Absorbent article and process for making it

An absorbent article (1) comprising:

• a first sheet layer (2) presenting an array of absorbent receiving pockets (4, 4a);
• masses (6) of superabsorbent material, which masses are placed in said absorbent receiving pockets (4, 4a);
• a second sheet layer (7) placed on top of the first sheet layer;
• bonding beads (5) placed between the respective pockets ensuring structural strength;
• the first sheet layer (2) forming a number of pleats (10) on the masses (6) of superabsorbent material, the pleats being present in an area that extends about the periphery of the pocket thus formed, wherein the number of pleats (10) is from 2 to 20 pleats per pocket (4, 4a), and the pleats are built substantially parallel to a plane of the first and second sheet layers,
• wherein the first sheet layer (2) is impervious to liquids and the second sheet layer (7) allows penetration of liquids into the masses of superabsorbent material.