Inventors:
William D. Hanson - Neenah WI
Lynn C. Brud - Appleton WI
Shannon K. Byerly - Appleton WI
Clifford J. Ellis - Woodstock GA
Rob D. Everett - Appleton WI
Barbara A. Gossen - Neenah WI
Violet M. Grube - Appleton WI
David G. Iwanski - Menasha WI
David K. LeMahieu - Appleton WI
Jian Qin - Appleton WI
Robert A. Stevens - Appleton WI
Tom K. Wentzel - Kimberly WI
Sandra M. Yarbrough - Appleton WI
David L. Zenker - Neenah WI
MaryAnn Zunker - Oshkosh WI
Assignee:
Kimberly-Clark Corporation - Neenah WI
International Classification:
A61F 1320
Abstract:
Generally stated, the present invention provides a distinctive absorbent article comprising a backsheet layer, and a topsheet layer which is disposed in facing relation with the backsheet layer. An absorbent body is interposed between the backsheet layer and topsheet layer. The absorbent body includes a retention portion which comprises a matrix of substantially hydrophilic fibers having a distribution of high-absorbency particulate material therein. The hydrophilic fibers and high-absorbency particles can be provided in a fiber-to-particle weight ratio within the range of about 70:30 to about 30:70. A surge management layer, comprising bicomponent fibers having a denier of not more than about 3 d, is located adjacent at least one major, facing surface of the topsheet layer, and can cooperate with the article components to provide for a liquid Penetration Rate index of not less than about 2. 67 ml/sec.