Treatment of materials to improve handling of viscoelastic fluids
US6060636A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 1, 1997 |
| Grant date | May 9, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 1, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2001/2893
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Disclosed is an improved structure that includes a nonwoven web including a viscoelastant treatment. The treated web, when contacted by a viscoelastic fluid such as menses alters the viscoelastic properties of the fluid and enhances its wicking and distribution throughout the absorbent structure. A desirable viscoelastant is a alkyl polyglycoside, particularly those having 8 to 10 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain. When applied so as to provide an amount of about 0.1% to about 5.0% solids add-on based on the weight of the dry nonwoven web, rapid fluid wicking and distribution may be obtained. Other viscoelastants are disclosed. Advantageously the treatment may be applied as a high solids composition using conventional application means such as spray coaters and the like or as an internal additive. The absorbent structure finds particular utility as a distribution layer component of a sanitary napkin for absorbing menses as well as other blood handling products such as surgical drapes, for example.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.