High-density absorbent structure
AssigneeKimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
InventorsDavid Henry Hollenberg, James Ellis Horton, Jr., Andrew Michael Lake
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Abstract
Low-density uncreped through-air-dried webs containing bleached chemithermomechanical pulp fibers and a wet-strength resin are calendered to significantly increase density and reduce caliper. When wetted, these webs substantially return to their original caliper and density and substantially regain their original fluid-handling characteristics. Consequently these webs are very thin when dry and thick when wet. They can be used for a wide variety of applications, including paper towels, wipers and fluid-handling components for infant care and personal care products.
Claims23
An absorbent structure comprising wet-resilient fibers and a wet:dry geometric mean tensile ratio of about 0.1 or greater, a density greater than 0.3 grams per cubic centimeter and an absorbent capacity of about 4 grams of water per gram of fiber or greater.
A compressed uncreped through-air-dried web of papermaking fibers comprising wet-resilient fibers and a wet strength agent, said web having a density of about 0.3 grams per cubic centimeter or greater and an absorbent capacity of about 4 grams of water per gram of fiber.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.