RU2560916C2 - Absorbing element and absorbing product - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: absorbing element, divided into three parts in the longitudinal direction, includes the first absorbing part as the middle part, the second absorbing part, which is divided into one side of the first absorbing part, and the third absorbing part, which is divided into another side of the first absorbing part, with each of the absorbing parts containing a section of receiving a flowing medium layer for the absorption of a flowing medium and diffusion of the flowing medium in the planar direction; multiple projecting sections for storing the absorbable flowing medium for the absorption and accumulation of the flowing medium, which are continuous with the section receiving the flowing medium and are independently placed on the surface of one side of the section of the layer receiving the flowing medium; and concave portions, which are concave in the form of grooves on one surface or on facing each other positions of both surfaces, with the concave surfaces being placed between the projecting sections for the storage of the absorbable flowing medium, the first concave sections, located on the first absorbing part, are placed inside the external edges of the first absorbing part on top view and are placed in the longitudinal direction, the second and third concave sections, located on respective second and third absorbing parts, are respectively located in directions, oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction, the first and second concave sections and the first and third concave sections are formed as continuous concave sections or the first concave sections are at a distance from the second concave sections and third concave sections, with protruding sections for the storage of the absorbable flowing medium occupying the higher portion of the area than the ratio of the area of the concave sections, and the section of the layer receiving the flowing medium at lower parts of the concave sections has a smaller basic weight and density than the basic weight and density of the projecting sections for the storage of the absorbable flowing medium.

EFFECT: increased efficiency of absorption.

20 cl, 5 tbl, 33 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

{0001} The present invention relates to an absorbent member and an absorbent article.

BACKGROUND

{0002} In absorbent products such as disposable diapers, attempts have been made to increase the effectiveness and comfort when worn by improving the materials and designs of the individual components. For the purpose of this improvement, absorbent elements that are used in such absorbent products have also been developed, and more specifically, proposals have also recently been made regarding a variety of absorbent elements whose functionality has been considered in terms of application mode and type of product.

{0003} Patent Document 1 presents an absorbent article including: an absorbent element consisting of a plurality of individual and independent absorbent portions that are placed in a planar direction between the top sheet and the back sheet, an intermediate sheet that is further arranged between the absorbent element and the back sheet. The purpose of the intermediate sheet is to draw out the fluid that has been discharged into the absorbent article and to distribute the fluid. It also captures absorbent areas through attachment points. These attachment points, for example, are formed by ultrasonic embossing, hot-melt adhesive or the like. Therefore, an interface exists between the absorbent member and the intermediate sheet, so that the absorbent member and the intermediate layer are not molded as a unit.

{0004} In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses an absorbent pad including a fluffy section that is substantially not sealed and thereby has a low density, and a channel that simultaneously separates and surrounds the fluffy section, wherein the fluffy section and channel are continuous. The channel includes a storage section and a transport section. The storage section has a higher density than the fluff section, and the transport section has a higher density than the storage section. In addition, the transport section is simultaneously separated and surrounded by a storage section. This improves penetration and provides softness.

{0005} In the absorbent article disclosed in Patent Document 1, since the absorbent portions are placed and fixed on the intermediate sheet by fastening portions having a smaller surface area than the absorbent portions, “torsion” may occur in the absorbent element, or the absorbent portions may shift a case where movement is made, such as walking, when an absorbent article is worn at that time. In any case, a feeling of discomfort is experienced. In addition, since the fastening portions are located between the intermediate sheet and the absorbent portions, and there is an interface between them, the fastening portions prevent diffusion from the intermediate sheet to the absorbent element, or in some cases the interface thereby becomes insufficient so that the absorbent capacity of the absorbent element is manifested to an unsatisfactory degree. In addition, in the absorbent pad disclosed in Patent Document 2, although the penetration is improved, the density of the fluff section is low and the density of the duct section is high, so that the diffusion of fluid from the duct section into the fluff section is insufficient. In addition, the absorption rate of water-absorbing polymers is generally reduced in the case of absorption by repeated emissions, and is thus even more unsatisfactory to provide high absorbency.

{0006} The disposable diaper disclosed in Patent Document 3 includes a fluid permeable topsheet, a fluid impervious backsheet, and a fluid absorbent core sandwiched between the two sheets. In addition, the disposable diaper has a front waist region, a back waist region and a crotch region located between these two regions. At least one portion of the fluid absorbent core is divided along an imaginary line that extends from the front waist region to the back waist region through the crotch region. In such a disposable diaper, the fluid absorbent core is a multilayer product comprising: a first fibrous layer and a second fibrous layer, each of which includes powdered cellulose as a main component, and 1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less, superabsorbent polymer particles; and a particle layer comprising super absorbent polymer particles as a main component that is interposed between the fibrous layers and comprises from 5% or more to 50% or less of the mass of the fluid absorbent core. In addition, the first fibrous layer has a thickness of 1.5 times or more than the thickness of the second fibrous layer. The first and second fibrous layers and a layer of particles are visible on the side surfaces of the fluid absorbent core at the separation point, and in the gap between the side surfaces of the fluid absorbent core, which are separated from each other and located on opposite sides, the top sheet drops down along the side surfaces and in contact with the back sheet, and the top sheet and the back sheet are interconnected at the contact points. The fluid from the body is not only absorbed from the upper surface of the fluid absorbent core, but is also directly absorbed by the particle layer or fiber layer that lies beneath the particle layer through the side surfaces of the fluid absorbent core. Therefore, the ability of the particle layer to absorb fluid is effectively used in this diaper, and the ability to absorb fluid of the fibrous layer under the particle layer is also effectively used in the case where this particle layer forms a gel block. However, since in the disposable diaper described in Patent Document 3, the grooves of the front and back are formed along the longitudinal direction of the absorbent element, when the diaper is worn, gaps occur between the abdominal region and the absorbent element, so that leakage easily occurs along the gaps.

{0007} The paper diaper disclosed in Patent Document 4 includes an absorbent element comprising a water-absorbing polymer that has excellent ability to absorb water against artificial urine under load. However, since numerous grooves are not located on the absorbent member, it is difficult to achieve a high absorption rate.

{0008} Patent Document 5 discloses an absorbent article including a front panel portion, a crotch portion, a rear portion portion and an outer edge portion that are spaced apart for flexibility between the panels, the panels being held as a single, integral whole absorbent core panel. Each of the panels is independently formed, being flexible in the direction from front to back and from side to side in each surface of the panel. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 33, when the product is worn, between the skin surface 120S of the model 120 and the flexible portions B1, B2 between the panels 121 and 122, 122 and 123, respectively, gaps C1 and C2 sometimes occur.

{0009} In the absorbent article disclosed in Patent Document 5, when there are gaps between the flexible portions between the respective portions and the skin surface during wear, fluid leakage sometimes occurs through the gaps. In addition, sometimes during socks there is a feeling of discomfort. In addition, in the absorbent article presented in Patent Document 5, since fastening portions are placed between the intermediate sheet and the absorbent portion, there is an interface between them, diffusion from the intermediate sheet into the absorbent element is sometimes suppressed by the fastening portions or the interface and thereby becomes unsatisfactory, and therefore, the absorbency of the absorbent element is not sufficiently manifested.

LIST OF REFERENCES

Patent Documents

{0010} Patent Document 1: JP-A-2009-273868 (“JP-A” means Unexamined Published Japanese Patent Application)

Patent Document 2: JP-A-64-45801

Patent Document 3: JP-A-11-216161

Patent Document 4: JP-A-11-60975

Patent Document 5: JP-A-2004-49507

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

TECHNICAL PROBLEMS

{0011} The present invention is aimed at improving the comfort of socks, and at improving the ability to provide diffusion of the fluid and the ability to absorb fluid, while maintaining excellent fit to body contours even while walking, in a sitting position and the like. In addition, the present invention aims to prevent a significant reduction in these performance characteristics even during repeated selection.

SOLUTION

{0012} The present invention solves the above problems by using an absorbent member divided into three regions in the longitudinal direction, which includes a first absorbent region as a middle portion, a second absorbent region that is divided on one side of the first absorbent region, and a third absorbent region, which divided on the other side of the first absorbent region, each of the absorbent regions comprising: a portion of a fluid receiving layer for absorbing a fluid and distributing a bunch of medium in a planar direction; multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions for absorbing and accumulating fluid that are continuous with the fluid receiving portion and are independently located on the surface of one side of the fluid receiving layer portion; and concave portions that are concave in the form of grooves on one surface or on the positions of both surfaces facing each other, with concave portions located between the protruding sections of the absorbent fluid storage, the first concave portions located on the first absorbent section are located inside the outer edges of the first the absorbent region in a plan view and arranged in the longitudinal direction, the second and third concave portions located on the respective second and third absorbent regions, respectively Significantly located in directions oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction, the first and second concave sections, and the first and third concave sections are formed as continuous concave sections, or the first concave sections are located at a distance from the second concave sections and the third concave sections, the protruding storage sections absorbed fluids have a higher area ratio than the area ratio of concave portions, and the portion of the fluid receiving layer in the lower regions of the concave The smaller areas have lower base weights and densities than the base weights and densities of the protruding storage areas of the absorbed fluid.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

{0013} The absorbent element according to the present invention can distribute the fluid over a wide area due to the improved ability to diffuse the fluid, and can distribute the fluid entering the absorbent element in the planar direction using the low density portion of the fluid receiving layer, and can provide the ability to absorb and accumulate diffused fluid in the protruding high-density storage area of the absorbed fluid, which are not eryvnymi receiving portion with the fluid layer; therefore, the degree of absorption of the fluid is increased, and the absorbency can be increased. In addition, since the shapes of the respective absorbent regions are easily modified by the second and third concave portions to exactly match the contours of the body, while softness such as flexibility is exhibited by the first concave portions, and the contact characteristic between each absorbent region and the surface is improved. skin in the right place, the fit to the contours of the body is excellent even while walking, in a sitting position, and the like.

In the absorbent article according to the present invention, since the contact characteristic between each absorbent region and the skin surface in the desired location is improved, the fit to the body contours is excellent even while walking, in a sitting position, and the like. In addition, since the lateral side portions of the absorbent member are made easily adaptable to the inguinal region by the first concave portions, lateral leakage of fluid entering the first absorbent portions can be prevented. In addition, adhesion to the skin can be reduced by arranging the surfaces of the upper sides of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions on the surface of the skin contact side, and arranging the side of the fluid receiving layer portion on the surface of the non-skin contact side while maintaining of the advantage that the contact characteristic (fit) with the skin can be improved. In addition, since the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions are continuous with the fluid receiving layer portion, torsion due to movements such as walking during wear is reduced, displacement of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions is eliminated, and the feeling of unnaturalness when worn is weakened, and thereby The most comfortable socks.

{0014} Other and additional objects, features and advantages of the invention will be more fully apparent from the following description, with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

{0015} FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view showing a first embodiment of an absorbent element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a sectional view that explains a method for measuring the density of an absorbent element.

In Fig. 3, an image (1) is a perspective view, and an image (2) is a vertical sectional view showing the transfer and diffusion of a fluid entering an absorbent element.

4 is a vertical sectional view showing the transfer and diffusion of a fluid entering a continuous absorbent element.

5 is a vertical sectional view showing a second embodiment of an absorbent element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

6 is a vertical sectional view showing a third embodiment of an absorbent element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

7 is a plan view showing a fourth embodiment of an absorbent element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic structural sectional view showing an example of an absorbent core using an absorbent member according to the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a plan view showing a fifth embodiment of an absorbent element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 is a top view showing a more preferred example of the placement of the corresponding concave sections.

11 is a plan view showing a preferred arrangement of third concave portions.

12 is a schematic cross-sectional surface view showing one example of a cross-sectional surface shape in the vicinity of concave portions placed on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

13 is a plan view showing a first example of shapes of concave portions in a plan view arranged on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

Fig. 14 is a plan view showing a second example of the shapes of concave portions in a plan view arranged on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

Fig. 15 is a plan view showing a third example of the shapes of concave portions in a plan view arranged on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

Fig. 16 is a plan view showing a fourth example of the shapes of concave portions in a plan view arranged on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

17 is a plan view showing a fifth example of the shapes of concave portions in a plan view placed on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

Fig. 18 is a plan view showing a sixth example of the shapes of concave portions in a plan view arranged on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a plan view showing a seventh example of shapes of concave portions in a plan view arranged on an absorbent member according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a sixth embodiment of an absorbent element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which image (1) is a perspective view showing a general view of an absorbent element, and image (2) is a schematic sectional view showing details of an absorbent element .

21 is a plan view of a water absorbent member showing an offset arrangement of an absorbent polymer.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing one example of an absorption process in the case where the separated fluid enters the water absorption member. FIG.

FIG. 23 is a schematic drawing of a structure showing one example of a manufacturing plant that is preferably used to make an absorbent member according to the present invention.

24 is a cross-sectional view of manufacturing steps showing one example of a preferred method for producing an absorbent member.

25 is a perspective view showing one example in which the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion in the lower region of the concave portions changes.

Fig. 26 is a plan view showing one example in which the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion in the lower region of the concave portion is changed, and a comparative example.

Fig. 27 is a plan view in an exploded view showing a preferred example of an absorbent article using an absorbent member according to the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a schematic sectional view of a structure showing yet another preferred embodiment of an absorbent article according to the present invention.

29 is a perspective view showing one example of a walking test device.

FIG. 30 is a schematic sectional view of a structure showing a measuring device for measuring the amount of absorption upon application of pressure.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a method for producing an absorbent article as a sample.

32 is a schematic sectional view of a structure showing the positions of the grooves in Examples and Comparative Examples.

33 is a perspective view showing a prototype.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

{0016} A first embodiment of an absorbent element in one preferred embodiment of the present invention will be explained below with reference to FIG.

{0017} As shown in FIG. 1, the absorbent member 10 (10A) according to the present invention has a single fluid receiving layer portion 31 that is configured to receive fluid, and multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 that are continuously formed with the fluid portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer and are independently located on the surface of one side of the fluid receiving layer portion 31. Therefore, the concave portions 20, which are configured to distribute a large amount of fluid in a planar direction, are spaced between the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 and the other adjacent protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32. The protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the concave portions 20 are arranged such that the area ratio of the multiple absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is larger than the area ratio of the concave portions 20. The area ratio will be described in detail. Numerous protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 absorb and retain a fluid that diffuses into the fluid receiving layer portion 31. Of course, the numerous protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 also absorb and hold fluid from portions that are in direct contact with the fluid. In addition, the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is higher than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 that lies below the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. Therefore, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 absorb the fluid from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 by capillary force.

{0018} The fluid receiving layer portion 31 has a base weight of preferably 10 g / m ² or more, and 300 g / m ² or less, more preferably 30 g / m ² or more, and 200 g / m ² or less, and particularly preferably 40 g / m ² or more, and 150 g / m ² or less.

In addition, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 have a base weight that is higher than the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 that is present in the concave portions as the total base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in contact with the protruding portions 32 storage of absorbable fluid, and is preferably 200 g / m ² or more, and 800 g / m ² or less, more preferably 300 g / m ² or more, and 700 g / m ² or less, particularly preferably 400 g / m ² or more, and 600 g / m ² or less. The base weight of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 can be calculated from the difference with the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the concave portions.

The projecting absorbent fluid storage portions 32 have a base weight of 100 g / m ² or more, and 600 g / m ² or less, preferably 200 g / m ² or more, and 600 g / m ² or less, and more preferably 300 g / m ² or more, and 600 g / m ² or less.

{0019} The fluid receiving layer portion 31 has a density of preferably 0.01 g / cm ³ or more, and 0.09 g / cm ³ or less, and more preferably 0.02 g / cm ³ or more, and 0.07 g / cm ³ or less. If the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is too low, the diffusion capacity of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 becomes small, and thereby the fluid accumulates near the urinary site, thereby increasing the amount of fluid backflow and creating an increased chance of fluid leakage, whereas if the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is too high, it becomes difficult to transfer the fluid to the raised storage portions 32 aemoy fluid, and readily occurs during reverse fluid. In addition, if the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is too low, the capillary force is unsatisfactory, and the diffusion ability of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is reduced, and thereby the fluid builds up near the urinary site, thereby increasing the amount of fluid backflow and causing light leakage. On the other hand, if the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is too high, gaps in the fluid receiving layer portion 31 are reduced, and the amount of fluid being dispensed is reduced, and thereby the amount of fluid entering the absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is reduced, and easy fluid leakage.

Furthermore, the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is higher than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, and is preferably 0.03 g / cm ³ or more, and 0.3 g / cm ³ or less, more preferably 0.05 g / cm ³ or more, and 0.2 g / cm ³ or less, and particularly preferably 0.06 g / cm ³ or more, and 0.15 g / cm ³ or less. In the case where the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is too low, the capillary force is difficult to control and it becomes difficult to direct the fluid that has passed through the fluid receiving layer portion 31 to the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32, and thereby, fluid retention becomes difficult. On the other hand, in the case where the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is too high, this easily suppresses superabsorbent polymer (SAP) swelling, and thereby it becomes difficult to retain the fluid that has passed through the fluid receiving layer portion 31. Therefore, it is desirable to pre-set the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 in the above range, which is higher than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31. A method of measuring the base weight and density will be given below.

{0020} The shape of each protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 is not particularly limited, and any shape may be used. In this embodiment, the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 are composed of cellulosic fiber and super absorbent polymer (SAP), and their outline is not necessarily template, as illustrated, and preferably is a spatial structure as a unit. In addition, the arrangements of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 in the longitudinal and transverse directions are also not limited, and it is preferred that the locations are appropriately determined according to the intended application.

{0021} Each protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 has a rectangular or trapezoidal shape that is elongated in the transverse direction along its vertical cross-sectional surface, and the upper surface 32S, as the side of its surface in contact with the skin, has a surface area that is the same or smaller than the surface area of the back surface 32B as the side of the surface not in contact with the skin.

{0022} The absorbent element 10 of this embodiment is constituted by a plurality of individual protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage, “adjoining to the contours of the body” to adapt to the undulations (irregularities) of the skin surface is significantly increased compared with this characteristic of commonly used combined large absorbents (solid absorbents) ) In addition, since the absorbent element exactly follows the movements of the person who wears it, and the formation of partial gaps with the skin and the like is prevented, the absorbent element has an exceptionally accurate “ability to follow the movement”. According to this embodiment, such accurate deformability and excellent preservation of absorption of a fluid or the like that do not deteriorate upon deformation can be simultaneously achieved.

{0023} In addition, the absorbent element 10 distributes the fluid over a wide area, for example, over the entire area or approximately the entire area of the fluid receiving layer section 31 from the extraction point, as a result of the diffusion effect of the fluid receiving layer section 31, as it repeats selection after the initial selection. In addition, the fluid may be absorbed from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 by the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 over a distribution area. Therefore, the degree of absorption of the fluid by the absorbent element 10 is significantly increased.

{0024} On the other hand, in a commonly used absorbent element in which the protruding portions of the storage of absorbable fluid are independently arranged (see the aforementioned Patent Document 1), its absorbent capacity decreases as it is recovered after the initial isolation. The reason for this is that there is a situation where the transition of the fluid between the protruding sections of the storage of absorbable fluid is difficult due to the separation of the protruding sections of the storage of absorbable fluid, so that the throughput for the fluid is reduced, and, more specifically, the transfer of fluid is not sufficiently ensured. from the selection point to other areas. As a result, the usable area is limited to a release point and a narrow area around the release point, and a large amount of fluid is present in excess of the absorbed amount, and thereby the reverse flow and leakage of the fluid easily occurs.

An excretion point is a site that directly receives excretions such as urine, frequent loose stools, menstrual blood or vaginal discharge, or its immediate surroundings in an absorbent element.

{0025} The base weights and densities of the respective sections of the aforementioned absorbent element 10 are determined as follows.

As shown in FIG. 2, the base weight in the planar direction of the absorbent element 10 is obtained as follows. First, the absorbent element 10, as seen in a horizontal projection, is completely cut, separating the protruding portions of the absorbent fluid storage portion 32 and the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is also cut off in the concave portion 20, mass and size are measured in the plane ( surface area) and the base weight is calculated.

In addition, the base weight in the thickness direction of the absorbent element 10 is obtained as follows. First, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 is cut off in the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the mass and size in the plane (surface area) are measured, and the base weight is calculated. The difference from the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the concave portions 20 that was previously measured is the base weight of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32. Here, the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, which is located under the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32, and the base weight of the adjacent fluid receiving layer portion 31, which lies under the concave portion 20, are considered equivalent. The thicknesses of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 are obtained as follows: the thicknesses of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the concave portion and the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 overlapping the fluid receiving layer portion 31, respectively, are measured by observing the surface cross-section using a microscope [microscope manufactured by Keyence Corporation (trade name: VHX-1000)].

Based on the results of the above measurements, densities are calculated according to the calculation: density = (base weight) / thickness.

{0026} The corresponding area ratios of the aforementioned multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and concave portions 20 are obtained as follows. Using the aforementioned microscope, focus it on the concave portions 20, measure the area including one or more protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage and the concave portion 20, convert the images of the concave portions into binary form, the ratio of the areas of the concave portions is output using the image processing processor , and the difference between them gives the ratio of the areas of the protruding portions 32 of the storage of absorbable fluid. If necessary, use manual correction and the like of the image analyzer. It is preferable to obtain an image of the entire absorbent element at a time and derive the area ratios using an image analyzer, and in the case that the measurement is carried out using multiple images, the area ratios can be derived, for example, by obtaining any two values from the sum ΣSb of pixels Sb protruding of absorbent fluid storage portions 32, the sum of ΣSt pixels St of concave portions 20, and the sum of ΣSb + ΣSt pixels of absorbent element, in a predetermined area, and calculating the fractions areas, or can be obtained from the whole set of numerical values that are obtained by multiplying the representative ratio of the area of places with different ratios of areas by the ratio of the surface areas of the respective sections to the total surface area. The ratio of the areas of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is ΣSb / (ΣSb + ΣSt), and the area ratio of the concave portions 20 can be calculated from ΣSt / (ΣSb + ΣSt).

{0027} The above area ratio is set so that the area ratio of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 becomes higher than the area ratio of the concave portions 20. The area ratio of the concave portions 20 is 100% - [the ratio of the area of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 ( %)]. For example, the area ratio of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is set to 60% or more, and 95% or less, preferably 60% or more, and 90% or less, even more preferably pre-set to 65% or more, and 90% or less, and more preferably, are pre-set to 70% or more, and 85% or less. If the area ratio of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is too high, the area ratio of the concave portions 20 becomes too small, and the degree of absorption of the fluid from the lower regions of the concave portions 20 to the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is reduced, and the diffusion of the fluid over the entire area portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer becomes insufficient. On the other hand, if the ratio of the area of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is too low, the amount of fluid that can be held in the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 becomes too small, and thereby the degree of absorption of the fluid by the absorbent element 10 is reduced. Therefore, it is desirable that the ratio of the areas of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 be controlled in the above range.

{0028} Here, with reference to FIG. 3, the conditions of the passage and distribution of the fluid (eg, urine or the like) entering the absorbent element 10 will be explained in detail.

{0029} As shown in FIGS. 3, (1) and (2), when the fluid 61 enters from the upper side of the absorbent member 10, the bulk of the fluid 61 flows into the concave portions 20 from the surfaces of the protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage, and moves in all directions along the concave portions 20. At this time, a portion of the fluid 61 flowing on the surface of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is directly absorbed into the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. In addition, the main part of the fluid 61 that passes through the concave portions 20 penetrates into the fluid receiving layer portion 31 from the lower regions of the concave portions 20 and diffuses in all directions within the fluid receiving layer portion 31. In addition, the portion of the fluid 61 that passes through the concave portions 20 diffuses from and is absorbed from the side surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 into the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. The fluid 61, which diffuses into the fluid receiving layer portion 31, is distributed inside the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 by capillary force. In this case, the fluid 61 is held inside the protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage.

Since the bulk of the fluid 61 entering the surface of the absorbent member 10 diffuses into the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the fluid 61 can diffuse into the fluid receiving layer portion 31 that is far from the skin side using the absorbent member 10 with the side of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32, defined as the surface side in contact with the skin, and the side of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, defined as the sides and surfaces without skin contact. Thereby, an effect of reducing adherence to the skin can be realized.

{0030} On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4, in the conventional solid absorbent element 70, when the fluid 61 extends to its surface, part of the fluid 61 flows along the skin surface 70S of the skin contact surface and spreads in all directions. Another portion of the fluid 61 diffuses into the solid absorbent member 70. Therefore, with the continuous absorbent member 70, adhesion to the skin easily occurs when the fluid 61, such as urine, passes onto the skin surface 70S of the skin contacting surface.

{0031} In the absorbent member 10 of the above embodiment, since the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is higher than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the bulk of the fluid entering the absorbent element 10 adheres to the fluid receiving portion 31 layer medium having a low density, thereby diffusing into the fluid receiving layer portion 31, and is then absorbed from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 by capillary action high storage power in the raised storage portions 32 of the absorbent fluid. Furthermore, since the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 are continuous with the fluid receiving layer portion 31, there is no decrease in diffusivity due to the presence of the interface when the fluid diffuses from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 to the protruding absorbent fluid storage port 32 , and the fluid that has been absorbed by the fluid-receiving layer portion 31 is smoothly absorbed by the capillary force and stored in the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 having a high density. Due to this, the characteristics of the absorption capacity (degree of absorption and absorption rate) of the absorbent element 10 can be improved.

In addition, since the area ratio of the numerous protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is set higher than the area ratio of the concave portions 20 that are located between the respective protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32, the degree of absorption of the fluid in the protruding portions can be sufficiently ensured. 32 absorbable fluid storage.

In addition, since a portion of the absorbent member 10 is block-shaped by the plurality of protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32, skin contact characteristics (fitability) during the wearing of the absorbent article (not shown) including the absorbent member 10 are improved, and this advantage is retained. In addition, since the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the fluid receiving layer portion 31 make up a single body, the curl of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 when the wearer is moving, such as walking, is prevented from shifting, and the feeling of unnaturalness is mitigated. while wearing, and the comfort of the socks is markedly increased.

{0032} Next, with reference to FIG. 5, a second embodiment of the absorbent element according to the present invention will be explained below.

{0033} As shown in FIG. 5, the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the concave portions 20 are arranged in the absorbent member 10 (10B) of the second embodiment in the same manner as in the absorbent member 10 (10A ) of the above first embodiment. The protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the concave portions 20 are arranged such that the area ratio of the multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is larger than the area ratio of the concave portions 20. In addition, the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is higher. than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, which is located under the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32, and is closer to the density of the portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 than the portion of the fluid receiving layer in the first embodiment. Therefore, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 receive the fluid more easily from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 by capillary force, and the fluid is also more easily absorbed. Furthermore, the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 is lower than the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. Preferably, the densities of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 have values similar to those of the absorbent member 10 of the first embodiment described above.

Accordingly, the fluid is also easily absorbed from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20. Furthermore, since the absorbed fluid diffuses into the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and is absorbed into the protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid from the lower portions. protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage, the ability of the absorbent element 10B to absorb fluid is further improved.

{0034} Next, with reference to FIG. 6, a third embodiment according to the present invention will be explained below.

{0035} As shown in FIG. 6, the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the concave portions 20 are arranged in the absorbent member 10 (10C) of the third embodiment in the same manner as in the absorbent member 10 (10A ) of the aforementioned first embodiment. The protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the concave portions 20 are arranged such that the area ratio of the multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is larger than the area ratio of the concave portions 20. In addition, the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is higher. than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, which is located under the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. Therefore, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 absorb the fluid more easily from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 by capillary force. In addition, the density of the side surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is lower than the density of the central portion of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32. Preferably, the densities of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and the central portions of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 have values similar to those of the absorbent member 10 of the aforementioned first embodiment. In addition, it is preferable to adjust the density of the side surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 to a value similar to the density of the aforementioned fluid receiving layer portion 31, or a value that is higher than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and lower. than the density of the central parts of the aforementioned raised portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage.

In this way, the fluid is also easily absorbed from the side surfaces of the protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage. In addition, since the fluid absorbed from the side surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 diffuses into the central parts of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and is stored therein, the fluid storage rate of the absorbent element 10C is increased.

{0036} Although the vertical cross-sectional surface shape of each protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 in this structure of the absorbent member 10C is trapezoidal, the shape may also be rectangular. In addition, it is preferable that areas of low density on the side surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 that are visible in the cross-sectional surface are formed so that the thickness decreases toward the upper sides of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. Thus, the diffusion of the fluid on the upper side is reduced. In addition, it is preferable that areas of low density on the side surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 that are visible in the cross-sectional surface are located only on the side of the fluid receiving layer portion 31. Accordingly, it becomes possible that diffusion of the fluid on the lateral surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 occurs in regions that are close to the fluid receiving layer portion 31.

{0037} Next, with reference to FIG. 7, a fourth embodiment of an absorbent element according to the present invention will be explained.

{0038} As shown in FIG. 7, the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the concave portions 20 are housed in the absorbent member 10 (10D) of the fourth embodiment in the same manner as in the absorbent member 10 (10A ) of the aforementioned first embodiment. The protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the concave portions 20 are arranged such that the area ratio of the multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is larger than the area ratio of the concave portions 20. In addition, the density of the upper sides of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 is more higher than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, which lies beneath the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. Therefore, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 absorb the fluid more easily from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 by capillary force. In addition, with respect to the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20, the base weight is higher on the outer parts than on the central part in the longitudinal direction.

{0039} More specifically, the base weight in the outer portions is set to a higher value than the base weight in the central portion in the longitudinal direction by changing the thickness of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20, in other words, by changing the depth of the concave portions 20 For example, in order to increase the base weight, it is only necessary to increase the thickness of the portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer (by reducing the depth of the concave portions 20), and to reduce the base weight, it is only necessary to reduce the depth of the portion 3 1 fluid receiving layer (increasing the depth of the concave sections 20).

{0040} In this way, the fluid that has been absorbed by the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is easily pulled toward the outside of the absorbent member 10D. Therefore, in the case where the absorbent member 10D is applied to the diaper as an absorbent article, since the selected fluid is perceived by the central part of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and extends toward both outer parts, the amount of the received fluid can be increased, and the received the fluid can be absorbed by the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 over the entire area of the absorbent member 10D, and the absorbency can be enhanced.

{0041} In this design of the absorbent member 10D, just like in the aforementioned second embodiment, it is preferable that the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 is lower than the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. In addition, just as in the aforementioned third embodiment, the density of the side surfaces of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 may be lower than the density of the central parts of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32.

{0042} In the case where the absorbent element 10 is used in such a way that the fluid enters from the projecting portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage when a large amount of fluid (more specifically, a fluid having a low viscosity of 5 mm · Pa is released · Sec or less, such as urine), the fluid is directed along the concave portions 20 in the longitudinal direction. This is an effect of the shape (concave sections) that is made concave from one surface of the absorbent element 10, and is the result of the manifestation of the function of the water pipes in which the fluid flows into the concave sections 20 (see FIG. 8 (1)). On the other hand, in the case where the absorbent element is used in such a way that the fluid enters from the side of the fluid receiving layer portion 31, a fluid is also released having a low viscosity of 5 mm · Pa · sec or less, such as urine , the fluid reaches the deepened portions (concave portions), and the spaces formed by the concave portions 20 are filled with fluid, and thereby the transfer of fluid to the concave portions 20 is provided by the wall surfaces of the concave portions 20 (see FIG. 8 (2)). In the event that any effect is manifested, a similar fluid direction effect affects a fluid having a low viscosity if there are concave portions 20 of the absorbent member formed with the same structure and composition.

{0043} As shown in FIG. 8 (1), in order to form the absorbent core 15 so that the fluid enters from the protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage using the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention, it is only necessary to make the upper the sheet 16 was placed on the side of the protruding sections 32 of the absorbent fluid storage of the absorbent element 10, and so that the back sheet 17 was located so as to be attached to the perimeter of the upper sheet 16 and wrapped around the side of the section 31 p the fluid-absorbing layer of the absorbent element 10.

{0044} Preferably, the topsheet 16 is formed from a hydrophilic nonwoven textile material. As the hydrophilic non-woven material, non-woven textile materials called “non-woven fabric using the air-through” technology, a non-woven fabric according to the “point-bond” technology, and non-woven spunbond material can preferably be used. “Spunbond”, a non-woven material according to the “spun lace” technology (“spunlace”, hydro-jet technology), and a body-shaped non-woven material in which its fibers are polypropylene monofilaments, conjugated fibers of lipropilena and polyethylene conjugate fibers of polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene, and the like, which are subjected to a hydrophilizing treatment.

{0045} The backsheet 17 is not particularly limited insofar as it has waterproof and vapor permeability characteristics. For example, a porous film can be given that is obtained by compounding a melt of a hydrophobic thermoplastic resin and a finely divided inorganic filler including calcium carbonate and the like, or an organic polymer that is not compatible, and the like, with the formation of the film, and subjecting the film to monoaxial or biaxial stretching. Examples of thermoplastic resins may include polyolefins. Examples of polyolefins may include high density to low density polyethylenes, linear low density polyethylenes, polypropylene, polybutene, and the like, and they can be used individually or in a mixture.

{0046} Furthermore, in the absorbent core 15, although not illustrated, it is preferable that the surface of the side in contact with the skin of the absorbent element 10 be covered with a cover sheet. In addition, not only the surface of the side in contact with the skin, but also the surface of the side not in contact with the skin, can be coated with a cover sheet, or the absorbent element 10 can be wrapped in a cover sheet. In addition, it is preferable that a pair of side sheets forming internal volume folds be layered on the surface of the side of the upper sheet 16 in contact with the skin. Moreover, it is preferable that the back sheet 17 and the leakage preventing sheet are arranged in this order on the surface of the non-skin contact side.

{0047} Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a fifth embodiment of an absorbent element according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention will be explained below.

{0048} As shown in FIG. 9, in the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention, the absorbent element 10 consists of three regions in the longitudinal direction L. More specifically, the absorbent element 10 has a first absorbent region 11, divided as its middle part, a second absorbent region 12, located on one side of the first absorbent region 11, and a third absorbent region 13, located on the other side of the first absorbent region 11. Therefore, the first absorbent region 11 is located between the second absorbent region 12 and the third th absorbent region 13. In addition, although the outer shape of the absorbent element 10 may be a rectangular shape, it is more preferable that the outer shape is made with a contour that tapers along the first absorbent region 11 in the width direction d (hereinafter, the width direction d is called the direction which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L) so as to fit the bases of the thighs of the person wearing the product. The first, second and third absorbent regions 11, 12 and 13 are represented only by dividing the parts of the absorbent element 10, and are not divided into respective absorbent regions. Furthermore, when the absorbent member 10 is attached to the absorbent article as follows and worn, the first absorbent region 11 is superimposed around the crotch area, and, for example, the second absorbent region 12 is superimposed around the front (abdominal) side, and the third absorbent region 13 is superimposed on the back (back) side. Alternatively, the second absorbent region 12 is superimposed on the back (back) side, and the third absorbent region 13 is superimposed around the front (abdominal) side.

{0049} Numerous portions of the first concave portions 21 (two portions of the first concave portions 21 in the drawing) are located on the first absorbent region 11, and the corresponding first concave portions 21 are located inside the lateral edges of the first absorbent region 11 in the top view, and are arranged in the longitudinal direction L Here, the idea that multiple portions of the first concave portions 21 (two portions of the first concave portions 21 in the drawing) are located on the first absorbent region 11 includes a situation where the first absorbent region 11 is located Only the first concave portions 21 are present, and also the case where the second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23 are partially placed on the first absorbent region 11. In addition, the arrangement concept in the longitudinal direction L includes the case where the concave portions are located only in the longitudinal direction L , and also the case when the concave sections partially pass in other directions. In addition, the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 are located in the respective second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, and the corresponding second and third concave portions 22 and 23 are laid in directions oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction L. Here, the idea is that the second and third concave sections 22 and 23 are placed on the respective second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, includes an option when only the second and third concave sections 22 and 23 are placed, and also an option when the first concave sections are partially placed sections 21. The essence of placement in angled directions means that the part can be placed in other directions, and a specific example of an angled direction is an arrangement in the form of beveled gratings, as illustrated. Therefore, the arrangement of the concave sections is different between the first concave sections 21 and the second and third concave sections 22 and 23.

{0050} The above angled directions are defined as follows. We take the midpoint of the section where the central axis in the longitudinal direction CL, lying parallel to the width direction d and passing through the center of the longitudinal direction of the absorbent element 10 (1/2 position of the longitudinal length), intersects the first concave section 21, for the reference point for measurement. Then, we define the longest line among the lines running in the first concave portion 21 as the first line. Next, we take as the reference point for measuring the end of the second concave section 22, which should be measured and is closest to the edge of the absorbent element 10. Then we define the longest straight line among the lines passing in the second concave sections, as the second line. In addition, the direction of the second line in the case where the first line and the second line have an intersection at an angle is defined as “direction oriented at an angle”. The intersection angle is the intersection angle of the first line of the first concave portion 21, which is closest to the edge portion of the first absorbent region 11, and the second line of the second concave portion 22 having an end in a position closest to the first absorbent region 11 and closest to the edge in the width direction the second absorbent region 12. In addition, the intersection angle is preferably 10 ° or more, and 80 ° or less, more preferably 30 ° or more, and 70 ° or less, and most preferably 40 ° or more, and 60 ° or men her. If the intersection angle is less than 10 °, concave sections laid to the front (abdominal) region and the posterior (dorsal) region will extend in an almost parallel state relative to the longitudinal direction of the absorbent element. This is unacceptable since gaps are formed between the anterior (abdominal) region and the absorbent element so that leakage along the gaps easily occurs. If the intersection angle goes beyond 80 °, it becomes too large with respect to the concave portions of the first absorbent region, and the fluid that has passed along the concave portions of the first absorbent region 11 must rotate sharply when the fluid diffuses into the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13. As a result, the diffusion ability of the fluid is thereby reduced. In addition, the second line of the third concave portion 23 can be determined in the same manner as in the aforementioned second concave portion 22, and the intersection angle in this case is a value corresponding to the above range. Real concave portions with the above intersection angle can be selected appropriately.

Furthermore, although FIG. 9 shows one example in which the first concave portions 21 and the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 are arranged in solid lines, the first line and the second line can also be defined in a similar manner as mentioned above, in the case of where the concave portions are arranged in the form of dashed lines (that is, a situation is also included where the concave portions are arranged in the form of dashed lines).

{0051} Next, the positional relationships of the first concave portions 21 and the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 will be explained. Although the second concave portions 22 will be explained, the third concave portions 23 are similar to the second concave portions 22.

(1) In the case where the end portion of the first concave portion 21 is linear and the second concave portion 22 in the connection portion with the first concave portion 21 is linear, the angle θ formed by the extension line of the first concave portion 21 and the second concave portion 22 is 0 ° <θ <90 ° or 0 °> θ> -90 °. As used here, a positive angle refers to a situation where the angle with the second concave portion 22 is present outside the extension line of the first concave portion 21, and a negative angle refers to the case where the angle with the second concave portion 22 is inside relative to the extension line of the first concave portion 21. As used here, the term “outside” refers to the end sides in the direction d of the width of the absorbent element 10, and “inside” refers to the central part in the direction d of the width of the absorbent element ment 10. The same applies in the future.

(2) In the case where the end portion of the first concave portion 21 is linear, and the second concave portion 22 in the connection portion with the first concave portion 21 is curved, the angle θ formed by the extension line of the first concave portion 21 and the line tangent to the second concave portion 22 at the junction portion with the first concave portion 21 is 0 ° ≤ θ ≤ 90 ° or 0 ° ≥ θ ≥ -90 °. As used here, a positive angle refers to a situation where an angle with a line tangent to the second concave portion 22 is present outside the extension line of the first concave portion 21, and a negative angle refers to a case where an angle with a line tangent to the second concave portion 22 is located inside the relatively extension line of the first concave portion 21.

(3) In the case where the end portion of the first concave portion 21 is curved and the second concave portion 22 in the connection portion with the first concave portion 21 is linear, an angle θ formed by a line tangent to the first concave portion 21 in the connection portion with the second concave section 22, and the second concave section 22, is 0 ° ≥ θ> -180 ° or 0 ° ≤ θ <180 °. As used here, a positive angle refers to a situation where the angle with the second concave portion 22 is present outside relative to the line tangent to the first concave portion 21, and a negative angle refers to the case where the angle with the second concave portion 22 is inside relative to the extension line of the first concave portion 21.

(4) In the case where the end portion of the first concave portion 21 is curved and the second concave portion 22 in the connection portion with the first concave portion 21 is curved, an angle θ formed by a line tangent to the first concave portion 21 in the connection portion with the second concave section 22, and the line tangent to the second concave section 22 at the connection with the first concave section 21, is 0 ° ≤ θ <180 ° or 0 ° ≥ θ> -180 °. As used here, a positive angle refers to a situation where an angle with a line tangent to the second concave portion 22 is present outside relative to a line tangent to the first concave portion 21, and a negative angle refers to a case where the angle with a line tangent to the second concave section 22, is located inside relative to the line tangent to the first concave section 21.

In any of the above cases, since each of the concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23 has a width, a line that runs along the center of the width is defined as a line representing the concave portion in question. For example, reference to the extension line of the first concave portion 21 means a line extending from a line running along the center in the width direction of the first concave portion 21. Link to a line tangent to the first concave portion 21 means a line tangent to a line running along the center along the width direction of the first concave portion 21. The same applies to the second and third concave portions 22 and 23. In addition, for example, reference to the connection portion between the first concave portion 21 and the second concave portion 22, means a point Connections (e.g., the intersection point, the contact point or the like) the line running along the center of the width direction of the first concave portion 21 and a line extending along the center of the width direction of the second concave portion 22.

In the above paragraphs (1) to (4), the relationship of the aforementioned angles is also valid even in the case where the second concave portion 22 branches out at a position remote from the joint portion with the first concave portion 21.

In addition, the above respective relationships have similar positional relationships with those mentioned above also in the case where any one or more of the first concave sections 21, the second concave sections 22 and the third concave sections 23 are arranged in the form of broken lines or are arranged intermittently. In these cases, the lines that define the angles are their extrapolated lines.

{0052} A portion of the first concave portions 21 can be placed on a portion of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13. For example, when the boundary between the first and second absorbent regions 11 and 12 is defined as line A, this implies that a portion of the second concave portions 22 is located on the part of the first absorbent regions 11. In addition, when the border between the first and second absorbent regions 11 and 12 is defined as line B, this implies that part of the first concave sections 21 is located on the part of the second absorbent regions 12. In addition, e is most applicable to the third absorbent regions 13. For example, when the boundary of the first and third absorbent regions 11 and 13 is defined as line C, this implies that part of the third concave portions 23 is located on the part of the first absorbent regions 11. In addition, when the boundary between the first and third absorbent regions 11 and 13 are defined as line D, a portion of the first concave portions 21 is located on a portion of the third absorbent regions 13. Accordingly, the positional relationship of the concave portions with respect to the corresponding absorbents of the absorbing regions varies depending on the choice of the position of the boundaries between the first absorbent regions 11 and the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13. As one example, FIG. 9 shows the case where the boundaries of the respective absorbent regions are lines A and C.

{0053} In addition, the first and second concave sections 21 and 22, and the first and third concave sections 21 and 23, are made as continuous concave sections.

{0054} Furthermore, although the shapes of the cross-sectional surfaces of the concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23 (hereinafter described as the concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23) can have any profiles, they have rectangular shapes or inverted trapezoid shapes. In addition, since the absorbent element 10 is constituted by a combination of fibers and the like, such as non-woven textile material, the contour of the surface shape of the cross section of each concave portion is not constant, and the shape is approximate.

{0055} In addition, a more preferred example of the arrangement of the respective concave portions mentioned above will be explained with the aid of FIG. As shown in FIG. 10, it is more preferable that the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 are arranged in directions oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction, and the second concave portions 22 are inside the second absorbent region 12 in a plan view, and the third concave sections 23 were present inside the third absorbent region 13 in a plan view. In addition, the first concave portions 21 are arranged as mentioned above. Therefore, the outer edge portion of the absorbent member 10 is surrounded by protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage. As a result of this, leakage along the gaps between the diaper and the human body and leakage during intensive discharge can be prevented, and the strength of the absorbent element 10 is increased, and thus, twisting or destruction of the absorbent element 10 during application can be prevented. The minimum distance dm between the outer edge of the absorbent element 10 and the line of the ends of each of the second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23 facing the outer edge of the absorbent element 10 is set appropriately, and, for example, the minimum distance dm is from 5 mm to 50 mm, preferably from 5 mm to 40 mm, even more preferably from 5 mm to 30 mm.

{0056} In the absorbent member 10 of the aforementioned fifth embodiment, by arranging the first concave portions 21 in the longitudinal direction L, the excreted fluid having a low viscosity (5 mPa · sec or less), such as urine, is directed along the concave portions in the longitudinal direction . This is a shape effect that is concave with respect to one surface of the absorbent element, and is easily manifested especially when the amount of fluid released is large. In the case when the recesses are formed on the surface on the discharge side, the concave sections exhibit water supply with the delivery of fluid to the recessed sections, and in the case when the recesses are formed on the surface of the side not subject to release, the gaps formed by the concave sections are filled with fluid with the flow of fluid into the recessed portions, and the transfer of fluid to the concave portions is provided by a hydrophilic material on the wall surfaces of the concave portions. In addition, even in the case where any effect is manifested, a similar action of the direction of the fluid takes place to the extent that the first concave portions 21 of the absorbent element are formed with similar structure and composition.

Since the above-mentioned numerous first concave portions 21 are arranged in the longitudinal direction L, the aforementioned effect can be manifested even more. In addition, since the first concave portions 21 are arranged in the longitudinal direction L, the first absorbent region 11, which is located on the perineum, is squeezed inward by the inner parts of the base of the thighs during wear. As a result of this, the first absorbent region 11 is bent along the first concave portions 21 so that the side of the absorbent element 10 facing the skin surface follows the skin surface of the wearer of the person, and thereby gaps are easily formed in the center in the width direction (gaps between the skin of the wearer of the person and absorbent element). At this point, a portion of the first concave portions 21 located on the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 (an extended portion of the end portions of the first concave portions 21, or a portion of the second concave portion 22, or the third concave portion 23 that are closest to the end portions of the first concave sections), is located in the direction of the end sides of the surface in the width direction d, and in these sections the absorbent element 10 easily bends along the first concave sections 21, and the second concave sections 22 or the third concave section tkam 23; so that gaps are formed to appropriately distribute the fluid, reduce the time that the fluid remains on the top sheet, and suppress skin irritations, even in the case where a large amount of fluid, such as urine, is present between the body and the extended portion from the first absorbent region 11 in the perineal region to the boundary positions of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, and there is hardly any pressure on the inguinal region and obstruction of the thighs by the absorbent element dstvie malformation of the gaps.

{0057} Furthermore, since the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 located on the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 are formed as concave portions in directions oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction L, when the absorbent element 10 is worn, that due to the aforementioned effect, gaps would form at the boundary positions of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 of the absorbent element 10, while in other places the absorbent element 10 would follow the surface during wear Strongly skin. In order to form the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 in such a way that they follow the skin surface, as mentioned above, the arrangement of the concave portions is not limited to the lattice shapes, it is preferable to form concave portions extending at an angle in directions deviated from the central axis C, in at least two directions, as shown in FIG. 11, and it is preferred that one of the directions follows a path opposite the side of the central axis C oriented from the extension line of the first of the concave portion 21 in the longitudinal direction, and towards the side of the end surface in the width direction d. The central axis C is a line along the longitudinal direction in the 1/2 position of the width direction line (direction d), which extends in the 1/2 position of the longitudinal direction of the absorbent member 10. For reasons of preventing the corresponding absorbent regions from moving off the skin along a line parallel to the central of the C axis, it is more preferable that only one intersection portion 26 (the zone represented by the hatching lines), which is designated as the intersection region of the aforementioned third concave portions 23 of at least in two directions, was located on the line PL, which is parallel to the central axis C, in each absorbent region. In other words, it is more preferable that two or more of the aforementioned intersection portions 26 are not located on a line PL (there would not be two or more on one line) that is parallel to the central axis C. Although the third absorbent region 13 is shown in FIG. 11, the second concave portions 22 of the second absorbent region 11, which is not shown, are similar to the third concave portions 23 of the third absorbent region 13. However, the intersection portion (not shown) of the second concave portions 22 of the second absorbent region 12 and the intersection portion 26 of the third concave 23 of the third absorbent region 13 can be located on the same line that is parallel to the central axis C. The intersection section 26 is defined as the zone where the concave sections located in different directions intersect with each other, and as a joint area of the concave intersecting at this point plots. Therefore, on a line parallel to the central axis C, there is only one common zone. Namely, two or more common zones cannot be present on a line parallel to the central axis C. Due to this, the corresponding absorbent regions are easily bent in the corresponding concave sections along the skin surface, and come into such a state that they easily adhere to the skin surface without being displaced from skin surface.

{0058} Furthermore, since the first concave portions 21 are located inside the absorbent element 10 in a plan view and are arranged along the longitudinal direction L, gaps are formed in the center in the width direction, and, on the other sides in the width direction, the absorbent element 10 is adjacent to the body along the inner sections of the base of the thighs, the fluid entering the first absorbent region 11 can be transferred in directions to the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 of the first concave sections 21 along the longitudinal direction L of the supply element 10, without leakage of fluid in the direction d of the width of the first absorbent region 11. Therefore, the first concave portions 21 also function to prevent lateral leakage in the first absorbent region 11. Accordingly, while improving the diffusion capacity of the fluid, while preventing lateral leakage, the fluid diffuses into the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, and then the fluid can be distributed over a vast area of the absorbent element 10.

Moreover, since the concave portions extending in directions oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction L are respectively located on the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, for example, in the case where the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is worn on a crawling child, a fluid easily diffuses into the second absorbent region 12 or the third absorbent region 13, which is located in front, and which becomes the lowest side in case of crawling. At this time, the fluid can diffuse over the vast areas of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 by means of the second and third concave portions 22 and 23, and the diffused fluid is absorbed by the absorbent element 10 located on the side portions of the second and third concave portions 22 and 23, and thereby leakage from the front side can be prevented.

Moreover, since the first and second concave portions 21 and 22, and the first and third concave portions 21 and 23, are made in the form of continuous concave portions, the fluid entering the first absorbent region 11 is easily transferred from the first concave portions 21 to the second and third concave portions 22 and 23. Also from this point of view, the diffusion ability of the fluid is improved, and thereby the fluid can be distributed over a vast area of the absorbent element 10.

Therefore, since a fluid that diffuses over the vast area of the absorbent element 10 is absorbed by the absorbent element 10 located on the side portions of the respective concave portions, an effect of increasing the degree of absorption of the fluid throughout the entire volume of the absorbent element is provided.

Although the second and third concave portions may be extended to the end portions of the peripheral edges of the respective absorbent regions, as illustrated, however, they are not limited to this. For example, as explained in the aforementioned FIG. 10, since the second concave portions 22 are located inside the second absorbent region 12 in a plan view, and the third concave portions 23 are located inside the third absorbent region 13 in a plan view, fluid that flows along the second and third concave portions 22 and 23, plugs into the end parts of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, and thereby lateral leakage can be prevented.

{0059} In addition, the first absorbent region 11 is narrower than the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13. Namely, the absorbent element 10 is made in the form in which the first absorbent region 11 in the top view is narrowed compared to the second and the third absorbent regions 12 and 13. In addition, it is preferable that the outer edge of the first absorbent region 11 and the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 is made with a continuous profile. This makes it easier to adapt to the inner parts of the base of the thighs in the perineum and the formation of gaps in the center in the direction of the width, discomfort and twisting of the absorbent element 10 are suppressed, and after the first absorbent region 11 follows the movements to the right and left during body movements (crawling , walking and the like), the first absorbent region 11 can easily return to its original shape with a large width of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13.

In addition, it is preferable that the concave portions are placed at the same positions on both surfaces of each absorbent region, except that the concave portions are located on only one surface of each absorbent region, as mentioned above. Furthermore, it is preferable that the first concave portions 21 are separate from the second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23. More specifically, it is preferable that the first concave portions 21 are separate from the second concave portions 22 and the first concave portions 21 are separate from the third concave portions 23. In these structures, although the flow characteristics of the fluid between the first and second concave portions 21 and 22 and the first and third concave portions 21 and 23 are worse than in the aforementioned ruktsii, functions and effects can be obtained for other points. A structure in which the first concave portions 21 are separate from the second concave portion 22 and the third concave portions 23 is preferable insofar as the shape of the absorbent member is easily maintained even when the absorbent member comes into a state in which more fluid is held and fixed Wednesday.

{0060} Therefore, since the shapes of the respective absorbent regions change along the contours of the body, while maintaining softness in the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention, the ability to form gaps in the central part in the crotch area between the respective absorbent regions and skin surfaces and the external contact characteristics areas in the perineum, the absorbent element is excellent in terms of fit to body contours even while walking, in a sitting position and, and the like, and thereby the comfort of the sock can be obtained.

{0061} Next, the basic shapes of the respective concave portions located on the absorbent member 10 will be described in detail.

First, one example of a cross-sectional surface shape of an absorbent element near concave sections will be explained below with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 12, the aforementioned concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23 constitute a part of the absorbent element 10 in the respective lower portions. More specifically, the absorbent member 10 has concave portions that distribute the fluid in the planar direction, a fluid receiving layer portion 31 that temporarily holds and transfers the fluid, and multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 that finally hold the fluid, which made continuously with the portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer and independently placed on the surface of one side of the portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer. Therefore, concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23 are located between each of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the adjacent protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32. The drawing shows a typical example in which the first concave sections 21.

{0062} Since the absorbent element 10 having such a cross-sectional surface structure is not divided by concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23, the fluid entering the concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23 penetrates into the fluid receiving layer portion 31 on the lower areas of the concave sections from the first 21 to the third 23, and is temporarily held in the section 31 of the fluid receiving layer at the bottom of the protruding sections 32 of the storage of absorbent fluid located on the side parts of the concave sections the first 21 to the third 23. In the event that a fluid is released that cannot be held by the fluid receiving layer portion 31, the fluid is distributed in concave portions, is directed forward in the longitudinal direction and temporarily held in the fluid receiving layer portion located thereon . The retained fluid is absorbed from the fluid receiving layer portion 31 to the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and stored therein. Therefore, by adjusting the structure of the side on which the concave portions from the first 21 to the third 23 are formed, as the side with the surface that is in contact with the skin, the bulk of the fluid can ultimately be held in a position that is farthest from the skin surface, and thereby, adhesion to the surface on the side that is in contact with the skin is suppressed, and the comfort of the sock can be obtained.

{0063} Next, an arrangement of concave portions in the case of a plan view will be explained below.

The first example of the arrangement shape of the concave portions in a plan view shows one embodiment of the arrangement of the first concave portions 21, and, as shown in FIG. 13, numerous portions of the first concave portions 21 are arranged on the first absorbent region 11 in the longitudinal direction L. The first concave portions 21 may be made in the form of straight lines, curves, broken lines or the like, or in the form of combinations of some of them, to the extent that all the first concave sections 21 are generally placed in the longitudinal direction L and are located along at least inside the absorbent element 10. The first example is a basic version of the shape of the arrangement of the first concave sections 21.

{0064} Since the first concave portions 21 are arranged in the longitudinal direction L, this makes it easy to diffuse the fluid entering the first absorbent region 11, since the first concave portions 21 enhance the fluid withdrawal characteristics into the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 Namely, the diffusion ability of the fluid is improved. In addition, the end portions in the width direction are lifted and bent by the first concave portions 21, and the sides become relatively high and close to the body, and thereby lateral leakage of the fluid entering the first absorbent region 11 can be prevented.

{0065} A second example of the arrangement of concave portions in a plan view, as shown in FIG. 14, is such that the plural portions (in the illustrated example, two second concave portions 22A and 22B) of the concave portions among the second concave portions 22 are interconnected in region A1, in which the first concave portions 21 are located. Similarly, the plural portions (in the illustrated example, two portions of the third concave portions 23A and 23B) of the concave portions among the third concave portions 23 are interconnected in the region A1, in which the first concave sections 21 (21A and 21B) are located.

{0066} Accordingly, since the plurality of concave portions in each of the second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23 are connected in a region A1 in which the first concave portions 21 are located, the fluid entering the first absorbent region 11 is easily distributed into the second the absorbent region 12 through the second concave portions 22, and into the third absorbent region 13 through the third concave portions 23, from the region A1 in which the first concave portions 21 are located. More specifically, diffusion ability is improved fluid. In addition, the second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23 that are located between the first concave portions 21A and 21B make it easy to form gaps in the crotch region, and the second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23 that are located on the outer sides of the first concave portions 21 are bent in concave portions, while the end parts of the absorbent element 10 are in close contact with the body, so that it prevents squeezing in the inguinal region and interfering with the movements of the hips, as mentioned above, providing I hereby ability to follow the movements and flexibility (the end portions of the absorbent member 10 and the second and third absorbent regions).

{0067} In the third example, the arrangement of the concave portions in a plan view, as shown in FIG. 15, in the case where the end portions of the first concave portions 21 located on the first absorbent region 11 are extended to the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 and disposed thereon, second concave portions 22 that are connected to the first concave portions 21 can be connected to each other on the second absorbent region 12. In addition, third concave portions 23 that are connected to the first concave portions 21 could also l are interconnected on the third absorbent region 13. Moreover, the second and third concave sections 22 and 23 are laid in directions oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction L, so that they extend back to the side of the first absorbent region 11 from the positions where they are connected to the first concave portions 21 in the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13.

{0068} Accordingly, since the second concave portions 22 are connected to each other and the third concave portions 23 that are respectively arranged in the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13 are connected to each other, the fluid entering the first absorbent region 11 can diffuse to the end parts in the width direction on the side of the first absorbent region 11 facing the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, through the second and third concave sections 22 and 24 of the first concave sections 21. In the case of this structure s more preferably regions using it in combination with other structures of the concave portions.

{0069} Next, the arrangement of the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 will be explained as a fourth example of the arrangement of the concave portions in a plan view. As shown in FIG. 16, the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 are arranged in directions oriented at an angle with respect to the longitudinal direction L, and one end of each second concave portion 22 reaches the peripheral surface S2 of the second absorbent region 12, and one end of each third concave section 23 reaches the peripheral surface S3 of the third absorbent region 13. The fourth example is a basic version of the shape of the arrangement of the second and third concave sections 22 and 23. The inclination angles of the second and third concave The paths 22 and 23 with respect to the longitudinal direction L are appropriately determined depending on their shapes, since the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 can be formed in various shapes, such as linear shapes and curved shapes.

{0070} With this arrangement of the second and third concave portions 22 and 23, the fluid easily diffuses over all areas of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13. In addition, when the absorbent element 10 having such an arrangement of the concave portions is worn, the second absorbent region 12 becomes easily bent in the second concave portions 22, and the third absorbent region 13 becomes easily bent in the third concave portions 23, respectively, and the second absorbent region or third absorbent region 13 become easily adapted sablivaemymi to the groin. This reduces the feeling of discomfort from the absorbent element 10 during the movement of the person wearing the product. In addition, part of the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 need not reach the peripheral surface S2 and the peripheral surface S3 of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, and one ends thereof may be located in the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, on top view.

{0071} Further, in the fifth example of the arrangement of the concave portions in a plan view, as shown in FIG. 17, in the case where both end portions of the first concave portions 21 are formed on the parts of the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, both end portions of the first concave sections 21 are connected to second and third concave sections 22 and 23 in the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13. In addition, the second and third concave sections 22 and 23 extend in directions oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction L, and the second concave chastki 22 (22A and 22B) intersect the second region of the absorbent 12 and the third concave portions 23 (23A and 23B) overlap in a third region of the absorbent 13. Therefore, this structure is a structure obtained by combination of the above third example and fourth example.

{0072} As mentioned above, since the plurality of concave portions in the respective second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23 are connected to the first concave portions 21 in the second and third absorbent regions 12 and 13, and further, since the second concave portions are connected between each other and the third concave portions are connected to each other, the fluid entering the first absorbent region 11 easily diffuses into the second absorbent region 12 through the second concave portions 22, and into the third absorbent region 13 through the third concave portions 23 of the first concave portions 21. More specifically, the diffusion ability of the fluid is improved.

{0073} In a sixth example of the arrangement of concave portions in a plan view, as shown in FIG. 18, numerous first concave portions 21 are placed (two first concave portions 21A and 21B in the drawing), and connecting concave portions 24 connected to the first concave sections 21 in directions that intersect with the longitudinal direction L. Although two connecting concave sections 24 are shown in the illustrated example, it is preferable that their number be determined according to the situation. Furthermore, although the concave connecting portions 24 are arranged in such a state that they are inclined in the same direction at the same angle, it is preferable that the direction of inclination and the angle of inclination be determined according to the situation. For example, as illustrated, the tilt directions of the connecting concave portion 24A and the connecting concave portion 24B are the same directions. It goes without saying that the concave concave portion 24A and the concave concave portion 24B can be arranged in different directions or at different angles. In addition, the inclination angle of the connecting concave portion 24 with respect to the longitudinal direction L is set, for example, to a value of 45 °. Typically, the angle is not limited to 45 °, and may be 30 ° or 60 °, and the angle is determined according to the situation. In addition, the placement positions of the connecting concave portions 24 may be, for example, outside the position into which the fluid enters. Alternatively, it is also possible to place one portion of the connecting concave portion 24 in the position at which the fluid enters, and placing the other connecting concave portion 24 outside the position to which the fluid enters.

{0074} Since the first concave portions 21 (21A and 21B) are connected by the concave concave portions 24 in this way, the flow characteristics of the fluid between the first concave portions 21 are improved and the fluid flows easily into the numerous first concave portions 21. Accordingly, as explained in the above Fig. 12, the ability of the fluid to diffuse from the lower regions of the corresponding first concave portions 21 over the entire area of the absorbent element is improved, the degree of diffusion can be increased, and can be improved diffusion rate. In addition, the concave concave portions 24 may be formed similar to the first concave portions, or may be concave concave portions that are compressed by compressing the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32, for reasons of fluid diffusivity and free shaping. In the concave concave portions, the temporary holding characteristics of the fluid are reduced, but the concave concave portions have diffusivity during the flow of copious discharge, as well as the ability to distribute the fluid in a temporary storage state in the fluid receiving layer portion 31.

{0075} In a seventh example of the arrangement of concave portions in a plan view, as shown in FIG. 19, the base weight of the absorbent element 10 (fluid receiving layer portion 31) in the lower regions of each of the second concave portions 22 and the third concave portions 23 is more higher than the base weight of the absorbent element 10 (fluid receiving layer portion 31) in the lower regions of the first concave portions 21. More specifically, the base weight of the outer portions is increased to a greater extent than the base weight in the central portion in partite direction by changing the thickness of the portion 31 of the receiving fluid layer on the lower regions of the concave portions, in other words, a change in the depth of the concave portions. For example, in order to increase the base weight, it is only necessary to increase the thickness of the portion 31 of the fluid-receiving layer (to reduce the depth of the concave sections), and to lower the base weight, it is only necessary to reduce the thickness of the portion 31 of the fluid-receiving layer (increase the depth of the concave sections). For example, the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the first concave portions 21 is set to 10 g / m ² or more, and 300 g / m ² or less, preferably 30 g / m ² or more, and 200 g / m ² or less, more preferably 40 g / m ² or more, and 150 g / m ² or less. In addition, the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 is set to 10 g / m ² or more, and 330 g / m ² or less, preferably 40 g / m ² or more and 230 g / m ² or less, more preferably 50 g / m ² or more, and 180 g / m ² or less. In addition, it is preferable that the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 is 10 g / m ² or more higher, more preferably 20 g / m ² or more higher, even more preferably 30 g / m ² or more than the base weight of the first concave portions 21. As one example, the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the first concave portions 21 is set to 50 g / m ² and the base weight of fluid receiving layer portion 31 at lower x the second and third concave portions 22 and 23 is set to 100 g / m ^2.

{0076} In this way, the fluid received in the fluid receiving layer portion 31 of the first absorbent region 11 is easily stretched by the fluid receiving layer portion 31 to the second absorbent region 12 and the third absorbent region 13. Therefore, in the case where the absorbent element 10 is applied to the diaper as an absorbent article, the selected fluid can be sensed by the fluid receiving layer portion 31 on the first absorbent region 11 and extended into the fluid receiving layer portion 31 on the second absorbent region 12 and retey absorbent region 13 on both sides. Therefore, the amount of received fluid can be increased, and the incoming fluid can be absorbed by the protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage over the entire area of the absorbent element 10, and thereby the absorbency can be increased.

{0077} The absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is constituted by a combination of several shapes of the aforementioned concave portions. Therefore, the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is excellent in terms of adherence to the contours of the body, and can increase the absorption capacity of the entire absorbent element even while walking, in a sitting position and the like, while maintaining softness. In addition, the absorbent element exhibits the functions and effects of concave portions of the aforementioned respective shapes.

Furthermore, although the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is formed by the fluid receiving layer portion 31 and the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 in the cross-sectional surface structure, and has the above-mentioned functions and structural effects, it is preferable that the fluid receiving portion 31 is to improve the respective functions the layer medium had a low final holding ability and included a super absorbent polymer with a lower density than the density of protruding portions of 32 xp neniya absorb fluid, or would have been without the superabsorbent polymer. Since it is preferable that the superabsorbent polymer is disposed on the protruding portions of the absorbent fluid storage so as to increase the retention capacity more than the portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer, it is preferable that the protruding portions of the storage of absorbent fluid include a super absorbent polymer with a higher density than in the fluid receiving layer portion 31. In addition, it is not necessary that the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is formed with the same density in all parts, and it is preferable that the fluid receiving layer portion 31 has a higher density than the portions of the respective concave portions in the overlapping position with the protruding portions 32 for absorbable fluid storage, for reasons that the fluid is transferred to the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions, and it is preferred that the density of the protruding portions 3 2, absorbent fluid storage gradually increased from the periphery of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 to the center of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32.

{0078} Next, with reference to FIG. 20, preferred sixth embodiments of the absorbent element and absorbent article according to the present invention will be explained.

As shown in FIG. 20, the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention has cellulose 41 and a water-absorbing polymer 42, and has a mass ratio represented by the expression [mass of cellulose] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer] at a level of 1/3 or more, and 1 / 0.01 or less, preferably 1 / 2.5 or more, and 1 / 0.1 or less, more preferably 1/2 or more, and 1 / 0.5 or less. In this absorbent element 10, for example, the water-absorbing polymer 42 is dispersed in cellulose 41 formed by stacking fibers. Alternatively, the water-absorbing polymer 42 may be distributed between the layers of cellulose 41 formed by laying the fibers. In the case where the mass ratio is too low, the amount of cellulose is too small, and thereby it becomes difficult to retain the water-absorbing polymer 42 in the cellulose 41, and in the case where the mass ratio is too high, the amount of the water-absorbing polymer 42 becomes too small, and thereby thereby, the degree of absorption of the fluid becomes unsatisfactory. Therefore, the degree of absorption is set in the above range.

{0079} In addition, the water-absorbing polymer 42 has a water absorption of 30 g / g or more, and 50 g / g or less, preferably 30 g / g or more, and 45 g / g or less, even more preferably 31 g / g or more, and 40 g / g or less, particularly preferably 32 g / g or more, and 36 g / g or less, in physiological saline, for reasons of fluid absorbency. When the degree of absorption of water by the water-absorbing polymer 42 is too small, it becomes difficult to sufficiently absorb the fluid, and thereby the absorbency of the absorbent element 10 is reduced, and the backflow of the fluid increases. On the other hand, in the case where the degree of absorption of water by the water-absorbing polymer 42 is too large (in other words, when the crosslinking of the water-absorbing polymer 42 is weak and the gel strength is low), the fluid passage through the gels deteriorates and the absorption capacity decreases absorbent element, since the absorbent polymer absorbs water and forms a gel, causing gel blocking in the entire absorbent element. In the absorbent member 10 having concave portions (grooves 20), as shown in FIG. 20, fluid passage characteristics are maintained without clogging the grooves 20 (fluid ducts) even when the water-absorbing polymer 42 causes gel blocking to some extent. However, when gel blocking occurs above a certain level, the absorption rate of the absorbent element 10 becomes slow, the magnitude of the fluid backflow increases, and the absorption capacity becomes lower. Therefore, the degree of water absorption of the water-absorbing polymer 42 is set in the above range.

{0080} In addition, the degree of absorption of the isolated fluid (artificial urine or saline as a model fluid in the test) when creating a predetermined pressure is 20 g / g or more, and 40 g / g or less, preferably 20 g / g or more, and 35 g / g or less, more preferably 21 g / g or more, and 30 g / g or less, particularly preferably 22 g / g or more, and 28 g / g or less, when creating an increased pressure of 2 kPa. A pressure value of 2 kPa is one example of average pressure when the absorbent member 10 is squeezed by a child on which the absorbent member 10 is worn.

Situations where the degree of absorption by applying pressure to the water-absorbing polymer 22 decreases, include (1) a case where the crosslinking of the polymer is very strong, and thus the strength of the gel is too high, and (2) a case where the crosslinking of the polymer is very weak, and thus, the strength of the gel is too low. In case (1), the water-absorbing polymer by itself is difficult to crush when pressure is created, but the ability of the water-absorbing polymer to absorb the fluid is insufficient, and thus the degree of absorption under pressure is reduced, and the fluid flows and flows without being absorbed in the absorbent element 10 In case (2), the water-absorbing polymer is easily crushed under pressure, and when gel blocking occurs above a certain level, the absorption rate of the absorbent element 10 becomes slow, the magnitude of the reverse flow of the fluid increases, and the absorption capacity becomes lower.

As a rule, in relation to a water-absorbing polymer having a high degree of absorption when pressure is created, there is a case (1) when the crosslinking of the polymer is very strong and the water-absorbing polymer itself is not crushed by applying pressure, but the degree of absorption of water is small, or (2) Crosslinking of the polymer is weak, and the polymer does not exhibit elasticity when it absorbs water, and the water-absorbing polymer itself is easily crushed under pressure. In case (1), the ability of the water-absorbing polymer to absorb the fluid is insufficient, and thus the fluid leaks without being absorbed in the absorbent element 10. In case (2), when the water-absorbing polymer causes gel blocking to a certain extent under pressure, the absorption rate of the absorbent element 10 becomes slow, the magnitude of the reverse flow of the fluid increases, and the absorption capacity becomes low.

In the water-absorbing polymer 42, in which the degree of absorption of the separated fluid under pressure is set in the above range, the crosslinking is correspondingly strong, and thereby the water-absorbing polymer 42 is hardly crushed. Therefore, the water-absorbing polymer 42 is not crushed under pressure, where the wearer of the person puts a load on the absorbent element 10 in a situation where fluid (e.g. urine) is released, and thereby clogging of the grooves 20, mentioned below, is prevented by the water-absorbing polymer 42 due to leakage of the water-absorbing polymer 42 into the grooves 20, and the grooves 20 (fluid ducts) are retained. Therefore, since the characteristics of the fluid passage in the grooves 20 are provided and maintained, the flow of the fluid through the grooves becomes fast. More specifically, since the fluid can quickly diffuse, the diffusion rate becomes high, and the duration of absorption of the fluid is reduced. In addition, this prevents the backflow of fluid.

In addition, there is a situation where the water-absorbing polymer 42 is unevenly distributed somewhere on the absorbent element 10 due to the behavior of the wearer of the person, distribution conditions and the like (for example, in the case of the absorbent element 10 shown in FIG. 21, the water-absorbing polymer is unevenly placed on the blocks 44 of the absorbent element in a certain area: this corresponds to the edge of the crotch area of the wearer of the person). As a rule, for a water-absorbing polymer having a low degree of absorption of water under pressure, swelling is suppressed when the packing density is high (this corresponds to a state with an uneven distribution), even at a certain load, and the degree of absorption of water tends to decrease. However, the absorbent element 10 having concave portions can mitigate the suppression of swelling to a certain extent due to the gaps of the concave portions (grooves 20).

Therefore, the lower limit of the degree of absorption of the water-absorbing polymer 42 under a pressure of 2 kPa is set in the above range. In addition, in the case where the degree of absorption of the water-absorbing polymer 42 under pressure is too large, the water-absorbing polymer 42 swells in excess of a certain degree, and thus it is possible that the concave portions (grooves 20) are cluttered or closed, and there are no flow paths for the fluid during repeated discharge; therefore, the upper limit of the degree of absorption under pressure at 2 kPa is set in the above range.

{0081} The absorbent element 10 has a thickness of 0.5 mm or more, and 20 mm or less. The thickness is preferably 1 mm or more, and 10 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or more, and 5 mm or less. When the thickness of the absorbent element 10 is too small, it becomes difficult to ensure a sufficient degree of absorption, and thereby it becomes difficult to wear the absorbent element 10 for a long time, while if the thickness is too large, the body's adaptability (fit to the body contours) of the absorbent element decreases. Therefore, the thickness of the absorbent element 10 is set in the above range.

{0082} The absorbent element 10 has grooves 20 on the surface of one side thereof. For example, the grooves 20 have numerous sections of the longitudinal grooves 20A in the longitudinal direction (Y direction) of the absorbent member 10, and numerous sections of the transverse grooves 20B in the width direction (X direction), which are at right angles to the longitudinal direction. The transverse grooves 20B are arranged, for example, with a displacement of the placement position in the longitudinal direction on each longitudinal row, respectively. These longitudinal grooves 20A and transverse grooves 20B are connected to thereby form continuous grooves. You can use a variety of shapes as the shape of the location of the grooves 20, and, for example, part of them can be placed in the form of inclined gratings, or may be in the form of curved lines.

{0083} Each groove 20 has a depth D that is 20% or more and less than 100%, preferably 25% or more, and 95% or less, more preferably 30% or more, and 90% or less, further preferably 30 % or more, and 85% or less, of the thickness T of the absorbent element 10. By way of illustration, in the case where the depth D is less than 100%, the numerous blocks 44 of the absorbent element are individually placed on the sides of the grooves 20, and a part of the absorbent element 10 falls on the lower regions of the grooves 20. In this case, numerous blocks The 44 absorbent elements are interconnected by means of the absorbent element 10B, which is present in the lower regions of the grooves 20. In the case where the grooves 20 are less deep than the above range, the absorption of the fluid entering the absorbent element 10 becomes insufficient. Therefore, the depth of the grooves 20 is set to the above range.

{0084} In addition, the total surface area of the holes of the grooves 20 in a plan view relative to the surface area of the absorbent element 10 in a plan view is 10% or more, and 40% or less, preferably 15% or more, and 35% or less, and more preferably 20% or more, and 30% or less. If the total surface area of the grooves 20 is much less than 10%, the amount of fluid that can pass through the grooves 20 is reduced, and the diffusion ability of the fluid is reduced, and thereby it becomes difficult to distribute the fluid over a large area on the absorbent member 10. On the other side, if the total surface area of the grooves 20 becomes too large, the diffusion capacity of the fluid increases, but the volume of the absorbent element 10 for storing the fluid becomes too small, and thereby, sufficient absorption of the fluid becomes difficult. In addition, functioning as fluid ducts is also impaired.

{0085} Each groove 20 has a width of 1 mm or more, and 10 mm or less, preferably 2 mm or more, and 8.5 mm or less, more preferably 3 mm or more, and 7 mm or less. When the width of the groove 20 is too large, the grooves do not act as grooves, and when the width is too narrow, the fluid passage characteristics deteriorate, and thereby the area in which the fluid diffuses through the grooves 20 becomes narrower, and the degree of absorption of the fluid decreases, and thereby the fluid flows back to the surface of the absorbent element.

{0086} In the case where the absorbent element 10 is present in the lower regions of the grooves 20, it is preferable that the absorbent element 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20 has a lower density than the density of the absorbent element 10 in other areas than the lower regions of the grooves 20. Since the density of the absorbent element 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20 is set lower than the density of the absorbent element 10 in other areas, the fluid entering the grooves 20 is easily distributed inside the grooves 20 and is easily absorbed by the absorbent 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20. In the case where the density of the absorbent element 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20 and the density of the absorbent element 10 in the portions of the side walls of the grooves 20 are equivalent, the fluid entering the grooves 20 is absorbed from the lower regions and portions of the side walls grooves 20 into the absorbent element 10. On the other hand, in the case where the density of the absorbent element 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20 is set higher than the density of the absorbent element 10 in other areas, the fluid sinking into the grooves 20, is absorbed from the side wall portions of the grooves 20 into the absorbent element 10, and thereby it becomes difficult to distribute extensively through the grooves 20. Therefore, the degree of absorption of the fluid is reduced. Accordingly, the density is set in the above range.

{0087} The absorbent element 10 according to the present invention exhibits functions and effects that are excellent in that both a high degree of absorption and a high rate of absorption of the fluid are achieved at the same time, and the absorption rate is practically not reduced even when absorbed fluid during re-isolation, and high absorbency is manifested from the beginning of application to the end of application, due to the location of numerous grooves 20 and the use of water-absorbing polymer 42, cat ing has excellent absorbency even under load.

{0088} For example, one example of an absorption process in the case where the separated fluid enters the above absorbent element 10 will be explained using FIG. 22.

As shown in FIG. 22 (1), the separated fluid 60 (e.g., urine) enters the absorbent member 10. Then, as shown in FIG. 22 (2), the separated fluid 60 quickly flows into the grooves 20 of the absorbent member 10, and since the grooves 20 provide flow paths for the fluid, the extracted fluid travels quickly along the grooves 20 and diffuses in all directions. At this time, the extracted fluid also diffuses into the absorbent element 10 in the lower regions and portions of the side walls of the grooves 20. In the case where the blocks 44 of the absorbent element have a higher density than the sections of the absorbent element 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20, the separated fluid diffuses into portions of the absorbent member 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 22 (3), the extracted fluid 60 is distributed using the grooves 20 as ducts and diffuses into the portions of the absorbent element 10 in the lower regions of the grooves 20, and then absorbed by the absorbent element blocks 44 under the action of capillary force, and the selected fluid is held and fixed in the absorbent element block 44. Due to this, in the absorbent element 10 at the same time, a high absorbency and a high absorption rate are achieved.

{0089} In addition, since the degree of absorption of the fluid by the absorbent element 10 is increased by using the aforementioned water-absorbing polymer 42, in the case where the absorption degree is identical to the absorption level of a conventional product, the amount of water-absorbing polymer 42 used can be reduced, and thus the absorbent element 10 can be formed into a thin sheet. Accordingly, an absorbent article using the absorbent member 10 of the present invention also has advantages such as reduced thickness and reduced size.

In addition, since the absorbent element 10 has grooves 20 in the longitudinal, transverse and angular directions on the surface of one side thereof, the degree of freedom for modifying the absorbent element 10 is increased. Therefore, the adherence of the absorbent element 10 to the contours of the body is improved, and the flow of fluid becomes possible to the end parts of the absorbent element 10, and thereby the degree of absorption of the fluid by the absorbent element 10 can be improved.

{0090} Next, water-absorbing polymer 42 will be explained in detail.

The water-absorbing polymer 42 is a polymer particles having the ability to absorb water, and the method for its production is not limited. Its shape is not specifically discussed, and may be a spherical shape, the shape of a solid array, the shape of a bunch of grapes, be in an amorphous state, a porous state, a powdery state or a fibrous state. The average particle size of the water-absorbing polymer 42 is 100 μm or more, and 1000 μm or less, preferably 150 μm or more, and 650 μm or less, more preferably 200 μm or more, and 500 μm or less to suppress precipitation and transfer from products , and to suppress deterioration in usability (texture feeling). In addition, the degree of absorption of water and the degree of absorption under pressure of the water-absorbing polymer 42 are as described above.

{0091} As one example, water-absorbing polymer 42 is prepared by polymerizing one or more type (s) selected from the following monomers. In addition, the water-absorbing polymer 42 is obtained by crosslinking, if necessary. The polymerization method is not particularly limited, and a variety of well-known methods for water-absorbing polymers can be used, such as the inverse suspension polymerization method and the aqueous solution polymerization method. After that, the polymer is processed in operations such as grinding into powder and sieving, if necessary, to adjust the average particle size to the desired size, and is treated with inorganic microparticles, if necessary, to obtain a water-absorbing polymer.

{0092} The monomers used to prepare the water-absorbing polymer 42 are monomers that are water soluble and have a polymerizable unsaturated group. Specific examples may include vinyl monomers having a polymerizable unsaturated group, such as olefin-based unsaturated carboxylic acids or their salts, olefin-based unsaturated carboxylic esters, olefin-based unsaturated sulfonic acids or their salts, unsaturated phosphoric acids olefins or their salts, olefin-based unsaturated phosphoric acid esters, olefin-based unsaturated amines, olefin-based unsaturated ammonium salts, unsaturated e amides based on olefins, and the like.

{0093} Examples of olefin-based unsaturated carboxylic acids or salts thereof may include unsaturated carboxylic acids such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid and fumaric acid, and alkali metal and ammonium salts thereof, and the like.

{0094} Examples of olefin-based unsaturated carboxylic acid esters may include 2-hydroxyethyl (meth) acrylate, 2-hydroxypropyl (meth) acrylate, methoxypolyethylene glycol ester and (meth) acrylic acid, polyethylene glycol monoester and (meth) acrylic acid, phenoxypolyethylene glycol ester and (meth) acrylic acid, and the like.

{0095} Examples of unsaturated sulfonic acids or olefin-based salts thereof may include vinyl sulfonic acid, allyl sulfonic acid, styrene sulfonic acid, 2- (meth) acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid, 2- (meth) acryloyl ethanesulfonic acid, 2- (meth) acrylic acid, or their salts, and the like.

{0096} Examples of unsaturated phosphoric acids or their olefin-based salts may include esters of (meth) acryloyl (polyoxyethylene) phosphoric acid or their salts, and the like.

{0097} Examples of olefin-based unsaturated amines may include N, N-dimethylaminoethyl (meth) acrylate, N, N-diethylaminoethyl (meth) acrylate, N, N-dimethylaminopropyl (meth) acrylate, N, N-dimethylaminopropyl (meth) acrylamide , and the like.

{0098} Examples of olefin-based unsaturated ammonium salts may include quaternary ammonium salts of the above olefin-based unsaturated amines, and the like.

{0099} Examples of olefin-based unsaturated amides may include: (meth) acrylamide derivatives such as (meth) acrylamide, N-methyl (meth) acrylamide, N-ethyl (meth) acrylamide, N-propyl (meth) acrylamide, N isopropyl (meth) acrylamide, and N, N-dimethyl (meth) acrylamide; and vinyl methylacetamide, and the like.

{0100} Specific examples of other monomers may include unsaturated monomers containing nonionic hydrophilic groups, such as vinyl pyridine, N-vinyl pyrrolidone, N-acryloyl piperidine, N-acryloyl pyrrolidine, N-vinyl acetamide, and the like.

{0101} In this description, (meth) acrylate means acrylate or methacrylate, (meth) acrylamide means acrylamide or methacrylamide, and (meth) acryloyl means acryloyl or methacryloyl.

{0102} Among these monomers, unsaturated carboxylic acids based on olefins or their salts, acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, and salts with alkali metals, salts with alkaline earth metals or ammonium salts are preferred, and acrylic acid, salts of acrylic acid with alkali metals (lithium salts, sodium salts, potassium salts and the like), and ammonium salts of acrylic acid.

{0103} Next, with reference to FIG. 23, an example of a production plant that is preferably used to obtain the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention will be explained below.

{0104} As shown in FIG. 23, the absorbent member apparatus 100 has a rotary fiber stacking drum 101. In the fiber stacking drum 101, a suction region 102 is provided. In addition, on the outer peripheral surface of the fiber-laying drum 101, a feeding region 103 is arranged which is configured to supply cellulose and a super absorbent polymer (SAP) as constituent materials of the absorbent member 10 together with air. As the superabsorbent polymer, the aforementioned water-absorbing polymer 42 may also be used. The supply area 103 includes: a pulp supply section 104, which is configured to pulp and pulp; a polymer supply conduit 105 that is configured to supply a super absorbent polymer; and channel 106, which is configured to pneumatically convey the pulp and superabsorbent polymer supplied to the outer peripheral surface of the fiber stacking drum 101. On the surface of the drum 101 for laying fibers placed cavity 107 for laying fibers, which are made in the form of compartments in the form of absorbent elements and are designed for laying fibers of absorbent elements. The lower surfaces of the fiber-laying cavities 107 have numerous ventilation pores (not shown), and the air supplied to the fiber-laying cavities 107 is sucked by the suction region 102 through the ventilation pores. In addition, unventilated protruding portions 108 that are configured to form concave portions of absorbent elements are arranged on the lower surfaces of the fiber-laying cavities 107. Each protruding portion 108 has a shape formed along the profile of the concave portion on the absorbent member. In addition, a discharge device (not shown), which is configured to discharge absorbent elements formed by stacked fibers, is located on the bottom of the fiber stacking drum 101.

{0105} In the apparatus 100 for producing an absorbent element made as described above, absorbent elements are obtained by feeding chopped cellulose and superabsorbent polymer, supplied together by a conveying gas (eg, air) from the feeding region 103 in the fiber-laying cavity 107, and laying powdered pulp and superabsorbent polymer under the action of the suction force on the suction region 102 to form a predetermined shape. By adjusting the flow rate per unit time, blasting speeds (wind pressure) during feeding and the like of pulverized pulp and the superabsorbent polymer, the desired density of the absorbent element can be adjusted.

{0106} More specifically, as shown in FIG. 24 (1), for example, pulp 111 and superabsorbent polymer 112 are layered in a fiber spacing cavity 107 located on the outer periphery of the fiber spool 101. Since the fiber-laying cavity 107 is located on the outer periphery of the fiber-laying drum 101, its lower surface may have a shape curved along its outer peripheral surface. Then, as shown in FIG. 24 (2), the crushed cellulose 111 and the super absorbent polymer 112 are additionally stacked in the fiber lining cavity 107, thereby forming protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32. In addition, while the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 in the fiber stacking cavity 107 have reached the same height as the protruding portions 108, pulped pulp 111 is fed and laid, while at the same time stopping the supply of super absorbent polymer 112 so that thereby forming a portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer as shown in FIG. 24 (3). Since the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the fluid receiving layer portion 31 are thereby stacked continuously, deposition can be performed without creating an interface between the protruding fluid storage portions 32 and the fluid receiving layer portion 31, thereby forming an absorbent element 10. After this, the deposited absorbent element 10 is removed from the inside of the cavity 107 for laying the fibers and is subjected to processing in the pressing stage, in which the pressure is applied and compressed so that only protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 having large thicknesses are compressed, thereby creating a density difference between the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20, so that the protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage have a high density. In addition, the product is turned upside down and bottom side up, and thereby complete the manufacture of the absorbent element 10, as shown in Fig. 24 (4).

Thus, in the apparatus 100 for producing an absorbent member, projecting portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage are first formed, and then the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is formed.

{0107} The material for forming the absorbent element 10 is not particularly limited, and fibrous materials, porous materials, and combinations thereof, and the like can be used. Examples of fibrous material that may be used include: natural fibers, such as wood pulp, cotton, and hemp; monofilaments composed of synthetic resins, including, for example, polyolefin-based resins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, ester-based resins such as polyethylene terephthalate, and polyvinyl alcohol resins; conjugate fibers comprising two or more varieties of these resins; and semi-synthetic fibers such as acetate and a region. In cases where fibers consisting of a synthetic resin are used, the fibers may be heat-shrink fibers that deform when heated. For example, it is possible to use fibers whose fineness increases, but the length of the fiber decreases when heated, or fibers whose fineness does not change much, but the apparent length occupied by the fibers is reduced due to their deformation into a spiral shape. Examples of porous materials that can be used include sponges, nonwoven textiles, and superabsorbent polymer aggregates and the like can be used.

{0108} As the superabsorbent polymer contained in the absorbent elements 10, preferably those are included that can absorb and hold a fluid having a weight five times or more the weight of the polymer itself and can form a gel. The form is not specifically contemplated, and may be spherical, massive, cluster-like, powder or fibrous. The polymer is preferably in the form of particles having a size preferably of from 1 to 1000 microns, more preferably from 10 to 500 microns. Examples of such superabsorbent polymers may include starch, crosslinked carboxymethylated cellulose, polymers or copolymers of acrylic acid or alkali metal salts of acrylic acid, and the like, polyacrylic acid and its salts, and grafted copolymers of polyacrylic acid salts. As the polyacryolic acid salt, sodium salts can preferably be used. It is also possible to use copolymers obtained by copolymerization of acrylic acid with a comonomer, such as maleic acid, itaconic acid, acrylamide, 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid, 2- (meth) acryloethanesulfonic acid, 2-hydroxyethyl (meth) acrylate or styrene sulfonic acid , within the limits in which the functioning of the super absorbent polymer is not disturbed.

{0109} Although the content of the super absorbent polymer is not essential for the absorbent element 10, in the case where the absorbent element 10 includes a super absorbent polymer, the ratio of the super absorbent polymer to the mass of the absorbent element 10 is preferably from 5% by weight to 95% by weight. More specifically, in cases of products that are used to absorb fluid at a low level of discharge, such as feminine sanitary napkins and mild incontinence pads, the ratio is preferably from 10% by weight to 30% by weight, and in cases of products that are used to absorb fluid with a large amount of discharge, such as diapers, the ratio is preferably from 50% by weight to 80% by weight.

{0110} Regardless of whether the absorbent element 10 includes a superabsorbent polymer or not, the absorbent element 10 preferably exhibits a retention capacity for a 0.9% by weight aqueous solution of sodium chloride at a level of 0.1 g or more, more specifically , 1 g or more per 1 g of absorbent element, since stable absorbency is manifested. To realize such a holding ability, it is preferable to use a combination of fibers having high hydrophilicity and high capillary strength (for example, cellulose, region and the like), synthetic fibers that do not wear out in wet conditions (which are not plasticized, or whose strength in the wet state does not decreases), and superabsorbent polymer as constituent materials for absorbent elements 10.

{0111} To obtain absorbent elements 10 (10A and 10B), firstly, protruding portions 32 of the absorbent fluid storage are formed by laying the fibers in such a state that the density becomes high. As a specific example, for example, protruding portions 108 that are shorter than the depth of the fiber-laying cavity 107 are configured such that the shape shown in FIG. 26 below can be obtained and the fiber-laying cavity 107 is laid fluff pulp and super absorbent polymer. The protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 are first deposited, and then the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is deposited. This way, since the suction force in the deposition step of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is reduced due to the deposited products that are deposited on the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the density becomes lower than the density of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32, a density difference occurs from the top of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 to the fluid receiving layer portion 31. In addition, after laying the cellulose and superabsorbent polymer, the deposited absorbent element 10 is peeled from the inside of the fiber-laying cavity 107 and subjected to a compression treatment. At this time, since pressure is applied directly to the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 having a large base weight and thickness, a density difference arises between the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 and the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20, and thereby, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 have a higher density than the density of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20. However, ec, the absorbent element 10 inverted, thereby obtaining an absorbent member 10 having a portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer on the surface side not in contact with the skin.

{0112} Furthermore, in the absorbent element 10 (10C) of the third embodiment, the cross-sectional surface shape of each protruding portion 108 is made with a trapezoidal profile having a long side facing the surface of the fiber stacking drum 101, and the fiber is laid in a similar manner the method for absorbent elements 10A and 10B. Since the protruding portion 108 is in the form of a trapezoidal cross-sectional surface, the cross-sectional surface of the stacked protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32 takes a trapezoidal shape having a long side facing the fluid receiving layer portion 31. As a result, the upper portion of the projected absorbent fluid storage portion 32 becomes the upper trapezoidal surface, and differences in base weight and thickness arise from the upper to the lower. In addition, when the extrusion treatment is carried out after peeling off the absorbent element 10 from the fiber-laying cavity 107, the pressure directly perceives the upper surface of the trapezoid, which is the upper part of the protruding absorbent fluid storage portion 32, and thereby a density difference occurs between the central part of the protruding portion 32 the storage of absorbable fluid and a side portion of the protruding portion 32 of the storage of absorbable fluid. Finally, the absorbent element 10 is inverted to thereby obtain an absorbent element 10 having a fluid-receiving layer portion 31 on the surface of the non-skin side.

{0113} Next, with reference to FIG. 25, a method for laying chopped cellulose 111 and superabsorbent polymer 112 will be explained by changing the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20.

{0114} The height of the protruding portion 108 located in the fiber spacing cavity 107 shown in FIG. 25 (1) will be explained below. The central part and the outer parts of the absorbent element 10, explained below, are as explained in the above Fig.7.

As shown in FIG. 25 (2), in order to reduce the base weight of the fluid-receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 in the central portion of the absorbent member 10, the height of the protruding portions 108 in the fiber-laying cavity 107, which corresponds to the portions in which concave portions 20 must be located, make it taller than the outer portions, so that the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is stacked to be thinner than the outer portions.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 25 (3), in order to increase the base weight of the fluid-receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 at the outer parts of the absorbent member 10, the height of the protruding portions 108 in the fiber-laying cavity 107, which corresponds to the portions in which the concave portions 20 are to be arranged are made shorter than the outer parts, so that the fluid receiving layer portion 31 is laid thicker.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 25 (4), near the interface from the central portion to the outer parts of the absorbent element 10, the height of the protruding portions 108 may gradually decrease from the central portion toward the outer parts. Thereby, irregularities are not formed in the protruding portions 108 on the interface between the central part and the outer parts, and thereby concave portions 20 that do not contain irregularities are obtained. Therefore, the fluid entering the absorbent member 10 is smoothly transferred to the outer parts of the absorbent member 10 through the concave portions 20, and the thickness of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 increases toward the outer portions, and thereby, the degree of diffusion.

{0115} For example, by laying chopped cellulose 111 and superabsorbent polymer 112 into a fiber-laying cavity 107 in which the protruding portions 108 are formed so as to provide a thickness of 2 mm at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent element 10 and a thickness of 1 mm at the outer portions as mentioned above, the receiving portion 31 of fluid layer on the lower regions of the concave portions 20 at the central portion of the absorbent element 10 can be laid thinner so as to have a basis weight of 50 g / m ^2, and the receiving portion 31 a fluid layer on the lower regions of the concave portions 20 at outer parts of the absorbent body 10 may be laid thicker so as to have a basis weight of 100 g / m ^2, as shown in Figure 26 (1).

On the other hand, in the case where the height of the protruding portions 108 does not change, as shown in FIG. 26 (2), the thickness of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 becomes constant over the entire area of the absorbent element 10, and thereby most basic weight also becomes constant.

{0116} Next, with reference to FIG. 27, one example will be explained in which the aforementioned absorbent member 10 is placed in a disposable diaper 50 (hereinafter referred to as the diaper). In Fig. 27, the top sheet 16 on the central part in the longitudinal direction of the diaper 50 is removed.

{0117} As shown in FIG. 27, the diaper 50 as a whole has a shape in which the central part in the longitudinal direction L, which corresponds to the crotch area, is narrower. The top sheet 16 and the back sheet 17 are extended outward from the left and right sides, and to the front and rear end parts, respectively. The size in the d direction of the width of the top sheet 16 is smaller than the size of the back sheet in the direction of d width. The diaper 50 is a stretchable diaper, and a pair of FT attachment tapes is attached to both sides in one end portion of the longitudinal direction L. In addition, at the other end portion, the landing strip LT is attached to the back sheet 17. For reasons that the water-absorbing polymer 42 easily becomes sufficiently swollen, it is preferable that the top sheet 126 is not connected to the concave portions of the absorbent element 10.

{0118} The diaper 50 includes volume folds that can lift the side parts in the direction d of the width of the absorbent element 10. More specifically, sheet materials (side sheets) 18 for volume folds, each of which has a folded elastic member 56, are placed on their respective both sides. the longitudinal direction L in the diaper 50, thereby forming volume folds. In addition, a conjugated pair of one piece or multiple pieces (two pieces in this drawing) of the leg elastic elements 58 and 58 for the foot folds are placed on both sides of the longitudinal direction L in the diaper 50, thereby forming foot folds. The foot elastic elements 58 for foot folds are placed in their elongated state approximately linearly on the foot valves, which respectively extend outwardly on both sides of the longitudinal direction of the absorbent element 10. In this case, the longitudinal direction L in the diaper 50 and the longitudinal direction L in the absorbent element 10 are the same direction.

{0119} One piece or multiple pieces (in this drawing, three pieces) of the folded elastic element (s) 56 are fastened (s) in an elongated state on one side of each of the sheet materials of 18 volume folds. The sheet materials 18 are connected to the top sheet 16 along the longitudinal direction L of the diaper 50 at positions outside both of the left and right sides in the d direction of the width of the absorbent element 10, and the associated parts are the base end portions of the bulk folds rising upward. The sheet materials 18 are extended outward in the d direction of the width of the diaper 50 from the upstream base end portions, and are connected to the back sheet 17 in elongated portions. The sheet materials 18 are connected to the top sheet 16 at the front and rear end parts in the longitudinal direction L of the diaper 50.

{0120} Preferably, fluid impermeable or water repellent and moisture permeable sheeting are preferably used as sheet materials 18 for bulk folds. Examples of sheet materials 18 may include fluid impervious or water repellent porous polymer films, fluid impervious or water repellent non-woven textile materials, or multilayer materials of porous polymeric films and non-woven textile materials, and the like. Examples of non-woven textile materials may include thermally bonded non-woven textile materials obtained by the spinneret method (“spunbond”) non-woven textile materials, SMS (multilayer materials “spunbond production — meltblown-spunbond production”) non-woven textile materials, SMMS (multilayer materials “spunbond production - meltblown-meltblown) non-woven textile materials, and the like. The base weight of the sheet materials 18 is preferably from 5 g / m ² to 30 g / m ² , more preferably from 10 g / m ² to 20 g / m ² .

{0121} As the topsheet 16, a variety of cover sheets that are traditionally used in this type of diaper can be used, and the topsheet 16 is not limited to the extent that it can provide permeability to a fluid such as urine. The topsheet 16 preferably consists of a fluid permeable material that creates a soft feeling on the skin. Examples may include textile fabrics, non-woven textile materials that are formed from synthetic fibers or natural fibers, and porous sheets, and the like. As one example, non-woven textile materials, including natural fibers such as cotton, and non-woven textile materials, including a variety of synthetic fibers subjected to hydrophilizing treatment, can be used as a material. For example, one example of the topsheet 16 may include a topsheet formed by forming conjugate fibers with a core-shell structure (including side-to-side) using polypropylene or polyester as the core component and polyethylene in as a component of the sheath, into the web by the carding method, and molding the web into non-woven textile material using the “air-through” method (after this, the non-woven textile material can be processed to open OR in predefined areas). Alternatively, from a position of high fluid permeability (dryness), an open pore sheet formed of a polyolefin such as low density polyethylene can also be advantageously used.

{0122} As the backsheet 17, a variety of backsheets that are traditionally used in this type of diaper can be used, and preferably impervious to the fluid or water repellent and moisture permeable backsheets. For example, can be applied such as the aforementioned sheet materials 18 to form bulk folds. In order to purposefully obtain sufficient moisture permeability, it is preferable to use a porous film obtained by stretching a film made of a synthetic resin, such as polyethylene, in which the micropowder composed of an excipient such as calcium carbonate has been distributed to form thin pores. In addition, it is also possible to adjust the width of the back sheet 17 like the width of the absorbent element 10, and place the back sheet 17 on the surface of the absorbent element 10 from the side not in contact with the skin, and further place non-woven textile material or a multilayer material of non-woven textile material and film, or the like, as a sheet for forming the external shape of the diaper on the surface of the back sheet 17 from the side not in contact with the skin.

The surface of the side not in contact with the skin is a surface that is oriented toward the side of the clothes when the diaper is worn (the side opposite the side of the skin of the wearer of the person). In addition, the term “skin contact surface” will sometimes be used below, and the skin contact surface is a surface that is oriented toward the skin of the wearer of the person when the diaper is worn.

{0123} An example of a side sheet may include non-woven textile materials, flat sheets, paper, and the like. For reasons of preventing leakage, it is preferable to form a side sheet of impermeable or low permeable to fluid hydrophobic non-woven textile material that prevents leakage of the sheet film, or the like. The above sheet may be a single sheet, or be two or more sheets in combination with a functional sheet, and the like.

{0124} Furthermore, along with the topsheet 16, the absorbent member 10, the backsheet 17 and the sidesheet, additional details can be properly introduced according to the conditions of use and purpose.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 28, between the top sheet 16 and the absorbent element 10, an intermediate sheet 19 (surface layer) can be laid.

As the intermediate sheet 19, an intermediate sheet having a function of receiving the extracted fluid, a diffusion function and a retention function, an intermediate sheet that reduces the residual amount of the fluid, an intermediate sheet that suppresses leakage of the water-absorbing polymer, an intermediate sheet that suppresses the compression of the absorbent element is used, and the like.

Examples of sheets having such specifications may include non-woven textile materials, including hydrophilic fibers or fibers treated with hydrophilic oil or the like, films or porous materials, and the like. Examples of fibers for the intermediate sheet may include (1) natural cellulose fibers, such as: wood pulp, such as unbleached softwood sulfate pulp and softwood sulfate hardwood pulp; and non-wood celluloses, such as cotton cellulose and straw cellulose, (2) recycled cellulose fibers, such as district and cupra, (3) hydrophilic synthetic fibers, such as polyvinyl alcohol fibers and polyacrylonitrile fibers, (4) synthetic fibers, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers, polyethylene (PE) fibers, polypropylene (PP) fibers, and polyester fibers that have been subjected to hydrophilizing treatment using surfactants And the like, and can be applied individually one of their type, or may be mixed and used two or more types of these fibers.

As the intermediate sheet 19, for example, paper such as cosmetic paper, textile fabrics, non-woven textile materials, knitted fabrics, parchment, papyrus, cellulose fiber mats and the like can be used. Examples of non-woven textile materials may include chemically bonded non-woven textile materials, thermally bonded non-woven textile materials, meltblown non-woven textiles, hydro-jet non-woven textiles (spunlace), spun non-woven textiles), non-woven meltblown textile materials, needle-punched non-woven textile materials, knitting and piercing non-woven textile materials, and the like.

These sheets may be in a single layer state, or may have a multilayer structure in which multiple layers are superposed on top of each other to form a single sheet. In addition, they can be sheets having the ability to stretch (for example, non-woven textile materials (elastic non-woven textile materials), including fibers that contain an elastic polymer as component fibers, films containing an elastic polymer (elastic films), elastic porous materials formed from an elastic polymer including a three-dimensional mesh structure that are formed to form a material by a method such as foaming, and the like).

The intermediate sheet 19 has a base weight of preferably 5 g / m ² or more, and 80 g / m ² or less, particularly preferably 10 g / m ² or more, and 30 g / m ² or less. In addition, the thickness is preferably 0.05 mm or more, and 5.0 mm or less, more specifically 0.1 mm or more, and 3.0 mm or less.

The intermediate sheet 19 can only be placed between the top sheet 26 and the absorbent element 10, or can also be located between the absorbent element 10 and the back sheet 17, or can be placed so that the absorbent element 10 is wrapped in it.

The materials for the topsheet 16, the absorbent member 10 and the backsheet 17, and the conditions in the manufacturing method and product dimensional characteristics for the above embodiment are not particularly limited, and a variety of materials that are commonly used can be used.

{0125} The diaper 50 can be used in the same way as the extensible diaper is used. The diaper 50 can combine high absorbency with comfort of socks due to the action of the absorbent element 10, and has both adherence to the contours of the human body, and the absorbent element 10 is deformed in accordance with the skin surface having complex irregularities, and is in contact with the plane without gaps, and the ability follow the movements, due to which the absorbent element 10 is deformed in accordance with the movement of the wearer of the person and maintains the state in which the absorbent element is in contact It is the plane of the skin surface when using stretchable sheet into the receiving station 31 fluid layer constituting the base sheet 10 of the absorbent element.

{0126} More specifically, the fit to the contours of the body is excellent even while walking, in a sitting position, and the like, while softness is maintained, and thereby the comfort of wearing can be obtained.

In addition, although it is preferable that, for reasons of diffusion and adaptability, numerous first concave portions are formed, an effect similar to the action of multiple portions of the first concave portions can be achieved by adjusting the width of the concave portion to a value greater than 2 mm to 5 mm, for example, from 15 mm to 20 mm. In addition, by adjusting the intervals between the first concave sections to a value from 45 mm to 55 mm, and forming one or more sections of the compressed (s) concave (s) section (s) between them in the same direction as the direction of the first concave sections, an embodiment can be obtained in which the same effect appears as for the first concave sections at intervals from about 15 mm to 25 mm.

{0127} The absorbent product is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be used in absorbent products of such a variety as disposable diapers, urological bags and urological pads. In addition, the absorbent article can be used either as an absorbent article for use by children, or as an absorbent article for use by adults. Moreover, the absorbent article is effective not only for urine, but also for menstrual blood, vaginal discharge, frequent loose stools and the like. In addition to the top sheet 16, the absorbent member 10, the back sheet 17 and the side sheet, additional details can be properly introduced according to the conditions of use and purpose. The materials for the topsheet 16, the absorbent member 10 and the backsheet 17, the conditions in the manufacturing method, and the dimensional characteristics of the product for the above embodiment are not particularly limited, and a variety of materials that are commonly used can be used.

{0128} The present invention will be described in more detail based on the following examples, but the invention is not limited to them.

[Example 1]

The absorbent element 10 of Example 1 was prepared as follows. First, the protruding portions 108, each of which had a height of 2 mm, were placed on the cavity 107 for laying fibers having a depth of 6 mm, so that the shape shown in FIG. 26 was obtained. Each protruding portion 108 had a rectangular cross-sectional surface. In addition, fluff pulp (manufactured by Weyerhaeuser Company, trade name: NB416) and superabsorbent polymer (manufactured by Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd., trade name: W101) were precipitated into a fiber lining cavity 107. At this time, the base weight in the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions 32 was 200 g / m ² for cellulose and 320 g / m ² for the super absorbent polymer, and the base weight of the fluid receiving layer portion 31 in the lower regions of the concave portions 20 was 50 g / m ² for cellulose and 50 g / m ² for a super absorbent polymer. After laying, the stacked absorbent element 10 was removed from the fiber laying cavity 107 and subjected to compression molding under a pressure of 0.025 MPa. The absorbent element 10 was turned upside down and placed so that the portion 31 of the fluid receiving layer was on the surface of the non-skin contact side, and the entire product was coated with cosmetic paper having a base weight of 16 g / m ² , thereby obtaining an absorbent element 10.

[Example 2]

The absorbent element 10 of Example 2 was prepared using procedures similar to those described in Example 1, except that the height of the protruding sections 108 was 2 mm in the central part of the longitudinal direction of the absorbent element, and 1 mm in the outer parts of the absorbent element 10.

[Comparative Example 1]

The absorbent element of Comparative Example 1 was obtained as independent blocks, without a portion of the fluid receiving layer, in the stage in which the fiber was laid in a manner similar to that described in Example 1, except that the height of the protruding sections 108 was 6 mm relative to the laying cavity 107 fiber having a depth of 6 mm. The resulting blocks were placed in the form shown in FIG. 26, and the entire product was completely coated with cosmetic paper having a base weight of 16 g / m ² , thereby obtaining an absorbent element.

[Comparative Example 2]

The absorbent element of Comparative Example 2 was obtained in the form of independent blocks, without a portion of the fluid receiving layer, similar to Comparative Example 1, in the stage in which the fiber was laid in a manner similar to that described in Example 1, except that the height of the protruding sections 108 was 6 mm relative to the cavity 107 for laying fiber having a depth of 6 mm The resulting blocks were placed on a cellulose sheet having a base weight of 50 g / m ² , which was prepared in separate stages, in the form shown in Fig. 26, and the entire product was completely coated with cosmetic paper having a base weight of 16 g / m ² , thereby obtaining most absorbent element.

{0129} Further, the degree of twisting and the magnitude of the back flow of the fluid were tested as an evaluation of the effectiveness of the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention.

The degree of twisting of the absorbent element 10 was obtained as follows.

As shown in FIG. 29, each of the above diapers 50, equipped with absorbent elements described below, was attached to the walking test device 200, and tested to obtain a twisting degree in the steps in which periodic walking was simulated and physiological saline was injected into the absorbent element . The walking test device 200 is made to simulate the contours of the human body, and, for example, is made to simulate the body from the upper front to the hips, and the hips move like a person’s walking behavior.

As for the walking conditions, we first walked for 1 minute with a walking speed of 120 steps / minute. Immediately after this, physiological saline was applied to the absorbent element at a feed rate of 8 g / s, then walked for 10 minutes at a walking speed of 120 steps / minute. Five cycles, and each cycle included the supply of saline and walking for 10 minutes, was carried out in a continuous and periodic mode. As a result, a total of 40 g of physiological saline was applied to the absorbent element.

After this, the degree of twisting (%) of the absorbent element on the perineum was obtained by the following formula.

The degree of twisting = [1- (width of the absorbent element after walking) / (width of the absorbent element before walking)] × 100 (%)

In addition, a visual inspection specifically confirmed the state of displacement of the protruding sections of the absorbent fluid storage on the absorbent element.

{0130} The degree of twisting in the crotch area was investigated by the aforementioned test method for absorbent elements of three types: the solid absorbent element shown in the above Figure 4, the absorbent element shown in the aforementioned Patent Document 1, in which the protruding storage areas of the absorbed fluid were placed independently, and the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention.

{0131}

Table 1 Example 1 Example 2 Compares. Example 1 Compares. Example 2 Base weight in areas of blocks (cellulose / super absorbent polymer), g / m ² 200/320 200/320 200/320 200/320 The base weight of the cellulose of the diffusion layer on the lower areas of the grooves (center of the longitudinal direction / outer parts), g / m ² 50/50 50/100 - 50/50 The density in the areas of the blocks, g / cm ³ 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 The density of the diffusion layer in the lower areas of the grooves (center of the longitudinal direction / outer parts), g / cm ³ 0.05 0.05 - 0.2 The degree of twisting,% fourteen fourteen twenty twenty Block offsets no no is available is available

The magnitude of the reverse fluid flow, g one 0.6 1.8 1.3 "Ex" means Example according to the present invention “Ex” means Comparative Example

{0132} The magnitude of the fluid backflow in the absorbent member was obtained as follows.

A cylinder having an inner diameter of 35 mm was placed on the central part of the longitudinal direction and the central part in the direction of the width of the absorbent element, and 40 g of physiological saline were injected as a fluid, while maintaining the fluid so that the height from the position of the absorbent element to the position where the fluid was injected would be 10 mm. An acrylic plate was placed on the very bottom of the cylinder (thickness: 5 mm, length: 250 mm, width: 100 mm). 10 minutes after the start of absorption, 40 g were again injected in a similar manner. This operation was repeated four times, thereby ensuring the absorption of 160 g of physiological saline as a whole by the absorbent element. Filter paper (Advantec No. 5A) was cut into pieces with dimensions of 100 mm × 100 mm, and a stack of 20 sheets was prepared in advance (measured weight: W1), and the stack was placed on the absorbent at the injection site as a center 10 minutes after the fourth injection, applied a pressure of 3.5 kPa, measured the weight of the filter paper after 2 minutes (measured weight: W2), and calculated the amount of fluid backflow as follows.

The amount of fluid backflow (g) = the mass of filter paper after applying pressure (W2) - the initial mass of filter paper (W1)

Table 1 shows the degree of twisting, the state of displacement of the protruding storage sections of the absorbed fluid, and the measured magnitude of the reverse fluid flow.

{0133} As a result, as shown in Table 1, it was found that the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention could provide such effects that the degree of twisting is reduced to a greater extent than for the absorbent element in which the protruding storage areas of the absorbed fluid are located independently, an offset of the protruding storage portions of the absorbed fluid does not occur, and the amount of the fluid backflow is reduced by 33% to 77%, and thus, the comfortable feeling of dryness during wear is maintained I even after the absorption of the fluid. In addition, the amount of fluid backflow was further reduced in Example 2 by adjusting the base weight of the outer parts in the longitudinal direction to a larger value than the base weight in the central part.

{0134} Further, other Examples are explained below.

First, the method for calculating the average particle size of a water-absorbing polymer is explained below.

In the method for calculating the average particle size, 100 g of the water-absorbing polymer was sorted using a sieve that complies with Japanese Industrial Standard JIS Z-8801-1982, and the average particle size was obtained from mass fractions of the corresponding fractions.

{0135} Next, a method for measuring the degree of absorption of water by a water-absorbing polymer is explained below.

In measuring the degree of water absorption, 1.00 g of the water-absorbing polymer was swelled for 30 minutes in 150 ml of physiological saline (0.9% aqueous NaCl solution manufactured by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.) at room temperature (20 ± 5 ° C), then placed in a bag of non-woven textile material with pores of 250 mesh and subjected to dehydration in a centrifuge at an acceleration of 143 G for 10 minutes, and the total mass (total weight) was measured after dehydration. Then, according to the following formula (1), the amount of saline retention after centrifugal dehydration was measured, and this value was considered as the degree of water absorption.

{0136}

In this formula, the amount of residual fluid in the bag of non-woven textile material = (mass of the bag of non-woven textile material after centrifugal dehydration) - (mass of the bag of non-woven textile material).

{0137} Next, with reference to FIG. 30, a measuring device for carrying out a method for measuring the degree of absorption under pressure is explained.

As shown in FIG. 30 (1), a column 210 was prepared including a cylinder 211 (inner diameter: 30 mm), which was mounted vertically, and including a grid 213 (with a mesh size of 250 mesh) attached to the lower edge of the hole 212. 0.500 g of water-absorbing polymer 42 (particles) was placed in such a way as to ensure uniform thickness. A load 221 (a load capable of applying a pressure of 2.0 kPa) was placed on the water-absorbing polymer 42, which has an outer diameter slightly less than 30 mm.

In a 230-ml glass with a capacity of 100 ml, 100 ml of physiological saline 231 (0.9% by weight aqueous solution of sodium chloride) was poured at room temperature (20 ± 5 ° C). Column 210 is immersed in physiological saline 231 so that the net 213 is not in contact with the bottom of the beaker 230, and left to stand in this state for 1 hour.

Then, the column 210 was removed from the beaker 130, and left to drain for 15 minutes in a state in which the load 221 was placed on a water-absorbing polymer, as shown in Fig. 30 (2). The temperature of this test atmosphere was room temperature (20 ± 5 ° C).

Then, the degree of absorption under pressure was calculated according to the following formula (2).

{0138}

{0139} Next, Examples of the synthesis of a water-absorbing polymer are explained below.

As Example 1 of the synthesis, the water-absorbing polymer I was synthesized as follows.

In Synthesis Example 1, 0.11% [weight relative to acrylic acid] of the sodium salt of lauryl-polyoxyethylene ether sulfate manufactured by Kao Corporation (trade name: EMAL 20C) was placed as a dispersant (using a razor blade) in a 5 L reaction container made stainless steel SUS304, equipped with a stirrer, reflux condenser, throat for adding monomer dropwise, a tube for introducing nitrogen gas and a thermometer, and 1600 ml of cyclohexane were added to it. Stirring was carried out in a nitrogen atmosphere, and the internal temperature was raised to 77 ° C.

{0140} On the other hand, 80% acrylic acid manufactured by Toagosei Co., Ltd., and purified by ion exchange water were added to a 2-neck three-necked flask, and a 48% aqueous solution of caustic soda produced by water was added dropwise under ice cooling. Asahi Glass Co., Ltd., to obtain 1054 g of an aqueous solution of sodium acrylate (72% neutralized product, concentration: about 48%) as an aqueous solution of monomer. To this aqueous solution of monomer was added dropwise a solution of 0.18 g of sodium N-acylglutamate manufactured by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. (trade name: AMISOFT GS-11F) in 3 g of purified water by ion exchange, and the mixture was stirred for a short time and divided into three portions: 264 g (hereinafter aqueous solution A of the monomer), 264 g (further aqueous solution B of the monomer), and 528 g (or less, an aqueous solution of C monomer).

{0141} Then, 0.12 g of 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) hydrochloride manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd. (trade name: V-50), 0.20 g of polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) manufactured by Kao Corporation was dissolved with stirring in 14 g of ion-exchanged purified water to prepare an aqueous initiator solution (A). In addition, 0.49 g of sodium persulfate manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd. dissolved in 10 g of purified by ion exchange water to prepare an aqueous solution of initiator (B). Moreover, an aqueous solution of titanium citrate was prepared (50% citric acid and an aqueous solution of titanyl sulfate were mixed in a mass ratio of 20/27).

7.2 g of an aqueous initiator solution (A) was added to aqueous monomer solution A of monomer A to prepare monomer A; to an aqueous solution of monomer B, 7.2 g of an aqueous solution of initiator (A) and 1.5 g of an aqueous solution of titanium citrate were added to prepare monomer B; and to the aqueous solution of monomer C, 10.5 g of an aqueous solution of initiator (B) and 3 g of an aqueous solution of titanium citrate were added to prepare monomer C.

{0142} Monomer A, monomer B and monomer C, which were left to stand for another 5 or more minutes, were polymerized by adding dropwise through the throat to add monomer dropwise to the above 5 liter reaction container in this order for about 60 minutes using a peristaltic micropump. Upon completion of the addition of the monomers, dehydration was carried out dropwise by azeotropic distillation using a desiccant tube to thereby adjust the water content of the water-absorbing polymer (hydrogel) to a level of 60%, and a solution of 0.33 g of ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether was added (trade name: DENACOL EX-810) manufactured by Nagase Chemicals, Ltd., in 10 g of water as a crosslinking agent. After that, water was additionally removed by azeotropic distillation, cooling was carried out, cyclohexane was removed and drying was carried out under reduced pressure to form a water-absorbing polymer. Coarse particles were removed by sieving on a sieve with a mesh size of 850 microns (850 μm), and 0.5 parts of fumed silica AEROSIL 200 manufactured by Nippon Aerosil Co., Ltd. mixed in a dry state with 100 parts of polymer particles to form a water-absorbing polymer I.

{0143} As Example 2 of synthesis, a water-absorbing polymer II was synthesized as follows.

In Synthesis Example 2, a water-absorbing polymer was prepared by varying the amount of diglycidyl ethylene glycol ether (trade name: DENACOL EX-810) manufactured by Nagase Chemicals, Ltd. from 0.33 g in the above Synthesis Example 1 to 0.18 g as a crosslinking agent. A quaternary ammonium salt manufactured by Kao Corporation (trade name: QUATEAMIN 86W) in an amount of 1% (relative to the total weight of the water-absorbing polymer) was diluted with water and added to this water-absorbing polymer, and dried. Coarse particles were removed by sieving on a sieve with a mesh size of 850 microns (850 μm), and 0.5 parts of fumed silica AEROSIL 200 manufactured by Nippon Aerosil Co., Ltd. mixed in a dry state with 100 parts of polymer particles with the formation of a water-absorbing polymer II.

{0144} As Example 3 of synthesis, a water-absorbing polymer III was synthesized as follows.

In Synthesis Example 3, the water-absorbing polymer III was obtained in steps that were carried out similarly to the steps in the above Synthesis Example 2, except that the amount of diglycidyl ethylene glycol ether (trade name: DENACOL EX-810) manufactured by Nagase Chemicals, Ltd. from 0.18 g changed to 0.25 g

{0145} As Example 4 of synthesis, a water-absorbing polymer IV was synthesized as follows.

0.06% [relative to the mass of acrylic acid] sodium salt of lauryl polyoxyethylene ether sulfate manufactured by Nippon Oil & Fats Co., Ltd. (trade name: PERSOFT EL) and 0.04% [relative to the mass of acrylic acid] sodium stearoyl methyl laurate (trade name: NIKKOL SMT) manufactured by Nikko Chemicals Co., Ltd. as dispersants, they were placed (using a razor blade) in a 5 L reaction container made of SUS304 stainless steel, equipped with a stirrer, reflux condenser, throat for adding monomer dropwise, a tube for introducing gaseous nitrogen and a thermometer, and 1600 was added to it ml of heptane. Stirring was carried out in a nitrogen atmosphere, and the internal temperature was raised to 88 ° C.

{0146} On the other hand, 80% acrylic acid manufactured by Toagosei Co., Ltd., and purified by ion exchange water were added to a 2-neck three-necked flask, and a 48% aqueous solution of caustic soda produced by water was added dropwise under ice cooling. Asahi Glass Co., Ltd., to obtain 1054 g of an aqueous solution of sodium acrylate (72% neutralized product, concentration: about 48%) as an aqueous solution of monomer. To this aqueous solution of monomer was added dropwise a solution of 0.25 g of sodium N-acylglutamate manufactured by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. (trade name: AMISOFT GS-11F) in 3 g of purified water by ion exchange, and the mixture was stirred for a short time and divided into three portions: 264 g (hereinafter aqueous solution of monomer D), 264 g (hereinafter aqueous solution of monomer E), and 528 g (or less, an aqueous solution of F monomer).

{0147} Then, 0.041 g of 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) hydrochloride manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd. (trade name: V-50), 0.20 g of polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) manufactured by Kao Corporation, was dissolved with stirring in 9 g of ion-exchanged purified water to prepare an aqueous initiator solution (C). In addition, 0.49 g of sodium persulfate manufactured by Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd. dissolved in 10 g of ion-exchanged purified water to prepare an aqueous initiator solution (D). Moreover, an aqueous solution of titanium citrate was prepared (50% citric acid and an aqueous solution of titanyl sulfate were mixed in a mass ratio of 20/54).

To an aqueous solution of monomer D, 2.3 g of an aqueous initiator solution (C) was added to prepare monomer A; 6.9 g of an aqueous solution of initiator (C) and 1.5 g of an aqueous solution of titanium citrate were added to an aqueous solution of monomer E to prepare monomer E; and 10.5 g of an aqueous initiator solution (D) and 3 g of an aqueous solution of titanium citrate were added to an aqueous solution of monomer F to prepare monomer F.

{0148} Monomer D, monomer E, and monomer F, which were left to stand for another 5 or more minutes, were polymerized by dropwise addition of throat to add monomer dropwise to the above 5 liter reaction container in this order for about 60 minutes using a peristaltic micropump. At the end of the polymerization, dehydration was carried out by azeotropic distillation using a tube with a desiccant to thereby adjust the water content in the water-absorbing polymer (hydrogel) to 60%, and a solution of 0.12 g of ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether was added (trade name: DENACOL EX-81010 ) manufactured by Nagase Chemicals, Ltd. in 10 g of water as a crosslinking agent. After that, water was additionally removed by azeotropic distillation, cooling was carried out, heptane was removed and drying was carried out under reduced pressure to form a water-absorbing polymer. Coarse particles were removed by sieving on a sieve with a mesh size of 850 microns (850 μm), and 0.5 parts of fumed silica AEROSIL 200 manufactured by Nippon Aerosil Co., Ltd. mixed in a dry state with 100 parts of polymer particles with the formation of a water-absorbing polymer IV.

{0149} The corresponding average particle sizes, degrees of water absorption and degrees of absorption under pressure at 2 kPa of water-absorbing polymers I, II, III and IV in the above Synthesis Examples 1-4 were as shown in Table 1.

{0150}

table 2 Synthesis Example 1 Synthesis Example 2 Synthesis Example 3 Synthesis Example 4 Water-absorbing polymers I II III IV Average particle size [microns] 350 390 370 390 Degrees of water absorption [g / g] 28 40 36 32 Degrees of absorption under pressure [g / g] 25 10 23 28

{0151}

[Example 3]

In Example 3, actions similar to those in Example 2 were performed, except that the water-absorbing polymer III of Example 3 of the synthesis was used as the super-absorbing polymer in Example 2. The mass ratio represented by the expression "[mass of cellulose] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer]", was 1 / 1.6. In addition, the absorbent element had a thickness of 3 mm and the depth of the grooves was 2 mm. The density of the block regions was 0.2 g / cm ³ and the density of the fluid receiving layer portion in the lower regions of the concave portions was 0.05 g / cm ³ .

The absorbent member obtained by compression molding was placed between the top sheet and the back sheet to form an absorbent article. A surface material and an intermediate sheet of Merries (trade name) manufactured by Kao Corporation was used for the top sheet as a surface in contact with the skin, and a back sheet of Merries (trade name) manufactured by Kao Corporation was used for a impervious to fluid back sheet.

{0152}

[Example 4-1]

In Example 4-1, actions similar to those described in Example 3 were performed, except that the water-absorbing polymer IV of Example 4 of the synthesis was used as a super absorbent polymer in Example 3.

[Example 4-2]

Example 4-2 was similar to Example 4-1, except that the absorbent element was turned upside down so that the surface on the skin contact side had a portion of the fluid receiving layer of Example 4-1.

{0153}

[Reference Example 1]

In Control Example 1, actions similar to those described in Example 3 were performed, except that the water-absorbing polymer I of Example 1 of the synthesis was used as a super absorbent polymer in Example 3.

[Reference Example 2]

In Control Example 2, actions similar to those described in Example 3 were performed, except that the water-absorbing polymer II of Synthesis Example 2 was used as the super absorbent polymer in Example 3.

[Comparative Example 3]

In Comparative Example 3, an absorbent article having no concave portions was obtained by performing steps similar to those described in Example 4-1, except that a fiber spacing cavity 107 having the outline shown in FIG. 26 but without protruding sections was placed 108, and that the amount of sprayed water-absorbing polymer IV was increased 1.1 times compared with Example 4-1. In addition, the absorbent element had a thickness of 3 mm.

{0154}

[Example 5]

In Example 5, an absorbent article having the shape shown in FIG. 31 was prepared as follows.

As shown in FIG. 31 (1), using the water-absorbing polymer III obtained in Synthesis Example 3 as the water-absorbing polymer 42, a multilayer material 43 was prepared from cellulosic sheets 41S and water-absorbing polymer 42 (three layers of water-absorbing polymer 42, each of which has a base weight of 100 g / m ² , was sprayed between the respective layers of four layers of cellulose sheets 41S, each of which has a base weight of 50 g / m ² ). The laminate 43 was cut so as to obtain a transverse width h2 = 30 mm, and a longitudinal width h1 = 50 mm, as shown in Fig. 31 (2), to obtain absorbent element blocks 44. As the substrate 40, cosmetic paper was used having a base weight of 16 g / m ² , on which a hot-melt adhesive was applied (not shown), and cut blocks of the absorbent element 44 were placed on the substrate 40 with transverse gaps e = 5 mm, longitudinal intervals d = 5 mm, 3 pieces in the transverse direction × 7 pieces in the longitudinal direction, and fixed on it.

After that, the grooves between the absorbent element blocks 44 were filled with a cellulose sheet having a base weight of 50 g / m ² (width: 5 mm) so that the groove portions (width: 5 mm) had a base weight of 50 g / m ² .

Then, cosmetic paper (not shown) having a base weight of 16 g / m ² , on which hot-melt adhesive was applied, was applied to the upper sides (surface sides in contact with skin) of the respective absorbent element blocks 44, and compression molding was carried out using rolling.

The mass ratio represented by the expression "[mass of cellulose] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer]" was 1 / 1.4. In addition, the absorbent element had a thickness of 3 mm and the depth of the grooves was 1.5 mm.

Although not shown, the absorbent member obtained by compression molding was placed between the top sheet and the back sheet to obtain an absorbent article. A surface material from Merries (trade name) manufactured by Kao Corporation was used for the top sheet as a surface in contact with the skin, and a back sheet from Merries (trade name) manufactured by Kao Corporation was used for the fluid impervious back sheet.

{0155}

[Example 6]

In Example 6, when a compressed absorbent member was placed between the top sheet and the back sheet, the upper and back sides of the compressed absorbent member were interchanged to arrange the cellulosic solid layer on the side of the top sheet of the above Example 5.

{0156}

[Reference Example 3]

In Control Example 3, in comparison with Example 5, actions similar to those described in Example 5 were performed, except that the water-absorbing polymer III was replaced by the water-absorbing polymer I from Example 1 of the synthesis.

The mass ratio represented by the expression "[mass of cellulose] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer]" was 1 / 1.4. In addition, the absorbent element had a thickness of 3 mm and the depth of the grooves was 1.5 mm.

[Reference Example 4]

In Control Example 4, in comparison with Example 5, actions similar to those described in Example 5 were performed, except that the water-absorbing polymer III was replaced by the water-absorbing polymer II from Synthesis Example 2.

The mass ratio represented by the expression "[mass of cellulose] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer]" was 1 / 1.4. In addition, the absorbent element had a thickness of 3 mm and the depth of the grooves was 1.5 mm.

{0157}

[Comparative Example 4]

In Comparative Example 4, an absorbent article was obtained by cutting a multilayer material of cellulose and a water-absorbing polymer (three layers of water-absorbing polymer III, each of which has a base weight of 80 g / m ² , were spray coated between the respective layers of four layers of cellulose sheets, each of which has the base weight of 50 g / m ² ), prepared so as to obtain a transverse width of 100 mm and a longitudinal width of 375 mm in Example 5. The base weight of the water-absorbing polymer decreased because the surface area of the absorbent element was made wider than the surface area in Example 5, and the used amount of water-absorbing polymer was adjusted to be the same as in Example 5.

In the absorbent element, the mass ratio represented by the expression “[mass of cellulose] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer]” was 1 / 1.2. In addition, the absorbent element had a thickness of 3 mm.

[Comparative Example 5]

In Comparative Example 5, an absorbent article was obtained by cutting a multilayer material from cellulose and a water-absorbing polymer (three layers of water-absorbing polymer I, each of which has a base weight of 90 g / m ² , were spray coated between the respective layers of four layers of cellulose sheets, each of which has base weight of 50 g / m ² ), prepared so as to obtain a transverse width of 100 mm and a longitudinal width of 375 mm in Control Example 3. The surface area of the absorbent element was wider than in Comparative Example 4, the base weight of the water-absorbing polymer decreased, and the used amount of the water-absorbing polymer was adjusted to be 1.13 times more than in Example 5.

In the absorbent element, the mass ratio represented by the expression "[mass of cellulose] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer]" was 1 / 1.4. In addition, the absorbent element had a thickness of 3 mm.

{0158} Next, methods for measuring the absorption rate and the amount of fluid backflow in an absorbent article are explained. As one example, the case of a paper diaper for children (size M) is explained.

An acrylic cylinder having an inner diameter of 35 mm was placed on a portion of the absorbent article which was 150 mm from the portion of the end edge of the front side in the longitudinal direction of the absorbent article and in the central part in the width direction, and 40 colored artificial urine was injected, while while maintaining the fluid so as to obtain a height of 10 mm, with the application of a load of 2.0 kPa to the entire absorbent article as a whole. An acrylic plate having a size so as to completely cover the absorbent article was placed on the lowermost part of the cylinder. At this stage, the time taken for absorption (time 1 absorption) was measured. A shorter absorption time presents a situation with better efficacy. At the 10th minute after the start of absorption, 40 g were again injected, and the absorption time was measured (absorption time 2). This operation was additionally repeated twice, thereby injecting a total of 160 g of physiological saline, and the duration of absorption (times 3 and 4 of absorption) was measured. The temperature of the test atmosphere was room temperature (20 ± 5 ° C), and artificial urine was used with a temperature corresponding to room temperature (20 ± 5 ° C).

At the 10th minute after the injection was completed, 10 sheets of Advantec No. 4A filter paper (100 mm × 100 mm, measured weight W1) were stacked on top of each other and placed on the injection point as the center of the absorbent article.

Using an acrylic plate with a size of 100 mm × 100 mm having a thickness of 5 mm, a pressure of 3.5 kPa was applied, and after 2 minutes, the weight of filter paper (W2) was measured, and the value of the fluid backflow was calculated by the following formula.

{0159} The amount of fluid backflow (g) = the weight of the filter paper after applying pressure (W2) - the initial weight of the filter paper (W1)

{0160} The measured absorption rate and fluid backflow were evaluated on a three-point scale according to the following evaluation criteria.

The case where the absorption time was less than 30 seconds was evaluated as “◯”, the case when the absorption time was 30 seconds or more was evaluated as “∆”, and the case when the absorption time was 60 seconds or more was evaluated as “×” . In addition, the case where the magnitude of the fluid backflow was less than 1.0 g was rated as “◯”, the case where the magnitude of the fluid backflow was 1.0 g or more and 1.5 g or less was evaluated as “∆”, and the case where the magnitude of the fluid backflow was 1.5 g or more was evaluated as “×”.

{0161} Next, an evaluation method that relates to the absorbency of an absorbent article is explained below.

The absorbent product, as prepared, was placed on an acrylic plate inclined at an angle of 20 ° (the end edge portion of the front was the bottom side), an acrylic plate and a load were placed on it, and a load of 2.0 kPa was applied to the entire absorbent product as a whole. In this state, colored artificial urine was injected several times at a constant amount over a predetermined interval in each case to a position of 200 mm from the end portion on the upper side of the absorbent article, and the injected quantities were compared until a leak from the end portion on the lower side of the absorbent article . The temperature of the test atmosphere was room temperature (20 ± 5 ° C), and the temperature of the artificial urine corresponded to room temperature (20 ± 5 ° C). The relative amount in the case that the absorbency in Comparative Example 6 was considered as 1.0 was calculated using the following calculation formula.

{0162} In Examples 3, 4-1 and 4-2, and Control Examples 1 and 2, the relative values in the case that the absorbency in Comparative Example 3 was considered as 1.0 was calculated using the following calculation formula.

Absorbency (relative value) = (absorbency of a sample) / (absorbency of Comparative Example 3)

{0163} As artificial urine, artificial urine was used as described in Japanese Patent No. 4601601.

{0164} The above evaluation method was evaluated Examples 3-6, Control Examples 1 and 2, and Comparative Examples 3-5. The results are shown in Tables 3-4. The "position of the grooves" in Tables 3-4 is a schematic sectional view of the structure of an absorbent article 50 according to FIG. 32. The symbols shown in the drawing are the same as the symbols for the aforementioned respective structural parts.

{0165}

{0166}

{0167}

{0168} In Examples 3, 4-1 and 4-2, all of the durations from the first absorption to the fourth absorption of the fluid were less than 30 seconds. On the other hand, in Control Examples 1 and 2, the results of the evaluation of the lengths of time from the first absorption to the third absorption were approximately equivalent to the estimates in Examples 3, 4-1 and 4-2, while the time of the fourth absorption was less than 60 seconds. In Comparative Example C, in which an absorbent element without grooves (concave portions) was used, the test fluid flowed out of the corresponding crotch position of the diaper during the third measurement, and thus the measurement was not possible to continue. As a result, it was found that the fluid absorption characteristics in the Examples remained high from the start of use to the end of the repeated absorption.

Accordingly, the water-absorbing polymer 42 used in the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is difficult to swell and is difficult to compress when applied, even when the water-absorbing polymer 42 absorbs the released fluid (urine), for example, even during the first discharge (urination), the second allocation, the third allocation and the fourth allocation, and thereby preserves the state of the grooves 20, as during the first allocation, assuming that the amount of urine from the breast-fed baby is approx. about 40 cm ³ for one selection. Therefore, the grooves 20 are not clogged by the water-absorbing polymer 42, and thereby, the flow characteristics of the fluid through the grooves 20 are ensured. As a result, the absorption rate of the extracted fluid becomes fast.

In addition, the magnitude of the reverse flow of the fluid was less than 1.0 g in Examples 3, 4-1 and 4-2; the fluid backflow value was 1.0 g or more in Control Example 1, in which a water-absorbing polymer having a low degree of water absorption was used, and in Control Example 2, in which a water-absorbing polymer was used under pressure; and the measurement was invalid, as mentioned above, in Comparative Example 3, in which an absorbent element without grooves (concave sections) was used.

In a traditional water-absorbing polymer having a low absorbency under pressure, as in Control Example 2, the flow of fluid through the grooves 20 is possible with urination from the first to the third. However, the passage of fluid through the grooves 20 becomes difficult during the fourth urination, since the water-absorbing polymer is squeezed under the load applied by the wearer to the water-absorbing polymer, which has swelled at the moment of the third urination, and the water-absorbing polymer protrudes into the grooves 20, and in the worst case, clogs the grooves 20. Therefore, in the fourth selection, the flow of the selected fluid through the grooves 20 becomes difficult, and thus the fluid cannot be accessed. diffuse in-situ measure, and the magnitude of the reverse flow of the fluid increases.

On the other hand, in the absorbent element polymers used in Examples 3, 4-1 and 4-2, even when the water-absorbing polymer repeatedly absorbs the released fluid (urine), the water-absorbing polymer swells with difficulty and is difficult to compress under load, the released fluid the medium can diffuse and be absorbed throughout the absorbent element without clogging the grooves 20, and thus the magnitude of the fluid backflow can be adjusted to a level of less than 1.0 g.

In addition, it was found that all absorbency levels in Examples 3, 4-1 and 4-2 were 1.0 relative to Comparative Example 3, in which the amount of water-absorbing polymer used was 1.1 times greater than in Example 4- 1, and thus the absorbency levels were similar to those shown in Comparative Example 3. More specifically, it was found that Examples 3, 4-1 and 4-2 had sufficient absorbency levels.

As explained above, in accordance with the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention and the absorbent article 50 using the absorbent element 10, a balance is achieved between high absorbency and high absorption rate, the amount of fluid backflow is small, and high absorption characteristics may occur in the case of absorption of the fluid, which is repeatedly released due to the use for a long time.

{0169} In Examples 5-6, the fluid absorption time was less than 30 seconds at the first absorption, and the absorption times were less than 60 seconds even from the second to fourth absorption in both examples. On the other hand, in Comparative Examples, evaluation results were obtained, approximately equivalent to the results obtained in Examples, relative to the absorption time in Comparative Example 3, while in Control Example 4, which used a water-absorbing polymer having a low absorption capacity under pressure, and in Comparative Examples 4 and 5, which used absorbent elements without grooves, the duration of the absorption time for the second absorption was 60 seconds or more, and thus the length of time and removals increased. As a result, it was found that the fluid absorption characteristics in the Examples remained high from the start of use to the end with repeated absorption.

{0170} Accordingly, the water-absorbing polymer 42 used in the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is difficult to swell and difficult to compress when applied, even when the water-absorbing polymer 42 absorbs the released fluid (urine), for example, even during the first discharge ( urination), the second discharge, the third discharge and the fourth discharge, assuming that the amount of urine from a breast-fed baby is about 40 cm ³ per discharge, and thus the water-absorbing polymer 42 is saved annihilates the condition of grooves 20, as during the first selection Therefore, the grooves 20 are not clogged by the water-absorbing polymer 42, and thereby, the flow characteristics of the fluid through the grooves 20 are ensured. As a result, the absorption rate of the extracted fluid becomes fast.

{0171} In addition, the magnitude of the fluid backflow was less than 1.5 g in Examples 3-4, while the magnitude of the fluid backflow was 1.5 g or more in Control Example 3, which used a water-absorbing polymer having a low the degree of water absorption, Reference Example 4, which used a water-absorbing polymer having a low absorption of water under pressure, and Comparative Example 4, in which the absorbent element had no grooves. As a result, it was found that the fluid backflow values in the respective Examples were small.

{0172} Accordingly, in a conventional water-absorbing polymer having a low absorbency under pressure, as in Control Example 4, fluid flow through the grooves 20 is possible during the first urination. However, the flow of fluid through the grooves 20 becomes difficult from the second urination, since the water-absorbing polymer is squeezed under the load created by the wearer of the product onto the water-absorbing polymer that has swelled during the first urination, and the water-absorbing polymer protrudes into the grooves 20, and in the worst case, clogs the grooves 20 Therefore, it becomes difficult for the selected fluid to flow in the grooves 20, or there is no flow at all after the second selection, and thereby flow with the redid cannot diffuse sufficiently, and the magnitude of the reverse flow of the fluid increases.

On the other hand, the values of the fluid backflow can be adjusted to less than 1.5 g in the case of absorbent element polymers used in the corresponding Examples, since the water-absorbing polymers swell a little even during the second isolation, and the grooves 20 are not clogged, and the selected fluid can diffuse and be absorbed throughout the absorbent element.

{0173} In addition, it was found that all levels of absorbency in Examples 5 and 6 were 1.0 relative to Comparative Example 5, in which the amount of water-absorbing polymer used was 1.13 times greater than in Example 5, and thereby the absorption volumes were similar to those in Comparative Example 5. More specifically, it was found that the corresponding Examples had sufficient levels of absorbency.

Accordingly, since the corresponding Examples had sufficient absorbency levels, the fluid backflow values were as small as 1.0 g in the corresponding Examples, while in Control Example 3 the absorbency was low at 0.8, and thus the value The fluid backflow was high. In addition, Comparative Example 4 used a water-absorbing polymer III, as in Example 5, but there were no grooves, and thus the absorbency of the absorbent element was low at a level of 0.8, and the magnitude of the fluid backflow was large.

{0174} As explained above, in accordance with the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention and the absorbent article 50 using the absorbent element 10, a balance is achieved between high absorbency and high absorption rate, the amount of backflow of the fluid is small, and high performance can occur absorption in the case of absorption of a fluid that is repeatedly released due to use for a long time.

{0175} The absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be used as an absorbent element included in absorbent articles such as diapers worn without fasteners (such as panties), sanitary towels, diaper type panties, sanitary napkins , incontinence pads and pads for mild incontinence, as well as extensible (such as diapers with Velcro) diapers, as mentioned above. In addition, the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention can be used in the above absorbent products for both children and adults. In addition, the absorbent element 10 according to the present invention is effective not only for urine, but also for menstrual blood, vaginal discharge, frequent loose stools and the like.

{0176} When describing the invention as relating to embodiments, the authors of the present invention are convinced that the invention is not limited to any of the details described in the description, but rather should be construed more broadly within its meaning and scope as set forth in the paragraphs of the attached patent claims .

{0177} This application claims the priority of Patent Application No. 2010-287970, filed in Japan on December 24, 2010, Patent Application No. 2010-287971, filed in Japan on December 24, 2010, and Patent Application No. 2010-287972, filed in Japan on December 24, 2010 of the year, Patent Application No. 2011-186764, filed in Japan on August 30, 2011, and Patent Application No. 2011-186765, filed in Japan on August 30, 2011, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS

{0178}

10 Absorbent element

11 First absorbent area

12 Second absorbent area

13 Third absorbent area

20 Concave section (grooves)

21 First concave portion

22 Second concave section

23 Third concave section

31 Plot fluid receiving layer

32 Protruding Absorbent Fluid Storage Section

16 Top sheet

17 back sheet

19 Intermediate sheet

41 Pulp

42 Water-absorbing polymer

44 Blocks of the absorbent element

50 Absorbent article (diaper)

L Longitudinal direction

D Cross direction

S2, S3 Peripheral surface

Claims (20)

1. The absorbent element is divided into three areas in the longitudinal direction, which includes the first absorbent region as the middle part, the second absorbent region, which is divided on one side of the first absorbent region, and the third absorbent region, which is divided on the other side of the first absorbent region, wherein each of the absorbent regions includes a portion of the fluid receiving layer for absorbing the fluid and diffusing the fluid in the planar direction; multiple protruding absorbent fluid storage portions for absorbing and accumulating fluid that are continuous with the fluid receiving portion and are independently located on the surface of one side of the fluid receiving layer portion; and concave portions that are concave in the form of grooves on one surface or on the positions of both surfaces facing each other, with concave portions between protruding portions for storing absorbable fluid, the first concave portions located on the first absorbent region are located inside the outer edges the first absorbent region in a plan view and arranged in the longitudinal direction, the second and third concave sections located in the respective second and third absorbent regions, respectively, are arranged in directions oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction, the first and second concave sections and the first and third concave sections are formed as continuous concave sections or the first concave sections are located at a distance from the second concave sections and the third concave sections, the protruding portions for storing absorbent the fluid have a higher area ratio than the area ratio of the concave portions, and the portion of the fluid receiving layer in the lower regions concave sections has a lower base weight and density than the base weight and density of the protruding storage areas of the absorbed fluid. 2. The absorbent member of claim 1, wherein the protruding portions for storing the absorbable fluid have a higher density than the density of the portion of the fluid receiving layer that is below the protruding portions for storing the absorbed fluid. 3. The absorbent element according to claim 1, in which the side surfaces of the protruding sections for storing absorbable fluid have a lower density than the density of the Central parts of the protruding sections of the storage of absorbent fluid. 4. The absorbent element according to claim 1, wherein a part of the absorbent element is present in the lower regions of the concave portions, and the absorbent element that is present in the lower regions of the concave portions has a lower density than the density of the absorbent element that is present in other regions than lower areas of concave sections. 5. The absorbent element is divided into three areas in the longitudinal direction, which includes the first absorbent region as the middle part, the second absorbent region, which is divided on one side of the first absorbent region, and the third absorbent region, which is divided on the other side of the first absorbent region, wherein each of the absorbent regions comprises a portion of the fluid receiving layer for absorbing the fluid and diffusing the fluid in the planar direction; numerous protruding portions for storing absorbable fluid for absorbing and accumulating a fluid that are continuous with the fluid receiving portion and are independently located on the surface of one side of the fluid receiving layer portion; and concave portions that are concave in the form of grooves on one surface or on the positions of each other facing towards each other, with concave portions being located between the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions, the protruding absorbent fluid storage portions have a higher area ratio than the area ratio concave portions, the fluid receiving layer portion in the lower regions of the concave portions has lower base weight and density than the base weight and protrusion density absorbent fluid storage portions, the absorbent element is an absorbent element including cellulose and a water-absorbing polymer, and each concave portion has a depth of 20% or more and less than 100% of the thickness of the absorbent element, the absorbent element has a mass ratio represented by the expression "[ cellulose mass] / [mass of water-absorbing polymer] ", 1/3 or more and 1 / 0.01 or less, and the water-absorbing polymer has a degree of absorption of water of 30 g / g or more and 50 g / g or less and a degree of absorption of fluid food under a pressure of 2 kPa 20 g / g or more and 40 g / g or less. 6. The absorbent element according to claim 5, in which the water-absorbing polymer has a degree of water absorption of 30 g / g or more and 45 g / g or less. 7. The absorbent element according to claim 5, in which the water-absorbing polymer has a degree of absorption of the fluid under a pressure of 2 kPa of 20 g / g or more and 35 g / g or less. 8. The absorbent element of claim 1, wherein the concave portions have a total surface area of 10% or more and 40% or less of the surface area of the absorbent element in a plan view. 9. The absorbent element according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent element has a thickness of 0.5 mm or more and 20 mm or less. 10. The absorbent element of claim 1, wherein each concave portion has a width of 1 mm or more and 10 mm or less. 11. The absorbent element according to claim 1, wherein the second concave portions are present inside the outer edges of the second absorbent region in a plan view and the third concave portions are present inside the outer edges of the third absorbent region in a plan view. 12. The absorbent element according to claim 1, in which each of the first, second and third concave sections has a part of the absorbent element in their lower regions. 13. The absorbent element of claim 1, wherein the plurality of concave portions among the second concave portions are connected in a region on which the first concave portions are located, and the plural concave portions among the third concave portions are connected in an area on which the first concave portions are arranged. 14. The absorbent element according to claim 1, in which the first concave sections are arranged as numerous, and the connecting concave sections that connect the first concave sections are placed in a direction that intersects with the longitudinal direction. 15. The absorbent element according to claim 1, wherein the absorbent element in each of the lower regions of the second and third concave sections has a larger base weight than the base weight of the absorbent element in the lower regions of the first concave sections. 16. An absorbent product comprising an absorbent element according to claim 1. 17. An absorbent article comprising the absorbent member of claim 1, wherein the absorbent member has a portion of a fluid receiving layer on a surface of the non-skin side. 18. An absorbent article comprising the absorbent member according to claim 1, comprising a fluid permeable top sheet that is placed on a surface of the skin contact side, a fluid impervious back sheet that is placed on the surface of the skin non-contact side, and absorbent element that is placed between two sheets. 19. An absorbent article comprising the absorbent member of claim 1, comprising a fluid permeable top sheet that is placed on a surface of a skin contact side, a fluid impermeable back sheet that is placed on a surface of a skin non-contact side, and an absorbent element that is placed between two sheets, with concave portions present on the side of the absorbent element facing the top sheet. 20. An absorbent article comprising the absorbent member of claim 1, comprising a fluid permeable top sheet that is placed on a surface of a skin contacting side, a fluid impermeable back sheet that is disposed on a surface of a skin non-contact side, and an absorbent element that is placed between two sheets, in which concave portions are present on the side of the absorbent element facing the back sheet.

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