the absorbent core may further have a top layer, which, when used, forms a first, innermost, body-proximal layer of the absorbent core, located closer to the top pad of the body, and a bottom layer, which, when used, forms the outermost layer of the absorbent core, farthest from the body, located closer to the bottom pad of the main body. The top layer and base layer strengthen and stabilize the entire core structure and also prevent the core from slipping into the body of the absorbent article.

The upper layer of the absorbent core can have, first of all, particularly high hydrophilicity, that is, hygroscopicity, which ensures rapid transport of liquid into the absorbent part of the core in such a way that this effect is not interrupted even with high volumes of liquid and longer loading. The top layer, together with the intermediate layer, is designed in such a way that they are endowed with the ability to quickly transport water and distribute it over a large area, which, in combination with both layers of SVP, increases the functional ability in the tightest spaces. The top layer may have a higher permeability than the bottom layer. Preferably, the bottom layer can be made hydrophobic, that is, repels moisture.

Preferably, the top layer and bottom layer are composed of non-woven material. Particularly suitable for this purpose are synthetic nonwovens, for example made from polypropylene fibers or bicomponent fibers. Alternatively, non-woven fabrics made from natural materials such as silk, wool or cotton fiber or, particularly preferably, bamboo fiber can also be used. This can also provide a biodegradable diaper. Due to the higher costs and limited controllability of the hydrophilic properties of many currently available natural nonwoven textile materials, synthetic nonwoven materials are preferred for the top and bottom layers. In addition, the top and bottom layers must have high tensile strength to ensure stable retention of the core also in the filled state.

Preferably, the bottom layer may be bonded to the top layer only at the side edges of the absorbent core. This, in combination with the sufficient intrinsic stability of the absorbent core, ensures that it is even more rigidly positioned in an absorbent article, for example a diaper, so that the absorbent core does not slip off in it even when wet. There is no need to fix the top layer and bottom layer above and below on the SVP layers. As a result, the absorbent core, up to the gluing points on the side edges, can be otherwise free of adhesive substances for fixing the SVP material. In this way, the use of dangerous thermoplastic adhesives can be prevented. This solution is preferred for absorption. In addition, saving on adhesive also entails saving on costs, since skin-friendly and environmentally friendly adhesives form a significant cost factor in the production of diapers. However, in principle, it is possible to alternatively bond part of the surface of the upper and lower layers with the corresponding SVP layer using special adhesives that are safe in toxic and environmental aspects, meet environmental requirements and do not irritate the skin.

In advantageous embodiments, each of the above-mentioned disposable absorbent articles also has an acquisition and distribution layer (ADL) that is inserted between the top pad of the body and the absorbent core and is designed to quickly transfer absorbed liquid further into the absorbent core covering a large area. Such SPR layers are known from the prior art. However, the SPR layer in the disposable absorbent article according to the utility model preferably has a non-woven material structure, for example like an intermediate layer in the core, which is designed to distribute liquid widely over the surface, possibly on the entire available surface of the absorbent core. Materials other than non-woven materials are also suitable for the SPR layer.

Preferably, the topsheet and the SPR layer are not bonded to the absorbent core. This prevents the length of the absorbent core suitable for absorbing liquid from being shortened. The overall stability of the diaper can be achieved through suitable component sizes and manufacturing techniques. Again, the use of environmentally hazardous adhesives is avoided, as well as cost savings.

In an advantageous embodiment of any of the above-mentioned disposable absorbent articles, the body bottom liner may be formed by an outer layer of nonwoven material. An anti-bleed layer in the form of a waterproof film may be provided between the outer layer of nonwoven material and the absorbent core. Preferably, the waterproof film may consist of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) or similar materials. To reduce the formation of mildew and to prevent heat accumulation in the absorbent article, a breathable film is preferred. The soft outer layer of nonwoven material may be composed of the same material as the top, bottom, and/or intermediate layers of the absorbent core.

In an embodiment, the body's top liner may extend to the body's anti-leakage layer, where it is bonded to it over small areas. In this way, a shell can be created for the absorbent core, which provides it with good structural support.

In a modified embodiment, the top liner can be further extended and folded so that it covers the absorbent core with its edge portions on both sides and slightly covers it underneath on the side of the lower core layer. Preferably, these edge sections can be additionally glued together in small areas with a layer of protection against leakage of the main part. This also makes it possible for liquid to be absorbed in the area of the leakage protection layer or the lower pad that has not been absorbed by the absorbent core or has been drawn back from it. In addition, through this embodiment, the structural support of the absorbent core in the body is further improved.

In each of the above embodiments of a disposable absorbent article, the absorbent core can provide very high wicking performance, both in terms of wicking rate and wicking capacity, reduced weight, reduced dimensions, fast surface drying time, and minimized backflow. This is achieved primarily through the appropriate selection of core materials, SVP materials with different particle diameters in the absorbent layers and in the intermediate layer between them. The advantageous properties also contribute to the improvement of the absorbent product as a whole, especially diapers or waterproof pants.

Alternative materials for the absorbent core and absorbent article may also be considered. First of all, renewable raw materials can be used to create a fully biodegradable diaper. For example, superabsorbents can be obtained from starch. Biodegradable materials can be used as an anti-leakage layer. Nonwoven layers can be based on bamboo fiber or specially treated cellulose materials. Natural cotton can be used for the intermediate layer of the absorbent core.

Other advantageous details, as well as special features and properties of the utility model are disclosed in the following description of preferred embodiments of the utility model, in the accompanying drawings and in the claims of the utility model. In the drawings, embodiments of the utility model are provided for indicative and illustrative purposes only, but not to limit the utility model, and throughout the drawings, like reference numerals denote like elements. Shown:

Fig. 1 is a top view of a diaper according to an embodiment of a utility model in a simplified representation, in places with sections in several planes,

Fig. 2 is a cross-section through a diaper according to FIG. 1, drawn along line 2-2 in FIG. 1,

Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the absorbent core of the diaper according to FIG. 1 in isolated, simplified, enlarged view,

Fig. 4 is a cross-section through the diaper structure according to FIG. 1 within the framework of a liquid absorption representation to illustrate the operating principle, in a highly simplified, enlarged manner with respect to FIG. 1 performance, and

Fig. 5 shows a diaper according to another embodiment of the utility model in a simplified cross-sectional representation similar to that shown in FIG. 2.

In fig. 1 illustrates a diaper 1 according to an embodiment of the utility model in a simplified top view. The diaper 1 is an example of a disposable absorbent article that embodies the utility model. Although in the following discussion references are made primarily to the diaper 1 according to FIG. 1, it is understood that the utility model can also be applied to other disposable absorbent articles, especially waterproof pants for infants, potty training pants for small children and absorbent underwear for adults, and the following explanations are similarly valid for these absorbent products. By diaper 1 or other absorbent article is meant a disposable or disposable article that is discarded or disposed of after a few uses, preferably after only one single use. Diaper 1 is not intended for repeated use.

The diaper 1 is shown in Fig. 1 in an unfolded, unworn state, with areas of the structure being partially cut out to more clearly show the internal structure of the diaper 1. In use, the body-facing surface of the diaper that is in contact with the skin of the subject faces in FIG. 1 to the observer. Also shown are the longitudinal axis 2 of the diaper 1 and the transverse axis 3 extending laterally perpendicular to it. The outer boundaries of the diaper define the outer edge to which the upper one in FIG. 1 edge 4 and the opposite lower edge 6, which limit the diaper in the longitudinal direction along the longitudinal axis 2, as well as the left one in FIG. 1 and right edges 7, 8, which extend in the longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 2, and define outer limiting edges laterally along the transverse axis 3. The expressions "upper", "lower", "left" and " right" as they are used here in combination with the edges 4-8 or also with other components of the diaper, serve only to simplify the reference to the diaper 1 and its components, and depend on the orientation of the diaper. These expressions in this case refer to the one shown in Fig. 1 diaper orientation 1.

The diaper 1 has a body 9 and an absorbent core 11. The body 9 provides the diaper 1 with structural support and also stably receives the absorbent core 11 in its interior. The body 9 or diaper 1 has a first or rear connecting portion 12, which in use surrounds the rear waist region of the subject, a second or front connecting portion 13 which in use surrounds the front waist region of the subject, and an intermediate portion 14 which connects the rear and anterior connecting portions 12, 13. The intermediate portion 14 in use is located at the subject's crotch, between with his feet. The rear connecting portion 12 may have a built-in elastic cuff member 16 that allows the connecting portion 12 to be elastically stretched laterally so that the diaper 1 can be easily placed around the waist of the subject and the diaper can be pulled down to provide a snug fit and a good seal. use.

The intermediate section 14 has the smallest lateral dimension. The rear and front connecting portions 12, 13 are wider than the intermediate portion 14 and respectively define a pair of wing-like rear edge portions 18 or wing-like leading edge portions 19 that project laterally beyond the intermediate portion 14. At the rear edge portions 18, fastening members 22 of the fastening system 21 are provided for releasably and re-locking the diaper 1 around the waist of the subject. The fastening elements 22 can be made, in the simplest form, in the form of adhesive-like fastening strips, which, when fastening the diaper 1 around the waist of the subject, are applied in the overlapping area 23, which is provided on the outer surface of the front edge portion 19, and which are held there by adhesion or adhesion forces. In the illustrated preferred embodiment, in this case, a mechanical fastening system 21 is provided in the form of a type of Velcro fastener, in which the fastening elements 22 are made, for example, in the form of hook tapes that cooperate with a loop or nap tape 17, which is attached, for example glued , in the overlay area 23 on the outside of the diaper 1. As a result, the diaper 1 can be opened and closed almost as often as desired. There are also other multi-releasable locking means, such as, for example, hook-and-loop mechanisms and the like.

In any case, the fastening system 21 in combination with the elastic cuff element 16 on the connecting portion 12 makes it possible to easily place and fasten the diaper 1 around the waist of the subject. In the strengthened state, the fasteners 22 support a tensile load around the subject's waist. In the application area 23, in particular in the area of the loop or pile tape 17, suitable (not illustrated here) markings can be provided on both sides in the transverse direction, which can assist the user in uniformly closing the diaper 1 around the waist, and in uniform distribution tensile load on both fastening elements 22.

At the intermediate portion 14 along the left and right edges 7, 8, two rows of elastic leg cuffs 24, 26 are provided which seal the subject's leg when in use. The elastic cuffs 24, 26 are also clearly visible in the enlarged cross-sectional view of the diaper 1 in FIG. 2. The inner cuff 24 fits tightly to the leg and provides a first barrier against fluid leakage. The outer cuff 26 forms a second barrier, and may preferably be in the form of ruffles. Elastic elements 27, for example elastic threads 27 sewn into the body 9, contribute to the elasticity, fit and tightness of the cuffs 24, 26.

As is evident from the cut portion in FIG. 1 and cross-sectional views according to FIG. 2, the main body 9 has a layered structure, which includes an upper pad 28, an absorbent and distribution layer 29, an anti-leakage layer 31 and a lower pad 32. The upper pad 28, which is shown in FIG. 1, both in top and cross-sectional views, is a layer that is in direct contact with the subject's skin when in use. It is made of the softest possible material, preferably non-woven textile material, which ensures high wearing comfort. The term "non-woven material", often here also referred to as "non-woven material", refers to a product in the form of a film, web or mat of directionally or randomly oriented fibers that are bonded to each other by friction, adhesion and/or adhesion , but not woven, knitted or joined together by stitching. The non-woven textile materials used in the layer structure 1 can be composed of various natural or synthetic fibers, and can be represented by grouped or continuous filaments. They can be produced through various methods such as melt blow, spunbond, spinning or carding, etc. Currently, synthetic fibers are preferred. However, non-woven textiles made from natural materials, such as, for example, silk, wool or cotton fibers, or preferably bamboo fibers with good absorption properties, are also suitable. In principle, materials mixed from synthetic and natural materials are also applicable.

Although not specifically represented in the drawings, the top pad 28 preferably has a knob-like surface structure with a number of distributed pearl-shaped bumps or raised areas that protrude outward from the outer surface of the top pad 28. Due to their pearl-like shape, such dotted bumps also referred to as "Pearl Dot". This knobby structure allows for faster drainage of fluids released from the subject and absorbed by the upper pad 28 into the underlying absorption and distribution layer 29. In addition, the knobs also reduce contact with the skin, as a result of which they increase wearing comfort, reduce skin irritation and provide ventilation subject's skin. Alternatively, a very soft, easily perforated top gasket 28 can also be used for this purpose, which can have, for example, channels pressed into it. The upper gasket 28 is made hydrophilic to ensure rapid drainage of liquid. First of all, baby diapers must use a particularly soft non-woven material with a tactile feel comparable to that of cotton.

The absorbent and distribution layer 29 is located between the upper gasket 28 and the absorbent core 11. It is often also referred to as the SPR layer (from Acquisition Distribution Layer) and has the function of quickly transporting the emitted liquids drawn through the upper gasket 28 to the absorbent core 11 located below, and when this, the widest distribution of liquid over the surface to be used for absorbing the majority of the available surface of the absorbent core 11. For this purpose, the SPR layer 29 is formed from a suitable material, such as, for example, a non-woven material, that is, as explained above, “non -woven material”, which has particularly coarse fibers, which may have a fiber orientation suitable for distributing liquid in the planar direction 33, that is, along the surface, while, however, ensuring rapid evacuation of the released liquid in the direction 34 in depth or thickness .

The bottom liner 32 of the body 9 forms the outer layer of the body 9 and the diaper 1 and has the function of maintaining the overall structure. It may be made of a similar or the same material, most notably a non-woven material, as the top liner 28 (however without the knobby structure or the like). Particularly pleasant, soft material is desirable primarily for diapers for babies, but not only for them.

Since the outer layer 32 is in direct contact with the clothing or other articles of the subject, such as, for example, bedding, it must be ensured that the excretions absorbed and retained in the absorbent core are prevented from reaching the outer surface and contaminating clothing, bedding, or the like. . For this purpose, an anti-bleed layer 31 is provided, which is a waterproof film, which is preferably made from polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) or other suitable materials that can provide a fluid seal. Suitable anti-leakage layers or anti-leakage film 31 must be breathable to allow air to enter the inside of the diaper 1 to ventilate the skin of the holder and allow liquid diffusion. The gas and vapor permeability of the leakage protection layer 31 thus makes it possible to prevent heat accumulation and the formation of fungus. The density of the anti-bleed layer 31 should be selected according to the relevant requirements, and, for example, PE films with a density of about 15-16 gsm have proven suitable. m. The film can also be printed.

As is obvious first of all from FIG. 2, the top liner 28 extends along the side edges of the body 9, past the SPR layer 29 and the absorbent core 11, to the anti-bleed layer 31 and is surface bonded at location 30 with the anti-bleed layer 31 and, if necessary, also with inner cuff 24. In this case, the top liner 28 can intercept and absorb exuded liquid, such as, for example, urine, which escapes laterally from the layer 29 or absorbent core 11 and thus, in combination with the cuffs 24, 26, provide an improved seal. In addition, a closed body 9 is thus created which surrounds and stably receives the absorbent core 11 and also provides the entire diaper 1 with good structural support.

The body 9 of the diaper 1 has a three-dimensional shape suitable for the respective age and weight group of the subject, which is designed for a good fit and high wearing comfort. The soft materials that are in contact with the skin of the subject or form the outer side of the diaper 1 contribute to a highly pleasant, soft tactile sensation. The body 9 is well suited to accommodate and stably hold the absorbent core 11 in its interior.

The absorbent core 11 forms the main component of the diaper 1, which absorbs and retains the released liquid. The absorbent core 11 is inserted into the body 9 between the SPR layer 29 and the anti-leakage layer 31, and is kept substantially prevented from slipping. In this case, the absorbent core 11 has, in a top view according to FIG. 1, a substantially rectangular outline which is somewhat smaller than that of the main body 9. The outline of the absorbent core 11 is defined by the outline shown in FIG. 1 of the upper edge 36 and the opposite lower edge 37, which limit the absorbent core 11 in the longitudinal direction along the longitudinal axis 2, as well as those shown in FIG. 1 of left and right side edges 38, 39, which extend in the longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 2. The length of the absorbent core 11 along the longitudinal axis 2 essentially corresponds to the longitudinal extent of the intermediate portion 14 of the body 9, and the width of the absorbent core 11 is somewhat smaller than the width of the intermediate portion 14. The contour of the absorbent core 11 may be adapted to the contour of the intermediate portion 14, and the side edges 38, 39 may be correspondingly slightly curved relative to the direction of the edges 7 or 8 of the body 9, and may extend with a slight gap therefrom .

The absorbent core 1 is further illustrated in FIG. 3 in enlarged isolated view. It has a layered structure and absorbent material that are specially formed, selected and matched to each other in such a way that it is possible to achieve the best absorption performance in terms of both absorption rate and absorption capacity while keeping the core 11 mass as low as possible and minimizing reverse flow (reverse flow) of liquid under pressure. The absorbent core 11 does not contain layers of the body 9, most notably a top liner 28 or an SPR layer 29 on the body-proximal side, and an anti-leakage layer 31 or an outer, bottom liner 32 on the body-distant side of the diaper 1.

In this case, on the contrary, the layered structure of the absorbent core 11 includes a top layer 41, a first absorbent layer 42, an intermediate layer 43, a second absorbent layer 44 and a bottom layer 46. The presented sequence of layers 41-46 is valid in the thickness direction 34 or according to the depth of the absorbent core 11 or diaper 1.

The top layer 41 forms the uppermost layer of the core, which is located in the thickness direction 34 below or adjacent to the receiving and distribution layer 29 of the body 9. The top layer 41 is hydrophilic, that is, hygroscopic, to ensure rapid evacuation of the released liquid from the SPR layer 29 in the absorbent part of the absorbent core 11. This evacuation must also be ensured in the presence of large volumes of liquid. Therefore, the top layer 41 preferably has a higher permeability in the thickness direction than the layers 28, 29 of the body 9 located above it. It should be noted that it is also possible to dispense with the SPR layer 29 of the body 9, especially when the top layer 41 of the absorbent core 11 is designed in such a way that it performs the receiving and distribution function of the SPR layer 29.

In addition, the top layer 41 serves to strengthen the entire structure of the absorbent core 11 and prevent it from slipping in the body 9 of the diaper 1. Moreover, it also ensures the stability of the absorbent core 11 during the manufacturing process. Preferably, the top layer 41 consists of a synthetic non-woven material, which may be identical to the material of the top or bottom pad 28, 32 of the body 9 or the like. For example, polypropylene (PP) with a density of approximately 11-13 g/m2 has proven to be a suitable non-woven material. m. The non-woven material of the top layer 41 should, however, not be as soft as the material in contact with the skin of the top pad 28 of the main part 9.

Adjacent to the top layer 41 in thickness direction 34 is a first absorbent layer 42. In a preferred embodiment, the absorbent layer 42 has a granular, superabsorbent polymeric material 47 that has a first, large diameter particle size. By “superabsorbent polymeric material” (“SAP material”), “superabsorbent” or also “gelling absorbent material” in the technical field and herein is meant an interchangeable spatially cross-linked polymeric material which has the ability to absorb at least 10 times its the mass of a volume of fresh water, and this material swells or forms a gel when absorbing water. In general, the SVP material is a copolymer of acrylic acid (propenoic acid) or sodium acrylate (sodium salt of acrylic acid) on the one hand, and acrylamide on the other hand, and the ratio of both monomers to each other may be different. Additionally, a so-called core cross-linker (CXL) is added to the monomer solution, which locally interconnects or cross-links the formed long-chain polymer molecules through chemical bridges. Through such bridging bonds, the polymer becomes insoluble in water. This so-called base polymer is optionally subjected to subsequent surface cross-linking (SXL). In this case, another chemical is placed on the surface of the corpuscles, which, through heating, forms a second network only on the outer layer of the core. This shell supports the gel, which has swollen after ingestion of liquid, which allows it to be retained even under external load as a result of movement and pressure. This makes it possible to reliably retain the absorbed liquid in the SVP material without the occurrence of reverse flow, also for long periods, for 12 hours or more.

“Granular” SVP material as used herein means SVP material in the form of granules, short fibers, plates, fiber bundles, spheres, powders and other forms that may be designated as corpuscles, particles or nuclei, and the ratio of the width or diameter of which to length is less than 1:10, preferably less than 1:5. The diameter of the particles or the diameter of the nuclei of SVP particles is taken to be their average size, that is, for example, the average value of their width, thickness (or diameter) and length. The particle diameter or core diameter of the SVP material in each of the absorbent layers 42, 44 should be understood as the average of the particle diameters of all SVP particles in the corresponding layer.

The first absorbent layer 42 is selected to perform a type of buffer function. It must relatively quickly accept the first pressure of liquid from the upper layer 41, and also accept liquid in large quantities without approaching its boundaries of the absorption capacity. To do this, the diameter of the particles or the diameter of the cores of the granular SVP material 47 of the first absorbent layer 42 must be chosen large (primarily larger than that for the SVP material of the second absorbent layer 44, as described below in detail) and sufficient to perform this function. A suitable first particle diameter for the granular SVP material 47 of the first absorbent layer 42 was found to be in the range of 0.595-0.400 mm, which corresponds to a sieve number of 30-40. However, the particle diameter may be slightly different, up or down, depending on the SVP material 47. However, the SVP material 47 of the first absorbent layer 42 should have the ability to absorb at least 40 ml of 0.9% NaCl solution, preferably at least at least 50 ml per gram of SVP. The freshwater absorption capacity should not be less than 80 ml per gram of SVP, and preferably at least 100 ml per gram of SVP. Such performance values can be achieved by high-quality superabsorbents, for example those commercially available from BASF SE, Germany, Sanyo Chemical Industries Ltd., Japan, under the Sandia brand, or from Evonic Industries AG, Germany, under the Favor brand.

The SVP material 47 in the first absorbent layer 42 is preferably the only absorbent material in that layer. In other words, the content of the SVP material 47 in the entire absorbent material in the first absorbent layer 42 is 100% or at least nearly 100%. In any case, the absorbent material of the first absorbent layer 42 does not contain any cellulose (pulp). It has been found that the highest functionality of relatively fast liquid intake and large absorption volume, as well as relatively short surface drying time with a small weight and volume of the absorbent core 11 can be achieved with an absorbent material that is based on pure SVP material. The latter is explained primarily by the fact that the absorbent material is free of cellulose. In addition, problems associated with conventional SVP/pulp-based absorbent cores, such as, for example, uneven distribution of SVP material in the pulp creating areas of stronger and weaker absorption, slipping of the core in the body, etc., can be prevented. . High and uniform absorbency and filling capacity of the SVP material can be achieved throughout the absorbent core 11 with a reduced weight and volume of the core 11. In general, for an M/3 size diaper that is intended for a subject with a body weight of about 6-11 kg, About 6-7 g of SVP material in the first absorbent layer 42 is sufficient.

The diameter of the SVP particles for the first absorbent layer 42 is deliberately chosen to be quite large, since it has been found that although small SVP particles, due to their larger surface area in relation to the mass, can essentially accept a larger amount of liquid in total, they nevertheless quickly reach their boundaries containers. Therefore, too small a particle diameter in the first absorbent layer 42 may result in increased backflow. Therefore, SVP material 47 with a relatively large particle diameter is used.

The residual volumes of liquid not absorbed by the first absorbent layer 42 then flow to the adjacent intermediate layer 43. The intermediate layer 43 serves to separate the first and second absorbent layers 42, 44 from each other, to distribute 42 the unabsorbed liquid from the first absorbent layer covering a large area and to transfer further into the second absorbent layer 44. For this purpose, the intermediate layer 43 is made elastic, preferably from a non-woven material 48 made of cotton or a synthetic cotton-like material. By synthetic cotton-like material is meant, for example, a cottonized material or a material consisting of bicomponent fibers, which has essentially the same properties as a material consisting of natural cotton fibers. First of all, the fiber thickness and fiber length of the synthetic cotton-like material are substantially similar to those of natural cotton material. Suitable bicomponent fiber materials may consist of, for example, polyethylene/polypropylene and are commercially available, for example, under the trade name AL-Delta from ES FiberVisions, USA.

Regardless of whether the material 48 of the midlayer 43 consists of natural or synthetic "cotton", the thickness of the fibers, the length of the fibers and the preferred orientation of the fibers are chosen such that the absorbed liquid is provided with liquid distribution in the planar direction 33, that is, along the surface. Transport of fluid in the planar direction 33 is preferably more intense or stronger than in the thickness direction 34. For this purpose, the long fiber length and the strong septation of the material are advantageous, as well as the predominant orientation of the fibers in a substantially planar direction 33.

In preferred embodiments, the intermediate layer has a unit surface mass of approximately 40 gsm. m and a thickness of approximately 0.8 mm. In general, a thickness of about 0.7-0.9 mm may be suitable to effectively separate the first and second absorbent layers 42, 44 from each other, and to achieve the desired liquid distribution over a large area without excessively increasing the thickness of the core 11.

However, the described nonwoven materials 48 of the intermediate layer 43 have, in relation to cellulose-based materials, which can also be used alternatively, many times better liquid distribution properties over the surface. Therefore, preferably, also in the intermediate layer 43 no cellulose is used. In this way, an absorbent core 11 can be created that is completely free of cellulose, which entails a reduction in the weight and volume of the core 11.

The middle or intermediate layer 43 is of decisive importance because, by widely distributing the liquid over the surface of the SVP material 47 of the next layer, that is, the second absorbent layer 44, it is used with greater coverage and more uniformly.

The intermediate layer 43 is followed in the thickness direction towards the body-distal side by a second absorbent layer 44 which again has an absorbent material 49 which preferably consists of pure granular SVP material. The SVP material 49 constitutes substantially 100% of the total absorbent material of the second absorbent layer 44. In any case, the absorbent material 49 of the second absorbent layer 44 is preferably free of cellulose. The advantages of strong uniform absorption, reduced weight and volume, as well as high speed of surface drying, already mentioned above in connection with the SVP material 47 of the first absorbent layer 42, also apply to the SVP material 49 of the second absorbent layer 44.

However, the SVP material 49 of the second absorbent layer 44, in comparison with the SVP material 47 of the first absorbent layer 42, has a smaller particle or core diameter. For example, SVP material 49 has an average particle or core diameter of approximately sieve number 60-80, which corresponds to a value of approximately 0.250 to 0.177 mm. Again, the average particle diameter of the SVP material 49 may be slightly different, up or down, depending on the formulation of the SVP material 49. The small particle diameter is selected specifically to effectively receive and reliably long-term retain the residual volume of liquid that passes through the first absorbent layer 42 and an intermediate layer 43. Smaller SVP material particles 49, due to their larger surface area in relation to mass, can take up a total of more liquid than larger SVP material particles 47. In addition, small polymer SVP materials -material-particles 49 are better adapted to retain liquid for a long time. In addition, they are also less susceptible to pressure, which prevents backflow or at least significantly reduces it. For these reasons, the relative position of the absorbent layers 42, 44, as well as the sizes of their SVP particles, are of great importance for ensuring high efficiency of the absorbent core 11.

In a preferred embodiment, approximately 6-7 g of SVP material 49 is used for the second absorbent layer 44 for one M/3 size diaper 1 for a subject body weight of 6-11 kg. The absorption capacity of 0.9% NaCl solution by the SVP material 49 should be at least 60 ml, preferably at least 65 ml, per gram of SVP. The fresh water absorption capacity must be at least 120 ml per gram of SVP. Preferably it is at least 130 ml. In an advantageous embodiment, SVP material 49 is used with a fresh water absorption rate of 130-150 ml per gram of SVP. Currently, such performance indicators can be obtained, for example, using SVP materials from Sumitomo Seika Chemicals Co., Ltd., Japan.

The bottom layer 46, which forms the last layer of the layered structure of the absorbent core 11, like the top layer 41, again consists of non-woven material. However, unlike the top layer 41, the non-woven material of the bottom layer 46 may preferably be hydrophobic, that is, moisture repellent, to ensure that absorbed liquid is prevented from flowing to the outer layers 31, 32 of the body 9. For this purpose, the bottom layer It is also advantageous to have a short-fiber version of the nonwoven material 46, while the non-woven material of the top layer 41, due to its function, should be chosen rather to be long-fiber. The non-woven material of the bottom layer 46 must be particularly tensile to ensure stable retention of the absorbent core 11. In embodiments of the utility model, a material with a density of 11-13 gsm has proven to be advantageous. m.

As first of all shown in FIG. 2, the SPR layer 29 in the present preferred embodiment can be extended along the side edges 36-39 of the absorbent core 11 past the layers 41-43, up to the bottom layer 46 or its vicinity, to perform its absorbent and distribution function also in these areas, and to enclose and retain the layers 41-44 of the core 11. Additionally or alternatively, the bottom layer 46 may be bonded to the top layer 41 along the side edges 36-39 of the absorbent core 11 using a non-toxic, environmentally and environmentally friendly adhesive on part of the surface to further hold the core 11 in the diaper 1 even more firmly and to prevent it from slipping. In this case, it is possible to dispense with the fixation of the absorbent layers 42, 44 on the upper layer 41 or the lower layer 46 of the core 11. Due to the continuous construction of the absorbent layers 42, 44 in the plane direction 33, the layer structure of the absorbent core 11 has sufficient intrinsic stability for holding and to prevent slippage of the absorbent layers 42, 44, as well as to hold still and prevent slippage of the absorbent core 11 as a whole in the body 9. The volume of adhesive required can be significantly reduced, especially in comparison with conventional diapers with a classic absorbent core made of SVP /pulp. Costs for adhesive can be saved, and the weight and volume or dimensions of both the absorbent core 11 and the diaper 1 as a whole can be reduced.

The following table 1 shows the weight of the clean absorbent SVP core 11 and the resulting diaper 1 for various types and sizes of diapers according to preferred embodiments of the utility model. The weight of the absorbent core can be reduced compared to comparable conventional pulp/SVP absorbent cores by approximately 30-40%.

In explaining the operation of the diaper 1, it is assumed that it has already been placed around the waist of a subject, such as an infant, and has been secured by the fastening system 21 such that the connecting portions 12, 13 enclose the waist and the cuffs 24, 26 seal the leg portions of the subject. The diaper 1 serves to absorb and retain urine, feces and other fluids discharged from the subject's body. The operation of the diaper 1 with the absorbent core 11 according to the utility model is further explained below in more detail in conjunction with FIGS. 4.

In fig. The 4-layer structure of the diaper 1 is separately illustrated in fragmentary and enlarged views. In addition, a fluid column 51 is schematically represented which represents the released biological fluid as it enters the top pad 28 of the main body 9 of the diaper 1. The top pad 28 quickly conducts this fluid column 51 to the underlying receiving and distribution layer (RDL) 29. It effectively distributes the liquid in the planar direction 33, that is, along the surface, in order to wet the largest surface of the absorbent core 11. The surface distributed portion of the liquid in the SPR layer 29 is indicated in FIG. 4 by reference numeral 52.

The top layer 41 of the absorbent core 11 quickly transports the arriving liquid further to the underlying first absorbent layer 42. The SVP material 47 of the first absorbent layer 42 absorbs the liquid and stores it. Due to the large diameter of the particles of the SVP material 47 in the first absorbent layer 42, liquid absorption occurs at a high speed, and can be carried out in large quantities without the SVP material 49 reaching its container boundaries. By slightly diffusion of the liquid in the planar direction 33, the liquid is also distributed over the surface of the continuous SVP material 47, as illustrated by the slightly expanding liquid portion 53 in the first absorbent layer 42.

From the SVP material 47 of the first absorbent layer 42, the unabsorbed portions of the liquid flow to the intermediate layer 43, which very effectively distributes the liquid over a large area, and then transfers it to the second absorbent layer 44. The wide distribution of liquid in the intermediate layer 43 is schematically represented in FIG. 4 and is indicated by reference numeral 54. Thus, the intermediate layer ensures that a very large surface area of the underlying second absorbent layer 44 is wetted with liquid and thereby allows the majority of the SVP material 49 to be used for absorption in this layer.

The SVP material 49 of the second absorbent layer 44 absorbs liquid and retains it in a durable and reliable manner. Polymer SVP particles with a small particle diameter retain liquid in a durable manner. They also effectively prevent, as a result of external pressure applied to the diaper 1 or movement of the diaper 1, reverse flow of liquid in the upward thickness direction 34 to and from the top liner 28 of the diaper 1 to and from the subject's skin. On the contrary, the absorbed liquid can be reliably and long-term stored in both absorbent layers 42, 44 of the absorbent core 11.

The diaper 1 according to the utility model is characterized by particularly good absorbency, as well as high absorption speed and high absorption capacity, which is ensured by suitable selection of materials and properties for the first and second absorbent layers 42, 44 and the intermediate layer 43, suitable matching of them with each other, including here, various particle diameters of the absorbent layers 42, 44 are suitable, as well as the liquid distribution function of the intermediate layer 43. The absorption capacity, absorption volume, absorption time and liquid distribution in the absorbent core 11 can be noticeably improved, and backflow can be minimized. The weight and thickness of the core can be noticeably reduced compared to conventional SVP/pulp absorbent cores. In general, this also entails a reduction in the weight and dimensions of the diaper 1. This makes it possible to reduce costs and costs for storage, transport and handling, for example also for retail spaces.

Fig. 5 shows a modified embodiment of a diaper or waterproof pants 1 according to the utility model. To the extent that there is consistency in design and/or function with the above-described embodiment according to FIG. 1-4, this serves as a basis for making references with the same reference symbols to the above description.

The embodiment according to FIG. 5 is different from that of FIG. 1-4 essentially by the fact that in this case, the top spacer 28 does not end in the vicinity of the anti-leakage layer 31 of the body 9 and is not bonded thereto. In this case, on the contrary, the upper gasket 28 is extended even further and, at the height of the leakage protection layer 31, is folded in such a way that it, with its edge sections 56, slightly encloses the absorbent core 11 also on its lower side. The edge portions 56 of the top liner 28 preferably extend between the bottom core layer 46 and the anti-bleed layer 31 for approximately 10-20 mm laterally to each other, and are bonded there at position 57 in small areas to the anti-bleed layer 31. leakage of the main part 9. Preferably, as a result, the discharged liquid, such as, for example, urine, coming out from the sides (right and left in Fig. 5) of the absorbent core 11 can also be absorbed at the bottom, in the area of the lateral edges of the protection layer 31 from leakage. In addition, the retention of the absorbent core 11 in the body is further improved.

Various other modifications are possible within the utility model. While the above description refers to the diaper or pant 1, the utility model as explained above is also applicable to other disposable absorbent articles and hygiene articles. The diaper may further have various features known in the art, such as wings, waist closures, rubber bands, and the like, to provide a better fit, to achieve better seal and fluid retention, and/or to improve aesthetics. For example, when used for waterproof pants other than those shown in FIG. 1 to 5 embodiments which, unlike the disposable diaper 1, are provided with a continuous elastic cuff 16, 17, in another preferred (not shown) embodiment it may be advantageous to have a base shape which is additionally stitched with elastic threads 27 on both sides around the longitudinal axis 2, along and parallel to it, as shown in Fig. 1. This can provide a special reinforcement which further improves the leakage protection of the rain pants by providing an improved seal in the lower area.

In another (not shown) embodiment, a dampness indicator may also be provided, which is attached to the outside of the absorbent article and is clearly visible from the outside, which indicator reports the dampness state inside the absorbent article and, if necessary, the degree of dampness. Preferably, the dampness indicator is located behind the lower outer layer of nonwoven material 46 and cannot contaminate clothing or bedding.

Alternative materials that consist of renewable raw materials can also be used for the absorbent core 11 and the diaper 1 as a whole, allowing the creation of a substantially or completely biodegradable diaper. For example, the synthetic nonwoven layers 28, 41, 43, 46 and 47 may be replaced with natural materials such as, for example, bamboo fiber or specially treated cellulose materials. It is possible to produce superabsorbents from starch and other natural superabsorbent materials currently known or developed in the future. The separating or intermediate layer 43 may also consist of natural cotton. Based on significantly improved absorption, better controlled liquid distribution quality and reduced costs, synthetic materials, especially those provided herein, are preferred.

Disclosed is a disposable absorbent article 1, such as, for example, a disposable diaper or disposable waterproof pants, with a body 9 and an absorbent core 11 disposed in the body 9. The absorbent core 11 has at least a first absorbent layer 42 and a second absorbent layer. 44 for absorbing liquid absorbed by the absorbent article 1. The first and second absorbent layers 42, 44 lie on top of each other in the thickness direction 34 and are separated from each other by an intermediate layer 43, which is configured to direct liquid from the first absorbent layer 42 to the second absorbent layer 44 and to distribute it superficially across the second absorbent layer. layer 44. The first absorbent layer 42 has a granular, superabsorbent polymeric material 47 with a first particle diameter, and the second absorbent layer 44 has a granular, superabsorbent polymeric material 49 with a second particle diameter. The second particle diameter is smaller than the first particle diameter.

LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

1 Diaper, disposable absorbent article

2 Longitudinal axis

3 Transverse axis

4 Top edge

6 Bottom edge

7 Left edge

8 Right edge

9 Main part

11 Absorbent core

12 Rear connecting section

13 Front connecting section

14 Intermediate section

16 Elastic cuff element

17 Loop or pile tape

18 Posterior marginal areas

19 Front edge areas

21 Fastening system

22 Fastening elements

23 Adjacent area

24 Inner cuff

26 Outer cuff

27 Elastic elements/threads

28 Upper gasket

29, 29' Absorbing and distributing layer, SPR layer

30 Place of gluing

31 Anti-leakage layer, PE film

32 Bottom gasket

33 Plane direction

34 Depth direction

36 Top edge

37 Bottom edge

38 Left side edge

39 Right side edge

41 Top layer

42 First absorbent layer

43 Intermediate layer, separating layer

44 Second absorbent layer

46 Bottom layer

47 SVP material, absorbent material

48 Non-woven fabric

49 SVP material, absorbent material

51 Column of liquid

52 Part of liquid

53 Part of liquid

54 Liquid distribution

56 Regional area

57 Place of gluing

Claims (22)

1. Disposable absorbent article having a body (9) having a liquid-permeable upper pad (28) which, when in use, is in contact with the skin of the subject's body, and a lower pad (32) on the opposite side distal from the body, an absorbent core (11) which is located between the upper pad (28) and the lower pad (32) of the main body (9) and has a first absorbent layer (42) and a second absorbent layer (44) for absorbing liquid absorbed by the absorbent article (1), wherein the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44) lie on top of each other in the thickness direction (34) between the upper and lower pads (28, 32), wherein the first absorbent layer (42) has a granular superabsorbent polymer material (47) with a first particle diameter, and the second absorbent layer (44) has a granular superabsorbent polymer material (49) with a second particle diameter that is smaller than the first particle diameter, and wherein between the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44) an intermediate layer (43) is introduced, which separates the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44) from each other to direct liquid from the first absorbent layer (42) to the second absorbent layer (44 ) and for its surface distribution over the second absorbent layer (44), wherein the intermediate layer (43) consists of a nonwoven material and has a fiber thickness, fiber length and fiber orientation that ensures the distribution of absorbed liquid in the planar direction (33). 2. The disposable absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the first absorbent layer (42) on the body-proximal side is located closer to the top pad (28) of the absorbent article (1), and the second absorbent layer (44) on the body-distant side is located closer to the bottom pad (32) of the absorbent article (1). 3. A disposable absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the particle diameter of the superabsorbent polymeric material (49) in the second absorbent layer (44) is less than 70%, preferably less than 60%, most preferably less than 50%, of the particle diameter of the superabsorbent polymeric material (47) in the first absorbent layer (42). 4. The disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the superabsorbent polymeric material (47) of the first absorbent layer (42) has a particle diameter in the range of 0.595-0.400 mm, and the superabsorbent polymeric material (49) of the second absorbent layer (44) has a particle diameter in the range of 0.250-0.177 mm. 5. The disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the superabsorbent polymer material (47) of the first absorbent layer (42) has the ability to absorb a 0.9% NaCl solution of at least 40 ml, preferably at least 50 ml, per gram of superabsorbent polymeric material, and the fresh water absorption capacity is at least 80 ml, preferably at least 100 ml, per gram of superabsorbent polymeric material, and wherein the superabsorbent polymeric material (49) of the second absorbent layer (44) has an absorption capacity of 0 .9% NaCl solution of at least 60 ml, preferably at least 65 ml, per gram of superabsorbent polymer material, and fresh water absorption capacity of at least 120 ml, preferably at least 130 ml, per gram of superabsorbent polymer material material. 6. Disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44) do not contain cellulose. 7. The disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the superabsorbent polymeric material (47, 49) is the only absorbent material in the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44). 8. A disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent core (11) for a diaper of size M/3 for a subject weight of 6-11 kg has a core weight of less than 20 g, preferably less than 17 g, and for a diaper of size XXL/6 for subject weight 16-28 kg - core weight less than 25 g, preferably less than 21 g. 9. The disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the superabsorbent polymeric material (47, 49) is respectively continuously distributed in the first and second absorbent layers (42, 44) in the longitudinal direction between opposite end edges and in the lateral direction between opposite side edges of the absorbent cores (11). 10. A disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent core (11) further has a hydrophilic top layer (41) and, preferably, a hydrophobic bottom layer (46), which respectively cover the first or second absorbent layer (42 , 44) in the thickness direction and consist of non-woven textile material. 11. The disposable absorbent article according to claim 10, wherein the bottom layer (46) is bonded to the top layer (41) at the side edges of the absorbent core (11). 12. The disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, which further has an absorbent and distribution layer (29), which is inserted between the upper pad (28) of the main part (9) and the absorbent core (11) and is configured to quickly transfer absorbed liquid further into the absorbent core (11) with the distribution of this liquid over the surface. 13. The disposable absorbent article according to claim 12, wherein the top liner (28) and the absorbent and distribution layer (29) are not bonded to the absorbent core (11). 14. A disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the top liner (28) encloses the absorbent core (11) on at least two sides. 15. The disposable absorbent article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom sheet (32) of the body (9) is formed by an outer layer of non-woven material, and wherein a layer (31) is disposed between the outer layer (32) of non-woven material and the absorbent core (11) protection against leakage in the form of a waterproof film, preferably made of polyethylene or polypropylene. 16. A disposable absorbent product according to one of the previous paragraphs, which is a disposable diaper or disposable waterproof pants.