WO2022071001A1 - Absorbent article - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides an absorbent article including capsules encapsulating a functional agent, wherein: there is reduced likelihood of the capsules being difficult to break, or of the sensation of broke capsules being difficult to obtain; and the wearer can easily recognize the presence of the capsules or the effect of the functional agent encapsulated in the capsules.　This absorbent article includes a fiber aggregate (2) and an absorbent body (3), the absorbent article (1) being characterized in that the fiber aggregate (2) includes capsules (4) encapsulating a functional agent, and the capsules (4) have a particle diameter greater than the inter-fiber distance of the fiber constituting the fiber aggregate (2).

Description

Absorbent article

The present invention relates to absorbent articles such as disposable diapers and menstrual napkins.

In recent years, in absorbent articles such as disposable diapers and menstrual napkins, various absorbent articles having new additional functions in addition to basic functions such as absorption performance have been studied.

As such an absorbent article, for example, an absorbent article provided with microcapsules containing a fragrance such as an insect repellent component is known, and Patent Document 1 describes a plurality of microcapsules containing a substance having a scent. Disclosed is an absorbent article having a coated portion, wherein the plurality of microcapsules include a broken capsule and a non-broken capsule.
According to the absorbent article disclosed in Patent Document 1, the user or the wearer can recognize the effect of the substance discharged from the damaged capsule when the absorbent article is taken out from the packaging material, and before wearing and before wearing. It is said that breaking the undamaged capsule during wearing makes it easier to recognize the effect of the substance while wearing it.

Japanese Patent No. 6649535

However, in an absorbent article of the type that recognizes the effect of a functional agent (for example, a fragrance) which is an inclusion by breaking the capsule, such as the absorbent article disclosed in Patent Document 1, the capsule is placed in a position. It may fall off from the capsule and move between the constituent fibers of the non-woven fabric, which is a constituent member of the absorbent article, and may enter the absorbent body, making it difficult for the capsule to break or the capsule to break. However, there was a risk that it would be difficult to obtain that feel.
In this way, when the capsule becomes difficult to break or the feeling of the capsule breaking becomes difficult to be obtained, it becomes difficult for the wearer to recognize the effect of the functional agent contained in the capsule or the existence of the capsule itself.

The present invention has been made in view of such a problem, and in an absorbent article containing a capsule containing a functional agent, the capsule may be difficult to break or the feeling of the capsule being broken may be difficult to obtain. It is an object of the present invention to provide an absorbent article in which the effect of the functional agent, which is an inclusion of the capsule, and the presence of the capsule are easily recognized by the wearer.

One aspect (aspect 1) of the present invention is an absorbent article containing a fiber aggregate and an absorber.
The fiber aggregate comprises a capsule containing a functional agent.
The capsule is the absorbent article characterized by having a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate.

In the absorbent article of the first aspect, since the capsule provided in the fiber aggregate has a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate, the capsule is a constituent fiber of the fiber aggregate. It is less likely to move between them and enter the absorber.
As a result, in the absorbent article of the first aspect, it is unlikely that the capsule containing the functional agent will be easily broken or the feeling of the capsule being broken will be difficult to obtain, and the wearer will not be able to obtain the capsule inclusion. It is easy to recognize the effect of the functional agent (for example, fragrance, etc.) and the presence of capsules.

Further, another aspect (aspect 2) of the present invention is characterized in that, in the absorbent article of the above aspect 1, the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is 15 μm to 200 μm.

In the absorbent article of the second aspect, the distance between the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is within the above-mentioned specific range, and the capsule having a particle size larger than this is easily recognized by the tactile sensation, so that the wearer can capsule the capsule. It is easy to break while recognizing by touch, and it is also easy to recognize the broken feel of the capsule.

In still another aspect (aspect 3) of the present invention, in the absorbent article of the above aspect 1 or 2, the fiber density of the fiber aggregate is 0.015 g / cm ³ to 0.35 g / cm ³ . And.

In the absorbent article of the third aspect, since the fiber density of the fiber aggregate is within the above-mentioned specific range, the fiber aggregate retains the strength and flexibility as a constituent member of the absorbent article, and the constituent fibers of the capsule are maintained. It is possible to make it difficult for movement between them to occur.
Furthermore, if the fiber density of the fiber aggregate is within such a specific range, the functional agent is likely to be held between the constituent fibers of the fiber aggregate when the capsule is broken and the internal functional agent flows out. There is also an advantage that the effect of the functional agent can be accurately exerted at the desired position.

In still another aspect (aspect 4) of the present invention, in the absorbent article according to any one of the above aspects 1 to 3, the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate are hydrophilic fibers, and the functional agent has hydrophilicity. It is characterized by that.

In the absorbent article of the fourth aspect, since the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate are hydrophilic fibers (for example, cellulosic fibers) and the functional agent has hydrophilicity, the capsule is broken and the internal functional agent flows out. At times, the functional agent is easily absorbed and retained by the constituent fibers of the fiber aggregate, so that the effect of the functional agent can be accurately exerted at the desired position.

In still another aspect (aspect 5) of the present invention, the absorbent article according to any one of the above aspects 1 to 4 is characterized in that the particle size of the capsule is 0.5 mm to 10 mm.

In the absorbent article of the present aspect 5, since the particle size of the capsule is within the above-mentioned specific range and the capsule is easily recognized by the tactile sensation, the wearer can easily break the capsule while recognizing the capsule by the tactile sensation, and the capsule is broken. The feel is also easier to recognize.
In particular, when the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is within the specific range of the above aspect 2, the capsule is more difficult to move between the constituent fibers of the fiber aggregate, so that the above-mentioned wearer can use the capsule. It is possible to more reliably exert the effect of the functional agent which is the inclusion of the capsule and the effect of making it easier to recognize the existence of the capsule.
In addition, the capsule of the present aspect 5 has a larger particle size than the conventional microcapsules and can contain a larger amount of the functional agent, so that the wearer can more easily recognize the effect of the functional agent and the longer time. The effect of the functional agent can be exerted over a period of time.

In still another aspect (aspect 6) of the present invention, the functional agent is a fragrance in the absorbent article according to any one of the above aspects 1 to 5.

In the absorbent article of the sixth aspect, since the functional agent is a fragrance, the wearer can recognize the effect of the functional agent which is the inclusion of the capsule by the scent when the capsule is broken.
Further, since the absorbent article of the sixth aspect can gradually release the fragrance in the capsule, the effect of the fragrance as a functional agent is recognized by the wearer for a long time by the gradually released scent. Can be made to.

In still another aspect (aspect 7) of the present invention, the functional agent is colored in a color different from that of the fiber aggregate in the absorbent article according to any one of the above aspects 1 to 6.

In the absorbent article of the present aspect 7, since the functional agent is colored in a color different from that of the fiber aggregate, the wearer can see the effect of the functional agent which is the inclusion of the capsule when the capsule is broken. It can also be recognized by the change in body color.

In yet another aspect of the present invention (aspect 8), in any of the absorbent articles of aspects 1-7, the fiber aggregate is composed of at least two fiber layers.
The capsule is characterized in that it is arranged between the fiber layers of the at least two fiber layers.

Since the capsules are arranged between the fiber layers constituting the fiber aggregates, the absorbent article of the eighth aspect functions when the capsules are broken and the internal functional agent flows out while making it difficult for the capsules to move. The agent can be facilitated to diffuse in the plane direction along the fiber layers of the fiber aggregate.
As a result, in the absorbent article of the present aspect 8, when the capsule is broken, the wearer can more easily recognize the effect of the functional agent, and the effect of the functional agent can be more accurately exhibited.

In yet another aspect of the present invention (aspect 9), in any of the absorbent articles of aspects 1-7, the fiber aggregate is composed of fiber bundles oriented in a certain direction.
The capsule is characterized in that it is disposed between the fiber bundles.

In the absorbent article of the present aspect 9, since the capsules are arranged between the fiber bundles constituting the fiber aggregates, the capsules are less likely to move, and when the capsules are broken and the internal functional agent flows out, the capsules are less likely to move. The functional agent is more likely to diffuse along the direction in which the fiber bundles of the fiber aggregate are oriented, and the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate are arranged in the same direction, which makes it easier to hold the outflowing functional agent. ing.
Thereby, in the absorbent article of the present aspect 9, when the capsule is broken, the wearer can more easily recognize the effect of the functional agent, and the effect of the functional agent can be more sustained.

In still another aspect (aspect 10) of the present invention, in the absorbent article according to any one of the above aspects 1 to 9, the absorbent article is a disposable diaper.
The fiber aggregate is characterized in that it is arranged at a position on the non-skin facing surface side with respect to the absorber in the thickness direction of the absorbent article in the unfolded state.

The absorbent article of the present aspect 10 is a disposable diaper, and since the fiber aggregate is arranged at a position on the non-skin facing surface side with respect to the absorbent body, when the wearer takes out the disposable diaper from the packaging container or the disposable diaper. When putting on (wearing) a diaper, it is easier to recognize the capsule by touch, and it is easier for the wearer to recognize the effect of the functional agent contained in the capsule and the existence of the capsule.

In still another aspect of the invention (Aspect 11), in any of the absorbent articles of aspects 1-9, the absorbent article is a menstrual napkin, panty liner or incontinence pad.
The fiber aggregate is characterized in that it is arranged at a position on the skin facing surface side with respect to the absorbent body in the thickness direction of the absorbent article in the unfolded state.

The absorbent article of the 11th aspect is a menstrual napkin, a panty liner or an incontinence pad (hereinafter, may be referred to as "physiological napkin or the like"), and the fiber aggregate is on the skin facing surface side of the absorbent body. Because it is placed in the position, it is easy for the wearer to recognize the capsule by touch when taking out the menstrual napkin etc. from the individual package or when attaching (wearing) the menstrual napkin etc. to the underwear, and the wearer However, it is easier to recognize the effect of the functional agent contained in the capsule and the existence of the capsule.

According to the present invention, in an absorbent article containing a capsule containing a functional agent, it is unlikely that the capsule is difficult to break or the feeling of the capsule being broken is difficult to obtain, and the wearer can use the capsule. It is possible to provide an absorbent article in which it is easy to recognize the effect of a functional agent as an inclusion and the presence of a capsule.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a disposable diaper 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of the fiber assembly 2 provided in the disposable diaper 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the menstrual napkin 5 according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3A shows an embodiment in which the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged on the skin facing surface side of the absorber (a). b) shows an embodiment in which the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged on the non-skin facing surface side of the absorber.

Hereinafter, the disposable diaper 1, which is a preferred embodiment of the absorbent article of the present invention, will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

In the present specification, unless otherwise specified, "an object placed on a horizontal plane in an unfolded state (for example, a disposable diaper, a menstrual napkin, etc.) is placed in the vertical direction from the upper side to the thickness direction of the object. "Seeing in" is simply called "planar view".
Further, in the present specification, unless otherwise specified, "when the absorbent article is worn, the side relatively proximal to the wearer's skin surface" is "skin-opposed" in the thickness direction of the absorbent article. It is called "face side", and "when wearing an absorbent article, the side relatively distal to the skin surface of the wearer" is called "non-skin facing surface side".

[Disposable diapers]
The disposable diaper 1 has a longitudinal direction and a width direction in a plan view, and has a substantially hourglass-shaped vertically elongated outer shape in which a substantially central portion in the longitudinal direction is narrowed toward the inward side in the width direction. .. Further, the disposable diaper 1 includes a pair of tape members extending outward in the width direction at one end in the longitudinal direction, which is the back side of the wearer when worn, and is shown in FIG. As described above, one end in the longitudinal direction, which is the back side of the wearer when worn, and the other end in the longitudinal direction, which is the abdomen side of the wearer when worn, are connected via the pair of tape members. It is a so-called tape-type disposable diaper that is configured so that it can be used.

The disposable diaper 1 has a liquid-permeable surface sheet located on the skin-facing surface side and a liquid-impermeable surface sheet located on the non-skin-facing surface side in the thickness direction, like a general tape-type disposable diaper. The back sheet, the liquid-absorbing absorber 3 located between these two sheets, the pair of liquid-impermeable side sheets forming the leak-proof wall, and both ends of the disposable diaper 1 in the width direction, respectively. An elastic member made of thread rubber or the like for expanding and contracting in the longitudinal direction, and a pair of tape members extending outward in the width direction at one end in the longitudinal direction, which is the back side of the wearer when worn. And an exterior sheet arranged on the non-skin facing surface side of the back surface sheet are provided as constituent members.

Then, in this disposable diaper 1, as shown in FIG. 1, fibers extending along the width direction at the center portion in the width direction at one end in the longitudinal direction, which is the back side of the wearer when worn. It has an assembly 2. The fiber aggregate 2 contains a capsule 4 containing a functional agent such as a fragrance, and the capsule 4 has a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate 2. There is.

As described above, in the disposable diaper 1, since the capsule 4 provided in the fiber aggregate 2 has a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate 2, the capsule 4 is a fiber aggregate. It is less likely that the fibers will move between the constituent fibers of 2 and enter the absorber 3. As a result, the disposable diaper 1 is less likely to cause the capsule 4 containing the functional agent to be easily broken or the capsule 4 to be difficult to feel cracked, and the wearer can use the capsule 4 as an inclusion. It is easy to recognize the effect of a certain functional agent (for example, fragrance) and the presence of the capsule 4.

Further, in this disposable diaper 1, the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged at a position on the non-skin facing surface side with respect to the absorber 3 in the thickness direction of the disposable diaper 1 in the deployed state. When the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged at a position on the non-skin facing surface side of the absorber 3 in this way, the wearer takes out the disposable diaper 1 from the packaging container or puts on (wears) the disposable diaper 1. In addition, since the capsule 4 is easily recognized by touch, the wearer can more easily recognize the effect of the functional agent contained in the capsule 4 and the existence of the capsule 4.

In the absorbent article of the present invention, the arrangement position of the fiber aggregate is not limited to the position on the non-skin facing surface side of the absorber, and is an arbitrary position according to the type of the absorbent article and the functional agent. Fiber aggregates can be placed in. For example, the fiber aggregate may be arranged at a position on the skin facing surface side of the absorber (for example, a surface sheet or a position between the surface sheet and the absorber).

Further, in the absorbent article of the present invention, any constituent member other than the fiber aggregate can be used depending on the type and use of the absorbent article.
For example, in the above-mentioned disposable diaper 1, the surface sheet extends from one side edge in the longitudinal direction of the disposable diaper 1 to the other side edge in a plan view, and is one side end in the width direction of the disposable diaper 1. It has a vertically long outer shape that extends from the vicinity of the edge to the vicinity of the other side edge. The surface sheet is arranged at a position on the skin facing surface side in the thickness direction of the disposable diaper 1 and forms a contact surface that can come into contact with the wearer's skin, that is, the surface of the disposable diaper 1 on the skin facing surface side. , It is formed of a liquid-permeable sheet-like member such as a non-woven fabric.

In the present invention, the outer shape, various dimensions, basis weight, etc. of the surface sheet are not particularly limited as long as they can be used as the surface sheet of the absorbent article, and the desired liquid permeability, touch, flexibility, and strength are not particularly limited. Any external shape, various dimensions, basis weight, etc. can be adopted according to the above.

Further, in the above-mentioned disposable diaper 1, the back surface sheet extends from one side edge in the longitudinal direction of the disposable diaper 1 to the other side edge in a plan view, and extends from one side end in the width direction of the disposable diaper 1. It has a vertically long outer shape extending from the edge to the other end edge. The back sheet is arranged at a position on the non-skin facing surface side in the thickness direction of the disposable diaper 1 to form the non-skin facing surface of the disposable diaper 1, and excrement such as urine discharged from the wearer is disposable. It prevents the diaper 1 from leaking to the outside, and is formed of a liquid-impermeable sheet-like member such as a resin film or a hydrophobic non-woven fabric.

In the present invention, the outer shape, various dimensions, basis weight, etc. of the back sheet are not particularly limited as long as they can be used as the back sheet of the absorbent article, and the desired leakage-proof performance, breathability, strength, etc. can be obtained. It is possible to adopt any external shape, various dimensions, basis weight, etc. according to the situation.

In the above-mentioned disposable diaper 1, the absorber 3 extends over a wide range in the longitudinal direction of the disposable diaper 1 in a plan view, and the substantially central portion in the longitudinal direction is narrowed toward the inward side in the width direction. It has a substantially hourglass-shaped vertically long outer shape. The absorber 3 is formed by an absorbent member having a predetermined liquid-absorbing property, which is arranged between the front surface sheet and the back surface sheet and can absorb and hold excrement such as urine that has permeated the front surface sheet. ing.

The absorbent member that can be used for the absorber is not particularly limited as long as it can absorb and retain excrement such as urine, and is, for example, from an absorbent material containing at least one of a water-absorbent fiber and a highly absorbent polymer. Can be used, which is composed of an absorbent core and at least one liquid-permeable core wrap sheet (for example, a tissue made of hydrophilic cellulosic fibers) that covers the outer surface of the absorbent core. Here, as the water-absorbent fiber, for example, pulp fiber (for example, crushed pulp or the like), cellulosic fiber such as cotton, rayon, acetate or the like can be used. Further, as the highly absorbent polymer, for example, granules such as a starch-based high-absorbent polymer; a synthetic polymer-based high-absorbent polymer (so-called “SAP”) such as a sodium acrylate copolymer can be used.

In the present invention, the outer shape, various dimensions, basis weight, etc. of the absorber are not particularly limited as long as they can be used as the absorber of the absorbent article, depending on the desired water absorption, flexibility, strength, and the like. Any external shape, various dimensions, basis weight, etc. can be adopted.

Then, in the absorbent article of the present invention, a fiber aggregate containing a capsule containing a functional agent is included as an essential constituent member.
Hereinafter, the fiber aggregate contained in the absorbent article of the present invention will be described using the disposable diaper 1 described above.

[Fiber aggregate]
In the disposable diaper 1, the fiber aggregate 2 contains a capsule 4 containing a functional agent such as a fragrance as described above, and the capsule 4 further comprises the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate 2. Has a larger particle size than.
Here, FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a main part of the fiber assembly 2 provided in the disposable diaper 1. As shown in FIG. 2, in the disposable diaper 1, the fiber aggregate 2 has a sheet-like structure in which a first fiber layer 21 made of a non-woven fabric and a second fiber layer 22 made of a non-woven fabric are laminated. The capsule 4 containing a functional agent such as a fragrance is arranged between the fiber layers of the first fiber layer 21 and the second fiber layer 22.
The capsule 4 has a particle size larger than both the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the first fiber layer 21 and the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the second fiber layer 22. It is sandwiched between fibers.

In the present invention, the fiber aggregate does not have to be composed of such two fiber layers, for example, even if it is composed of one fiber layer, it is composed of three or more fiber layers. May be good. When the fiber aggregate is composed of at least two fiber layers and the capsule is arranged between the fiber layers of at least two fiber layers, the capsule is cracked and the internal functional agent is cracked while making it difficult for the capsule to move. When spilled, the functional agent can be facilitated to diffuse in the plane direction along the fiber layers of the fiber aggregate. As a result, the absorbent article provided with such a fiber aggregate can more easily recognize the effect of the functional agent when the capsule is broken, and can exert the effect of the functional agent more accurately. can.

Further, in the present invention, the structure of the fiber aggregate is not limited to the sheet-like structure as in the above-described embodiment, and may have any three-dimensional structure such as a columnar or prismatic structure.

When the fiber aggregate has a sheet-like structure, that is, when the fiber aggregate is composed of one layer or two or more fiber layers, the fiber aggregate (that is, each fiber layer) is an air-through nonwoven fabric, spunlace. It can be formed of a non-woven fabric such as a non-woven fabric, a spunbonded non-woven fabric, or a point-bonded non-woven fabric, or any fiber sheet such as a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, or a tissue.
When the fiber aggregate is composed of two or more fiber layers, each fiber layer is composed of the same type of fiber layer, but at least one fiber layer is composed of different types of fiber layers. May be.
Further, the sheet-like structure is not particularly limited, and even if the structure is a flat sheet-like structure as a whole, it is a concavo-convex structure having a plurality of ridges and grooves extending in a predetermined direction. (For example, a concavo-convex structure or a ridged groove structure having a corrugated cross-sectional shape) may be used.

When the fiber aggregate has a three-dimensional structure such as a columnar or prismatic structure, the fiber aggregate may be a fiber laminate obtained by laminating a plurality of the above-mentioned fiber sheets or the above-mentioned fiber sheet rolled or folded. Fiber structure, a long fiber structure composed of continuous filaments such as fiber bundles oriented in a certain direction (for example, tow such as opened acetate tow (fineness: 30,000 dtex, length: 20 mm)). It can be formed by any fibrous structure such as.

For example, the fiber aggregate may be composed of fiber bundles oriented in a certain direction, and the capsules may be arranged between the fiber bundles. When the capsules are arranged between the fiber bundles constituting the fiber aggregates in this way, the capsules are less likely to move in the fiber aggregates, and when the capsules are cracked and the internal functional agent flows out, the capsules are prevented from moving. The functional agent is easily diffused along the direction in which the fiber bundles of the fiber aggregate are oriented, and the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate are arranged in the same direction, so that the outflowing functional agent is more easily retained. .. Thereby, in the absorbent article provided with such a fiber aggregate, when the capsule is broken, the wearer can more easily recognize the effect of the functional agent, and the effect of the functional agent can be more sustained.

Further, the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate in the present invention are not particularly limited as long as the effects of the present invention are not impaired, and for example, hydrophilic fibers (for example, cellulosic fibers, hydrophilic resin fibers and the like, etc. ) And hydrophobic fibers such as thermoplastic resin fibers, and any fibers known in the art can be used.

Further, examples of the cellulosic fiber that can be used as the constituent fiber of the fiber aggregate include natural cellulose fiber (for example, plant fiber such as cotton), regenerated cellulose fiber, purified cellulose fiber, semi-synthetic cellulose fiber and the like.
Examples of the thermoplastic resin fibers that can be used as the constituent fibers of the fiber aggregate include olefin resins such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), polyester resins such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and 6-nylon. Examples thereof include fibers made of known thermoplastic resins such as the polyamide-based resin described above, and further, composite fibers made by arbitrarily combining these resins (for example, core-sheath type composite fibers) can also be used.
These fibers may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds of fibers.

Further, in the present invention, the interfiber distance between the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is preferably 15 μm to 200 μm. When the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is within such a specific range, the capsule having a particle size larger than this is easily recognized by tactile sensation, so that the wearer recognizes the capsule by tactile sensation. It is easy to break and it is easy to recognize the cracked feel of the capsule.
The interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is more preferably 20 μm to 150 μm, further preferably 50 μm to 100 μm.
The interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is not limited to these ranges. For example, when the fiber aggregate is formed by a tissue, the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is not limited to these ranges. There is an advantage that it becomes close to 0 μm and it is possible to prevent the movement between the constituent fibers of the capsule from occurring.

<Measuring method of interfiber distance of fibers constituting fiber aggregate>
The interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate can be calculated by the following equation (1) based on the assumption of Wrotnowski. Under the assumption of Wrotnowski, the fibers in the fiber assembly are columnar and are regularly arranged without intersecting each other.

In the above formula (1), a represents the average interfiber distance (μm), ρ represents the resin density of the fiber (g / cm ³ ), D represents the fiber diameter (μm) of the fiber, and P represents the fiber assembly. Represents the fiber density of the body (g / cm ³ ).
Here, the resin density ρ (g / cm ³ ) of the fiber is measured by the measurement method of the density gradient tube method described in JIS L1015 Chemical Fiber Staple Test Method (for example, http: // kikakuri. com / l / L1015-2010-01. Html.).
For the fiber diameter D (μm) of the fiber, 10 fiber cross sections of the cut fiber were measured using an S-4000 type field emission scanning electron microscope manufactured by Hitachi, Ltd., and the average value was taken as the fiber diameter. do. Specifically, the measurement is performed as follows. The fiber aggregate to be measured is cut with a sharp blade (for example, a razor blade) to obtain a sample piece having a quadrangular shape (for example, 8 mm × 4 mm) in a plan view. When cutting the fiber aggregate, the fiber aggregate is previously prepared with liquid nitrogen, a cooling spray, or the like so that the structure of the cut surface of the sample piece formed by the cutting is not destroyed by the pressure at the time of cutting. Allow the aggregate to cool sufficiently. The cut surface of the sample piece thus obtained was magnified and observed at a magnification of 1000 times using an S-4000 type field emission scanning electron microscope manufactured by Hitachi, Ltd., and the diameter (μm) of the cut surface of the cut fiber was observed. Is measured for 10 lines. Then, the average value of the diameters of the 10 fibers is defined as the fiber diameter D (μm) of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate.
The fiber density P (g / cm ³ ) of the fiber aggregate is measured according to <Measuring method of fiber density of the fiber aggregate> described later.

Further, in the present invention, the fiber density of the fiber aggregate is preferably 0.015 g / cm ³ to 0.35 g / cm ³ . When the fiber density of the fiber aggregate is within such a specific range, the fiber aggregate retains the strength and flexibility as a constituent member of the absorbent article, and makes it difficult for the fiber aggregate to move between the constituent fibers of the capsule. In addition, when the capsule breaks and the internal functional agent flows out, the functional agent is easily held between the constituent fibers of the fiber aggregate, so that the effect of the functional agent can be accurately measured at the desired position. Can be demonstrated.
The fiber density of the fiber aggregate is preferably 0.02 g / cm ³ to 0.15 g / cm ³ .
The fiber density of such a fiber aggregate can be obtained as follows.

<Measurement method of fiber density of fiber aggregate>
If it is easy to calculate the volume from the structure of the fiber aggregate, it can be obtained by measuring the mass (g) of the fiber aggregate with an electronic balance and dividing it by the volume of the fiber aggregate (cm ³ ). can. The volume of the fiber aggregate (cm ³ ) can be calculated by measuring various sizes of the fiber aggregate.
If it is not easy to calculate the volume from the structure of the fiber aggregate, first, a sample piece of an arbitrary size is cut out from an arbitrary part of the fiber aggregate, and the mass (g) of the sample piece is measured by an electronic balance. In addition to measuring, the volume (cm ³ ) is calculated by measuring various sizes of the sample pieces. Then, the fiber density (g / cm ³ ) of the fiber aggregate can be calculated by dividing the measured mass (g) of the sample piece by the volume (cm ³ ) of the sample piece. For example, when the fiber aggregate has a sheet-like structure, a sample piece of an arbitrary size is cut out from an arbitrary part of the sheet-shaped fiber aggregate (for example, a non-woven fabric, etc.), and the mass (g) of the cut out sample piece. ), The area (cm ² ), and the thickness (cm), the fiber density (g / cm ³ ) of the fiber aggregate can be calculated. The thickness (cm) of the sheet-shaped fiber aggregate is measured as the thickness under a load of 49 Pa (0.5 gf / cm ² ) using an automated compression test device KES-FB3-AUTO-A manufactured by Katou Tech. be able to.

Further, in the present invention, when the functional agent contained in the capsule has hydrophilicity, the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate are preferably hydrophilic fibers such as cellulosic fibers. As described above, when the functional agent has hydrophilicity and the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate are hydrophilic fibers, the functional agent aggregates the fibers when the capsule is broken and the hydrophilic functional agent inside flows out. Since it is easily absorbed and retained by the constituent fibers of the body, the effect of the functional agent can be accurately exerted at the desired position.

Next, the capsule contained in the fiber aggregate will be described.

(capsule)
In the present invention, the capsule contained in the fiber aggregate has a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate, and is a core material made of a functional agent and a film containing the core material. It is composed of and. The capsule can release the internal functional agent by cracking the film due to physical pressure, impact, vibration or the like applied from the outside.

In the present invention, the shape and size of the capsule are not particularly limited as long as the capsule has a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the above-mentioned fiber aggregate, but the particle size of the capsule is 0. It is preferably .5 mm to 10 mm. When the particle size of the capsule is within such a specific range, the capsule is easily recognized by the tactile sensation, so that the wearer can easily recognize the capsule by the tactile sensation and break it, and also easily recognize the broken feeling of the capsule. .. In particular, when the interfiber distance between the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is in the range of 15 μm to 200 μm, it becomes more difficult for the capsule to move between the constituent fibers of the fiber aggregate. It is possible to more reliably exert the effect of the functional agent which is an inclusion and the effect of making it easier to recognize the existence of the capsule.
In addition, capsules having such a particle size in millimeters have a larger particle size than conventional microcapsules and can contain a larger amount of functional agent, so that the wearer is more aware of the effect of the functional agent. In addition to being easy, it also has the advantage that the effect of the functional agent can be exerted for a longer period of time.
If the particle shape is spherical, the particle diameter of the capsule means the diameter thereof, and if the particle shape is non-spherical, it means the diameter of the circumscribed circle of the shape in the projection drawing of the particles. The particle size of the capsule is more preferably 1.0 mm to 5.0 mm, further preferably 2.0 mm to 4.0 mm.

The particle size of the capsule can be magnified and observed using a magnifying observation means such as a microscope (for example, "Digital Microscope VHX-7000" manufactured by KEYENCE CORPORATION) and measured by a digital scale.

(Functional agent)
Further, in the present invention, the functional agent forming the core material of the capsule is not particularly limited, and any functional agent according to a desired additional function, action or the like can be adopted. Examples of such functional agents include fragrances, warming agents, cooling agents, exothermic agents, antibacterial agents, pH adjusters, skin care agents, deodorants and the like. These functional agents may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds of functional agents. Further, these functional agents may be in the form of a liquid, a solid, a thickened product thereof, or a gel.

For example, as the fragrance that can be used as the functional agent, either a natural fragrance or a synthetic fragrance may be used, or two or more types of fragrances may be used in combination.
Examples of natural fragrances include anise, basil, bergamot, camphor, camomill, citronella, cloves, eucalyptus, grapefruit, rose, jasmine, lavender, Iran Iran, mint, orange, sage and rosemary.
Examples of the synthetic fragrance include esterene hydrocarbons such as limonene; terpene alcohols such as linalol, geraniol, nerol, citronellol, dihydromilsenol, tarpineol, menthol, boroneol and sedrol; alicyclic alcohols such as amber core; phenyl. Aromatic alcohols such as ethyl alcohol and eugenol; Synthetic sandals such as sandals mysol core; Ethers such as rose oxide and anetol; Terpenic aldehydes such as citral and citroneral; Terpen-based ketones such as camphor, carboxylics, ionones, damascon, and damasenone; aromatic ketones such as raspberry ketone, acetate esters such as linaryl acetate and benzyl acetate; propionic acid esters such as methyl propionate; salicylic acid esters such as methyl salicylate; Examples thereof include anthranyl acid esters such as methyl anthranilate.

Further, in the present invention, an insect repellent fragrance may be used as a functional agent. The insect repellent fragrance is a repellent (insect repellent) against pests such as mosquitoes, silkworms, chironomids, and flies, and is a fragrance for synthetic compounds and natural plant extracts.
Examples of the insect repellent fragrance include citronellal, DEET (N, N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide), sesquitelpen, ethyl ethylbutylacetylaminopropionate, picaridin, pyrethroid, cinnamon, rosemary, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus and the like. Can be used. The insect repellent fragrance can be appropriately selected according to the target pest, desired fragrance, and the like.

When the functional agent is a fragrance in this way, the wearer can recognize the effect of the functional agent, which is the inclusion of the capsule, by the scent when the capsule is broken. Further, since the fragrance in the capsule can be gradually released, the effect of the fragrance as a functional agent can be recognized by the wearer for a long time by the gradually released scent.

In addition, the warming agent that can be used as a functional agent does not generate heat by itself and stimulates the warmth sensory receptor of the wearer's skin to make the wearer perceive the warmth feeling. Examples of the agent include capsaicins; vanillyl alcohol alkyl ether derivatives such as vanillyl ethyl ether, vanillyl butyl ether, vanillyl pentyl ether, vanillyl hexyl ether; ginger extract; ginger oil and the like.
On the other hand, a cooling sensation agent that can be used as a functional agent stimulates the cool sensation receptor of the wearer's skin without cooling itself, and makes the wearer perceive a cold sensation, and such a cold sensation. Examples of the sensitizer include menthol such as l-menthol; menthol derivatives such as menthol lactate and menthol glyceryl ether; methyl salicylate; essential oils derived from plants such as mint and eucalyptus.
Further, the heat-generating agent that can be used as a functional agent has an action of warming the wearer's skin by generating heat by itself, and such a heat-generating agent includes, for example, the heat of oxidation of a metal powder such as iron powder. , The heat of neutralization of acid or alkali, the heat of hydration of inorganic salt, etc., which utilize chemical energy.

As antibacterial agents that can be used as functional agents, for example, naturally derived antibacterial agents such as Oubaku extract, olive leaf extract, chamomile extract, bear zasa extract, sansho extract, perilla extract, dokudami extract, hop extract, eucalyptus extract, and yomogi extract. Ingredients: Synthetic antibacterial ingredients such as ethylhexyl glycerin and the like can be mentioned.
Further, examples of the pH adjuster that can be used as a functional agent include weakly acidic components such as malic acid, succinic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, and lactic acid for keeping the skin weakly acidic.
Examples of skin care agents that can be used as functional agents include polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, and sorbitol; and those containing moisturizing components such as urea and emollient components (for example, petrolatum). ..

The functional agent may contain other arbitrary additive components such as a colorant, a thickener, and a gelling agent, in addition to the main component exhibiting its original function.
For example, the functional agent may be colored in a color different from the above-mentioned fiber aggregate by a coloring component such as a pigment. In this way, when the functional agent is colored in a color different from that of the fiber aggregate, the wearer can determine the effect of the functional agent which is the inclusion of the capsule by changing the color of the fiber aggregate when the capsule is broken. Can also be recognized.
The coloring component used for coloring the functional agent is not particularly limited, and any coloring component known in the art (for example, pigment, dye, etc.) can be adopted.

Further, in the present invention, the film-forming material for forming the capsule film is not particularly limited, and any material according to the desired film strength, disintegration property, etc. can be adopted. As such a film-forming material, for example, an inorganic material, an organic material, or the like can be used, and specifically, monosaccharides (for example, glucose, etc.), disaccharides (for example, sucrose, etc.), and the like. Polysaccharides (eg, dextrin, glucomannan, sodium alginate, water-soluble starch, etc.), agar, gelatin, gelatin / arabic rubber, water-soluble polymers (eg, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, etc.), melamine resin, urea / formarin resin , Urethane resin, polystyrene, ethyl cellulose, polyamide, polyacrylic acid, silicone resin, carboxymethyl cellulose and the like. These film-forming materials may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds of materials.

It should be noted that such capsules can be produced by any known encapsulation technique such as a suspension polymerization method, an emulsion polymerization method, or an in-liquid curing method.

Further, in the present invention, the number of capsules in the fiber assembly is not particularly limited, and one capsule may be arranged in the fiber assembly, or a plurality of capsules may be arranged. Further, when a plurality of capsules are arranged in the fiber assembly, the plurality of capsules are capsules of the same type, but at least some capsules are of different types. May be good.

Further, the absorbent article of the present invention is not limited to the tape-type disposable diaper of the above-described embodiment, and may be used for various absorbent articles such as pants-type disposable diapers, menstrual napkins, panty liners, and incontinence pads. Can be applied. In the present specification, the "wearer" is not only a person who actually wears the absorbent article, but also a mother, a caregiver, or the like who causes an infant, an elderly person, or the like to wear the absorbent article. Refers to a wearer in a broad sense, including those who make them.

Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the absorbent article of the present invention is applied to a menstrual napkin will be described with reference to the drawings.

[Physiological napkin]
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the menstrual napkin 5 according to another embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3A shows an embodiment in which the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged on the skin facing surface side of the absorber (a). b) shows an embodiment in which the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged on the non-skin facing surface side of the absorber.
Like a general menstrual napkin, the menstrual napkin 5 has a longitudinal direction and a width direction in a plan view, and two longitudinal end edges each project in an arc shape toward the outward side in the longitudinal direction. A liquid-permeable surface sheet that has a vertically long outer shape and forms the surface of the menstrual pad 5 on the skin-facing surface side in the thickness direction, and a non-skin-facing surface side of the menstrual pad 5. A back surface sheet forming the front surface and an absorber located between these sheets are provided as a basic configuration.

Further, the menstrual napkin 5 is arranged on the surface of the back sheet on the non-skin facing surface side, and is attached to an adhesive portion for adhesively fixing the sanitary napkin 5 to the inner surface of clothing such as the wearer's underwear and the adhesive portion. Further provided with a release sheet that is worn and protects the adhesive portion before use, and a packaging sheet 6 that is arranged at a position on the non-skin facing surface side of the release sheet and for packaging the entire menstrual napkin 5. ing. The menstrual napkin 5 is folded at least in the longitudinal direction together with the packaging sheet 6 to form the individual packaging body 8.

Then, in this menstrual napkin 5, as shown in FIG. 3A, the fiber aggregate 2 extends along the longitudinal direction in the central portion in the width direction near the end on one side in the longitudinal direction. It is equipped with. Similar to the disposable diaper 1 of the above-described embodiment, the fiber aggregate 2 contains a capsule containing a functional agent such as a fragrance, and the capsule further comprises interfibers of fibers constituting the fiber aggregate 2. It has a particle size larger than the distance.

Therefore, also in this sanitary napkin 5, the capsule provided in the fiber aggregate 2 has a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate 2, so that the capsule is a fiber aggregate. Since it is unlikely that it will move between the constituent fibers of 2 and enter the absorber, it will be difficult for the capsule containing the functional agent to break, or it will be difficult to obtain the feeling of the capsule breaking. Is less likely to occur, making it easier for the wearer to recognize the effects of the functional agent, which is the inclusion of the capsule, and the presence of the capsule.

Further, in this menstrual napkin 5, the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged at a position on the skin facing surface side of the absorber in the thickness direction of the unfolded menstrual napkin 5. When the fiber aggregate 2 is arranged on the side facing the skin from the absorber in this way, the wearer takes out the menstrual pad 5 from the individual package 8 or attaches the menstrual pad 5 to the underwear. When wearing (wearing), it is easy to recognize the capsule contained in the fiber aggregate 2 by touch, and the wearer further recognizes the effect of the functional agent (for example, fragrance) which is the inclusion of the capsule and the existence of the capsule. It will be easier to do. It should be noted that such an action effect is similarly exhibited even when the absorbent article is a panty liner, an incontinence pad, or the like.

Further, in the present invention, when the absorbent article is a sanitary napkin, a panty liner or an incontinence pad, the fiber aggregate is on the non-skin facing surface side of the absorbent article in the thickness direction of the absorbent article in the unfolded state. It may be arranged at the position of.

For example, in the menstrual napkin according to still another embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3 (b), the tape member 7 arranged in the central portion in the width direction at one end in the longitudinal direction. A fiber aggregate 2 extending along the longitudinal direction is provided in the vicinity thereof, and the fiber aggregate 2 is located on the non-skin facing surface side of the absorber in the thickness direction of the menstrual pad in the deployed state. It is placed in a position.
In the menstrual napkin shown in FIG. 3B, when the wearer peels off the tape member 7 and opens the individual package 8, the capsule contained in the fiber aggregate 2 is easily recognized by touch, and the wearer can easily recognize the capsule. It is easier to recognize the effect of the functional agent, which is the inclusion of the capsule, and the existence of the capsule.

As described above, in the absorbent article of the present invention, the fiber aggregate can be arranged at an arbitrary position according to the recognizability and easiness of breaking the capsule, the type of the absorbent article, the type of the functional agent, and the like.
For example, if the absorbent article is a disposable diaper, the fiber assembly containing the capsule is the part that is gripped when the disposable diaper is taken out of the package; the part that is pressed when the waist part of the tape-shaped disposable diaper is locked by the tape member. The part that is easy to see corresponding to the front front side of the wearer when wearing; The part around the waist that is grasped when adjusting the position of the disposable diaper; The part around the foot that is grasped when adjusting the gathers; It can be suitably placed in a part that does not affect the absorption of excrement; a part that is touched when the disposable diaper is rolled up and fastened with a post-treatment tape (for example, when the functional agent is a deodorant). ..
When the absorbent article is a sanitary napkin, panty liner, incontinence pad, etc., the fiber aggregate containing the capsule is a portion to be pressed when opening the individual package (for example, a portion overlapping the central portion of the individual package). , A portion near the tape member, etc.); It can be suitably arranged on a portion to be pressed when fixing to the inner surface of the wearer's underwear.
Further, when the absorbent article is an inner pad, the fiber aggregate containing the capsule can be suitably arranged at a portion to be pressed when fixing to the inner surface of the diaper to be the outer.

The absorbent article of the present invention is not limited to each of the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately combined, substituted, modified, etc. within the range not deviating from the object and purpose of the present invention. In this specification, the ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are for distinguishing the items to which the ordinal numbers are attached, and mean the order, priority, importance, etc. of each item. It's not something to do.

1 Disposable diaper 2 Fiber aggregate 21 First fiber layer 22 Second fiber layer 3 Absorber 4 Capsule 5 Menstrual napkin 6 Packaging sheet 7 Tape member 8 packaging

Claims (11)

1. An absorbent article containing a fiber aggregate and an absorber.
   The fiber aggregate comprises a capsule containing a functional agent.
   The absorbent article, characterized in that the capsule has a particle size larger than the interfiber distance of the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate.
2. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein the interfiber distance between the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate is 15 μm to 200 μm.
3. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fiber density of the fiber aggregate is 0.015 g / cm ³ to 0.35 g / cm ³ .
4. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fibers constituting the fiber aggregate are hydrophilic fibers, and the functional agent has hydrophilicity.
5. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the capsule has a particle size of 0.5 mm to 10 mm.
6. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the functional agent is a fragrance.
7. The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the functional agent is colored in a color different from that of the fiber aggregate.
8. The fiber aggregate is composed of at least two fiber layers.
   The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the capsule is arranged between the fiber layers of the at least two fiber layers.
9. The fiber aggregate is composed of fiber bundles oriented in a certain direction.
   The absorbent article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the capsule is arranged between the fiber bundles.
10. The absorbent article is a disposable diaper.
    One of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fiber aggregate is arranged at a position on the non-skin facing surface side of the absorbent body in the thickness direction of the absorbent article in the unfolded state. The absorbent article according to paragraph 1.
11. The absorbent article is a menstrual napkin, panty liner or incontinence pad.
    Any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fiber aggregate is arranged at a position on the skin facing surface side of the absorbent body in the thickness direction of the absorbent article in the unfolded state. The absorbent article described in the section.

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