WO2025115621A1 - Absorbent article - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is an absorbent article having an absorbent polymer, the absorbent article continuously exhibiting a deodorizing function while suppressing discomfort during wear. An absorbent article (1) comprises: an absorbent core (31) having an absorbent material containing an absorbent polymer (81); a liquid-permeable top sheet (21) that is positioned on the skin side relative to the absorbent core and contacts the skin of the wearer; and a liquid-impermeable back sheet (25) that is positioned on the non-skin side relative to the absorbent core. The absorbent article has deodorant particles (82) that contain a deodorant component and are separate from the absorbent polymer. In an absorbed state in which the absorbent article has absorbed body fluid, the average particle diameter of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle diameter of the absorbent polymer.

Description

Absorbent articles

The present invention relates to an absorbent article having an absorbent polymer.

Patent Document 1 discloses an odor control composition in which an odor control agent is attached to water-absorbent polymer particles. The odor control composition of Patent Document 1 is configured to be obtained by injecting a first odor control agent into water-absorbent polymer particles and mixing the injected water-absorbent polymer particles with a second odor control agent, and is used in absorbent articles such as diapers, diaper pads, and feminine hygiene products.

JP 2022-512196 A

However, the absorbent article having the above-mentioned odor control composition has the following problems.
The odor control agent is integrated into the absorbent polymer, and therefore there is a risk that the odor suppressant agent may interfere with the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer.

In addition, because the odor control agent and absorbent polymer are integrated, when the absorbent polymer swells, gel blocking can occur, making it difficult for the odor suppressant to come into contact with odors and body fluids, making it difficult for the odor suppressant to exert its deodorizing function.

When the absorbent polymer and odor suppressant are combined, the particle size of the absorbent polymer becomes larger, which can cause an uncomfortable feeling when touching the particles when wearing the garment.

The present invention was made in consideration of these problems, and aims to provide an absorbent article containing an absorbent polymer that can continue to exert its deodorizing function while suppressing discomfort when worn.

The absorbent article according to one embodiment has an absorbent core having an absorbent material containing an absorbent polymer, a liquid-permeable top sheet located closer to the skin than the absorbent core and in contact with the wearer's skin, and a liquid-impermeable back sheet located closer to the skin than the absorbent core. The absorbent article has deodorant particles that contain a deodorant component and are separate from the absorbent polymer. When the absorbent article is in an absorbent state in which it has absorbed bodily fluids, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer.

FIG. 1 is a front view of an absorbent article according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the absorbent article according to the first embodiment in an unfolded state. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 11 is a plan view of an absorbent article according to a second embodiment in an unfolded state. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB shown in FIG. 4.

(1) Overview of the embodiment At least the following matters will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings.
The invention according to aspect 1 is an absorbent article having an absorbent core having an absorbent material containing an absorbent polymer, a liquid-permeable top sheet located closer to the skin than the absorbent core and in contact with the wearer's skin, and a liquid-impermeable back sheet located closer to the non-skin side than the absorbent core. The absorbent article contains deodorant particles that contain a deodorant component and are separate from the absorbent polymer. In an absorbent state in which the absorbent article has absorbed body fluids, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer. According to this aspect, since the absorbent polymer and the deodorant particles are separate, the deodorant component is less likely to cover the surface of the absorbent polymer and inhibit the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer, and the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer can be maintained. In addition, since the absorbent polymer and the deodorant particles are separate, even if the absorbent polymer swells, the deodorant particles continue to be arranged independently and can continue to exert the deodorant function. In addition, since the absorbent polymer and the deodorant particles are separate, the particle size of the absorbent polymer is prevented from increasing due to the addition of the deodorant component, and discomfort when worn can be suppressed. At least in the absorbed state after absorbing body fluids, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles is less than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, and the discomfort felt when wearing the garment due to the presence of substances with large particle sizes resulting from the addition of the deodorizing particles can be suppressed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 2 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 1. In a non-absorbing state in which the absorbent article has not absorbed any body fluid, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer. According to this embodiment, in a non-absorbing state, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, and from the time the absorbent article begins to be worn until the absorbent article has absorbed body fluid and is removed, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, and discomfort when worn due to the presence of substances with large particle sizes throughout the entire time the absorbent article is worn can be suppressed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 3 may have the following features in the invention according to embodiment 1 or embodiment 2. The deodorizing particles are disposed within the absorbent core. According to this embodiment, the deodorizing function can be exerted during the process in which the body fluid is guided into the absorbent core, and the deodorizing function can also be exerted on the body fluid absorbed into the absorbent core.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 4 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3. The absorbent core is covered by a core wrap having fibers. The average particle size of the deodorizing particles is larger than the distance between the fibers of the core wrap. According to this embodiment, the deodorizing particles are less likely to pass through the core wrap, and the deodorizing particles are retained within the absorbent core, allowing the deodorizing function to continue to be exerted. In addition, the deodorizing particles are prevented from passing through the core wrap, and the deterioration of the wearing comfort caused by the deodorizing particles that have passed through the core wrap coming into contact with the skin can be suppressed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 5 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4. The absorbent core has a skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and a non-skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core. The basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the skin-side region is higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the non-skin-side region. According to this embodiment, since the basis weight of the deodorizing particles in the skin-side region is high, the deodorizing particles are more likely to come into contact when urine is absorbed and when odor is released to the skin side of the absorbent article, and the deodorizing function can be exerted.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 6 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4. The absorbent core has a skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and a non-skin-side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core. The basis weight of the deodorant particles in the non-skin-side region is higher than the basis weight of the deodorant particles in the skin-side region. According to this embodiment, the body fluid drawn into the absorbent core moves from the skin-side region to the non-skin-side region, and when a large amount of body fluid is discharged, it accumulates on the liquid-impermeable back sheet side. At this time, since the basis weight of the deodorant particles in the non-skin-side region is high, the deodorant function can be exerted against the body fluid drawn into the non-skin side of the absorbent core. In addition, the deodorant particles have a low basis weight in the skin-side region and are less likely to come into contact with the skin. Therefore, the discomfort caused by the deodorant particles coming into contact when worn can be suppressed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 7 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6. The absorbent core has a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located closer to the skin than the first absorbent core. The basis weight of the deodorant particles in the first absorbent core is higher than the basis weight of the deodorant particles in the second absorbent core. According to this embodiment, since the basis weight of the deodorant particles in the first absorbent core located on the skin side is high, when urine is absorbed and when odor is released to the skin side of the absorbent article, the deodorant particles are easily contacted, and the deodorant function can be exerted.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 8 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7. The absorbent core has a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located on the non-skin side of the first absorbent core. The core wrap has a first core wrap covering at least the non-skin side surface of the first absorbent core and a second core wrap covering at least the skin side surface of the second absorbent core. The deodorant particles are arranged between the first core wrap and the second core wrap. According to this embodiment, the deodorant function can be exerted in the process of guiding bodily fluids from the first absorbent core to the second absorbent core. In addition, since the absorbent polymer is arranged inside the absorbent core and the deodorant particles are arranged outside the absorbent core, the SAP and the deodorant particles can be arranged separately and each function can be continuously exerted. In addition, the deodorant particles are arranged on the non-skin side of the first absorbent core and are unlikely to come into contact with the skin. Therefore, the discomfort caused by the deodorant particles coming into contact when wearing the garment can be suppressed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 9 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8. The deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin side surface of the absorbent core and the back sheet. Body fluids drawn into the absorbent core move from the skin side region to the non-skin side region, and when a large amount of body fluid is discharged, they accumulate on the liquid-impermeable back sheet side. At this time, since the deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin side surface of the absorbent core and the back sheet, the deodorizing function can be exerted on the body fluid drawn into the non-skin side surface of the absorbent core. In addition, the user can easily feel the deodorizing particles from the outside of the absorbent article through the back sheet and become aware of the presence of the deodorizing particles. Since the deodorizing particles are disposed on the back sheet side, the deodorizing particles can be prevented from directly contacting the wearer's skin, while the presence of the deodorizing particles can be made aware of by touch.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 10 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9. The deodorizing particles are composed of porous particles having a large number of pores. According to this embodiment, the porous particles are more likely to physically adsorb odorous components, and are more likely to exhibit the deodorizing function.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 11 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10. The deodorizing particles include a chelating agent and an antioxidant. According to this embodiment, the chelating agent undergoes a chelate reaction with nutrients containing nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P), producing a stable compound and preventing odor generation due to decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of the nutrients. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles include an antioxidant, which prevents oxidation of the chelating agent (organic zinc compound) and the nutrients.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention according to embodiment 12 may have the following features in the invention according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11. The deodorizing particles contain a chelating agent and an antibacterial agent. According to this embodiment, the chelating agent undergoes a chelate reaction with nutrients containing nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P), producing a stable compound and preventing the generation of odors due to the decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of the nutrients. Furthermore, by containing an antibacterial agent, the proliferation of microorganisms is prevented.

(2) Absorbent Article According to the Embodiment Hereinafter, the absorbent article according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the drawings, the same or similar parts are denoted with the same or similar reference numerals. However, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic and the ratios of the dimensions are different from the actual ones. Therefore, the specific dimensions should be determined with reference to the following description. In addition, the drawings may include parts with different dimensional relationships and ratios.

The absorbent article according to the present invention is an absorbent article that is worn by a subject and can absorb the bodily fluids of the subject. Examples of subjects that can wear the absorbent article include, but are not limited to, infants and the elderly. The absorbent article may be a diaper or incontinence pad that absorbs urine, a sanitary napkin that absorbs menstrual blood, or a panty liner that absorbs vaginal discharge. More specifically, the absorbent article may be a pants-type diaper, a tape-type diaper, swim pants, a sanitary napkin, an incontinence pad, or a vaginal discharge sheet.

The absorbent article 10A according to the first embodiment is a pants-type disposable diaper. Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of the absorbent article 10A according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic plan view of the absorbent article 10A according to the first embodiment in an unfolded state, as viewed from the skin side T1. The schematic plan view shown in Fig. 2 shows the absorbent article 10A in an extended state in which the side joint portion 60 described below is extended to a state in which no wrinkles are formed. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A shown in Fig. 2.

The absorbent article 10A has a front waist region S1, a rear waist region S2, and a crotch region S3. The front waist region S1 is a region that faces the front waist (abdomen) of the wearer. The rear waist region S2 is a region that faces the rear waist (back) of the wearer. The crotch region S3 is a region that is located between the front waist region S1 and the rear waist region S2, under the crotch of the wearer.

As shown in FIG. 1, a side joint 60 may be provided by joining the end of the front waist region S1 in the width direction W and the end of the rear waist region S2 in the width direction W. As shown in FIG. 1, with the side joint 60 formed, the absorbent article 10A is formed with a waist opening 62 that encircles the waist of the wearer and through which the torso of the wearer is passed, and a pair of leg openings 66 that encircle the legs of the wearer and through which the legs of the wearer are inserted. The waist opening 62 may be defined by the front edge of the front waist region S1 and the rear edge of the rear waist region S2. FIG. 2 shows the absorbent article 10A in an unfolded state after the joining at the side joint 60 is released. In a pants-type absorbent article, the boundary between the front waist region S1 and the crotch region S3 and the boundary between the rear waist region S2 and the crotch region S3 may be defined by the inner edge of the side joint 60. The crotch region S3 may be an area in which the leg openings 66 are provided.

In the present invention, the outer portion is a portion occupying a certain range in the width direction W including the outer edge in the width direction W, and the outer edge is the outer edge in the width direction W. In the present invention, the inner portion is a portion occupying a certain range in the width direction W including the inner edge in the width direction W, and the inner edge is the inner edge in the width direction W. In addition, the front end and rear end are portions occupying a certain range in the front-to-back direction L including edges in the front-to-back direction L, and the front edge and rear edge are edges in the front-to-back direction L. The outer end includes the front end and rear end, and the outer edge includes the front edge and rear edge.

The absorbent article 10A may have an exterior body 50 and an absorbent main body 15. The exterior body 50 covers at least the waist of the wearer on the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent core 30. The exterior body arranged in the front waist region S1 and the exterior body arranged in the rear waist region S2 may be integrated together, or may be separated in the front-to-rear direction L as in the first embodiment.

The absorbent body 15 may be arranged across the front waist region S1, the rear waist region S2, and the crotch region S3. The absorbent body 15 may be configured as a separate body from the outer body 50, and may be joined to the outer body 50 in the front waist region S1 and the rear waist region S2. The absorbent body 15 may have at least an absorbent core 30, a top sheet 21, and a back sheet 25.

The absorbent core 30 has an absorbent material that absorbs bodily fluids. The absorbent material needs to have at least absorbent polymers (SAP: Super Absorbent Polymers) and may have other absorbent materials such as pulverized pulp. The absorbent polymer is in a particle form. The absorbent core 30 may have only absorbent polymers as an absorbent material and may form a so-called SAP sheet together with the core wrap 33 that sandwiches the absorbent polymer 81. Alternatively, the absorbent core 30 may be a laminate containing the absorbent polymer 81 and pulp. The absorbent core 30 may be a single layer or multiple layers. The absorbent core 30 of the first embodiment has a first absorbent core 31 and a second absorbent core 32 located on the non-skin side T2 of the first absorbent core 31. The length of the width direction W of the first absorbent core 31 may be shorter than the length of the width direction W of the second absorbent core 32.

The absorbent core 30 may have a skin side region R11 located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction T of the absorbent core 30, and a non-skin side region R12 located closer to the non-skin side T2 than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core. In a single-layer absorbent core 30, the skin side region R11 and the non-skin side region R12 are provided on either side of the center in the thickness direction T of the single-layer absorbent core 30. In a multi-layer absorbent core 30, the skin side region R11 and the non-skin side region R12 are provided on either side of the center in the thickness direction T of the multiple absorbent layers stacked together. Note that when the thickness of the first absorbent core 31 and the thickness of the second absorbent core 32 are approximately the same (thickness error is within 5% of one thickness), the first absorbent core 31 may constitute the skin side region R11, and the second absorbent core 32 may constitute the non-skin side region.

The absorbent core 30 may have a core wrap 33 having fibers. Examples of the core wrap 33 include tissue and nonwoven fabric. In a configuration having multiple absorbent cores, the core wrap 33 may be arranged so as to wrap the entire two-layer absorbent core 30, or a core wrap covering the first absorbent core 31 and an absorbent core having the second absorbent core 32 may be arranged separately. The core wrap 33 in the first embodiment may have a first core wrap 33a covering at least the non-skin side T2 surface of the first absorbent core 31, and a second core wrap 33b covering at least the skin side T1 surface of the second absorbent core 32. The first core wrap 33a may cover not only the non-skin side T2 surface of the first absorbent core 31, but also other surfaces of the first absorbent core 31. The second core wrap 33b may cover not only the skin side T1 surface of the second absorbent core 32, but also other surfaces of the second absorbent core 32.

The top sheet 21 is a liquid-permeable sheet located closer to the skin than the absorbent core 30 and in contact with the wearer's skin. The top sheet 21 can be a nonwoven fabric, and may be composed of one sheet or multiple sheets. The top sheet 21 of the first embodiment has a center sheet 21a covering the center of the absorbent core 30 in the width direction W, and a side sheet 21b covering the outer side of the absorbent core 30 or the outer side of the center sheet 21a. The side sheet 21b has a leak-proof elastic member 35 fixed thereto and constitutes a leak-proof gather 36 standing on the wearer's skin side. The leak-proof gather 36 is arranged on both sides of the center of the width direction W of the absorbent article 10A. The back sheet 25 is located closer to the non-skin side T2 than the absorbent core 30 and is a liquid-impermeable sheet. The back sheet 25 can be a film, and may constitute the surface of the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent article 10A. Alternatively, a non-skin side sheet 26 that constitutes the non-skin side surface of the absorbent article may be disposed on the non-skin side T2 of the back sheet 25. The non-skin side sheet 26 does not need to be liquid impermeable, and an example of the non-skin side sheet 26 is a nonwoven fabric.

The absorbent article 10A is configured to continue to exert its deodorizing function while suppressing the discomfort caused by the absorbent polymer 81 when worn. Next, the configuration for continuing to exert its deodorizing function while suppressing the discomfort caused by the absorbent polymer 81 when worn will be described in detail. The absorbent article 10A has deodorizing particles 82 that contain a deodorizing component and are separate from the absorbent polymer 81. The deodorizing particles 82 only need to have a deodorizing function, and may also contain other components (antibacterial components, aromatic components, etc.). The deodorizing particles 82 only need to be formed separately from the absorbent polymer 81, and may be in partial contact with the absorbent polymer 81 within the absorbent article 10A.

With this configuration, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 are separate, so the deodorizing components are less likely to inhibit the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer 81, such as by covering the surface of the absorbent polymer 81, and the absorption performance of the absorbent polymer 81 can be maintained. Also, because the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 are separate, even if the absorbent polymer 81 swells, the deodorizing particles 82 continue to be arranged independently and can continue to exert their deodorizing function. Also, because the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles are separate, the particle size of the absorbent polymer 81 is prevented from increasing due to the addition of the deodorizing components, and discomfort when worn can be suppressed.

In the absorbent article 10A in an absorbent state in which bodily fluids have been absorbed, the average particle size of the deodorant particles 82 is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer 81. In the absorbent state, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer, and the addition of the deodorant particles can suppress the discomfort felt when worn due to the presence of substances with large particle sizes. The particle size in the absorbent state in which bodily fluids have been absorbed can be measured by the following method. First, remove the deodorant particles and absorbent polymer from the absorbent article. Prepare 1 L of 0.9 wt% saline at 25±1°C. Add the particles to be measured (absorbent polymer, deodorant particles) to each saline solution at a ratio of 1 g per 1 L of saline. After leaving it for 1 hour, remove the particles onto a colander or net that is coarse enough to prevent the particles from falling out, and leave it for 15 minutes to drain. The diameter of each particle is measured using an electron microscope, and the average value of 30 randomly selected particles is taken as the average particle size.

In a non-absorbent state where the absorbent article is not absorbing bodily fluids, the average particle size of the deodorant particles 82 may be smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer 81. With this configuration, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer from the time the absorbent article is first worn until the absorbent article is removed after absorbing bodily fluids, and discomfort during wearing caused by the presence of substances with large particle sizes due to the addition of the deodorant particles can be suppressed. The non-absorbent state is the state before the absorbent article is used, and for example, when the package is opened and the absorbent article is taken out, the highly absorbent polymer and the deodorant particles are taken out and their particle sizes are measured. The conditions such as temperature and humidity are the same as those in the absorbing state. The particle size in the non-absorbent state is determined by taking out the deodorant particles and the absorbent polymer from the absorbent article, measuring the particle size of each particle with an electron microscope, and taking the average value of 30 randomly selected particles.

The deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed in the absorbent core 30. The deodorizing particles 82 may be mixed in an absorbent material such as an absorbent polymer 81 and may form a laminate together with the absorbent material, or may be disposed together with the absorbent polymer 81 in an absorbent sheet. According to this embodiment, a deodorizing function can be exerted in the process in which the body fluid is guided into the absorbent core 30, and a deodorizing function can also be exerted on the body fluid absorbed in the absorbent core 30. In the first embodiment, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed in the first absorbent core 31. In this embodiment, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed in the second absorbent core 32, or the deodorizing particles 82 may not be disposed in the second absorbent core 32.

The average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 may be larger than the inter-fiber distance of the core wrap 33. More specifically, it is sufficient that the average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 in the absorbing state is larger than the inter-fiber distance of the core wrap 33, and preferably, the average particle size of the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-absorbing state is larger than the inter-fiber distance of the core wrap. According to this embodiment, the deodorizing particles 82 are less likely to pass through the core wrap 33, and the deodorizing particles 82 are retained within the absorbent core 30, allowing the deodorizing function to continue to be exerted. In addition, the deodorizing particles 82 are prevented from passing through the core wrap 33, and deterioration of the wearing comfort caused by the deodorizing particles that have passed through the core wrap 33 coming into contact with the skin can be suppressed.

The inter-fiber distance of the core wrap 33 can be measured by the following method.
The part corresponding to the sample to be measured was cut into a square shape (cut in the thickness direction) and used as a sample. Using the 3D image linking function of a microscope (KEYENCE VHX-2000, lens VH-Z20W aperture open), an enlarged image (for example, a 500x image) in which the focus is aligned from the surface of the sample to a depth of 100 μm was obtained, and the outside of the fibers in focus was extracted based on the enlarged image. The surface formed there was the fiber space. The diameter of the maximum inscribed circle of the fiber space was the fiber space distance, and the average value of 100 fiber spaces was the average fiber-to-fiber distance (Dp).

The basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the first absorbent core 31 may be higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the second absorbent core 32. More specifically, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged in both the first absorbent core 31 and the second absorbent core 32, and the basis weights may be different, or, as in the first embodiment, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged in the first absorbent core 31 and not in the second absorbent core 32. According to this embodiment, since the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the first absorbent core 31 located on the skin side T1 is high, when urine is absorbed or when odor is released to the skin side T1 of the absorbent article 10A, the deodorizing particles 82 are easily contacted, and the deodorizing function can be exerted. As a configuration that can obtain the same effect as this configuration, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the skin side region R11 may be higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-skin side region R12. Even with this configuration, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the skin side region R11 is high, so when urine is absorbed or when odor is released to the skin side T1 of the absorbent article 10A, the deodorizing particles 82 come into contact with the urine, and the deodorizing function can be exerted.

In the modified example, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the second absorbent core 32 may be higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the first absorbent core 31. Body fluids move from the first absorbent core 31 to the second absorbent core 32, and when a large amount of body fluid is discharged, they accumulate on the liquid-impermeable back sheet 25 side. At this time, since the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the second absorbent core 32 is high, the deodorizing function can be exerted on the body fluid drawn into the non-skin side T2. In addition, the deodorizing particles 82 have a low basis weight in the first absorbent core 31 and are unlikely to come into contact with the skin. Therefore, the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles 82 coming into contact when worn can be suppressed. As a configuration that can obtain the same effect as the modified example, the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-skin side region R12 may be higher than the basis weight of the deodorizing particles 82 in the skin side region R11. Even with this configuration, the deodorizing particles 82 in the non-skin side region R12 have a high basis weight, so they can exert their deodorizing function against bodily fluids drawn into the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent core 30. In addition, the deodorizing particles 82 have a low basis weight in the skin side region R11, so they are less likely to come into contact with the skin. This helps to reduce the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles 82 touching the skin when worn.

The deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed between the first core wrap 33a and the second core wrap 33b. According to this embodiment, the deodorizing function can be exerted in the process in which bodily fluids are guided from the first absorbent core 31 to the second absorbent core 32. Furthermore, since the absorbent polymer 81 is disposed within the absorbent core 30 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed outside the absorbent core 30, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 can be disposed separately and each can continue to exert its function. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed on the non-skin side T2 of the first absorbent core 31 and are less likely to come into contact with the skin. Therefore, the discomfort caused by the deodorizing particles coming into contact with the skin when worn can be suppressed.

In a plan view of the absorbent article 10A, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed over the entire area of the absorbent core 30, or may be disposed in a partial area of the absorbent core 30. For example, the deodorizing region R82 in which the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed may be disposed across the center of the width direction W of the absorbent core 30. As shown in FIG. 3, the deodorizing region R82 may be 80% or less of the entire area of the width direction W of the absorbent core 30, or may be 50% or less. The deodorizing region R82 in the first embodiment is provided in a partial area in the width direction W of the first absorbent core 31.

The basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 may be higher than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the second absorbent core 32. Similarly, the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the skin side region R11 may be higher than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the non-skin side region R12. With this configuration, the absorbent polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 (or the skin side region R11) blocks odors from escaping to the skin side T1, and a deodorizing function can be exerted against odors within the absorbent core 30.

In a modified example, the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 may be lower than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the second absorbent core 32. Similarly, the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the skin side region R11 may be lower than the basis weight of the absorbent polymer 81 in the non-skin side region R12. With this configuration, the absorbent polymer 81 in the second absorbent core 32 (or the non-skin side region R12) retains a large amount of body fluid, and exhibits a deodorizing function in the process of evaporating the odor of the body fluid. In addition, blocking by the absorbent polymer in the first absorbent core 31 (or the skin side region R11) is suppressed, and even if body fluid is repeatedly discharged, the body fluid can be continued to be drawn into the absorbent core 30. In addition, since there is less absorbent polymer 81 in the first absorbent core 31 (skin side region R11), the absorbent polymer 81 is less likely to come into contact with the skin, and the discomfort caused by the absorbent polymer 81 coming into contact when wearing the absorbent core 30 can be suppressed.

The deodorizing particles in the first embodiment are arranged within the first absorbent core 31 and between the first core wrap 33a and the second core wrap 33b. However, the arrangement of the absorbent article in the first embodiment is not limited to this form. For example, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged only within the first absorbent core 31, or only between the first core wrap 33a and the second core wrap 33b, or may be arranged in other forms such as the second, third, and fourth embodiments, and modified examples.

Next, the absorbent article 10B according to the second embodiment will be described. In the following description, the same components as those in the first embodiment will be designated by the same reference numerals and will not be described again. FIG. 4 is a plan view of the absorbent article 10B according to the second embodiment as viewed from the skin side T1. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B shown in FIG. 4. The absorbent article 10B according to the second embodiment is a light incontinence pad. The light incontinence pad has a fastening portion 29 on the non-skin side T2 surface of the backsheet 25, and may be attached to the inner surface of a worn article such as underwear or a diaper.

The absorbent core 30 of the absorbent article 10B has a first absorbent core 31 and a second absorbent core 32. The length in the width direction W of the first absorbent core 31 and the length in the width direction W of the second absorbent core 32 may be the same. The first absorbent core 31 and the second absorbent core 32 may have only absorbent polymer as an absorbent material and may constitute a so-called SAP sheet. The absorbent article 10B may have a second sheet 27 that is liquid permeable disposed between the top sheet 21 and the absorbent core 30.

The deodorizing particles 82 of the absorbent article 10B are disposed within the SAP sheet. The SAP sheet is composed of an absorbent polymer 81 and a number of core wraps 33 that sandwich the absorbent polymer 81. The deodorizing particles 82 are sandwiched between the number of core wraps 33 together with the absorbent polymer. With this configuration, the deodorizing function can be exerted during the process in which bodily fluids are guided into the absorbent core, and the deodorizing function can also be exerted on bodily fluids absorbed into the absorbent core.

Next, modified examples will be described. In modified example 1, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed between the absorbent core 30 and the second sheet 27, or between the second sheet 27 and the top sheet 21. With this configuration, the deodorizing particles come into contact with the body fluid in the process of guiding the body fluid from the top sheet side to the absorbent core side, and can exert a deodorizing effect. In particular, even if the amount of body fluid is small and the body fluid is not guided to the absorbent core, the deodorizing particles come into contact with the body fluid and can exert a deodorizing effect. In addition, since the absorbent polymer 81 is disposed within the absorbent core 30 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed outside the absorbent core 30, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 can be disposed separately and each can continue to exert its respective functions.

In the second modification, the deodorizing particles 82 may be disposed between the absorbent core 30 and the back sheet 25. The body fluid drawn into the absorbent core migrates from the skin side region to the non-skin side region, and when a large amount of body fluid is discharged, it accumulates on the liquid-impermeable back sheet side. At this time, since the deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin side surface of the absorbent core and the back sheet, the deodorizing function can be exerted on the body fluid drawn into the non-skin side surface of the absorbent core. In addition, the user can easily feel the deodorizing particles by touch from the outside of the absorbent article through the back sheet, and notice the presence of the deodorizing particles. Since the deodorizing particles are disposed on the back sheet side, the presence of the deodorizing particles can be made aware by touch while preventing the deodorizing particles from directly contacting the wearer's skin. In addition, since the absorbent polymer 81 is disposed inside the absorbent core 30 and the deodorizing particles 82 are disposed outside the absorbent core 30, the absorbent polymer 81 and the deodorizing particles 82 can be disposed separately and continue to perform their respective functions. In addition, the deodorant particles 82 are positioned on the non-skin side T2 of the absorbent core 30, so they are less likely to come into contact with the skin. This helps to reduce the discomfort caused by the deodorant particles touching the skin when worn.

In the third modification, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged in the leak-proof gathers. In detail, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged in the area where the side sheets are laminated together with the leak-proof elastic member 35. According to this configuration, the deodorizing particles are arranged in the leak-proof gathers that stand on both sides of the width direction of the absorbent article relative to the width direction center, so that the deodorizing function can be exerted in the process of odor flowing laterally from the absorbent article.

Above, several arrangement patterns of the deodorizing particles 82 have been described. The arrangement pattern of the deodorizing particles is not limited to the described embodiments or variations. For example, in the absorbent article according to the first embodiment, the deodorizing particles 82 may be arranged only within the first absorbent core 31, or only between the first core wrap 33a and the second core wrap 33b, or may be arranged in other forms such as the second embodiment, the third embodiment, the fourth embodiment, and variations. In other words, the arrangement pattern of the deodorizing particles 82 can be appropriately selected from the above arrangement patterns, and can also be appropriately combined.

As a common configuration among the above-mentioned embodiments and modified examples, the deodorizing particles 82 of the present invention may be composed of porous particles having a large number of pores. Porous particles are more likely to physically adsorb odorous components and more likely to exert their deodorizing function. Examples of porous particles that can be used include silica gel, activated alumina, zeolite, calcium silicate, bentonite, acid clay, and calcium carbonate, and silica gel is preferably used.

The deodorizing particles 82 can be made of inorganic components such as metal oxides, inorganic acids, chlorine compounds, and peroxides; organic components such as metal chelate compounds, surfactants, nitrogen compounds, organic acids, ester compounds, cyclodextrins, aldehydes, and organic silicon; and naturally occurring components such as polyphenol compounds and vitamins.

The deodorizing particles 82 may contain a chelating agent and an antioxidant. The chelating agent undergoes a chelate reaction with nutrients containing nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P) to produce stable compounds, preventing odor generation due to decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of the nutrients. Furthermore, the deodorizing particles 82 contain an antioxidant, which prevents oxidation of the chelating agent and nutrients. An organic zinc compound can be preferably used as the chelating agent, and flavonoids and vitamin C can be preferably used as the antioxidant.

The deodorizing particles 82 may also contain a chelating agent and an antibacterial agent. The chelating agent can prevent the generation of odors caused by the decomposition, oxidation, and volatilization of nutrients, while the antibacterial agent can prevent the proliferation of microorganisms. Flavonoids and quaternary ammonium salts are suitable antibacterial agents.

　Although the present invention has been described in detail above using the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. The present invention can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the description in this specification is intended to be illustrative and does not have any restrictive meaning on the present invention.

The entire contents of Chinese Patent Application No. 202311630845.4, filed on December 1, 2023, are hereby incorporated by reference into this specification.

Reference Signs 10A, 10B: absorbent article 21: top sheet 25: back sheet 30: absorbent core 31: first absorbent core 32: second absorbent core 33: core wrap 33a: first core wrap 33b: second core wrap 81: absorbent polymer 82: deodorant particles R11: skin side region R12: non-skin side region L: front-rear direction W: width direction T: thickness direction T1: skin side T2: non-skin side

Claims (12)

an absorbent core having an absorbent material including an absorbent polymer;
a liquid-permeable top sheet located closer to the skin than the absorbent core and in contact with the wearer's skin;
An absorbent article having a liquid-impermeable back sheet located closer to the skin than the absorbent core,
The deodorizing agent contains a deodorizing component and has deodorizing particles separate from the absorbent polymer,
An absorbent article, wherein, in an absorbent state in which the absorbent article has absorbed body fluid, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer. The absorbent article according to claim 1, wherein in a non-absorbent state in which the absorbent article is not absorbing bodily fluids, the average particle size of the deodorant particles is smaller than the average particle size of the absorbent polymer. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles are disposed within the absorbent core. the absorbent core is covered by a core wrap having fibers;
The absorbent article according to claim 3 , wherein the average particle size of the deodorant particles is greater than the inter-fiber distance of the core wrap. The absorbent core has a skin side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and a non-skin side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core,
The absorbent article according to claim 3 , wherein a basis weight of the deodorant particles in the skin side region is higher than a basis weight of the deodorant particles in the non-skin side region. The absorbent core has a skin side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core, and a non-skin side region located closer to the skin than the center in the thickness direction of the absorbent core,
The absorbent article according to claim 3 , wherein a basis weight of the deodorant particles in the non-skin side region is higher than a basis weight of the deodorant particles in the skin side region. The absorbent core has a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located closer to the skin than the first absorbent core,
The absorbent article according to claim 3 , wherein the basis weight of the deodorant particles in the first absorbent core is higher than the basis weight of the deodorant particles in the second absorbent core. The absorbent core has a first absorbent core and a second absorbent core located closer to the skin than the first absorbent core,
The core wrap includes a first core wrap covering at least a non-skin side surface of the first absorbent core, and a second core wrap covering at least a skin side surface of the second absorbent core,
The absorbent article of claim 4 , wherein the odor eliminating particles are disposed between the first core wrap and the second core wrap. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles are disposed between the non-skin side of the absorbent core and the back sheet. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles are composed of porous particles having a large number of pores. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles include a chelating agent and an antioxidant. The absorbent article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deodorizing particles include a chelating agent and an antibacterial agent.

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