WO2012158538A2

WO2012158538A2 - Fastener system with various adhesives

Info

Publication number: WO2012158538A2
Application number: PCT/US2012/037567
Authority: WO
Inventors: David N. Edwards; Kourosh Kian; Ben Vanmarcke; Sou Phong LEE; Nagarajan Srivatsan; Prakash Mallya; Bert Bogaerts; Sujith Chacko; Liviu Dinescu
Original assignee: Avery Dennison Corporation
Priority date: 2011-05-13
Filing date: 2012-05-11
Publication date: 2012-11-22
Also published as: WO2012158538A3

Abstract

Various fastening tape constructions are described. The fastening tapes are useful in the manufacture of disposable articles, and particularly disposable diapers. The fastening tape generally includes a backing film, and at least one of an activatable adhesive, a dry adhesive, a linerless adhesive, and/or a non-tacky adhesive. Also described are fastening tapes that include landing zone carrier films and/or target tapes.

Description

Fastener System with Various Adhesives

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/485,655 filed May 13, 2011, and 61/527,880 filed August 26, 2011, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

Field

[0002] The present subject matter relates to a fastener system having a region of an activatable (liner free) adhesive, a region of dry adhesive, a region of a linerless adhesive, and/or a region of a non-tacky adhesive. The fastener system is useful in disposable articles, and particularly disposable diapers.

Background of the Invention

[0003] A typical diaper construction comprises an absorbent pad or the like enclosed in an outer plastic shell or a non-woven backsheet. The backsheet is typically a non-woven fabric laminated with a water impermeable layer such as a polyethylene film. A water permeable inner shell or liner is also provided to promote separation of fluid from the user.

[0004] As shown in Figure 1, typical diaper also has two side panels 301, a frontal panel 302 with a landing zone carrier film 303 and a fastening system 304. The fastening system forms a permanent bond 305 with the side panels, referred to as a factory joint throughout this description, and carrier film covers the frontal panel to provide properties that allow a balanced bonding strength and ease of release. Securing a fastener to a diaper at the factory joint is typically performed so as to provide a strong and durable affixment. Several techniques have been used including mechanical bonding procedures and the use of high strength adhesives. The user joint is typically formed through the use of a pressure sensitive adhesive or a mechanical hook and loop construction.

[0005] In the diaper assembly process, fastening tabs of suitable size are cut from a self wound roll of fastening tape. As shown in Figure 2, when pressure sensitive adhesives are used for the diaper tape, each diaper tab typically has a backing film 201, a pressure sensitive adhesive 203 on one side of the film, a release coating 202 on the opposite side of the film, a second backing film 204, a second adhesive 205 coated on one side of the second backing film, and a second release 206 coated on the side of the second backing film opposite to the side with the second adhesive. The diaper tab is fastened to a side panel of the diaper in a permanent factory joint by the diaper manufacturer using the first pressure sensitive adhesive on one side of the side panel, and the second pressure sensitive adhesive on the second side of the side panel, to form a shaped joint. The tabs are releasably attachable to the frontal panel of the diaper, through the remainder of the first backing film and the remaining portion of the first pressure sensitive adhesive, to form a nonpermanent user joint, which allows unfastening to inspect the diaper and refastening if needed.

[0006] While being worn, the user joint needs to stay strong enough throughout the daily activities of the wearer, such as that of a baby or a toddler. On the other hand, the user joint needs to be fairly easily separated to allow the inspection, and if no need to change, allow the refastening with satisfactory bonding strength. Customers sometimes experience failures such as the user joint may break prematurely with movement of the wearer, or the bond is too strong such that it has to be torn open, thereby causing frustration and no longer being reusable. process. Since most processes are high volume, even relatively small reductions in cost per unit can result in significant savings when large numbers of units are produced. Although many cost efficient processes are known for diaper manufacturing, a need remains for new materials and techniques for reducing costs associated with diapers and related fastening systems.

Summary

[0008] The difficulties and drawbacks associated with previous fastener systems are addressed in the present fastener system.

[0009] In one aspect, the present subject matter provides a fastening tape from which a fastening tab for disposable articles can be cut. The tape comprises a backing film with a distal end and an opposite proximal end, a first surface and an opposite second surface, an activatable adhesive or linerless adhesive layer disposed on the distal end of the backing film on the first surface, and a dry adhesive or non-tacky adhesive disposed on the proximal end of the backing film on the second surface. The activatable or linerless adhesive can be activated using heat, solvent, water, UV or any other mechanisms. The activatable or linerless adhesive forms the factory joint in the assembled diaper. The dry or non-tacky adhesive forms the user joint between the diaper side panel and the frontal panel. In another embodiment of the subject matter, the dry or non-tacky adhesive is applied over the same surface of the backing film as the activatable or linerless adhesive.

[0010] In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a fastening tape from which a fastening tab for disposable articles can be cut. The tape comprises a backing film with a distal end and an opposite proximal end, and an activatable or linerless adhesive layer disposed on the distal end of the backing film. The adhesive can be activated using heat, solvent, water, UV or any other mechanisms. The activatable or linerless adhesive forms the factory joint in the assembled diaper. The use of pressure sensitive adhesives, or mechanical hook and loop mechanisms.

[0011] In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a fastening tape from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut. The tape comprises a backing film with a distal end and an opposite proximal end, a dry or non-tacky adhesive layer disposed on the proximal end of the backing layer of the fastening tape. The dry or non-tacky adhesive forms the user joint between the diaper side panel and the frontal side. The factory joint can be formed by any fastening means known to those skilled in the art, such as through a pressure sensitive adhesive, a heat seal adhesive, or a mechanical bonding mechanism.

[0012] In another aspect, the subject matter provides a tape assembly from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut. The tape assembly comprises a backing film with a distal end and an opposite proximal end, a dry or non-tacky adhesive layer disposed on the proximal end of the backing layer, a second backing film disposed over the dry or non-tacky adhesive, opposite to the side facing or contacting the backing film, a permanent pressure sensitive adhesive coated over the other side of the second backing film, opposite to the side of the dry or non-tacky adhesive, and a release coating on some areas of the backing layer, so that the tape can be self-wound. Upon use, the pressure sensitive adhesive forms a permanent bond with the frontal side of a diaper. When it is time for inspection or removal, the removable user joint is separated by peeling the first backing film away from the second backing film at the interface of the dry or non-tacky adhesive with the second backing film.

[0013] In another aspect, the subject matter provides a method of using an activatable or linerless adhesive to form factory joints on a diaper. A fastening tape with activatable or linerless adhesive is provided. The adhesive is activated by a variety of techniques as described herein. The tape is slit into fastening tabs of predetermined size and attached to side panels of diapers. In another embodiment of the subject matter, the slitting is conducted prior to the activation. fastener tape or portions of the fastener tape that include at least one region of an activatable or linerless adhesive, and one or more components such as equipment which can activate the noted adhesive.

[0015] In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a fastening tape from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut. The tape comprises a backing film with a first surface and a second oppositely directed surface, a distal end, and a proximal end. The tape also comprises a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface of the backing film. And the tape comprises a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface.

[0016] In another aspect, the subject matter provides an assembly comprising an absorbent member defining a first face, a second face, and an end extending between the first face and the second face. The assembly also comprises a fastening tape including (i) a backing film defining a first surface and a second oppositely directed surface, (ii) a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface, and (iii) a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface. At least a portion of the layer of the activatable adhesive contacts the absorbent member, thereby adhesively securing the fastening tape to the absorbent member.

[0017] In another aspect, the subject matter provides a method of using an activatable adhesive to form factory joints on a diaper. The method comprises providing a diaper with a side panel. The method also comprises providing a fastening tape including (i) a backing film defining a first surface and a second oppositely directed surface, (ii) a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface, and (iii) a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface. The method additionally comprises activating at least a portion of the activatable adhesive. And, the method comprises attaching the fastening tape to the side panel by contacting the activated portion of the activatable adhesive with the side panel. a region of an adhesive associated with a fastener assembly. The system comprises a fastening tape including (i) a backing film defining a first surface and a second oppositely directed surface, (ii) a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface, and (iii) a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface. The system also comprises at least one component adapted to activate the activatable adhesive to thereby render the adhesive tacky.

[0019] As will be realized, the subject matter is capable of other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the matter. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative and not restrictive.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] Figure 1 is a photograph of a typical diaper.

[0021] Figure 2 is a schematic cross sectional view of a typical pressure sensitive diaper tape.

[0022] Figure 3 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment fastening tape in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0023] Figure 4 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape depicted in Figure 3, attached to the side panel of an absorbent member.

[0024] Figure 5 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape of Figures 3 and 4 fully attached to the absorbent member and in a storage position, and prior to use by a consumer.

[0025] Figure 6 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape and absorbent member of Figure 5, in a user deployed position. in Figure 3, attached to the side panel of an absorbent member.

[0027] Figure 8 is a schematic cross sectional view of another preferred embodiment fastening tape in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0028] Figure 9 is a schematic cross sectional view of another preferred embodiment tape closure assembly in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0029] Figure 10 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred tape assembly depicted in Figure 9, attached to the side panel of an absorbent member.

[0030] Figure 11 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred tape assembly and absorbent member of Figure 10, in a user deployed position.

[0031] Figure 12 is a schematic cross sectional view of another preferred embodiment fastening tape in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0032] Figure 13 is a schematic cross sectional view of another preferred embodiment fastening tape in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0033] Figure 14 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape depicted in Figure 13, attached to the side panel of an absorbent member.

[0034] Figure 15 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape of Figures 13 and 14 fully attached to the absorbent member and in a storage position, and prior to use by a consumer.

[0035] Figure 16 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape and absorbent member of Figure 15, in a user deployed position.

[0036] Figure 17 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape depicted in Figure 13, attached to the side panel of an absorbent member. absorbent member of Figure 17 during application and engagement with another portion of the absorbent member.

[0038] Figure 19 is a schematic cross sectional view of another preferred embodiment fastening tape in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0039] Figure 20 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred fastening tape depicted in Figure 19, attached to the side panel of an absorbent member.

[0040] Figure 21 is a schematic cross sectional view of another preferred embodiment tape closure assembly in accordance with the present subject matter.

[0041] Figure 22 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred tape assembly depicted in Figure 21, attached to the side panel of an absorbent member.

[0042] Figure 23 is a schematic cross sectional view of the preferred tape assembly and absorbent member of Figure 22, in a user deployed position.

[0043] Figure 24 is a graph of modulus G' versus temperature for two commercially available materials used in certain preferred embodiment adhesive compositions.

[0044] Figure 25 is a schematic diagram illustrating various characteristics of polymers formed using certain chain shuttling agents (CSAs), which polymers can be used in the preferred embodiment adhesive compositions.

[0045] Figure 26 is a graph of modulus G' versus temperature of a preferred embodiment composition described herein.

[0046] Figure 27 is a graph of modulus G' versus temperature for a particular preferred embodiment adhesive composition.

[0047] Figure 28 is a schematic cross sectional view of another preferred embodiment fastening tape in accordance with the present subject matter. Figure 28 attached to an absorbent member to provide a particular end configuration.

[0049] Figures 30-32 schematically depict activation of the fastening tape shown in Figure 28 and application to an absorbent member to provide another particular end configuration.

[0050] Figures 33-35 schematically depict activation of the fastening tape of Figure 28 and application to an absorbent member to provide yet another particular end configuration.

[0051] Figures 36-38 schematically depict activation of the fastening tape of Figure 28 and application to an absorbent member to thereby provide the particular end configuration shown in Figure 29.

[0052] Figure 39 is a schematic illustration of an intermediate configuration of a preferred embodiment fastening tape and formation of a V-shape during attachment to an absorbent member.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0053] The present subject matter generally relates to fastening systems that are particularly adapted for use with disposable absorbent articles such as diapers. In one version of the subject matter, the preferred embodiment fastening system comprises a fastening tape with a backing film, and one or both of an activatable adhesive and a dry adhesive. In another version of the subject matter, the preferred embodiment fastening system comprises a fastening tape with a backing film, and one or both of a linerless adhesive and a non-tacky adhesive.

[0054] Referring to Figure 3, a preferred embodiment fastening tape 10 is illustrated. The fastening tape 10 comprises a backing film 101, which has a first surface 101a, an oppositely directed second surface 101b, a distal end 101c, and a proximal end lOld opposite from the distal end. An activatable adhesive 103 is coated on the first surface 101a of the tape towards the distal end 101c. Preferably, a region of the activatable adhesive 103 is formed on a portion of the first surface 101a in which the region extends from the distal end 101c toward the proximal end lOld. A dry adhesive 102 is region of the dry adhesive 102 is formed on a portion of the second surface 101b in which the region extends from the proximal end lOld toward the distal end 101c.

[0055] The backing film 101 can be made of cloth, kraft paper, cellophane film, nonwoven webs, polymeric films or other suitable materials or laminates. The term "laminates" as used herein refers to a wide array of materials and combinations of materials. For example, the term laminates includes but is not limited to polymer webs, nonwoven webs, combinations of polymeric webs and nonwoven webs, and various extrusion laminated products. For example, in forming an extrusion laminated product, a nonwoven material is fed to the nip of cooling rolls for a film extrusion product. The extruded product and nonwoven material are intimately bonded together, to thereby form an extrusion laminated product. The backing film may be nonextensible and formed of conventional polymers such as polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene film. In another embodiment, the backing film 101 is extensible. Extensible films include extensible non- woven and woven fabric and polymeric films, such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 6,669,887. Exemplary backing films include TC454 and TC676, both from KW of Germany. It will be appreciated that in no way is the subject matter limited to these materials.

[0056] The activatable adhesive layer 103 may be any adhesive that is non-tacky at ambient conditions, but can be turned to tacky as a response to stimulation. Such adhesives include heat activatable adhesives, water activatable adhesives, solvent activatable adhesives, UV or other electromagnetic radiation activatable adhesives, heat seal adhesives and any other adhesives that can be activated by any mechanism. PCT patent application PCT/US2010/47428 discloses novel heat activatable adhesive formulations and various methods of activation, and it is incorporated herein in its entirety. The activatable adhesive layer may be applied using hot-melt, solvent or emulsion techniques. It will be appreciated that in no way is the subject matter limited to these materials or methods. the backing film, which forms the permanent factory joint with the side panel of a diaper. The percentage of coverage by the adhesive on the backing film can be any amount that is sufficient to form the permanent bond. Exemplary coat weights can be from about 15 to about 25 gram/m². The width of the coating can be from about 1 inch to about 2 inches.

[0058] With the use of the activatable adhesive, there is no need for any release coating on the other side of the backing film. This is one of the advantages of the current subject matter.

[0059] The region of dry adhesive layer 102 is disposed adjacent to the proximal end of the backing film. Dry adhesives are those that are generally not tacky to the touch of a finger, but have superior cohesive strength and shear strength when sticking to itself or with a smooth substrate. It will be understood that some dry adhesives may exhibit tackiness at ambient conditions. Another characteristic of such adhesives is that the peel force is extremely low. High cohesive and shear strength and low peel make these adhesives ideal for use as fastening means in applications such as diapers.

[0060] It is believed that the adhesion strength is primarily due to the dispersive interactions between the dry adhesive and the substrate, in contrast to the energy dissipation in the adhesive and surface interactions in the case of a pressure sensitive adhesive. For this reason, the contact area of the adhesive with the substrate is critical, with greater contact area resulting in greater adhesion. Factors that can impact the contact area of the dry adhesive include the conformability and compliance of the face stock on which the dry adhesive is coated, the material chosen as the dry adhesive, and air entrapment between the adhesive and the substrate.

[0061] Dry adhesives have the following properties: good adhesion to a variety of substrates, removable and reusable, high shear adhesion, and can be used in linerless constructions.

[0062] Materials that can be used as dry adhesives include silicones (PDMS), rubbers (butyl rubber, SIS, SBS, SEPS, SIBS, SEBS), polyurethanes etc. Face stocks can be films, foams, papers, fabrics peak and valley topology on the face stock so as to minimize air entrapment. Any thickness suitable for the required adhesion is acceptable. For example, the thickness can be from about 0.1 microns to about 100 microns.

[0063] The dry adhesive is used to form the user joint with the frontal panel of the diaper. Due to the high shear strength, the dry adhesive will remain bonded as the wearer moves around. Due to the low peel characteristics of the dry adhesive, it will be very easy to separate the joint for inspections or removal. If no change is needed, it can be rejoined with the frontal panel and remain strongly bonded.

[0064] The size of the fastening tape can vary according to the specific needs or particular applications. Exemplary dimensions of the carrier film after being converted into the tape size can be from about 0.5 inch wide to about 2 inches wide, and from about 2 inches to about 5 inches long. The region of the activatable adhesive can be from about 0.5 inch to about 2 inches long, and the region of the dry adhesive can be from about 0.5 inch to about 3 inches long. Both regions will have the same width as that of the carrier film, unless the adhesives are pattern coated.

[0065] Figure 4 illustrates the preferred embodiment fastening tape 10 attached to a side panel 104 of a diaper. This attachment as noted is preferably a permanent attachment and constitutes the previously mentioned factory joint. The proximal end lOld of the backing film 101 wraps around the free end of the diaper side panel 104a and forms the factory joint through the activated activatable adhesive 103.

[0066] The completed attachment of the fastening tape 10 to the absorbent member is shown in Figure 5 in which the fastening tape 10 is folded over itself so that the dry adhesive 102 is between the folded backing films. The fastening tape 10 remains in this folded condition up to the point in time that the diaper is used. Upon deployment, the proximal end lOld of the fastening tape 10 is extended from its folded condition. Specifically, referring to Figure 6, upon wishing to deploy the tape corresponding portion of the fastening tape 10 away from the diaper side panel 104.

[0067] Figure 6 illustrates the preferred fastening tape 10 after being deployed. The dry adhesive 102 forms the user joint between the backing film 101 and the frontal panel of the diaper 105. Through the factory joint and the user joint, the fastening tape connects the diaper side panel with the frontal panel. When it is time to inspect or change, the user can open the user joint by peeling the proximal end of the backing film away from the frontal panel 105 to break or separate the user joint. If no need to change, the backing film 101 can be rejoined with the frontal panel 105 through the dry adhesive 102 again.

[0068] The fastening tape 10 can be attached to the diaper side panel through bonding with one side of the diaper side panel. Figure 7 illustrates such a configuration. The backing film 101 forms the factory joint with the diaper side panel 104 through the activatable adhesive 103 on one side of the diaper side panel.

[0069] Referring to Figure 8, another embodiment of the subject matter is to use a hook and loop mechanism to form the user bond. A preferred embodiment fastening tape 20 comprises a backing film 101 with a first surface 101a, a second surface 101b, a distal end 101c and a proximal end lOld, an activatable adhesive 103 disposed adjacent the distal end 101c of the backing film 101 on the first surface 101a, and a hook portion 105 of the hook and loop pair attached to the proximal end lOld of the backing film 101 on the second surface 101b. An adhesive 106 is used to attach the hook portion 105 to the backing film 101. The adhesive 106 can be a pressure sensitive, an activatable adhesive, or any other type of adhesive. The loop portion (not shown) of the hook and loop pair is located on the frontal panel of a diaper. Upon deployment, the proximal end lOld of the tape 20 is laid over the frontal panel of a diaper and forms the user joint through the hook and loop mechanism.

[0070] A conventional diaper design includes a landing zone film attached to the frontal panel. As the waist size of the wearer varies and cannot be determined until the user actually puts the sizes. This adds to the cost of the diaper. Figure 9 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the subject matter, in which the landing zone of the frontal panel of a diaper can be provided on or carried with the fastening tape. In this embodiment, the size of the landing zone is the same as that of the dry adhesive. This feature reduces the cost of diaper construction. Another preferred embodiment fastening tape 30 comprises a backing film 101 with a first surface 101a, a second surface 101b, a distal end 101c and a proximal end lOld, an activatable adhesive 103 disposed adjacent the distal end 101c of the backing film 101 on the first surface 101a, a dry adhesive 102 disposed on the second surface 101b towards the proximal end lOld of the backing film, a landing zone carrier film 107 with a first surface 107a and a second surface 107b laminated over the dry adhesive on the first surface 107a, and a pressure sensitive adhesive 108 coated over the second surface 107b of the landing zone carrier film 107. To enable the tape to be self wound, release coating 109 can be applied at locations on the backing film 101 where the film may contact the pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0071] Figure 10 illustrates the fastening tape assembly 30 attached to a side panel 204 of a diaper. The distal end 101c of the backing film 101 bonds with the free end of the diaper side panel 204a and forms the factory joint through the activated activatable adhesive 103. The proximal end lOld of the fastening tape assembly 30 folds over the distal end, with the pressure sensitive adhesive 108 in contact with a release coating 109 coated on the second surface 101b of the backing film 101.

[0072] Referring to Figure 11, upon wishing to deploy the tape 30 from its stored position, a user grasps the proximal end lOld of the fastening tape assembly 30 and pulls the corresponding portion of the fastening tape 30 away from the diaper side panel 104 towards the front panel 110 of the diaper. Upon reaching the appropriate tightness between the side panel and the frontal panel, the proximal end of the tape assembly is landed on the frontal panel 110, with the pressure sensitive adhesive 108 forming a strong bond between the proximal end of the tape assembly and the frontal panel 110 of the diaper. From the frontal panel 110 towards the backing film 101, the construction is as 110 through the pressure sensitive adhesive 108 and therefore becoming part of the frontal panel, dry adhesive 102, and backing film 101 bonded to the frontal panel landing zone carrier film through the dry adhesive 102. When it is time for inspection, or change, the user joint can be broken or separated by peeling the backing film 101 away from the landing zone carrier film 107 at the interface between the dry adhesive 102 and the landing zone carrier film 107.

[0073] In another embodiment of the subject matter, the activatable adhesive and the dry adhesive are applied over the same surface of the backing film. In another embodiment of the subject matter, a section or piece of a carrier film joint with the backing film 101 is coated with an activatable adhesive. In forming the factory joint, the carrier film and the backing film each bond to one side of the side panel, forming a shaped bond. Figure 12 illustrates such a configuration. Activatable adhesive 103 is coated on the backing film 101 and a carrier film 120. The two films are joined together by the activatable adhesive. Dry adhesive 102 is applied on the same side of the backing film as the activatable adhesive.

[0074] Referring to Figure 13, another preferred embodiment fastening tape 50 is illustrated. The fastening tape 50 comprises a backing film 101, which has a first surface 101a, a second surface 101b, a distal end 101c, and a proximal end lOld. A region of a linerless adhesive 103 is coated or otherwise formed on the first surface 101a of the tape towards the distal end 101c. A region of a non-tacky adhesive 102 is coated or otherwise formed on the second surface 101b towards the proximal end lOld of the backing film.

[0075] As previously described, the backing film 101 can be made of cloth, kraft paper, cellophane film, nonwoven webs, polymeric films or other suitable materials or laminates. The backing film may be nonextensible and formed of conventional polymers such as polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene film. In another embodiment, the backing film 101 is extensible. Extensible films include extensible non-woven and woven fabric and polymeric films, both from KW. It will be appreciated that in no way is the subject matter limited to these materials.

[0076] The linerless adhesive layer 103 may be any adhesive that is non-tacky at ambient condition, but can be turned to tacky as a response to stimulation. Generally, the linerless adhesive 103 is any adhesive which does not require a liner at the conditions of its use in forming a joint or other sealed region. Such adhesives include heat activatable adhesives, water activatable adhesives, solvent activatable adhesives, UV or other electromagnetic radiation activatable adhesives, heat seal adhesives and any other adhesives that can be activated by any mechanism. PCT patent application PCT/US2010/47428 discloses novel heat activatable adhesive formulations and methods of activation, and it is incorporated herein in its entirety. The linerless adhesive layer may be applied using hot-melt, solvent or emulsion techniques. It will be appreciated that in no way is the subject matter limited to these materials or methods.

[0077] The linerless adhesive layer 103 is located adjacent the distal end 101c of the backing film, which forms the permanent factory joint with the side panel of a diaper. The percentage of coverage of the backing film can be any amount that is sufficient to form the permanent bond. Exemplary coat weights can be from about 15 to about 25 gram/m². The width of the region can be about 1 inch to about 2 inches.

[0078] With the use of the linerless adhesive, there is no need for any release coating on the other side of the backing film. This is one of the advantages of the current subject matter.

[0079] The region of the non-tacky adhesive layer 102 is located adjacent the proximal end lOld of the backing film. Non-tacky adhesives are those that are not tacky to the touch of a finger, but have superior cohesive strength and shear strength when sticking to itself or with a smooth substrate. Another characteristic of such adhesives is that the peel force is extremely low. High cohesive and shear strength and low peel make them ideal for use as fastening means in applications such as diapers. interactions between the non-tacky adhesive and the substrate. For this reason, the contact area of the adhesive with the substrate is critical, with greater contact area resulting in greater adhesion. Factors that can impact the contact area of the non-tacky adhesive include the conformability and compliance of the face stock to which the non-tacky adhesive is coated on, the material chosen as the non-tacky adhesive, and air entrapment between the adhesive and the substrate.

[0081] Non-tacky adhesives have the following properties: good adhesion to a variety of substrates, removable and reusable, high shear adhesion, and ability to be used in linerless constructions.

[0082] Materials that can be used as non-tacky adhesives include silicones (PDMS), rubbers (butyl rubber, SIS, SBS, SEPS, SIBS, SEBS), polyurethanes etc. Face stocks can be films, foams, papers, fabrics etc. The adhesive can be patterned with regular or irregular air egress channels or introduced with a peak and valley topology on the face stock so as to minimize air entrapment. Any thickness suitable for the required adhesion is acceptable. For example, the thickness can be from about 0.1 microns to about 100 microns.

[0083] The non-tacky adhesive is used to form the user joint with the frontal panel of the diaper. Due to the high shear strength, it will remain bonded as the wearer moves around. Due to the low peel, it will be very easy to separate the joint for inspections or removal. If no change is needed, it can be rejoined with the frontal panel and remain strongly bonded.

[0084] The size of the fastening tape 50 can vary according to the specific needs. Exemplary dimensions of the carrier film after being converted into the tape size can be about 0.5 inch wide to about 2 inches wide, and about 2 inches to about 5 inches long. The region of the linerless adhesive can be from about 0.5 inch to about 2 inches long, and the region of the non-tacky adhesive can be about 0.5 inch to about 3 inches long. Both regions will have the same width as that of the carrier film, unless the adhesives are pattern coated. This attachment as noted, is preferably a permanent attachment and constitutes the previously mentioned factory joint. The proximal end lOld of the backing film 101 wraps around the free end of the diaper side panel 104a and forms the factory joint through the linerless adhesive 103.

[0086] The completed attachment of the fastening tape 50 to the absorbent member is shown in Figure 15 in which the fastening tape 50 is folded over so that the non-tacky adhesive 102 is between the folded backing films. The fastening tape 50 remains in this folded condition up to the point in time that the diaper is used. Upon deployment, the proximal end lOld of the fastening tape 50 is extended from its folded condition. Specifically, referring to Figure 16, upon wishing to deploy the tape from its stored position, a user grasps the proximal end lOld of the fastening tape 50 and pulls the corresponding portion of the fastening tape 50 away from the diaper side panel 104.

[0087] Figure 16 illustrates the preferred fastening tape 50 after being deployed. The non- tacky adhesive 102 forms the user joint between the backing film 101 and the frontal panel of the diaper 105. Through the factory joint and the user joint, the fastening tape connects the diaper side panel with the frontal panel. When it is time to inspect or change, the user can open the user joint by peeling the proximal end of the backing film away from the frontal panel 105 to break or separate the user joint. If no need to change, the backing film 101 can be rejoined with the frontal panel 105 through the non- tacky adhesive 102 again.

[0088] The fastening tape 50 can be attached to the diaper side panel through bonding with one side of the diaper side panel. Figure 17 illustrates such a configuration. The backing film 101 forms the factory joint with the diaper side panel 104 through the linerless adhesive 103 on one side of the diaper side panel.

[0089] Figure 18 illustrates the preferred embodiment fastening tape 50 during application and engagement with a diaper top sheet 105. The fastening tape 50 is adhered thereto by the layer or region of the non-tacky adhesive 102. illustrated. The fastening tape 60 comprises a backing film 101, which has a first surface 101a, a second surface 101b, a distal end 101c, and a proximal end lOld. A linerless adhesive 103 is coated on the first surface 101a of the tape towards the distal end 101c. An adhesive 106 is coated on the second surface 101b towards the proximal end lOld of the backing film. A region of hook members 105 is secured to the film 101 by the adhesive 106.

[0091] As previously described, the backing film 101 can be made of cloth, kraft paper, cellophane film, nonwoven webs, polymeric films or other suitable materials or laminates. The backing film may be nonextensible and formed of conventional polymers such as polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene film. In another embodiment, the backing film 101 is extensible. Extensible films include extensible non-woven and woven fabric and polymeric films, such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 6,669,887. Exemplary backing films include TC454 and TC676, both from KW. It will be appreciated that in no way is the subject matter limited to these materials.

[0092] As previously explained, the linerless adhesive layer 103 may be any adhesive that is non-tacky at ambient conditions, but can be turned to tacky as a response to stimulation. Such adhesives include heat activatable adhesives, water activatable adhesives, solvent activatable adhesives, UV activatable adhesives, heat seal adhesives and any other adhesives that can be activated by any mechanism. PCT patent application PCT/US2010/47428 discloses novel heat activatable adhesive formulations and methods of activation, and it is incorporated herein in its entirety. The linerless adhesive layer may be applied using hot-melt, solvent or emulsion techniques. It will be appreciated that in no way is the subject matter limited to these materials or methods.

[0093] The region of the linerless adhesive layer 103 is disposed adjacent the distal end 101c of the backing film, which forms the permanent factory joint with the side panel of a diaper. The percentage of coverage of the backing film can be any amount that is sufficient to form the permanent can be about 1 inch to about 2 inches.

[0094] With the use of the linerless adhesive, there is no need for any release coating on the other side of the backing film. This is one of the advantages of the current subject matter.

[0095] The region of the adhesive layer 106 is disposed adjacent the proximal end lOld of the backing film. The adhesive can be a conventional adhesive, but should exhibit superior cohesive strength and shear strength in order to retain the region of hooks 105.

[0096] The size of the fastening tape can vary according to the specific needs and applications. Exemplary dimensions of the carrier film after being converted into the tape size can be from about 0.5 inch wide to about 2 inches wide, and about 2 inches to about 5 inches long. The region of linerless adhesive 103 can be about 0.5 inch to about 2 inches long, and the region of adhesive 106 can be about 0.5 inch to about 3 inches long. Both regions will have the same width as that of the carrier film, unless the adhesives are pattern coated.

[0097] Figure 20 illustrates the fastening tape 60 attached to a side panel 104 of a diaper. This attachment as noted, is preferably a permanent attachment and constitutes the previously mentioned factory joint. The proximal end lOld of the backing film 101 wraps around the free end of the diaper side panel 104 and forms the factory joint through the linerless adhesive 103.

[0098] In certain diaper constructions, a target tape is attached to the frontal panel. As the waist size of the wearer varies and cannot be determined until the user actually puts the diaper on, diapers are manufactured with a large target tape region to accommodate various sizes. This adds to the cost of the diaper. Figure 21 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the subject matter, in which a target tape of the frontal panel of a diaper can be provided on the fastening tape. In this embodiment, the size of the target tape is the same as that of the non-tacky adhesive 102 to reduce the cost of diaper construction. A preferred embodiment fastening tape 70 comprises a backing film 101 with a first surface 101a, a second surface 101b, a distal end 101c and a proximal end lOld, a linerless tacky adhesive 102 coated on the second surface 101b towards the proximal end lOld of the backing film, a target tape 107 with a first surface 107a and a second surface 107b laminated over the non-tacky adhesive on the first surface 107a, and a pressure sensitive adhesive 108 coated over the second surface 107b of the target tape 107. To enable the tape to be self wound, release coating 109 can be applied at locations on the backing film 101 where it may contact the pressure sensitive adhesive.

[0099] Figure 22 illustrates the fastening tape assembly 70 attached to a side panel 204 of a diaper. The distal end 101c of the backing film 101 bonds with the free end of the diaper side panel 204a and forms the factory joint through the linerless adhesive 103. The proximal end lOld of the fastening tape assembly 70 folds over the distal end, with the pressure sensitive adhesive 108 in contact with a release coating 109 coated on the second surface 101b of the backing film 101.

[00100] Referring to Figure 23, upon wishing to deploy the tape 70 from its stored position, a user grasps the proximal end lOld of the fastening tape assembly 70 and pulls the corresponding portion of the fastening tape 70 away from the diaper side panel 104 towards the diaper top sheet 105 of the diaper. Once reaching the appropriate tightness between the side panel and the frontal panel, the proximal end lOld of the tape assembly 70 is landed on the diaper top sheet 105, with the pressure sensitive adhesive 108 forming a strong bond between the proximal end lOld of the tape assembly 70 and the diaper top sheet 105. From the diaper top sheet 105 towards the backing film 101, the construction is as following: pressure sensitive adhesive 108, target tape 107 now bonded to the diaper top sheet 105 through the pressure sensitive adhesive 108 and therefore becoming part of the diaper sheet, non-tacky adhesive 102, and backing film 101 bonded to the target tape 107 through the non- tacky adhesive 102. When it is time for inspection, or change, the user joint can be separated by peeling the backing film 101 away from the target tape 107 at the interface between the non-tacky adhesive 102 and the target tape 107. diaper tapes using activatable or linerless adhesives. Generally, a polymeric film substrate with a hook material attached on one side of the film substrate and a layer of an activatable adhesive on the other side of the film substrate is provided. This type of construction permits one to easily coat the activatable adhesive on the film substrate, dry it, and wind it on a roll. It is also contemplated to adhesively affix tapes or sections of hook material at given intervals on the film substrate before winding it. The roll is then unrolled at a customer site for example, cut into the needed size, activated, and attached to a diaper or other absorbent member.

[00102] The activatable adhesive used may be based on several adhesives: water based adhesives and hot melt adhesives, with or without open time. The term "open time" refers to the time period after activation during which the adhesive remains active. Also, provisions to activate these adhesives may include one or several of the following: hot forced air, various types of infra red (I ) lamps, hot plates, hot rolls, microwaves and/or radio frequency (RF) emitting devices. The choice of the activation equipment depends upon the type of the activatable adhesive used. Generally the hot melt activatable adhesives as described herein have an activation temperature between about 80^QC to about 150^QC that can be adjusted based on the requirements of the substrate, adhesion requirements and time to activate. Water based adhesives may be activated from about 70^QC to about 100^QC with some adjustment possible based on the specific application requirements. When activating an activatable adhesive, pressure may be applied before, during, and/or after application of heat to the adhesive. In many applications, it is preferred to simultaneously or concurrently apply heat and pressure during activation of the activatable adhesive.

[00103] In certain embodiments, it is preferable to provide an activatable adhesive with a relatively low open time. That is, once such adhesives are activated, the adhesives remain active, i.e. "sticky" or tacky, for a relatively short period of time. Generally, it is preferred that such low open time more preferably less than 5 seconds, and most preferably less than about 1 second.

[00104] Specifically, hot melt adhesives are widely used in the pressure sensitive adhesive industry. Hot melt adhesives find use in labels, tapes and other applications. Dahlquist defined the requirements of a good pressure sensitive adhesive. The glass transition temperature (Tg), i.e. the temperature at the Tan delta peak, and modulus (G') at application temperature are the most important criteria for pressure sensitive adhesives. Preferably, the preferred embodiment tapes require a G' of about 5x10^s to about 2x10^s dyne/com² at application temperature whereas label requirements are about 2x10^s to about 8x10^s at application temperature. The glass transition temperature should be in the range of from about -15^QC to about 10^QC at room temperature and it can be extrapolated to other application temperatures. The requirement of G' values for exhibiting good pressure sensitivity is related to the diffusional property of the bulk adhesives onto the substrates within a short period of time. It is also related to the time dependant wetting properties of the bulk adhesive. It is also influenced by surface energy of the adhesive and adherent. However, the performance of the pressure sensitive adhesive strongly depends on the viscoelastic properties rather than the surface energy phenomenon. Therefore, it is very important to design and formulate hot melt adhesives, that have the required viscoelastic characteristics at a given application temperature.

[00105] Preferably in certain embodiments, the activatable adhesive is formed from one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyacrylates, styrene based block polymers, polyamides, ethylene vinyl acetate polymers, and combinations thereof. If one or more polyolefins are used, in certain applications it is preferred to utilize a low crystalline or amorphous polyolefins or APOs which function as elastomer extenders and viscosity flow modifiers for the hot melt adhesives. In addition APOs offer improved adhesion on polyolefin substrates such as the substrates described herein. Examples of APOs relevant to the hot melt formulations related to the present subject matter include products such as Eastoflex from Eastman which are propylene homopolymers and at 1905C) and ring & ball points in the 1205C to 1555C range. Other APOs suitable for use in the hot melt adhesives include the VESTOPLAST product line from Evonik - Degussa. These are polymers of a-olefins and terpolymers of ethylene, propene and 1-butene.

[00106] In other embodiments, if the adhesives are based upon polyolefins, it may be preferred to utilize olefin block copolymers formed using metallocene catalysts such as those materials commercially available from Dow Chemical under AFFIN ITY and I NFUSE trade names and Clariant under the LICOCENE trade name. Metallocene polyolefins when used in the hot melt formulations of this subject matter typically provide features such as sharper melting peaks, high cohesion at low molecular weights and elastomeric properties. In still other embodiments, it may be preferred to utilize one or more styrenic block copolymers in the activated adhesives. Examples of metallocene polyolefins used herein include LICOCENE PP and PE grades such as LICOCEN E PP 1302 with a softening point of 1565C and a Tg of -Il^C.

[00107] Polyolefins, polyacrylates, styrene based block polymers, polyamides, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) based polymers . . . . etc. can be formulated in hot melt adhesive compositions and can impart many special properties that are desirable for pressure sensitive adhesives. A number of additives are used in hot melt adhesive formulations to improve properties. Tackifying resins, amorphous polypropylene, plasticizers and petrolatum can be incorporated to reduce viscosity to desired levels and to impart the required tack. Low volatility hydrocarbon oils, paraffin and microcrystalline wax also depress melt viscosity, but excessive wax can affect tack. Antioxidants and other modifiers are also used to improve processability and impart other desirable properties. Block resistance is also a very important property for hot melt adhesives. Blocking refers to undesirable adhesion/bonding of the adhesive to one or more substrates before activation of the adhesive. The blocking generally occurs during storage of the coated material in stacked or rolled form often under elevated temperatures and/or pressures for extended periods of time. Adhesive design calls for diligent application temperature. Additives effective in rendering block resistance are polyolefin waxes with sharp melting points and melting at temperatures exceeding 75^QC. These are crystalline homo and co-polymers of ethylene and propylene such as Epolene N-15 available from Westlake Chemical and may be in the form of a low molecular weight polypropylene wax melting at a temperature higher than 125^QC. Other additives found to improve the hot melt adhesives are functional polyolefin waxes. Maleinated polyethylene and polypropylene waxes have been found useful to improve the shear resistance of hot melt adhesives such as described by Ellis et al in US 2009/0203847 however there was no mention on the effects on block resistance of such waxes.

[00108] Appropriate selection of one or more polymers and preferably random copolymer(s), with other additives such as tackifier, wax, and other polyolefins is used for increasing the open time of the adhesive with suitable peel performance. In accordance with the present subject matter, various formulations based on XM 7070 from Mitsui Chemicals, which is a low crystalline polypropylene copolymer with alpha olefin, have been identified. Figure 24 illustrates a temperature sweep profile for the XM 7070 material. Figure 24 also illustrates another commercially available material VESTOPLAST 828 available from Evonik Industries.

[00109] In certain applications it may be preferred to use an activatable adhesive that is based upon one or more acrylates or polyacrylates. Preferably, the acrylate based activatable adhesive is formed from one or more monomers selected from the group consisting of butyl acrylate (BA), methyl acrylate (MA), methyl methacrylate (MMA), methacrylic acid (MAA), acrylic acid (AA), and combinations thereof. Effective amounts of plasticizer(s), tackifier(s), thickener(s), and optional additives are added to thereby produce the adhesive.

[00110] Table 1 set forth below, lists various preferred embodiment compositions in accordance with the present subject matter. These compositions each comprise the XM 7070 material. properties as desired.

[00111] Table 1 - Preferred Embodiment Adhesive Compositions Based Upon

Polypropylene Copolymer

[00112] All of the preferred embodiment adhesive formulations of Table 1 were coated using a hot melt coater with coat weights varying between 0.75 to 1.5 mil. The coated material was tested for open time and tack. The adhesive compositions exhibited excellent properties.

[00113] In certain embodiments of the subject matter, the activatable adhesives are based upon olefin block copolymers formed using metallocene catalysts. These materials are available from Dow Chemical. Specifically, various elastomers and plastomers are preferably utilized in some of the preferred adhesives. Use of such elastomers and/or plastomers typically results in one or more of the following: higher performance temperatures (> 100⁵C), better compression set (equal to TPU or TPV), better mar and scratch resistance, tear properties versus impact properties (increased domain), processability for even higher conversion rates, and/or better compatibility among olefins and beyond. shuttling agents (CSAs) which allows for precise control of average molecular weight, block lengths, individual block composition, and block distributions, and production of block copolymers from monomers not normally associated with block copolymers, including ethylene and propylene. Figure 25 schematically illustrates this technology.

[00115] In certain embodiments, preferred embodiment activatable adhesives are provided which use olefin block copolymers (OBC), and preferably olefin block copolymers formed using metallocene catalysts. Use of such materials in activatable (or linerless) adhesives as described herein has been found to provide several features. For example, it is believed that block crystalline domains serve to reinforce or increase the heat and block resistance of the adhesive. Furthermore, selective tackification of amorphous polyolefin domains by aliphatic resin tackifiers is typically possible.

[00116] An example of a commercially available olefin block copolymer that can be used in the preferred embodiment activatable adhesives is INFUSE from Dow Chemical. A preferred grade is INFUSE 9817. Another example of a preferred polyolefin for use in the preferred activatable adhesives is a polyolefin plastomer such as AFFINITY GA 1950 available from Dow Chemical.

[00117] Tables 2 and 3 list various preferred embodiment adhesives comprising a preferred olefin block copolymer material and a polyolefin plastomer. In the compositions set forth in Tables 2 and 3, varying amounts of a hydrogenated hydrocarbon resin tackifier such as EASTOTAC 142H available from Kempro; and a polymeric wax such as EPOLENE N-15 were included as noted.

[00118] Table 2 - Preferred Embodiment Adhesive Compositions Based Upon Olefin Block Copolymers

Copolymers

[00120] Figure 26 is a temperature sweep profile of the composition I in Table 3.

[00121] Tables 4 and 5 illustrate two adhesive compositions. Table 4 describes a comparative example of hot melt adhesive formulation as presented in Ellis et al. in US 2009/0203847. The polyolefin adhesive uses a functional maleinated wax additive AC 573a available from Honeywell and LIDOCENE PP 1502 is polypropylene\ polyethylene copolymer wax material from Clariant. VESTOPLAST is an amorphous polyolefin available from Evonik. In addition to the claimed improvement in shear temperature, the maleinated was expected to improve the block resistance properties of the hot melt. Table 5 describes a preferred adhesive composition in which a highly crystalline wax with a melt point above 125^QC (EPOLENE N-15 from Westlake Chemical) was used as an additive.

[00122] Table 4 - Comparative Example of Adhesive Compositions Based Upon Polyolefins and a Functional Wax

and Highly Crystalline PP Wax

[00124] Styrenic block copolymers have been widely used to produce pressure sensitive adhesives for labels, stamps, tapes, primarily in applications for disposable products such as shipping, packaging, consumer goods assembly, etc. Styrenic block copolymers contain blocks of hard styrene and blocks of soft rubbery material such as polyisoprene, polybutadiene, ethylene-butylene copolymers, ethylene-propylene polymers, isobutylene polymers, etc. Styrenic block copolymers can have only two blocks such as styrene-isoprene (SI) or multiple blocks such as styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS). Different rubber types can be blended together to create blends with unique properties.

[00125] Styrene-isoprene-styrene polymers are the most commonly used in pressure sensitive adhesives due to their wide range of compatibility with natural as well as synthetic tackifying resins. Typical pressure sensitive adhesives using block copolymers contain between 30% and 50% of a styrenic block copolymer, between 30% and 60% of a solid tackifying resin, and between 0 to 20% of plasticizing oil. In most cases, tapes or labels using these adhesives are applied at room temperature and therefore should have a glass transition between -10⁵C and +5⁵C.

[00126] To form an adhesive which has no tackiness at room temperature but which will become tacky at elevated temperature, the glass transition temperature needs to be raised accordingly. This can be done through reduction of lower Tg components such as oils, reduction of rubber content (styrenic block copolymer content), and an increase of solid tackifying resin content.

[00127] Examples of hot melt processable adhesives based upon styrenic block copolymers with pressure sensitive properties at higher temperatures can be found below in Table 6. K ATON about 17%. HYB A 5125 is a styrene isoprene block copolymer available from Kuraray. As previously noted, EASTOTAC is a hydrocarbon tackifier resin. NOVARES N170 is a thermoplastic hydrocarbon resin. STYRON 668 is a general purpose polystyrene available from Americas Styrenics. The previously noted XM7070 material is a polypropylene copolymer from Mitsui.

[00128] Table 6 - Additional Preferred Embodiment Adhesive Compositions Based Upon Styrenic Block Copolymers

[00129] Figure 27 is a temperature sweep profile of sample BV008 in Table 6.

[00130] As noted, the present subject matter also provides a variety of tapes, fastener assemblies, associated systems, and related methods using the preferred embodiment activatable adhesive. Figure 28 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment fastening tape 80. The tape 80 comprises a polymeric film 101 having a layer of an activatable or linerless adhesive 103 disposed on one face. The tape 80 preferably includes one or more regions or sections of a hook material 105 disposed along a face opposite that of the layer of adhesive 103. The hook material 105 region of adhesive 106. It will be appreciated that the dimensions noted in Figure 28 are merely representative. In no way is the subject matter limited to those dimensions or proportions. Furthermore, it will be understood that although a representative coat weight of 30 g/m² for the activatable adhesive is shown in Figure 28, in no way is the subject matter limited to that specific coat weight. Instead use of coat weights greater than and/or less than this representative value are contemplated.

[00131] The preferred embodiment fastening tape 80 can be conveniently applied to an absorbent member and preferably to a diaper side panel as shown in Figure 29. The configuration of the tape 80 in Figure 29 is generally referred to herein as a "V-shape." The tape 80 can be applied relative to a distal end of the absorbent member 104 in a variety of different end configurations. Figure 29 depicts one possible end configuration in which a distal end 108 of the absorbent member 104 is spaced apart from an internal end face 106 defined by the layer of linerless adhesive 103. Also, the hook material 105 is disposed outward of the distal end 108 of the member 104.

[00132] Figures 30-32 schematically illustrate a preferred embodiment process for activating the linerless adhesive 103 of the preferred embodiment tape 80 and applying the tape 80 to an absorbent member 104. In the configuration depicted in Figure 32, the tape 80 is applied to the end 108 of the absorbent member 104 such that the end 108 is in contact with the internal end face 106 of the layer of linerless adhesive 103. Also, the hook material 105 is disposed inward of the distal end 108 of the member 104.

[00133] Figures 33-35 schematically illustrate a preferred embodiment process for activating the linerless adhesive 103 of the preferred embodiment tape 80 and applying the tape 80 to an absorbent member 104. In the configuration depicted in Figure 35, the end 108 of the absorbent member of 104 is spaced from the internal end face 106 of the layer of linerless adhesive 103. In this regard, the configuration of Figure 35 is similar to that of Figure 29 except that the section or region of 29, the section or region of hook material 105 is disposed outward of the end 108.

[00134] Figures 36-38 schematically illustrate a preferred embodiment process for activating the linerless adhesive 103 of the preferred embodiment tape 80 and applying the tape 80 to an absorbent member 104. The configuration depicted in Figure 38 is similar to that shown in Figure 29.

[00135] Figure 39 schematically illustrates an initial formation of the V-shape for a preferred embodiment fastening tape prior to attachment to an absorbent member or diaper side panel. Specifically, a fastening tape 80 is positioned such that its face having a layer or region of an activatable adhesive 103, which has preferably been activated, is directed toward a distal end 108 of an absorbent member or diaper side panel 104. The fastening tape 80 is positioned in the V-shape as shown and preferably aligned with the distal end 108 such that the apex 80a of the folded tape 80 is aligned with the distal end 108 of the panel 104. The two components, i.e., the tape 80 and panel 104, are moved toward one another so that the distal end 108 of the panel 104 is located between the outwardly extending legs 80b and 80c of the tape. Upon desired positioning of the end 108 relative to the tape 80, one or more regions of the activated adhesive 103 are contacted with the panel 104 to thereby affix the folded tape 80 to the panel 104.

[00136] Upon application, i.e. adhesive attachment, of a preferred embodiment fastening tape to an absorbent member and particularly a diaper side panel, the resulting assembly exhibits particular tensile strengths. That is, once attached, a fastening tape using an activated adhesive preferably exhibits a tensile strength of at least 10N, more preferably at least 20N, more preferably at least 30N, and most preferably 40N per side of the panel or member to which the tape is attached.

[00137] Other components can be included in the fastening tape or the fastening tape assembly as disclosed, such as a finger lift can be provided along the proximal end of the fastening tape to make grabbing onto the proximal end of the tape and attachment to the frontal panel easier. The pressure sensitive adhesive, the dry adhesive, the activatable adhesive, the linerless adhesive, and/or and lead to cost saving.

[00138] In any of the embodiments of the subject matter, the fastening tape may include a stretchable tape that includes an extensible layer. Stretchable tapes are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,463,633, 6,419,667, and 6,146,369. The stretchable tape allows greater size adjustments for a disposable diaper or garment.

[00139] The following examples are disclosed for the purpose of demonstration and by no means to limit the scope of the present subject matter.

Example 1. Activatable Adhesive

[00140] An emulsion adhesive polymer base is prepared by emulsion polymerization from a plurality of monomers consisting of 32.59% butyl acrylate (BA), 21.63% styrene, 46.16% methyl methacrylate (MMA), 1.72% methacrylic acid (MAA), and 2.41% acrylic acid (AA), based on the weight of all monomers, with 0.02% by weight of n-dodecy mercaptan added as a chain transfer agent.

[00141] On a dry weight basis, 40.707% plasticizer commercially available under the designation Uniplex 250 from Unitex Corporation; 5.551% tackifier known as Pensel 160D from Arakawa Chemical of Osaka, Japan; 0.203% of aluminum zirconium carbonate solution from Mel Chemicals, Inc.; and 0.085% thickener 4800 from BASF are mixed with 51.887% of an emulsion adhesive base to produce an activatable adhesive.

Example 2. Dry Adhesive

[00142] Silastic S2 base and Silastic S2 curing agent, both from Dow Corning Corporation (Midland, Michigan) are mixed at a ratio of 10:1 to produce a dry adhesive formulation. [00143] Two 8 inch by 11 inches white PET films are coated with the formulation of Example 1 at 23 gram/m² at 1 inch and 2 inches each in width on one side of the carrier film. The supplier of the white PET film is Hostaphan Films of the United Kingdom. On the other side and the other end of the film, the formulation of Example 2 is coated at a 2 mil dry thickness with 2 inches in width. The formulation is allowed to cure for 24 hours. The activatable adhesive is heat activated at 90° C for 2 seconds. Then the adhesive is bonded to an elastic side panel to form a factory joint.

[00144] The fastening tape can be provided in separate rolled configurations. The width of the roll of closure tape of the present subject matter depends on the intended application. Typically, the rolls that are used for closure tabs for disposable articles have a width in the range of about 30 to about 100 mm. In one embodiment, the width of the rolls is in the range of about 45 to about 75 mm. The closure tape can be provided in a roll, for example, as a disc wound roll or a spool wound roll. The closure tabs of the subject matter can be cut from a stock roll. In use, a segment of the roll of composite closure tape is cut from the roll in a desired length.

[00145] Aspects and features of the preferred embodiments can be utilized in a wide range of fastening and/or tape systems. For example, the use of patterned adhesive layers can be utilized in triple tapes, European duo tape, mechanical tapes, and triple mechanical tapes.

[00146] It is also contemplated that one or more elastic regions can be provided in the fastening tape portion. The elastic regions can be provided by incorporation of materials exhibiting elastic properties. The elastic regions can also be provided by forming or providing certain structural features into the fastening tape. The elastic regions can also be provided by performing one or more processing operations upon desired regions of the fastening tape. Details as to forming and/or providing elastic regions in fastening tape closure assemblies are provided in US Patents 5,057,097; 6,645,338; 6,221,483; 5,690,628; 6,524,294; and 5,720,739 all assigned to Avery Dennison Corporation. tape and/or particular components of the fastener tape utilizing the activatable, liner free adhesive, or linerless adhesive; and (ii) one or more components which activate the adhesive(s) of the fastener tape. For example, in one embodiment, a preferred system comprises a fastener tape which includes a region of an activatable adhesive or a linerless adhesive. The adhesive is activated or rendered tacky by heating. The preferred system also comprises components for emitting heat to activate the adhesive. An example of another preferred system is as follows. A fastener tape which includes one or more regions of an activatable adhesive or linerless adhesive that is rendered tacky upon exposure to electromagnetic radiation, e.g., UV light; is utilized in another preferred system that also includes one or more radiation emitters, e.g., UV lamps. Thus, in this aspect, the subject matter provides systems that comprise a combination of (i) a fastener tape having at least one region of an activatable adhesive or a linerless adhesive that is rendered tacky upon activation, and (ii) component(s) for appropriately activating the region(s) of the noted adhesive. It will be understood that in no manner is the subject matter limited to either of the noted examples. Instead, the subject matter includes systems of fastener assemblies with at least one region of an activatable adhesive or linerless adhesive and corresponding equipment or component(s) for activating the noted adhesive region.

[00148] In another embodiment, the layered assemblies are used to make tapes. The tape can be used to stick or adhere to a variety of substrates, such as plastic, cardboard, rubber, glass, metal, wood, concrete, paint, flexible materials such as fiberglass fabric, tarpaulins, wall, wall paper, floor, clothing, skin. In one embodiment, the tape is double side coated with the activatable adhesive. The tape can be used to bond components together, such as in a motor vehicle.

[00149] The label or tape can be used for container labeling, packaging, providing support to an article, mounting of objects, joining or assembly applications, cushioning or sound-deadening applications, closure applications, removable applications, refastenable tapes for resealable package, medical applications such as on article worn externally, disposable personal care products as fastening and/or supporting means for a sensor for absorbent article.

[00150] Many other benefits will no doubt become apparent from future application and development of this technology.

[00151] All patents, published applications, and articles noted herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[00152] It will be understood that any one or more feature or component of one embodiment described herein can be combined with one or more other features or components of another embodiment. Thus, the present subject matter includes any and all combinations of components or features of the embodiments described herein.

[00153] As described hereinabove, the present subject matter solves many problems associated with previous type articles and methods. However, it will be appreciated that various changes in the details, materials and arrangements of components and/or operations, which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the subject matter, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scope of the subject matter, as expressed in the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A fastening tape from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut, the tape comprising:

a backing film with a first surface and a second surface, a distal end and a proximal end;

at least one of an activatable adhesive and a dry adhesive, wherein the activatable adhesive is applied on the first surface of the backing film towards the distal end of the backing film, and the dry adhesive is applied on one of the first and the second surface of the backing film towards the proximal end of the backing film.

2. The fastening tape of claim 1 wherein the activatable adhesive is a heat activatable adhesive.

3. The fastening tape of any one of claims 1-2 wherein the distal end of the backing film has an activatable adhesive and the proximal end of the backing film includes a loop portion of a hook and loop pair, or a pressure sensitive adhesive.

4. The fastening tape of any one of claims 1-3 wherein the distal end of the backing film has a pressure sensitive adhesive, a heat seal adhesive, or a hotmelt adhesive, and the proximal end of the tape has a dry adhesive.

5. A fastening tape assembly from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut, the tape assembly comprising: an activatable adhesive applied on the first surface of the backing film towards the distal end of the backing film;

a dry adhesive applied on the second surface of the backing film towards the proximal end of the backing film;

a frontal landing zone carrier film with a first side and a second side, wherein the frontal landing zone carrier film is laminated on the dry adhesive on the first side; and

an activatable adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive applied over the second side of the frontal landing zone carrier film.

6. A method of using an activatable adhesive to form factory joints on a diaper, comprising:

providing a diaper with two side panels;

providing a fastening tape with an activatable adhesive;

providing stimulation to activate the activatable adhesive;

slitting the tape into fastening tabs of predetermined size; and

attaching one fastening tab to one side panel of the diaper through the use of the activatable adhesive.

7. A method of using dry adhesive to form a user joint on a diaper, comprising:

providing a diaper with two side panels, a frontal panel, and a fastening tab, wherein the fastening tab has a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end of the tab forms a factory joint with one of the side panels, and a dry adhesive is applied over the proximal end of the tab;

extending the proximal end of the fastening tab towards the frontal panel of the diaper; and forming a user joint through the use of the dry adhesive.

8. A fastening tape from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut, the tape comprising:

at least one of a linerless adhesive and a non-tacky adhesive, wherein the linerless adhesive is applied on the first surface of the backing film towards the distal end of the backing film, and the non- tacky adhesive is applied on one of the first and the second surface of the backing film towards the proximal end of the backing film.

9. The fastening tape of claim 8 wherein the linerless adhesive is a heat activatable adhesive.

10. The fastening tape of any one of claims 8-9 wherein the distal end of the backing film has a linerless adhesive and the proximal end of the backing film includes a loop portion of a hook and loop pair, or a pressure sensitive adhesive.

11. The fastening tape of any one of claims 8-10 wherein the distal end of the backing film has a pressure sensitive adhesive, a heat seal adhesive, or a hotmelt adhesive, and the proximal end of the tape has a non-tacky adhesive.

12. A fastening tape assembly from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut, the tape assembly comprising:

a linerless adhesive applied on the first surface of the backing film towards the distal end of the backing film; end of the backing film;

a frontal landing zone carrier film with a first side and a second side, wherein the frontal landing zone carrier film is laminated on the non-tacky adhesive on the first side; and

a linerless adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive applied over the second side of the frontal landing zone carrier film.

13. A method of using a linerless adhesive to form factory joints on a diaper, comprising: providing a diaper with two side panels;

providing a fastening tape with a linerless adhesive;

providing stimulation to activate the linerless adhesive;

slitting the tape into fastening tabs of predetermined size; and

attaching one fastening tab to one side panel of the diaper through the use of the linerless adhesive.

14. A method of using a non-tacky dry adhesive to form a user joint on a diaper, comprising: providing a diaper with two side panels, a frontal panel, and a fastening tab, wherein the fastening tab has a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the distal end of the tab forms a factory joint with one of the side panels, and a non-tacky adhesive is applied over the proximal end of the tab;

extending the proximal end of the fastening tab towards the frontal panel of the diaper; and forming a user joint through the use of the non-tacky adhesive.

15. A fastening tape assembly from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut, the tape assembly comprising:

a backing film with a first surface and a second surface, a distal end and a proximal end; backing film towards the distal end of the backing film;

at least one of a dry adhesive and a non-tacky adhesive applied on the second surface of the backing film towards the proximal end of the backing film;

a frontal target tape with a first side and a second side, wherein the frontal target tape is laminated on the dry adhesive/non-tacky adhesive on the first side; and

an activatable adhesive or a pressure sensitive adhesive applied over the second side of the frontal target tape.

16. A system for selectively activating a region of adhesive associated with a fastener assembly, the system comprising:

a fastener assembly including a backing film defining a first surface, an oppositely directed second surface, a distal end, and an opposite proximal end, the fastener assembly also including at least one region of an activatable adhesive or a linerless adhesive; and

at least one component adapted to activate the at least one region of adhesive to thereby render the adhesive tacky.

17. The system of claim 16 wherein the adhesive is rendered tacky by at least one of (i) heating, (ii) exposure to electromagnetic radiation, (iii) contact with water or solvent(s), and (iv) combinations thereof.

18. The system of claim 17 wherein the adhesive is rendered tacky by heating.

19. The system of any one of claims 17-18 wherein the adhesive is rendered tacky by exposure to electromagnetic radiation.

20. The system of claim 19 wherein the electromagnetic radiation is UV radiation.

21. A fastening tape from which a closure tab for disposable articles can be cut, the tape comprising:

a backing film with a first surface and a second oppositely directed surface, a distal end, and a proximal end;

a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface;

a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface.

22. The fastening tape of claim 21 wherein the hook material is affixed to the first surface with an adhesive.

23. The fastening tape of any one of claims 21-22 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyacrylates, styrene based block polymers, polyamides, ethylene vinyl acetate polymers, and combinations thereof.

24. The fastening tape of claim 23 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a polyolefin.

25. The fastening tape of claim 24 wherein the polyolefin is a low crystalline polypropylene copolymer with alpha olefins.

26. The fastening tape of claim 24 wherein the polyolefin is formed using a metallocene catalyst.

27. The fastening tape of claim 23 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a styrene based block polymer.

28. The fastening tape of any one of claims 21-27 wherein the hook material is affixed proximate to one of the distal end and the proximal end of the backing film.

29. The fastening tape of any one of claims 21-28 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based adhesive.

30. The fastening tape of claim 23 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a polyacrylate.

31. The fastening tape of claim 30 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based polyacrylate adhesive.

32. The fastening tape of claim 31 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits an open time of less than 30 seconds.

33. The fastening tape of claim 32 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits an open time of less than 5 seconds.

34. An assembly comprising:

an absorbent member defining a first face, a second face, and an end extending between the first face and the second face; directed surface, (ii) a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface, and (iii) a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface;

wherein at least a portion of the layer of the activatable adhesive contacts the absorbent member, thereby adhesively securing the fastening tape to the absorbent member.

35. The assembly of claim 34 wherein the layer of the activatable adhesive contacts both the first face and the second face of the absorbent member.

36. The assembly of claim 35 wherein the fastening tape is in a V-shaped configuration thereby defining an internal end face.

37. The assembly of claim 36 wherein the internal end face of the fastening tape is spaced from the end of the absorbent member.

38. The assembly of claim 36 wherein the internal end face of the fastening tape contacts the end of the absorbent member.

39. The assembly of any one of claims 34-38 wherein the hook material is disposed inward of the end of the absorbent member.

40. The assembly of any one of claims 34-38 wherein the hook material is disposed outward of the end of the absorbent member. from one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyacrylates, styrene based block polymers, polyamides, ethylene vinyl acetate polymers, and combinations thereof.

42. The assembly of claim 41 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a polyolefin.

43. The assembly of claim 42 wherein the polyolefin is a low crystalline polypropylene copolymer with alpha olefins.

44. The assembly of claim 42 wherein the polyolefin is formed using a metallocene catalyst.

45. The assembly of claim 41 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a styrene based block polymer.

46. The assembly of any one of claims 34-45 wherein the hook material is affixed proximate to one of a distal end and a proximal end of the backing film.

47. The assembly of any one of claims 34-46 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based adhesive.

48. The assembly of claim 41 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a polyacrylate.

49. The assembly of claim 48 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based polyacrylate adhesive.

50. The assembly of claim 49 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits an open time of less than 30 seconds.

51. The assembly of claim 50 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits an open time of less than 5 seconds.

52. The assembly of any one of claims 34-51 wherein the fastening tape adhesively secured to the absorbent member exhibits a tensile strength of at least ION per side of the member.

53. The assembly of claim 52 wherein the fastening tape adhesively secured to the absorbent member exhibits a tensile strength of at least 40N per side of the member.

54. A method of using an activatable adhesive to form factory joints on a diaper, comprising:

providing a diaper with a side panel;

providing a fastening tape including (i) a backing film defining a first surface and a second oppositely directed surface, (ii) a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface, (iii) a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface;

activating at least a portion of the activatable adhesive; and

attaching the fastening tape to the side panel by contacting the activated portion of the activatable adhesive with the side panel. directed second face, and attaching includes contacting both the first face and the second face of the side panel with the activated portion of the activatable adhesive.

56. The method of claim 54 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from one or more polymers selected from the group consisting of polyolefins, polyacrylates, styrene based block polymers, polyamides, ethylene vinyl acetate polymers, and combinations thereof.

57. The method of claim 56 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a polyolefin.

58. The method of claim 57 wherein the polyolefin is a low crystalline polypropylene copolymer with alpha olefins.

59. The method of claim 57 wherein the polyolefin is formed using a metallocene catalyst.

60. The method of claim 56 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a styrene based block polymer.

61. The method of any one of claims 54-60 wherein the hook material is affixed proximate to one of a distal end and a proximal end of the backing film.

62. The method of any one of claims 54-61 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based adhesive. a polyacrylate.

64. The method of claim 63 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based polyacrylate adhesive.

65. The method of claim 64 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits an open time of less than 30 seconds.

66. The method of claim 65 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits and open time of less than 5 seconds.

67. The method of any one of claims 54-66 wherein activating includes application of at least one of heat and pressure to the adhesive.

68. The method of claim 67 wherein activating includes application of both heat and pressure to the adhesive.

69. The method of claim 68 wherein activating includes concurrent application of both heat and pressure to the adhesive.

70. A system for selectively activating a region of an adhesive associated with a fastener assembly, the system comprising: directed surface, (ii) a hook material affixed to a region of the first surface, (iii) a layer of an activatable adhesive disposed on the second surface; and

at least one component adapted to activate the activatable adhesive to thereby render the adhesive tacky.

71. The system of claim 70 wherein the adhesive is rendered tacky by at least one of (i) heating, (ii) exposure to electromagnetic radiation, (iii) contact with water or solvent(s), and (iv) combinations thereof.

72. The system of claim 71 wherein the adhesive is rendered tacky by heating.

73. The system of claim 71 wherein the adhesive is rendered tacky by exposure to electromagnetic radiation.

74. The system of claim 73 wherein the electromagnetic radiation is UV radiation.

75. The system of any one of claims 70-74 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based adhesive.

76. The system of any one of claims 70-74 wherein the activatable adhesive is formed from a polyacrylate.

77. The system of claim 76 wherein the activatable adhesive is a water based polyacrylate adhesive.

78. The system of claim 77 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits an open time of less than 30 seconds.

79. The system of claim 78 wherein the water based polyacrylate adhesive exhibits an open time of less than 5 seconds.