U.S. patent application number 10/105107 was filed with the patent office on 2003-03-06 for absorbent article.
Invention is credited to Engelhardt, Fritz, Whitmore, Darryl L..
Application Number | 20030045847 10/105107 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23967716 |
Filed Date | 2003-03-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030045847 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Whitmore, Darryl L. ; et
al. |
March 6, 2003 |
Absorbent article
Abstract
Absorbent articles and processes for making absorbent articles
are provided. The process includes spraying onto a fibrous web a
blend containing superabsorbent polymer particles, superabsorbent
forming monomer, initiator and water, and subjecting the web to
polymerization conditions. The resulting web is useful as an
absorbent article particularly in disposable hygiene products.
Inventors: |
Whitmore, Darryl L.;
(Chesapeake, VA) ; Engelhardt, Fritz; (Frankfurt,
DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
David T. Banchik
BASF Corporation
(MS 2-026)
3000 Continental Drive - North
Mount Olive
NJ
07828-1234
US
|
Family ID: |
23967716 |
Appl. No.: |
10/105107 |
Filed: |
March 23, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10105107 |
Mar 23, 2002 |
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09495209 |
Feb 1, 2000 |
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6417425 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/368 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06M 14/18 20130101;
D06M 23/06 20130101; D06M 14/32 20130101; A61F 13/15658 20130101;
D06M 15/263 20130101; A61F 2013/530554 20130101; D06M 23/08
20130101; A61L 15/42 20130101; A61F 13/5376 20130101; D06M 2200/00
20130101; A61L 15/60 20130101; A61F 13/15203 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/368 |
International
Class: |
A61F 013/15; A61F
013/20 |
Claims
we claim:
1. A process comprising: forming a sprayable blend comprising one
or more superabsorbent forming monomers superabsorbent polymer
particles water, and one or more initiators; spraying said
sprayable blend onto a fibrous web; and subjecting said fibrous web
to conditions under which the superabsorbent forming monomer will
polymerize.
2. The process of claim 1 wherein the sprayable blend further
comprises a crosslinking compound.
3. An absorbent article prepared by the process of claim 1 or claim
2.
4. A disposable hygiene article comprising a back sheet, an
absorbent core and an absorbent article as claimed in claim 3.
5. An acquisition layer for use in a disposable hygienic article
comprising a fibrous web having superabsorbent polymer particles
affixed thereto and having a pH in the range of from 2.0 to
7.5.
6. The acquisition layer of claim 5 wherein the pH is in the range
of from 4.0 to 6.5.
7. An acquisition layer for use in a disposable hygiene article
comprising a fibrous web having superabsorbent polymer particles
affixed thereto and having an FSEV of at least about 0.1
milliliters within about 5 minutes.
8. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 0.5 milliliters within about 5 minutes.
9. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 1.0 milliliters within about 5 minutes.
10. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 0.1 milliliters within about 30 seconds.
11. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 0.5 milliliters within about 30 seconds.
12. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 1.0 milliliters within about 30 seconds.
13. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 0.1 milliliters within about 5 seconds.
14. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 0.5 milliliters within about 5 seconds.
15. The acquisition layer of claim 7 wherein the FSEV is at least
about 1.0 milliliters within about 5 seconds.
16. An acquisition layer for use in a disposable hygiene article
comprising a fibrous web having superabsorbent polymer particles
affixed thereto and having an EVUL of at least about 0.1
milliliters within about 5 minutes.
17. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.2 milliliters within about 5 minutes.
18. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.3 milliliters within about 5 minutes.
19. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.1 milliliters within about 30 seconds.
20. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.2 milliliters within about 30 seconds.
21. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.3 milliliters within about 30 seconds.
22. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.1 milliliters within about 5 seconds.
23. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.2 milliliters within about 5 seconds.
23. The acquisition layer of claim 16 wherein the EVUL is at least
about 0.3 milliliters within about 5 seconds.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an absorbent article,
particularly an absorbent article which is useful in personal care
products.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0002] Personal care products for the absorption of body fluids are
known. Such products include adult incontinence products, diapers,
training pants, feminine care products, wound dressings and the
like. As a general rule, such personal care products generally
comprise an amount of a cellulosic fiber such as wood pulp fluff.
Wood pulp fluff is known to be a suitable absorbent for body
fluids. As a general rule, 1 gram of wood pulp fluff is able to
absorb from about 5 to about 8 grams of a discharged body fluid
such as urine. A personal care product such as an infant diaper,
generally has an absorbent capacity of at least about 200 to 400
grams of urine. Thus, when such an infant diaper is formed from
wood pulp fluff, a relatively large quantity of wood pulp fluff
must be employed.
[0003] In order to reduce the amount of wood pulp fluff and the
corresponding bulk of such an infant diaper, it is known to include
high absorbency materials known in the art as superabsorbents. Such
high absorbency materials are generally capable of absorbing at
least about 10, preferably at least about 20, and up to 50 or more
times their weight in water. By incorporating such high absorbency
materials in infant diapers, it is possible to reduce the overall
bulk of the diaper while maintaining its absolute absorbent
capacity.
[0004] Nonetheless, the use of such high absorbency materials is
not without problems. For example, some high absorbency materials
are known to cause gel blocking. That is, as the high absorbency
materials become swollen with a liquid, they form a gelatinous mass
which prevents the free flow of liquid therethrough. Thus, while
the high absorbency materials may be able to absorb an initial
insult (in other words, exposure to fluid), subsequent insults are
unable to pass through the now swollen high absorbency material. As
a result, subsequent insults tend to pool and run off of the
absorbent product resulting in leakage.
[0005] Accordingly, a number of different structures have been
proposed to alleviate or reduce the problems associated with
incorporating high absorbency materials in personal care
products.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4,699,619 issued Oct. 13, 1987, to Bernardin
describes a multilayer absorbent composite having a first
relatively low density layer and a second relatively high density
layer underlying at least a portion of the first layer. A high
absorbency material (superabsorbent) is described as being located
between said first and second layers.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 4,102,340 issued Jul. 25, 1978, to Mesek et
al. is directed to a disposable article with a particulate
hydrophilic polymer in an absorbent bed. Described is an absorbent
pad comprising a fibrous structure having an intermediate densified
layer and a layer of highly porous, loosely compacted batt on both
sides of the densified layer. One of the batt layers is described
as including a particulate, water-insoluble but water-swellable
polymeric absorbent.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,269,188 issued May 26, 1981, to Nishizawa et
al. is directed to a disposable diaper. Disclosed is a disposable
diaper including an absorbent material comprising a laminate
wherein a water-absorbent polymer powder is fixed between two
sheets of paper. A fluff pulp layer is located on both sides of the
laminate containing a water-absorbing polymer.
[0009] While the structures described in the referenced patents
have often proven beneficial, they have not completely solved the
problems associated with the use of high-absorbency materials. In
use, the wood pulp fluff generally serves to quickly absorb a
discharged body fluid. The fluid is generally held in the pores of
the fluff matrix. The high absorbency material in the fluff matrix
then absorbs the fluid and, in effect, dewaters the fluff matrix.
That is, the fluff serves to absorb and hold surges (relatively
large quantities applied relatively quickly) of body fluid until
the high-absorbency material can absorb the body fluid. Moreover,
many known personal care products employ high-absorbency materials
in relatively low quantities. This is because the cost of such
high-absorbency materials is generally greater than the cost of a
material such as wood pulp fluff. It is sometimes desirable to
employ a relatively high concentration of high-absorbency material
when forming a personal care product. As the concentration of
high-absorbency material increases in an absorbent product, the
concentration of wood pulp fluff generally decreases. The
high-absorbency materials are not generally able to absorb urine at
the rate at which it is applied. This may lead to leakage in
absorbent structures having high concentrations of absorbent
materials.
[0010] It is desired to provide an absorbent structure which may
contain an absorbent layer having a relatively high concentration
of high-absorbency material but which absorbent structure is
capable of quickly absorbing body fluids applied thereto.
[0011] It is further desired to provide an absorbent structure, and
a process for preparing such an absorbent structure, wherein
superabsorbent materials are affixed to a matrix. It is further
desired to provide a matrix wherein superabsorbent polymer is
uniformly distributed and which exhibits wet strength integrity.
Such a structure reduces the likelihood of superabsorbent shifting
and thereby creating regions of high and low concentration of
superabsorbent which can result in uneven absorption of fluids.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The present invention provides a process comprising:
[0013] forming a sprayable blend comprising one or more
superabsorbent forming monomers superabsorbent polymer particles
water, and one or more initiators;
[0014] spraying said sprayable blend onto a fibrous web; and
[0015] subjecting said fibrous web to conditions under which the
superabsorbent forming monomer will polymerize.
[0016] The present invention further provides a superabsorbent
article prepared by the above-described process.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The process of the present invention requires the formation
of a sprayable blend comprising superabsorbent monomer,
superabsorbent polymer particles, water and initiator.
Superabsorbent Forming Monomer
[0018] Superabsorbent forming monomer, as used herein, refers to
polymerizable compounds which contribute to the absorbency of the
polymers formed therefrom. Suitable superabsorbent forming monomers
useful in the present invention include monoethylenically
unsaturated compounds (or compounds having a polymerizable double
bond), having at least one hydrophilic radical, such as carboxyl,
carboxylic acid anhydride, carboxylic acid salt, sulfonic acid,
sulfonic acid salt, hydroxyl, ether, amide, amino and quaternary
ammonium salt groups. Examples of suitable superabsorbent forming
monomers are as follows:
[0019] 1. Carboxyl group-containing monomers: monoethylenically
unsaturated mono or poly-carboxylic acids, such as (meth) acrylic
acid (meaning acrylic acid or methacrylic acid. Similar notations
are used hereinafter), maleic acid, fumaric acid; crotonic acid,
sorbic acid, itaconic acid, and cinnamic acid
[0020] 2. Carboxylic acid anhydride group-containing monomers:
monoethylenically unsaturated polycarboxylic acid anhydrides (such
as maleic anhydride);
[0021] 3. Carboxylic acid salt-containing monomers: water-soluble
salts (alkali metal salts, ammonium salts, amine salts, etc.) of
monoethylenically unsaturated mono- or poly-carboxylic acids [such
as sodium (meth)acrylate, trimethylamine (meth)acrylate,
triethanolamine (meth) acrylate, sodium maleate, methylamine
maleate];
[0022] 4. Sulfonic acid group-containing monomers: aliphatic or
aromatic vinyl sulfonic acids (such as vinylsulfonic acid, allyl
sulfonic acid, vinyltoluenesulfonic acid, styrene sulfonic acid),
(meth)acrylic sulfonic acids [such as sulfopropyl (meth) acrylate,
2-hydroxy-3-(meth)acryloxy propyl sulfonic acid];
[0023] 5. Sulfonic acid salt group-containing monomers: alkali
metal salts, ammonium salts, amine salts of sulfonic acid
group-containing monomers as mentioned above.
[0024] 6. Hydroxyl group-containing monomers: monoethylenically
unsaturated alcohols [such as (meth)allyl alcohol],
monoethylenically unsaturated ethers or esters of polyols (alkylene
glycols, glycerol, polyoxyalkylene polyols), such as hydroxethyl
(meth)acrylate, hydroxypropyl (meth)acrylate, triethylene glycol
(meth)acrylate, poly(oxyethylene oxypropylene) glycol mono
(meth)allyl ether (in which hydroxyl groups may be etherified or
esterified).
[0025] 7. Amide group-containing monomers: vinylformamide, (meth)
acrylamide, N-alkyl (meth)acrylamides (such as N-methylacrylamide,
N-hexylacrylamide), N,N-dialkyl (meth)acryl amides (such as
N,N-dimethylacrylamide, N,N'-di-n-propylacrylamide), N-hydroxyalkyl
(meth)acrylamides [such as N-methylol(meth)acrylamide,
N-hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylamide], N,N-dihydroxyalkyl
(meth)acrylamides [such as N,N-dihydroxyethyl (meth)acrylamide],
vinyl lactams (such as N-vinylpyrrolidone);
[0026] 8. Amino group-containing monomers: amino group-containing
esters (e.g. dialkylaminoalkyl esters, dihydroxyalkylaminoalkyl
esters, morpholinoalkyl esters, etc.) of monoethylenically
unsaturated mono- or di-carboxylic acid [such as dimethlaminoethyl
(meth)acrylate, diethylaminoethyl (meth)acrylate, morpholinoethyl
(meth)acrylate, dimethyl aminoethyl fumarate], heterocyclic vinyl
compounds [such as vinyl pyridines (e.g. 2-vinyl pyridine, 4-vinyl
pyridine, N-vinyl pyridine), N-vinyl imidazol]; and
[0027] 9. Quaternary ammonium salt group-containing monomers:
N,N,N-trialkyl-N-(meth)acryloyloxyalkylammonium salts [such as
N,N,N-trimethyl-N-(meth)acryloyloxyethylammonium chloride,
N,N,N-triethyl-N-(meth)acryloyloxyethylammonium chloride,
2-hydroxy-3-(meth)-acryloyloxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride],
and monomers as mentioned in British patent specification No.
1,034,296.
[0028] Suitable monomers which become water-soluble by hydrolysis,
for use in this invention instead of or in conjunction with the
water-soluble monomers, include monethylenically unsaturated
compounds having at least one hydrolyzable group, such as ester,
amide and nitrile groups. Such monomers having an ester group
include for example, lower alkyl (C.sub.1-C.sub.4) esters of
monoethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acids, such as methyl
(meth)acrylate, ethyl (meth)acrylate and 2-ethylhexyl
(meth)acrylate; and esters of monoethylenically unsaturated
alcohols [vinyl esters, (meth)-allyl ester, etc.], such as vinyl
acetate and (meth) allyl acetate. Suitable nitrile group-containing
monomers include (meth) acrylonitrile.
[0029] Among these monomers having a polymerizable double bond
which are water-soluble or become water-soluble by hydrolysis,
water-soluble monomers which do not need hydrolysis after
polymerization are preferred from the viewpoint of providing an
easy process for producing water-absorbing resins. Further, from
the viewpoint of providing water-absorbing resins having a high
water-absorbence, the preferred water-soluble monomers are carboxyl
group-containing monomers such as (meth)-acrylic acid and maleic
acid anhydride; carboxylic acid salt group-containing monomers such
as sodium (meth)acrylate, trimethylamine (meth)acrylate and
triethanolamine (meth)acrylate, and quaternary ammonium salt
group-containing monomers such as N,N,N-trimethyl-N-(meth)a-
cryloyloxyethylammonium chloride. Most preferred superabsorbent
forming monomers in the present invention include, for example,
acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid, , fumaric acid,
crotonic acid, sorbic acid, itaconic acid, cinnamic acid, vinyl
sulfonic acid, allyl sulfonic acid, vinyl toluene sulfonic acid,
styrene sulfonic acid, sulfo(meth) acrylate,
sulfopropyl(meth)acrylate, 2-acrylamide-2-methylpropane sulfonic
acid, 2-hydroxyethyl(meth)acryloylphosphate,
phenyl-2-acryloyloxyethylphosphate, the sodium, potassium and
ammonium salts thereof, maleic anhydride and combinations thereof.
It is also preferred that the superabsorbent forming monomer in the
sprayable blend is at least partially neutralized, most preferably
neutralized to a level of from 1 to 100 mole percent, more
preferably from 10 to 80 mole percent, and most preferably from 15
to 75 mole percent. Most preferably, the superabsorbent forming
monomer is partially neutralized acrylic acid.
[0030] The superabsorbent forming monomers are present in the
sprayable blends at a level of from about 15 to 50 percent by
weight, preferably from 17 to 40 percent by weight, most preferably
from 20 to 35 percent by weight. If the level of superabsorbent
forming monomer in the sprayable blend is too low, the resulting
web is likely to have poor performance characteristics. Within the
preferred ranges, the conversion of superabsorbent forming monomer
into polymer, when subjected to polymerization conditions, is
generally much better. Also, increasing the relative amount of
superabsorbent forming monomer in the sprayable blend generally
reduces the amount of water in the sprayable blend. This is
beneficial since it requires time, energy and expense to remove
additional water from the final web. .
[0031] When partially neutralized acrylic acid is used as the
superabsorbent forming monomer, e.g. 75% neutralized, it is
preferred to use no more than 38% by weight of the partially
neutralized acrylic acid in the sprayable blend.
Superabsorbent Polymer Particles
[0032] Superabsorbent polymer particles are lightly crosslinked
polymers capable of absorbing several times their own weight in
water and/or saline. Superabsorbent polymer particles can be made
by any conventional process for preparing superabsorbent polymers
and are well known to those skilled in the art. Suitable processes
for preparing superabsorbent polymer particles include the
processes described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,076,663; 4,286,082;
4,654,039 and 5,145,906 which describe the solution polymerization
method and U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,340,706; 4,497,930; 4,666,975;
4,507,438 and 4,683,274 which describe the inverse suspension
polymerization method, the disclosures of which are hereby
incorporated by reference. Preferred superabsorbent polymer
particles have an average particle size which is small enough so
that the particles do not clog the spray equipment, preferably
below about 150 microns, more preferably below about 100 microns.
Such particle size can be obtained directly as a result of the
polymerization process, or superabsorbent polymers can be sieved,
ground, pulverized, attritted or a combination thereof to achieve
superabsorbent polymer particles having the desired average
particle size.
[0033] The superabsorbent polymer particles are present in the
sprayable blends at a level of from about 1 to 20 percent by
weight, preferably from 2 to 15 percent by weight, most preferably
from 5 to 10 percent by weight. It has been observed that if the
level of superabsorbent polymer particles is too high, premature
polymerization can occur in the sprayable blend even in the absence
of any other initiators.
[0034] Superabsorbent polymer particles useful in the present
invention are prepared from one or more monoethylenically,
unsaturated, water soluble carboxyl or carboxylic acid anhydride
containing monomers and the alkali metal and ammonium salts thereof
wherein said monomers comprise 50 to 99.9 mole percent of said
polymer. Exemplary monomers include acrylic acid, methacrylic acid,
maleic acid, fumaric acid, maleic anhydride and the sodium,
potassium and ammonium salts thereof. The preferred monomer is
acrylic acid.
[0035] Monoethylenically, unsaturated monomers are polymerized in
the presence of an internal crosslinking compound to provide a
lightly crosslinked base polymer wherein the crosslinking is
substantially uniform throughout the polymer particles. These
internal crosslinkers are well known in the art. Suitable
crosslinkers are those compounds having two or more groups capable
of reacting with the monoethylenically unsaturated monomers and
which are at least partially water soluble or water dispersible, or
at least partially soluble or dispersible in an aqueous monomer
mixture. The internal crosslinking compound may be selected from a
polyunsaturated monomer such as divinylbenzene, a compound having
at least two functional groups which are reactive with the
monoethylenically unsaturated monomer such as ethylenediamine, a
compound having at least one unsaturated bond and at least one
reactive functional group such as glycidyl acrylate.
[0036] Exemplary internal crosslinkers are: tetraallyloxyethane,
N,N'-methylene bisacrylamide, N,N'-methylene bismethacrylamide,
triallylamine, trimethylol propane triacrylate, glycerol propoxy
triacrylate, divinylbenzene, N-methylol acrylamide,
N-methylolmethacrylamide, glycidyl methacrylate, polyethylene
polyamines, ethyl diamine, ethyl glycol, glycerine and the like.
Preferred internal crosslinking monomers are those containing at
least two allyl groups, most preferably three or four allyl groups.
Preferred internal crosslinkers are tetraallyloxyethane and
triallyl ether of pentaerythritol. The amount of internal
crosslinker employed in the invention will depend on the internal
crosslinker and the polymerization method. Generally the amount of
internal crosslinker will vary from about 0.005% to about 1.0 mole
percent based on moles of ethylenically unsaturated monomer.
[0037] Optional components used in the preparation of the
superabsorbent polymer particles are water soluble hydroxy group
containing polymers, such as polysaccharides and vinyl or acrylic
polymers. Examples of water soluble polysaccharides are starches,
water soluble celluloses and polygalactomannans. Suitable starches
include the natural starches, such as sweet potato starch, potato
starch, wheat starch, corn starch, rice starch, tapioca starch and
the like. Processed or modified starches, such as dialdehyde
starch, alkyl-etherified starch, allyl-etherified starch,
oxylalkylated starch, aminoethyl-etherified starch, and
cyanomethyl-etherified starch are also suitable. Polyvinyl alcohol
and polyvinyl alcohol copolymers are also suitable.
[0038] The water-soluble celluloses useful in this invention are
those obtained from such sources as wood, stems, bast, seed fluffs
and the like which are then deriviatized to form hydroxyalkyl
cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose and the
like.
[0039] Suitable polygalactomannans are guar gum and locust bean
gums as well as their hydroxyalkyl, carboxyalkyl, and aminoalkyl
derivatives. Water soluble vinyl and acrylic polymers include
polyvinyl alcohol and poly(hydroxyethyl acrylate). The preferred
polysaccharide for use in this invention is natural starch, such as
wheat starch, corn starch and alpha starches. These optional
preformed hydroxy containing polymers may be used in an amount from
about 1-15 percent, preferably about 1 to 10 percent, most
preferably about 1-5 percent.
[0040] The superabsorbent polymer particles useful in the present
invention may be prepared by well known polymerization methods. The
polymerization reaction is conducted in the presence of redox
initiators and thermal initiators. The redox initiators can be used
as the primary initiator with the thermal polymerization initiators
being used if desired to reduce the free monomer content of the
final polymerization product below 0.1 percent by weight.
Optionally, thermal initiators or redox initiators may be used as
the sole initiator system. Examples of different initiator systems
are found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,497,930 which discloses a two
component initiator system comprising a persulfate and a
hydroperoxide and U.S. Pat. No. 5,145,906 which discloses a three
component initiator system; i.e. redox system plus thermal
initiator.
[0041] Any of the well known water soluble reducing agents and
oxidizing agents can be used in this invention as the redox
initiator. Examples of reducing agents include such compounds as
ascorbic acid, alkali metal sulfites, alkali metal bisulfites,
ammonium sulfite, ammonium bisulfite, alkali metal hydrogen
sulfite, ammonium hydrogen sulfite, ferrous metal salts, e.g.,
ferrous sulfates, sugars, aldehydes, primary and secondary
alcohols, and the like.
[0042] Oxidizing agents include such compounds as hydrogen
peroxide, alkali metal persulfates, ammonium persulfate,
alkylhydroperoxides, peresters, diacryl peroxides, silver salts,
and the like. A particularly preferred redox initiator pair is
ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide. The reducing agent is used in
an amount of about 2.times.10.sup.-5 to about 2.0.times.10.sup.-2
mole percent based on moles of acrylic acid. The amount of
oxidizing agent used will vary from about 2.times.10.sup.-3 to
about 1.1 mole percent, based on moles of acrylic acid.
[0043] In order to ensure complete polymerization of the
unsaturated monomer and the crosslinking monomer, a thermal
initiator can be included in the polymerization process. Useful
thermal initiators are the "azo" initiators, i.e. compounds which
contain the --N.dbd.N-- structure. Any of the azo compounds which
have solubility in water or in a monomer-water mixture and which
have a 10 hour half life at 30.degree. C. or above can be used.
Examples of useful azo initiators are 2,2'-azobis(amidino) propane
dihydrochloride, 4,4'-azobis (cyanovaleric acid),
4,4'-butylazo-cyanovaleric acid, 2,2'-azobis(isobutyronitrile ),
2,2'-azobis(2-(2-imidazole-2-yl))propane dihydrochloride, and the
like. Other thermal initiators include the persulfates and
hydroperoxides when used in the absence of a reducing agent e.g.,
sodium, potassium and ammonium persulfates, t-butylhydroperoxide
and the like. A preferred azo initiator for use in this invention
is 2,2'-azobis(amidinopropane) dihydrochloride. The thermal
initiators are used in the amount of 0 to about 1 mole percent
based on the weight of unsaturated monomer.
[0044] The superabsorbent polymer may be prepared by the solution
or the inverse suspension polymerization method or any suitable
bulk polymerization method. The solution polymerization and inverse
polymerization methods are well known in the art; see for example
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,076,663; 4,286,082; 4,654,039 and 5,145,906 which
describe the solution polymerization method and U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,340,706; 4,497,930; 4,666,975; 4,507,438 and 4,683,274 which
describe the inverse suspension polymerization method. The
teachings of these patents are hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0045] In the solution polymerization method, the water soluble
monomer is polymerized at a monomer concentration from about 5 to
about 30 percent in aqueous solution at a temperature from about
5.degree. C. to about 150.degree. C. depending upon the
polymerization initiator system. A detailed description of the
solution polymerization method is given in U.S. Pat. No. 5,145,906;
the teachings of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
[0046] In the inverse suspension polymerization process, the
unsaturated monomer in an aqueous solution (about 35 to 60 percent
monomer to 65 to 40 percent water) is dispersed in an alicyclic or
aliphatic hydrocarbon suspension medium in the presence of a
dispersing agent such as a surfactant or protective colloid such as
polyvinyl alcohol. A surfactant having a HLB value of 8-12 such as
a sorbitan fatty acid ester ether may employed as the dispersing
agent. The inverse suspension polymerization method is described in
detail in U.S. Pat. No. 4,340,706; the teachings of which are
hereby incorporated by reference.
[0047] The carboxylic acid groups of the unsaturated monomer used
in the polymerization may be neutralized prior to or subsequent to
the polymerization. Suitable neutralizing agents include an alkali
such as sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide
or the like, and the appropriate degree of neutralization is 50-98
mole percent; preferably 60-75 percent. The degree of
neutralization is preferably at least 50 mole percent. Low
neutralization levels (less than 50 mole percent) tend to result in
superabsorbent polymers having low absorbency properties.
[0048] The polymer is prepared by either the solution or inverse
suspension polymerization method dried and screened to provide a
superabsorbent particle with an appropriate particle size
distribution and particle shape. Generally the superabsorbent
particle size distribution should be between 10 and 300 microns,
preferably between 45 and 150 microns. Large particles over 300
microns are undesired since they may tend to clog the nozzle of
spray equipment used to spray the sprayable blend. Also, large
particles may cause the absorbent article to have an abrasive
feel.
[0049] Although many of the conventional teachings in this area
prefer to avoid the use of small particle size superabsorbent
polymer particles, we have found that these particles work quite
well in the present invention. Superabsorbent polymer particles
having particle sizes in the range of from 10 to 300 microns tend
to work well with the spray equipment, produce sprayable blends
having manageable viscosities, and result in absorbent articles
having discrete superabsorbent particles attached to the fibrous
web.
[0050] The superabsorbent polymer particles described above may
optionally be further treated with a crosslinker solution
containing from about 0.5 to about 3.5 weight percent water, from
about 1.0 to 2.5 weight percent of a water miscible solvent
selected from a C.sub.3 to C.sub.6 diol and a crosslinker having at
least two functional groups that can react with the carboxyl,
carboxylate or other reactive groups in the superabsorbent polymer
chain to crosslink the polymer chains on or in the vicinity of the
surface of the superabsorbent polymer particles. The term "diol" is
intended to mean a dihydroxy aliphatic compound which may be a
linear or branched compound, (a glycol). The term "surface
crosslinking" used in this description and the claims hereof is
used to describe this process of crosslinking the polymer chains on
or in the vicinity of the particle's surface. The terms, "surface
crosslinker" and "surface crosslinker solution" are likewise used
to describe the crosslinking compound and the solution used to
effect this surface crosslinking process. The crosslinking compound
is used in an amount of from about 0.01 to about 3 weight percent,
preferably 0.1% to 1.5% and most preferably about 0.25% to 1% based
upon the weight of the superabsorbent polymer. The surface
crosslinker may be selected from diglycidyl ethers, haloepoxy,
isocyanate, aziridinyl, azetidinium group containing compounds,
polyamine, polyamine-polyamide, polyamine-epichlorohydrin adducts
and amine-polymer-epichlorohydrin adducts and the like. Preferred
crosslinkers are the higher molecular weight diglycidyl ether
compounds of at least 200 and the polymeric-epichlorohydrin adducts
having a molecular weight average in excess of 2000.
[0051] Exemplary surface crosslinkers are poly (ethylene glycol)
diglycidyl ethers, poly (propylene glycol) diglycidyl ethers,
epichlorohydrin substituted compounds, methyl-epichlorohydrin
substituted compounds, hexamethylene diisocyanate, triethylene
triamine, polyethylene amine,
2,2-bishydroxymethylbutanol-tris[3-(1-azindinyl)propionate],
polyamine epichlorohydrin adducts,
polyethylene-polyamine-epichlorohydrin adducts, and the like.
[0052] When used, the preferred surface crosslinkers are the higher
molecular weight diglycidyl ether compounds, polyamide
(polyamide-polyamine) epichlorohydrin adducts, polyamine
epichlorohydrin adducts and amine polymer epichlorohydrin adducts.
Polyamide-epichlorohydrin adducts are prepared by reacting
epichlorohydrin with the polycondensation product of a polyalkylene
polyamine with a polycarboxylic acid such as diethylene triamine
with a dibasic acid such as adipic acid. Polyamine epichlorohydrin
adducts are made by condensing a polyalkylene polyamine directly
with epichlorohydrin. These adducts include polyalkylene polyamines
which are linked together with dihalides to form higher polyamines
before reacting them with epichlorohydrin. Amine polymer
epichlorohydrin adducts include resins in which the monomeric amine
is polymerized to a polyamine precursor which is then alkylated and
reacted with epichlorohydrin. They include amines substituted
polymers of vinyl, allyl, acrylate or epoxy monomers. The
epichlorohydrin adducts whether the polymer is a polyamide, a
polyamine or an amine polymer react with the epichlorohydrin by
different routes. If the amino group in the polymer chain is a
primary amine, two epichlorohydrin molecules reacted with the
nitrogen and form a disubstituted chlorohydroxypropyl substituted
amine group. Secondary amine groups react with epichlorohydrin to
form a tertiary aminochlorohydrin group which cyclizes to form a
reactive 3-hydroxyazetidinium salt moiety. This is a preferred
reactive group. Tertiary amine groups react with epichlorohydrin to
form a glycidyl; (2,3 epoxypropyl) ammonium salt. Preferably the
reactive group is an azetidinium moiety. However, these adducts may
contain a mixture of chlorohydroxypropyl, epoxy and azetidinium
groups. Preferably the epichlorohydrin adducts have a molecular
weight of at least 2,000; preferably 300,000 to 500,000 and wherein
at least 50 mole percent of the reactive groups in the adduct are
the azetidinium group. A preferred polymer is one in which about
90% of the substitution is in the form of an azetidinium group and
about 10% as an epoxide group. Exemplary products are Reten.RTM.
204LS and Kymeme.RTM. 736 epichlorohydrin adducts; available from
Hercules Inc., Wilmington, Del. These products are sold as an
aqueous solution of the reactive epichlorohydrin adduct. The
Reten.RTM. 204LS product is available as a 15% aqueous solution and
the Kymeme.RTM. 736 product as a 38% aqueous solution.
[0053] The surface crosslinker solution should have a surface
tension not greater than about 55 dynes per cm; preferably not
greater than about 50 dynes per cm; e.g. about 40 to about 50 dynes
per cm. In the event the surface tension of the crosslinker
solution is higher than about 55 dynes per cm; the surface
crosslinked polymer has inferior absorbency as evidenced by a low
0.6 psi AUL value. While not being bound to any theory, it is
believed that when the surface tension of the crosslinker solution
is higher than about 55 dynes per cm, the solution is not uniformly
distributed on the surface of the polymer particles and a lower
absorbency value results. Optionally, a surfactant may be used to
reduce the surface tension of the crosslinker solution.
[0054] The desired surface tension is achieved by adding the
C.sub.3 to C.sub.6 dihydroxy compound to water component of the
crosslinker solution to achieve a surface tension below about 55
dynes/cm range. The amount of each solvent is determined by simple
experimentation. Generally the crosslinker has a negligible effect
on the surface tension of the crosslinker solution. The diols
useful in the invention are propylene glycol, butylene glycol,
pentanediol and hexanediol. Ethylene glycol was found to be an
undesired solvent because it tends to swell the superabsorbent
polymer particles and their surfaces becomes tacky which results in
undesired particle agglomeration. In addition, ethylene glycol is
undesirable because of its toxicity and biodegradability
properties. The C.sub.3 to C.sub.6 diol is used in an amount of
from about 1 percent by weight to about 2.5 percent by weight based
upon the weight of superabsorbent polymer; preferably about 1 to
about 2 percent by weight. The water component of the crosslinker
solution comprises about 0.5 to 3.5 percent by water based upon the
weight of the polymer, preferably about 1.5 to 2.0 percent.
[0055] The total amount of crosslinker solution used depends upon
the type of equipment and the method used to coat the base polymer
with the surface crosslinking solution. Generally the amount of
crosslinker solution should be about 1.5% minimum based on the
weight of the polymer. The crosslinker solution is applied to the
base polymer particles in a manner such that the solution is
uniformly distributed on the surface of the base polymer particle.
Any of the known methods for dispersing a liquid can be used;
preferably by dispersing the crosslinker solution into fine
droplets; e.g. by use of a pressurized nozzle or a rotating disc.
Uniform crosslinker dispersion on the base polymer can be achieved
in a high intensity mechanical mixer or a fluidized mixture which
suspends the base polymer in a turbulent gas stream. Methods for
the dispersion of a liquid onto the superabsorbent base polymer's
surface are known in the art; see for example U.S. Pat. No.
4,734,478; the teachings of which are hereby incorporated by
reference; in particular column 6, line 45 to column 7, line
35.
[0056] Exemplary commercially available equipment for conducting
the crosslinker solution dispersion step of the invention are high
speed variable intensity paddle mixers such as the "Turbulizer"
mixer of the Bepex Corporation, Rolling Meadows, Ill. or the high
speed variable intensity vertical mixer sold by Bepex under the
tradename, "Turboflex". These machines are generally operated in a
continuous manner using a short residence time in the order of 2
seconds to 2 minutes, typically 2-30 seconds. Dispersion may be
effected batchwise in a high intensity mixer such as a Henschel
mixer or in liquid-solid V-blender equipped with a liquid
dispersion device. In any event, whether a batchwise or continuous
dispersion method is used, simple experimentation can be conducted
to determine the best process conditions for the particular machine
employed in the process. Preferably, the surface crosslinker is
coated onto the polymer particles under high intensity mixing
conditions.
[0057] After effecting dispersion of the surface crosslinker on the
base polymer particle the crosslinking reaction is effected and the
polymer particle dried. The crosslinking reaction may be effected
at a temperature from about 70.degree. C. to about 180.degree.
C.
Initiators
[0058] The sprayable blend used in the present invention contains
one or more initiators. Suitable initiators include the initiators
and initiator combinations described above as being useful in the
production of superabsorbent polymer particles. In addition, it may
be desirable to use initiators designed to decompose when subjected
to ultraviolet light and/or electron -beam ("e-beam") irradiation.
Preferred initiators include water-soluble azo compounds such as
2,2'-azobis(2-(2-imidazole-2-- yl))propane dihydrochloride and
2,2'-azobis(amidino) propane dihydrochloride, water soluble
benzophenones such as 4-benzoyl-N,N,N-trimethylbenzenemethanaminium
chloride, 2-hydroxy-3-(4-benzoylphenoxy)-3-N, N,
N-trimethyl-1-propanaminium chloride monohydrate,
2-hydroxy-3-(3,4-dimethyl-9-oxo-9H-thioaxanthon-2-y-
loxy)-N,N,N-trimethyl-1-propaniminium chloride,
2-hydroxy-1-[4-(hydroxyeth- oxy)phenyl]-2-methyl- 1-propanone,
2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propan-1-on- e, and
4-benzoyl-N,N-dimethyl-N-[2-(1-oxo-2-propenyl)oxy]ethylbenzenemetha-
niminium chloride. In general, the sprayable blend contains one or
more initiators at a level sufficient to initiate polymerization of
the superabsorbent-forming monomer in the sprayable blend. The
sprayable blend contains one or more initiators at a level
sufficient to result in the complete polymerization of the
superabsorbent forming monomer in the sprayable blend, generally at
a level within the range of from 0.01 to 5.0, most preferably at a
level of from 0.2 to 2.0 percent by weight of the superabsorbent
forming monomer in the sprayable blend. When using a combination of
initiators in the sprayable blend, such as redox package, it is
possible to incorporate one of the initiators, such as the reducing
agent, into the sprayable blend along with the other components of
the sprayable blend and incorporate one or more additional
initators, such as an oxidizing agent, into the sprayable blend
just before the sprayable blend exits the nozzle of the spray
equipment being used to spray the sprayable blend onto the fibrous
web. A particularly preferred combination of initiators includes
both an azo initiator and
2-hydroxy-1-[4-(hydroxyethoxy)phenyl]-2-methyl-1-propanone.
Water
[0059] In addition to the superabsorbent polymer particles,
superabsorbent-forming monomer and one or more initiators, the
sprayable blend contains water. Generally, the sprayable blend
contains sufficient water to render the Brookfield viscosity of the
sprayable blend in the range of from 20 to 400 centipoises, more
preferably from 30 to 150 centipoises, most preferably from 40 to
100 centipoises. The level of water in the sprayable blend is
generally in the range of from 40 to 80 percent by weight, more
preferably from 50 to 60 percent by weight of the sprayable
blend.
Crosslinker
[0060] It is generally desirable to include in the sprayable blend,
one or more crosslinkers. It is particularly preferred to use one
or more crosslinkers in the sprayable blend when the sprayable
blend contains thermal, redox and or UV initiators. Suitable
crosslinkers include those described above for the superabsorbent
polymer particles. Preferred crosslinkers include ethoxylated and
propoxylated trimethylolpropanetriac- rylate derivatives such as
SR-9035 and SR-492 available from Sartomer Co., Inc. of Exton, Pa.
When used, the one or more crosslinkers are present in the
sprayable blend at a level of from 0.05 to 5.0 percent based on the
weight of superabsorbent forming monomer.
Process of the Invention
[0061] In the process of the present invention, a sprayable blend
is prepared by combining superabsorbent forming monomer, super
absorbent polymer particles, water and initiator. Although the
order of combining these materials is not particularly important,
for safety reasons it is preferred to add the initiator last. The
amounts of the individual components of the blend are set forth
above and are generally selected so that the Brookfield viscosity
of the sprayable blend is in the range of from 20 to 400
centipoises, more preferably from 30 to 150 centipoises, most
preferably from 40 to 100 centipoises. Many factors will influence
the viscosity of the sprayable blend, including the chemical nature
and size of the superabsorbent polymer particle, the extent of
neutralization of the superabsorbent polymer particles, the extent
of neutralization of the one or more superabsorbent forming
monomers, and the concentration of the superabsorbent polymer
particles.
[0062] After the sprayable blend has been prepared, it is sprayed
onto a fibrous web. As used herein, spraying is intended to include
any suitable means for generating and delivering droplets of
liquid. The spraying can be achieved by any conventional spray
equipment. The equipment can be airless, air-assisted airless or
can utilize pressurized air. One or more inert gases, such as
nitrogen, argon or helium, may be substituted for some or all of
the air to assist in the removal of oxygen from the sprayable blend
during the spraying process. The sprayable blend is sprayed onto a
fibrous web to 20 to 400 grams per square meter ("gsm") of
superabsorbent polymer particles on a dry weight basis, preferably
from 40 to 300 gsm of superabsorbent polymer particles on a dry
weight basis, most preferably from 60 to 150 gsm of superabsorbent
polymer particles on a dry weight basis. The spray equipment should
be adjusted to vary the droplet size of the spray taking into
account such factors as the size of the superabsorbent polymer
particles in the sprayable blend and the desired particle size of
superabsorbent polymer particles on the final product.
The WEB
[0063] Suitable fibrous webs for the present invention include
those made using synthetic polymeric fibers. The synthetic
polymeric fibers may be formed from any polymeric material capable
of forming fibers which fibers can be formed into a fibrous web.
Suitable polymeric material from which the synthetic polymeric
fibers may be formed include polyolefins, such as polyethylene,
polypropylene, and the like; polyesters such as polyethylene
terephthalate and the like; polyamides such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6,
poly(iminocarboxylpentamethylene) and the like; acrylics, and
modified cellulosic material, such as cellulose acetate and rayon;
as well as mixtures and copolymers thereof.
[0064] The synthetic polymeric fibers may be formed by meltblowing,
through a spunbond process, by extrusion and drawing, or other wet,
dry and melt spinning methods known to those skilled in the art.
The synthetic polymeric fibers from which the web is formed may
have a discrete length or may be substantially continuous. For
example, if the synthetic polymeric fibers are formed by
meltblowing, the fibers may be substantially continuous (few
visible ends). If the fibers are formed by extrusion and drawing to
produce a tow, the tow may be used as produced or cut into staple
fibers having a length, for example, of from about 25 millimeters
to about 75 millimeters or short cut into lengths of from about 1
millimeter to about 25 millimeters. The synthetic polymeric fibers
may suitably have a maximum cross-sectional dimension of from about
0.5 micrometer to about 50 micrometers as determined by microscopic
measurement using an optical microscope and a calibrated stage
micrometer or by measurement from Scanning Electron
photomicrographs.
[0065] The fibrous webs may be formed directly through a spunbond
or meltblown process, or by carding or air-laying staple or short
cut fibers. Other methods of forming fibrous webs known to those
skilled in the art may be suited for use in the present invention.
The web may subsequently be bonded to enhance structural integrity.
Methods of bonding fibrous webs are known to those skilled in the
art and include thermal bonding, point bonding, powder bonding,
ultrasonic bonding, chemical bonding, mechanical entanglement, and
the like. The fibers may be homogenous fibers or may be a
core/sheath or side-by-side fibers known to those skilled in the
art as bicomponent fibers.
[0066] The fibrous web may be formed from a single type of
synthetic polymeric fiber or may contain synthetic polymeric fibers
formed from different polymeric materials, having different fiber
lengths or maximum cross-sectional dimensions. For example, the web
may comprise a mixture of (1) bicomponent fibers having a
polyethylene sheath and a polypropylene core which bicomponent
fibers have a maximum cross-sectional dimension of about 20
micrometers and a length of about 38 millimeters and (2) polyester
fibers (polyethylene terephthalate) having a maximum
cross-sectional dimension of about 25 micrometers and a length of
about 38 millimeters. Fibers 1 and 2 may be combined in a weight
ratio of from 1:99 to 99:1. The fibers may be uniformly mixed or
may be concentrated at opposite planar surfaces of the fibrous
web.
[0067] The web suitably comprises from about 10 to 100 weight
percent, beneficially of from about 20 to 100 weight percent,
preferably of from about 25 to 100 weight percent, and most
preferably of from about 50 to 100 weight percent synthetic
polymeric fibers. In addition to the synthetic polymeric fibers,
the web may contain from about 90 to 0 weight percent of a
nonsynthetic polymeric fiber such as wood pulp fluff cotton
linters, cotton, and the like.
[0068] In one preferred embodiment, the web contains synthetic
polymeric fibers which are formed from a polymeric material having
a high wet modulus. The importance of the modulus of a material is
discussed in the book "Absorbency" edited by P. K. Chatterjee
(Elsevier, N.Y., 1985). A polymeric material will be considered to
have a high wet modulus when it has a wet modulus greater than
about 80 percent of its dry modulus as determined by ASTM (American
Society for Testing and Materials) test method D 2101-91 using
modified gauge lengths. It is often desired to form the synthetic
polymeric fibers of the web from a polymeric material having a high
wet modulus because such materials generally form fibrous webs
which possess a relatively high degree of wet resiliency. The wet
resilience of a fibrous web is related to the pore structure (while
under a load) of the fibrous web. As will be discussed in greater
detail below, it is often desired that the web have a relatively
high degree of wet resilience.
[0069] The pore structure (while under a load) of a fibrous
structure formed from fibers of a polymeric material will, as
discussed above, relate to the wet and/or dry modulus of the
constituent fibers. Wet modulus of the constituent fibers should be
considered for fibers that may likely be wetted during use. For the
purposes of estimating the effect of load on the pore structure of
a fibrous structure formed from fibers of a polymeric material the
tensile modulus of the fiber which can be related to the flexural
rigidity of the fiber as shown in the book "Physical Properties of
Textile Fibers" by W. E. Morton and J. W. S. Hearl (The Textile
Institute, London, 1975) can be used.
[0070] As a general rule, the polymeric materials from which the
synthetic polymeric fibers of the web are formed will be inherently
hydrophobic. As used herein, the term "hydrophobic" describes a
material which has a contact angle of water-in-air of greater than
90 degrees. The term "hydrophilic" refers to a material which has a
water-in-air contact angle of less than 90 degrees. The
water-in-air contact angle is suitably determined as set forth in
the book "Absorbency" edited by P. K. Chatterjee (Elsevier, N.Y.,
1985). As used herein, a polymeric material will be considered to
be "inherently" hydrophobic or hydrophilic when the polymeric
material, free from any surface modifications or treatments, e.g.,
surface active agents, spin finishes, blooming agents, etc., is
hydrophobic or hydrophilic, respectively.
[0071] When the synthetic polymeric fibers of the web are formed
from a polymeric material which is inherently hydrophobic, it is
often desirable to treat the fibers with a surface modifying
material to render the surface of the fiber hydrophilic. For
example, a surfactant may be applied to the fibers.
[0072] The web suitably has a basis weight of from about 20 to
about 200, beneficially of from about 30 to about 150, and
preferably of from about 35 to about 125 grams per square
meter.
[0073] The web suitably has a density of from about 0.005 to about
0.12, beneficially of from about 0.008 to about 0.1, and preferably
of from about 0.01 to about 0.08 gram per cubic centimeter.
[0074] The fibrous web may also comprise hydrophilic fibers. The
hydrophilic materials may be inherently hydrophilic such as
cellulosic fibers such as wood pulp fluff, cotton linters, and the
like; regenerated cellulose fibers such as rayon; or certain nylon
copolymers such as poly(pentamethylenecarbonamide)
(nylon-6)/polyethylene oxide. Alternatively, the hydrophilic fibers
may be hydrophobic fibers which have been treated to possess a
hydrophilic surface. For example, the fibers may be formed from a
polyolefin material which is subsequently coated with a surface
active agent such that the fiber itself is hydrophilic as described
herein. Other methods of hydrophilizing fibers formed from
hydrophobic materials are known and suited for use in the present
invention.
[0075] Methods of providing inherently hydrophilic fibers such as
wood pulp fluff are known. So to are methods of providing
regenerated cellulosic fibers such as rayon. Hydrophobic fibers
which can be treated to possess a hydrophilic surface are suitably
formed by processes known to those skilled in the art. If the
hydrophilic fibers are hydrophobic fibers which have been treated
to possess a hydrophilic surface, the fibers will suitably have a
fiber length and maximum cross-sectional dimension as set forth
above. If the hydrophilic fibers are inherently hydrophilic such as
wood pulp fluff, rayon, cotton, cotton linters and the like, the
fibers will generally have a length of from about 1.0 millimeters
to about 50 millimeters and a maximum cross-sectional dimension of
from about 0.5 micrometers to about 100 micrometers.
[0076] The fibrous web suitably comprises from about 10 to 100
weight percent, beneficially from about 30 to 100 weight percent,
and preferably from about 55 to 100 weight percent of hydrophilic
fibers, preferably inherently hydrophilic fibers. In addition to
the hydrophilic fibers, the web may contain from about 90 to 0
weight percent of a high wet modulus, preferably inherently
hydrophobic fibers. The web may be formed from a single type of
hydrophilic fiber or may contain hydrophilic fibers having
different compositions, lengths and maximum cross-sectional
dimensions.
[0077] In one preferred embodiment, the web is formed from air laid
cellulosic fibers such as wood pulp fluff. Wood pulp fluff fibers
are preferred for use due to their ready availability and due to
the fact that the fibers are relatively inexpensive compared to
synthetic polymeric fibers.
[0078] The web suitably has a basis weight of from about 20 to
about 200, beneficially of from about 50 to about 150, and
preferably of from about 25 to about 125 grams per square
meter.
[0079] The web suitably has a density of from about 0.04 to about
0.20, beneficially of from about 0.06 to about 0.16, and preferably
of from about 0.08 to about 0. 14 gram per cubic centimeter.
Curing/Polymerizing
[0080] After the sprayable blend has been sprayed onto the fibrous
web, this composite is subjected to conditions under which the
superabsorbent forming monomer from the sprayable blend will
polymerize. Depending upon the type of initiator used in the
sprayable blend, these conditions may include, for example,
subjecting the fibrous web sprayed with the sprayable blend to
heat, ultraviolet radiation, e-beam radiation, or a combination
thereof. Furthermore, the composite can be subjected to static or
continuous conditions such as by moving the composite along a
conveyor through regions of radiation or heat.
[0081] For thermal curing there are no particular limitations on
the type of reaction vessel used. For batch polymerizations,
sprayed webs may be cured in an oven in an air or inert atmosphere,
and optionally under vacuum. In the case of a continuous process,
the web may be passed through a dryer, such as an infrared ("IR"),
through air or the like. The polymerization temperature can vary
depending on the thickness of the substrate, the concentration of
monomer and the type and amount of thermal initiator used in the
sprayable blend. The polymerization is typically in the range of
from 20.degree. C. to 150.degree. C. and preferably in the range of
from 40.degree. C. to 100.degree. C. The polymerization time
depends on the polymerization temperature, but is typically several
seconds to 2 hours and preferably several seconds to 10 minutes.
After polymerization is completed, the web can then be dried to the
desired moisture content.
[0082] UV curing of webs coated with the sprayable blends may be
conducted by the use of a conventional UV lamp. The conditions
under which the irradiation is conducted, such as radiation
intensity and time may differ depending on the type of fibrous
substrate used, the amount of monomer applied to the substrate and
the like. However, irradiation is generally conducted using a UV
lamp with an intensity in the range of from 100 to 700 watts per
inch ("W/in"), preferably in the range of from 400 to 600 W/in for
0.1 seconds to 10 minutes, with the distance between the UV lamp
and the substrate being 2 to 30 centimeters. The irradiation of the
composite with ultraviolet rays may be conducted under vacuum, in
the presence of an inorganic gas, such as nitrogen, argon, helium
and the like, or in air.
[0083] The temperature during irradiation is not critical, and the
irradiation of the sprayed web can be satisfactorily conducted at
room temperature.
[0084] Electron beam curing can be accomplished using a
commercially available electron beam accelerator, such as the
Electrocurtain.RTM. CB 175 (Energy Sciences, Inc., Wilmington,
Mass.). Accelerators operating in the 150 to 300 kilovolt range are
acceptable. The beam current on such systems, typically 1 to 10
milliamperes, can be adjusted to obtain the desired dose of
ionizing radiation. The ionizing radiation dose employed will vary
somewhat, depending on factors such as the presence or absence of
crosslinking monomers, desired degree of polymerization of the
polymer, degree of cross-linking desired, and the like. In general,
it is desirable to irradiate the coated web with doses from about 1
to 16 megarads, more preferably 2 to 8 megarads. Particularly when
using lower doses, it is desirable to purge oxygen from the
sprayable blend (as by bubbling nitrogen through the solution). The
maximum dose would be that dose at which degradation of the fibers
begins.
[0085] After irradiation, the coated web may be dried to remove
water by such means as forced air ovens, infrared lamps and the
like.
Acquisition Layer
[0086] The absorbent structures according to the present invention
are suitable for use in disposable absorbent products such as
diapers, training pants, adult incontinence products, feminine care
products, wound dressings and the like. Methods of forming such
absorbent products and the absorbent products formed thereby are
known to those skilled in the art and are described, for example,
in the following U.S. Pat. Nos.: 4,944,735 issued Jul. 31, 1990 to
Mokry; U.S. Pat. No. 4,798,603 issued Jan. 17, 1989, to Meyer et
al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,710,187 issued Dec. 1, 1987, to Boland et al.;
U.S. Pat. No. 4,770,656 issued Sep. 13, 1988, to Proxmire et al.;
and U.S. Pat. No. 4,762,521 issued Aug. 9, 1988, to Roessler et
al.; the disclosures of which are incorporated herein to the extent
they are consistent herewith.
[0087] The absorbent structures of the present invention suitably
form an acquisition layer of a disposable absorbent product. Such
an acquisition layer core is suitably sandwiched between, and in
liquid communication with, a bodyside liner (also known as a top
sheet), and an absorbent core atop a liquid impervious outer cover.
In order to function well as an acquisition layer, an absorbent
structure should exhibit rapid uptake of fluid, good transfer
properties, good uptake upon repeated insults with fluid, and good
skin compatibility.
[0088] The absorbent structures of the present invention exhibit
these properties and also have further advantages. Because the
absorbent structures of the present invention can be prepared with
superabsorbent polymer particles that are at least partially
neutralized, and because the superabsorbent forming monomer used in
the sprayable blend can be at least partially neutralized, it is
possible to control the pH of the resulting absorbent structure
formed by polymerizing the sprayable blend sprayed onto the fibrous
web. By controlling the pH of the absorbent structure, particularly
within the range of from about 4.3 to about 5.5, several advantages
can result. For example, an absorbent structure having a pH within
that range should be compatible with skin, should exhibit reduced
bacterial growth, should reduce fecal proteolytic activity and
lipolylic enzymatic activity, should control odor and contain
ammonia. The benefits associated with the control of pH in a top
sheet of a disposable hygienic article are discussed, for example,
in U.S. Pat. No. 4,657,537, the disclosure of which is hereby
incorporated by reference. Similar benefits are expected to result
from an acquisition layer having a pH in the range of from about
4.3 to about 5.5. Although the partial neutralization of the
superabsorbent polymer particles and superabsorbent forming monomer
will tend to reduce the overall absorptive capacity of the
absorbent structure of the present invention, total absorptive
capacity is not a critical feature when using the structures as an
acquisition layer in a disposable hygiene product. Rather, the
diminished total absorptive capacity contributes to the transfer
properties which are beneficial in an acquisition layer.
[0089] It is further believed that the absorbent structures of the
present invention perform well as acquisition layers in a
disposable diaper because the swelling of the superabsorbent
polymer particles is capable of expanding the fibrous web,
particularly if the web were compressed, so that the interstitial
pore volume of the web increases after an insult of liquid. This
increase in the interstitial pore volume of the web contributes to
the rapid uptake of fluids in the web. Accordingly, enhancing the
speed at which the interstitial pore volume is generated, such as
by the rapid swelling of the superabsorbent polymer particles,
further contributes to the rapid uptake of fluids in the web. The
free-swell expansion volume ("FSEV") test and the expansion volume
under load ("EVUL") test described below are an indirect measure of
the rate of formation of the interstitial pore volume in the web.
In general, it is desirable to maximize the values of the FSEV and
EVUL in designing a high performing superabsorbent article. At a
minimum the absorbent structures of the present invention have
free-swell expansion volumes and/or expansion volumes under load of
at least about 0.1 milliliters within about 5 minutes, preferably
within about 30 seconds, and most preferably within about 5
seconds. Preferably, the absorbent structures of the present
invention have free-swell expansion volumes of at least about 0.5
milliliters within about 5 minutes, preferably within about 30
seconds, and most preferably within about 5 seconds. Most
preferably, the absorbent structures of the present invention
generally have free-swell expansion volumes of at least about 1.0
milliliters within about minutes, preferably within about 30
seconds, and most preferably within about 5 seconds. Preferably,
the absorbent structures of the present invention generally have
expansion volumes under load of at least about 0.2 milliliters
within about 5 minutes, preferably within about 30 seconds, and
most preferably within about seconds. Most preferably, the
absorbent structures of the present invention generally have
expansion volumes under load of at least about 0.3 milliliters
within about 5 minutes, preferably within about 30 seconds, and
most preferably within about 5 seconds.
[0090] The absorbent core comprises means for containing a
high-absorbency material, and a high-absorbency material contained
by such means for containing a high-absorbency material. The
high-absorbency material is present in the absorbent structure in
an amount of from about 50 to about 100, preferably of from about
60 to about 95, and most preferably of from about 70 to about 90
weight percent based on total weight of the absorbent core.
[0091] Means of containing high-absorbency materials are known to
those skilled in the art. For example, the means for containing the
high-absorbency material may comprise a fibrous web, a porous
sponge-like material, a substrate to which the high-absorbency
material is attached or adhered, multiple sheets of material
between which the high-absorbency material is located, and the
like. Any means of containing of the high-absorbency material is
suited for use in the present invention.
[0092] As used herein, the term "high-absorbency material" refers
to a water-swellable, generally water-insoluble material capable of
absorbing at least about 10, desirably about 20, and preferably
about 50 times or more its weight in water. The high-absorbency
material may be formed from organic material, which may include
natural materials such as agar, pectin, and guar gum, as well as
synthetic materials such as synthetic hydrogel polymers. Synthetic
hydrogel polymers include, for example, carboxymethyl cellulose,
alkali metal salts of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylamides, polyvinyl
alcohol, ethylene maleic anhydride copolymers, polyvinyl ethers,
hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyvinyl morpholinone, polymers and
copolymers of vinyl sulfonic acid, polyacrylates, polyacrylamides,
polyvinyl pyrridine, polyvinylamines, and the like. Other suitable
polymers include hydrolyzed acrylonitrile grafted starch, acrylic
acid grafted starch, and isobutylene maleic anhydride copolymers
and mixtures thereof. The hydrogel polymers are preferably lightly
crosslinked to render the materials substantially water insoluble.
Crosslinking may, for example, be by irradiation or covalent,
ionic, van der Waals, or hydrogen bonding. Suitable materials are
available from various commercial vendors such as the Dow Chemical
Company, BASF Corporation, Chemdal Corp., Nippon Shokubai., and
Stockhausen Inc. The high-absorbency material may be in the form of
particles, spheres, flakes, fibers, rods, films or any of a number
of geometric forms. When in the form of particles or spheres, it
may be desired that the particles or spheres have a maximum
cross-sectional dimension of from about 10 micrometers to about
2000 micrometers, preferably from about 60 micrometers to about
1000 micrometers.
[0093] In one embodiment it is desired that the high-absorbency
material have the ability to absorb a liquid while under a load.
The ability of a high-absorbency material to absorb a liquid while
under a load is quantified as the Absorbency Against Presseure
(AAP) value. Specifically, the AAP value is the amount (in grams)
of an aqueous solution containing 0.9 weight percent sodium
chloride, a gram of the high-absorbency material can absorb in 60
minutes under a load of 0.3 pound per square inch. As a general
rule, it is desired that the high-absorbency material have an AAP
value of at least about 10, desirably at least about 15, and
preferably at least about 25. A method by which the absorbency
against pressure value is determined is set forth below in
connection with the Examples.
[0094] The absorbent core suitably has a basis weight of from about
200 to about 1000, beneficially of from about 250 to about 750, and
preferably of from about 300 to about 500 grams per square meter.
The absorbent layer suitably has a density of from about 0.06 to
about 0.40, beneficially of from about 0.12 to about 0.35, and most
preferably of from about 0.15 to about 0.30 gram per cubic
centimeter.
[0095] A further advantage of locating the acquisition layer
between the body of a wearer and the absorbent layer is that the
acquisition layer, may have a relatively dry feel even after it has
been wetted. This is because the acquisition layer includes
synthetic polymeric fibers, is resilient and may be more easily
desorbed by the absorbent layer. Thus, a relatively dry surface may
be presented for contacting a wearer's skin. In contrast, the
absorbent layer including cellulosic or other inherently
hydrophilic fibers can have a relatively wet feel. This wet surface
is located remote from the body of a wearer and is spaced therefrom
by the acquisition layer.
[0096] It is well known to those in the art of disposable hygienic
products that the insertion of thick, lofty fabric structures
between the topsheet and the absorbent core aids in the rate of
uptake of fluid insults from the surface of the article. U.S. Pat.
No. 5,364,382 discloses a number of key properties of these
acquisition layers, such as the wet and/or dry modulus of the
constituent fibers, the hydrophillicity of the fibers and
resiliency of the fabric structure, that contribute to the ability
of these materials to rapidly uptake fluids in an absorbent
article. Such properties contribute to the acquisition layer's
ability to: stay open under load, maintain void volume, resist
collapse when wetted, enhance the desorption properties of the
fabric, and preserve void volume capacity after successive insults
of fluid.
[0097] One advantage of the absorbent articles of the present
invention is the rate of formation of void volume following
compression of the absorbent article. In many current, commercially
manufactured absorbent products a considerable amount of pressure
is applied during manufacture to produce an "ultrathin" product.
Acquisition materials used in these current products have no real
mechanism to reopen after being compressed other than the memory
effects preserved within the fibers themselves. The incorporation
of discrete superabsorbent particles into a fibrous web, as
provided in the present invention, provides such a mechanism
through the swelling of the superabsorbent particles following an
insult of fluid. Two important performance parameters of an
acquisition layer in a disposable hygienic article are (1) the
degree of expansion and (2)the rate of expansion. Both of these
parameters are indirectly measured by FSEV and EVUL. The degree of
expansion is an indication of the pore volume available for fluid
uptake (i.e. larger volume correlates with better performance) and
by increasing the speed at which this pore volume is generated the
likelihood of leakage upon insult is diminished. Both of these
properties maybe be influenced by adjusting such parameters as: the
degree loading of superabsorbent polymer particles on the web, the
particle size of the superabsorbent polymer particles, the degree
of swelling of the superabsorbent polymer particles, the degree of
neutralization of the superabsorbent forming monomer in the
sprayable blend, the degree of crosslinking and the like.
[0098] It has also been observed that webs, after being sprayed
with a sprayable blend and subjected polymerization conditions,
have other beneficial properties. As mentioned above, certain web
materials are subjected to compression at one or more times during
the construction of a disposable hygienic article such as a diaper.
After a web material has been compressed, there is a tendency for
the fibers to relax, and expand somewhat thereby increasing the
thickness of the web. However, this relaxation phenomenon is much
less pronounced in articles prepared in accordance with the present
invention which tend to remain stably in a compact state until
subjected to an insult of fluid.
[0099] Rewet and strikethrough testing of absorbent articles are
common quality assurance tests used in the hygiene industry to
measure surface dryness and the rate of fluid uptake,respectively,
following successive fluid insults; therefore, these tests are
useful for the evaluation of the performance of acquisition
materials in absorbent products. A common undesirable trend seen
among most commercially available diapers on the market today is
the fact that strikethrough times tend to increase with successive
doses of fluid during rewet testing. With conventional fluff-based
absorbent structures the cellulosic fibers can lose resiliency and
collapse when wetted. As a result, the liquid uptake rate of the
wetted structures may become too low to adequately accommodate
subsequent, successive fluid insults. Where absorbent gelling
particles are incorporated between the fibers to hold them apart,
the gelling particles swell and do not release the fluid. Swelling
of the particles can then diminish the void volume of the absorbent
structure and reduce the ability of the structure to rapidly uptake
fluid. The degree to which the swelling of the absorbent gelling
particle negatively impacts the rate of fluid uptake is dependent
upon a number of factors such as the concentration of superbsorbent
used in the absorbent core, the degree of cross-linking, the
uniformity of the distribution of SAP within the structure, the
particle size distribution, the hydrophobicity of the particle and
the like. Each of these factors are easily controlled with the
present invention and may be optimized to achieve the desired
performance properties for a given absorbent article, particularly
when used as an acquisition layer in an absorbent article. Examples
17-20, below, demonstrate some of the beneficial effects that maybe
obtained when acquisition materials prepared by the process of the
current invention are utilized in currently available commercial
baby and adult diaper products. In general, it can be seen that
these newly disclosed acquisition materials minimize or eliminate
the trend of increasing strikethrough times with successive insults
of fluid. This desired beneficial effect maybe controlled and
optimized with the present invention through the control of such
parameters as: the concentration of superabsorbent polymer
particles applied to the web structure, the particle size
distribution of the resulting superabsorbent ppolymer particles,
the rate of swelling of the particles, the degree of swelling of
the particles and the like. A further observed beneficial effect is
the reduction in rewet values as shown in Table 6, below, when
absorbent articles of the present invention were inserted into
commercial diapers. This effect may also be controlled through the
above described parameters. In addition, it is further believed
that lowering the degree of neutralization of the superabsorbent
particles formed on the web, thereby increasing the hydrophobicity
of the particles, further enhances this effect by increasing it's
tendency to be drained by the underlying wood fluff
pulp/superabsorbent polymer absorbent core.
[0100] It is well known in the art that a hygienic absorbent
article capable of lowering skin pH within the range of 3.0 to 5.5
is beneficial in preventing or at least reducing the incidence of
diaper rash. Articles, compositions and procedures which inherently
tend to lower the pH of diapered skin are also known in the art.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,657,537, 4,382,919, 3,964,486, 3,707,148 and
3,794,034 teach the addition of various acidic pH control agents to
absorbent articles or to the diapered skin environment. In those
instances wherein acidic pH control agents have been incorporated
into the cores of the absorbent articles, significant amounts of
acids are needed to bring about the desired absorption of ammonia
or lowering of skin pH. Such approaches suffer from a number of
drawbacks including: decreasing the absorptive capacity of the
absorbent core, safety and comfort factors associated with leaching
of the materials from the article and processing problems
associated with the placement and distribution of the acidic
material within the absorbent core. U.S. Pat. No. 4,657,537
discloses the preparation and use of topsheet materials containing
ion exchange functionalities capable of controlling skin pH in
urine soiled baby diapers, however, the ion-exchange capacities of
these material are limited to the range of 0.25 to 1.0 meq./gram.
Acquisition materials produced by the present invention maybe
prepared to contain from 1.0 to 10 meq./gram of ion-exchanging
functionalities. Examples 18 and 20 demonstrate the capability of
producing acquisition materials with the ability to lower the pH
both within the interior of the diaper as well as the surface.
EXAMPLES 1-5
[0101] Aqueous solutions of acrylic acid were prepared by combining
306 grams of acrylic acid, 334 grams of deionized water, 255 grams
of 50% w/w sodium hydroxide, 9.1 grams of SR-9035 available from
Sartomer (ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate), and 1.5
grams of 2,2'-azobis[2-(2-imidazolin-2-yl)propane]dihydrochloride.
The aqueous solutions of acrylic acid were purged with nitrogen.
Superabsorbent polymer particles were sieved through a 100 mesh
screen and the particles passing through (having particle sizes
below 150 microns) were collected. Sprayable blends were prepared
by adding the collected superabsorbent polymer particles, in the
amounts shown in Table 1 below, to the aqueous acrylic acid
solution prepared above and stirring.
EXAMPLE 6
[0102] The sprayable blend of Example 6 was prepared in a similar
manner as Examples 1-5 above, except that 158 grams of a 29% by
weight aqueous solution of polyvinylpyrrolidone ("PVP") having a
molecular weight of about 40,000 (PVP K 30, available from Acros
Organics) was used instead of collected superabsorbent polymer
particles.
[0103] The viscosity measurements reported in Table 1 below were
obtained using a Brookfield Digital Viscometer Model DV-II,
according to the manufacturer's directions, on 400 milliliter
samples of the sprayable blends in a 600 milliliter Griffin beaker
using an 02 spindle at 20 revolutions per minute. The "time" shown
in Table 1, below, is the amount of time, in minutes, between
adding the collected superabsorbent polymer particles and measuring
the viscosity. The "weight of SAP" reported in Table 1, below, is
the weight, in grams, of collected superabsorbent polymer
particles, unless otherwise noted, in the sprayable blend.
1 TABLE 1 Weight Viscosity (cps) Example of SAP Time = 1 Time = 15
Time = 30 Time = 60 1 (comparative) 0 20 18 18 16 2 15 20 22 22 22
3 30 30 30 30 30 4 45 46 54 52 52 5 60 136 140 146 146 6
(comparative) 46* 16 16 16 16 *PVP instead of collected
superabsorbent polymer particles
EXAMPLES 7-13
[0104] A sprayable mixture as prepared in Example 4 or Example 1
above, as indicated in Table 2 below, was sprayed using a
commercial airless paint spraying apparatus onto both sides of a
0.056 square meter piece of a polyester non-woven fabric (HDK-210
available from HDK Industries, Inc. Rogersville, Tenn.) having a
basis weight of 55 grams per square meter. The total amount of
sprayable mixture retained by the fabric is reported in Table 2
below as "wet load".
[0105] The fabric was then cured either by ultraviolet radiation
("UV") or e-beam as indicated in Table 2 below. The fabrics cured
by UV were passed under a 600 watt/in mercury vapor lamp, using a
conveyor operating at 24 feet per minute. Each fabric was passed
under the lamp twice, turned over and passed under the lamp another
two times for a total exposure of 3.75 Joules UVA radiation per
square centimeter on each side. Following the UV cure, the fabrics
were dried in an oven for 10 minutes at 150.degree. C. The fabrics
cured by e-beam were irradiated with accelerated electrons using an
electron beam apparatus for a total dose, in megarads ("Mrad"), as
indicated in Table 2 below. Following the e-beam cure, the fabrics
were dried in an oven for 10 minutes at 150.degree. C. The increase
in weight of the fabric is attributed to polymer and is reported as
"Weight of Polymer", in grams per square meter, in Table 2,
below.
[0106] The absorption under load ("AUL") is a measure of the weight
of fluid retained in a material while under a load. The AUL of the
fabrics prepared in Examples 7-13 as well as an untreated piece of
HDK-210 was determined as follows and is reported in Table 2 below:
the weight of a 5 centimeter diameter circle of the fabric was
recorded; a 57 millimeter tall cylinder having an inside diameter
of 5 centimeters was fitted with a metal screen approximately 2
centimeters from one end; the circle of fabric was place in the
cylinder supported by the screen from below; a 711 gram weight was
placed atop the fabric; the cylinder was then placed into a pan of
0.9% saline for 20 minutes such that the height of the saline was
at the same level as the bottom surface of the circle of fabric,
the cylinder was removed from the saline and placed on a
nonabsorbent surface for one minute; the weight was removed and the
weight of the fabric was recorded. The AUL, in grams per square
meter, was determined using the following formula:
AUL=Wt. 2-Wt. 1/A
Wt. 2=wet web weight
Wt. 1=dry sample weight
A=area of sample in square meters (.pi.r.sup.2)
[0107] The centrifuge retention capacity ("CRC") is a measure of
the amount of fluid retained after being centrifuged. The CRC of
the fabrics prepared in Examples 7-13 as well as an untreated piece
of HDK-210 was determined as follows and is reported in Table 2
below: a 5 centimeter diameter circle of the fabric was cut in half
and one of the halves was placed into a teabag (6 cm.times.8.5 cm);
the weight of the fabric prior to placing in the teabag was
recorded; the teabag was sealed and placed in 0.9% saline solution
for 20 minutes then centrifuged for three minutes at 1350
revolutions per minute. The weight of the centrifuged teabag was
measured and the CRC, in grams per square meter, was determined
using the following formula:
CRC=(Wt. 2-Wt. 1-Blank)/A
Wt. 1=sample wt.
Wt. 2=teabag wt after centrifuged
Blank=wt average of two measurements of an empty teabag after
centrifuging
A=area of sample in square meters [(.pi.r.sup.2)/2] or 0.000982
[0108] The free swell capacity ("FSC") is a measure of the amount
of fluid retained after soaking and hanging. This test is similar
to CRC except centrifuging is omitted. The FSC of the fabrics
prepared in Examples 7-13 as well as an untreated piece of HDK-210
was determined as follows and is reported in Table 2 below: a 5
centimeter diameter circle of the fabric was cut in half and one of
the halves was placed into a teabag (6 cm.times.8.5 cm); the weight
of the fabric prior to placing in the teabag was recorded; the
teabag was sealed and placed in 0.9% saline solution for 20
minutes; the teabag was then removed from the saline and suspended
in air for 10 minutes; The weight of the teabag was then measured
and the FSC, in grams per square meter, was determined using the
following formula:
FSC=Wt. 2-Wt. 1-Blank/A
Wt. 1=sample wt.
Wt. 2=weight of teabag after hanging
Blank=wt average of two measurements of an empty teabag
A=area of sample in square meters [(.pi.r.sup.2)/2] or 0.000982
[0109] The free swell expansion volume (FSEV) is determined by
measuring the height (thickness) change, in millimeters, of a
compressed web material during hydration. The FSEV of the fabrics
indicated in Table 3, below, were determined as follows and are
reported in Table 3, below: the fabrics were compressed in a Carver
Laboratory Press Model #2697 at 7000 pounds of applied load for 48
seconds with the top platen heated to 50.degree. C.; a 5 centimeter
diameter circle of the fabric was cut from the fabric and the
thickness was measured before compression at approximately 4.5
millimeters and after compression at approximately 0.67 millimeters
using a Fowler Ultra-digit gauge. the weight of the circle was
recorded and the circle was placed in a dry sample holder; a single
20 milliliter dose of 0.9% saline was poured on top of the circle;
height measurements were taken, with the help of software designed
for this purpose, over a ten-minute timeframe every 1.5 seconds.
The change in the height of the fabric was measured with a linear
variable differential transformer (LVDT, Schaevitz MP-1000) and the
data are reported in Table 3 below in milliliters (volume).
[0110] The expansion volume under load (EVUL) is determined by
measuring the volume change of a sample as height (thickness)
change, in millimeters, of a compressed web material during
hydration while under a load. The EVUL is determined in a similar
manner as the FSEV except that a 55.93 gram weight (0.5 psi load)
is applied to the fabric. The EVUL values of the fabrics indicated
in Table 4 were determined in this manner and the data are reported
in milliliters (volume) in Table 4, below.
EXAMPLES 14 and 15
[0111] Examples 14 and 15 were conducted in a similar manner as
Examples 7-13 except that different superabsorbent polymer
particles were used. The superabsorbent polymer particles used in
Example 14 were lightly surface crosslinked. The superabsorbent
polymer particles used in Example 15 were a mixture of the
superabsorbent polymer particles used in Example 4 and the
superabsorbent polymer particles used in Example 14 in an
approximate weight ratio 1:2. The CRC, measured in accordance with
EDANA Recommended Test Methods for Superabsorbent
Materials-Polyacrylate Superabsorbent Powders, Test Method 441.1-99
and the Absorbency Against Pressure (AAP), measured in accordance
with EDANA Recommended Test Methods for Superabsorbent
Materials-Polyacrylate Superabsorbent Powders, Test Method 442.1-99
(using a 1319 gram cylindrical weight) of the superabsorbent
polymer particles used in Examples 4, 14 and 15 are reported
below:
2 Superabsorbent Polymer Particles From . . . CRC (g/g) 0.7 psi AAP
(g/g) Example 4 43.6 6.2 Example 14 22.0 21.9 Example 15 31.5
7.8
[0112]
3TABLE 2 Sprayable Wet Load Weight of Polymer Example Mixture
(grams) Cure Method (grams/sq. meter) AUL CRC FSC Untreated 0 1208
0 605 7 4 5.7 UV 43 2247 823 5101 8 4 8.6 UV 60 2605 1175 5669 9 4
18.9 UV 203 5208 3389 8024 10 4 33.5 UV 282 5283 5469 -- 11 1 33.8
UV 228 4270 3119 8913 (compara- tive) 12 4 19.3 UV followed by 210
4193 2436 7067 E-beam; 8 Mrad 13 4 19.3 E-beam; 16 233 4348 3734 --
Mrad 14* 4* 19.7 UV 110 3848 6865 2230 15** 4** 19.3 UV 125 3512
8299 2415 *The superabsorbent polymer particles used were lightly
surface crosslinked. **The superabsorbent polymer particles used
were a mixture of the superabsorbent polymer particles used in
Example 4 and the superabsorbent polymer particles used in Example
14 in an approximate weight ratio 1:2.
[0113] The web prepared in example 11, compared to the webs
prepared in examples 7-10, was much more brittle and less flexible.
Examination of these webs under a microscope also showed that the
webs prepared in examples 7-10 exhibited more uniform particle size
distribution and had fewer regions of film formation (as opposed to
discrete particle adherence) on the surface of the web and in the
interstitial pore volume of the web.
4 TABLE 3 FSEV (milliliters) Weight of Polymer (grams/ 5 10 30 60
120 300 600 EXAMPLE sq. meter) sec. sec sec sec sec sec sec
Untreated 0 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 Example 7 43 1.8 2.5 3.4
3.7 3.9 3.9 3.9 Example 8 60 1.9 2.9 4.1 4.8 5.3 5.6 5.6 Example 9
203 1.4 2.2 4.3 5.9 7.3 8.5 9.0 Example 10 282 1.7 2.8 5.3 7.1 8.6
9.8 10.2
[0114]
5 TABLE 4 Weight of Polymer EVUL (milliliters) (grams/ 5 10 30 60
120 300 600 EXAMPLE sq. meter) sec. sec sec sec sec sec sec
Untreated 0 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3 Example 7 43 0.6 0.9 1.2
1.4 1.4 1.5 1.5 Example 8 60 0.6 0.8 1.3 1.5 1.7 1.8 1.8 Example 9
203 0.8 1.0 1.6 2.1 2.5 2.9 3.0 Example 10 282 0.8 0.9 1.5 2.2 3.0
3.6 3.9
EXAMPLE 16
[0115] An aqueous solution of acrylic acid was prepared by
combining 368.5 grams of acrylic acid, 441.3 grams of deionized
water, 90.2 grams of 50% w/w sodium hydroxide, 9.1 grams of SR-9035
available from Sartomer (ethoxylated trimethylolpropane
triacrylate), and 1.5 grams of
2,2'-azobis[2-(2-imidazolin-2-yl)propane]dihydrochloride. The
aqueous solution of acrylic acid was purged with nitrogen.
Superabsorbent polymer particles were sieved through a 100 mesh
screen and the particles passing through (having particle sizes
below 150 microns) were collected. A sprayable blend was prepared
by adding 23 grams of the collected superabsorbent polymer
particles to the aqueous acrylic acid solution prepared above and
stirring. The sprayable mixture was sprayed using a commercial
airless paint spraying apparatus onto both sides of a 0.056 square
meter piece of a polyester non-woven fabric (HDK-210) having a
basis weight of 55 grams per square meter. The total amount of
sprayable mixture retained by the fabric 17.1 grams ("wet load").
The fabric was then cured by ultraviolet radiation ("UV") by
passing the fabric under a 600 watt/in mercury vapor lamp, using a
conveyor operating at 24 feet per minute. The fabric was passed
under the lamp twice, turned over and passed under the lamp another
two times for a total exposure of 3.75 Joules of UVA per square
centimeter on each side. Following the UV cure, the fabric was
dried in an oven for 10 minutes at 150.degree. C. The Weight of
Polymer in the resulting fabric was 82.9 grams per square
meter.
EXAMPLES 17-20
[0116] The following two commercial diapers were used to prepare
the experimental samples described below:
6 Diaper A: medium, adult brief Core: homogeneous wood
fluff/superabsorbent polymer pad Weight ratio of wood fluff to
superabsorbent polymer in core: 38.8 grams: 7.2 grams Secondary
chemically treated mechanical pulp ("CTMP") core, 23.0 grams
Random, pinpointed bonded top sheet Density of core: 0.08 grams per
cubic centimeter Density of secondary CTMP core: 0.09 grams per
cubic centimeter Diaper B: medium, baby Core: homogeneous wood
fluff/superabsorbent polymer pad Weight ratio of wood fluff to
superabsorbent polymer in core: 19.7 grams: 10.3 grams
Polypropylene, point bonded top sheet Density of core: 0.15 grams
per cubic centimeter
[0117] Experimental diapers were prepared by stretching out Diaper
A and Diaper B and taping them to a laboratory bench top. The
experimental fabric, as indicated in Table 5 below, was compressed
under a 7000 pound load for 48 seconds using a Carver laboratory
press with the top platen heated to 50.degree. C. The thickness of
the fabric following compression was 0.67 millimeters. An Exacto
razor knife was used to carefully cut along the edges of the top
sheet to expose the diaper core. In the case of Diaper A, the
secondary CTMP core was removed and replaced with the compressed
experimental fabric as indicated in Table 5 below. In the case of
Diaper B, the high loft non-woven (basis weight of 45 grams per
square meter) was removed and replaced with the compressed
experimental fabric as indicated in Table 5 below.
7 TABLE 5 Commercial Diaper Fabric from Example 17 Diaper A Example
9 Example 18 Diaper A Example 16 Example 19 Diaper B Example 9
Example 20 Diaper B Example 16
[0118] The commercial and experimental diapers were evaluated with
a rewet test which measures the amount of unabsorbed liquid left on
the surface of a wetted diaper. The rewet values reported in Table
6 below, were determined by taping the diaper to a Plexiglas.RTM.
board or to the counter top, insulting the center of the diaper
with 0.9% saline using a dosing ring (5 centimeter inside diameter
with 2.5 centimeter height). Diaper A and examples 15 and 16 were
insulted with 100 milliliters of the saline. Diaper B and examples
17 and 18 were insulted with 80 milliliters of the saline. The
amount of time needed for the liquid to be absorbed from the
surface of the diaper was recorded as the strike through time.
After 20 minutes a stack of Whatman #3, 9.0 cm diameter filter
paper (W1) was weighed and placed on top of the insulted area. A
3620-gram weight was placed on the filter paper for two minutes.
The stack of filter paper was reweighed and the weight recorded
(W2). This procedure was repeated two more times, recording the
filter paper weight change and the strike through times. The pH of
the top sheet, the transfer layer (if any) and the core were
measured after the experiment was complete using a Ross Flat
Surface Epoxy Combination pH Model #8235 electrode; the data are
reported in Table 7, below.
[0119] The rewet values were calculated as follows:
W2-W1-rewet value (grams)
[0120] The rewet and strikethrough data reported in Table 6, below,
are the average values of the results conducted on three separate
diapers.
8 TABLE 6 REWET (grams) STRIKETHROUGH TIME (seconds) EXAMPLE
1.sup.st DOSE 2.sup.nd DOSE 3.sup.rd DOSE 1.sup.st DOSE 2.sup.nd
DOSE 3.sup.rd DOSE Commercial Diaper A 0.8 14 29 15.5 19.7 25.8
Example 17 0.3 7.8 25.7 4.7 7.4 9.6 Example 18 1.1 8.1 18.4 4.4 4.8
4.9 Commercial Diaper B 0.08 0.15 8.0 7.6 7.6 16.3 Example 19 0.13
0.34 3.1 4.3 5.4 6.8 Example 20 0.56 0.65 0.78 3.3 4.0 4.3
[0121]
9TABLE 7 pH MEASUREMENTS OF DIAPER SURFACES ACQUISITION EXAMPLE
TOPSHEET LAYER FLUFF/SAP CORE Commercial 5.3 5.4 5.8 Diaper A
Example 17 5.3 5.6 5.9 Example 18 4.7 4.4 5.1 Commercial 5.3 5.4
5.8 Diaper B Example 19 5.3 5.6 5.9 Example 20 4.5 4.5 5.1
* * * * *