Fluff pulp and high sap loaded core

Description

STATE OF THE ART

Field of the Invention

[0001] The invention relates to cellulosic pulp, methods for its production and uses. Cellulose pulps and their uses are well known in the art. For example, US Patent 6,086,950 relates to an absorbent sheet comprising at least hydrophilic fibers and thermally melting binding fibers or a reinforcing aid and a superabsorbent polymer. The superabsorbent polymer is not present on the absorbent surface of the absorbent sheet, but dispersed within the absorbent sheet, and is adhered and attached to the hydrophilic fibers of the absorbent sheet. Thus, blocking of the superabsorbent polymer by the gel is effectively avoided, and a large amount of the superabsorbent polymer can be fixed in the absorbent sheet by placing the superabsorbent polymer in the spaces formed among the fibers constituting the absorbent sheet while the fibers are wet.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0002] Various embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying figures in which:

Figure 1 shows SAP retention according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 2 depicts Mullen values ​​according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 3 shows the shred energy values ​​according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 4 shows the shred quality as a percentage of good and fine elements according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 5 shows the tear quality as a percentage of the defective items and partial items according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 6 shows the absorption of the shreds according to the absorption capacity and speed according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VARIANTS

[0003] The invention relates to a cellulosic pulp in the form of a core according to independent claim 1, to a method for producing a core according to independent claim 8, to an absorbent product according to independent claim 11 and to the use of pulp according to independent claim 13. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims. Another embodiment relates to a fluff core, methods

-2 its manufacture and uses. Another embodiment relates to products comprising one or more of: cellulose pulp, flocs and / or core, methods of making them, and uses. Another embodiment relates to the flexible core formed of flocs, its manufacturing methods and uses. Another embodiment relates to a SAP-charged core (Superabsorbent Polymer) formed from flocs and SAP particles, its production methods and applications. Another embodiment relates to a thin core with a high SAP load, formed from flocs, its manufacturing methods and applications. Another embodiment concerns the use of hardwood fiber and softwood fiber in the cellulose pulp. Another embodiment concerns the use of hardwood fiber and softwood fiber and simple sugar or slightly branched sugar in the cellulosic pulp or dried web. In one embodiment, the hardwood fiber will form a thin, low porosity core to trap SAP particles. In one embodiment, the short hardwood fibers reduce the amount of fiber-to-fiber tangles weakening the core when compressed to a very thin thickness. In one embodiment, the sugar molecules can also prevent or inhibit strong inter-fiber bonding upon compression by providing a viscous fluid response. In one embodiment, preventing or inhibiting fiber-fiber bonding and / or fiber entanglement by one or both of the short hardwood fibers and sugar molecules allows the core to be reshaped with the body. In one embodiment, the sugar or sugar solution will help keep the SAP molecules in the core due to the sticky or sticky nature of the sugar. In one embodiment, the core is flexible.

[0004] The inventors have investigated how to produce a thin core with a high SAP charge.

[0005] One embodiment relates to an absorbent core having improved SAP retention.

[0006] One embodiment relates to cellulosic pulp, comprising softwood fibers and 5 to 25% by weight of hardwood fibers.

[0007] One embodiment relates to fluff containing cellulosic pulp in fibrous form.

[0008] One embodiment relates to a method of making flocs that comprises fiberising cellulosic pulp.

[0009] One embodiment relates to cellulosic pulp in the form of a core containing softwood fibers and from 5 to 25 wt. hardwood fibers with one or more superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) having a SAP retention greater than 75%.

[0010] One embodiment relates to a method for making a core comprising contacting the flocs with one or more superabsorbent polymers.

[0011] One embodiment relates to an absorbent product, a paper product, a personal care product, a medical product, an insulation product, a structural product, a structured material, a cement, a food product, a product.

-3 veterinary, packaging product, diaper, tampon, sanitary napkin, gauze, bandage, fire retardant material or a combination thereof, including the core and supporting structure.

[0012] One embodiment relates to a method of producing an absorbent product comprising contacting at least a portion of the core with a support structure.

[0013] One embodiment relates to a method of producing cellulosic pulp, comprising forming a web comprising hardwood and softwood fibers, and drying to produce cellulosic pulp having softwood fibers and 5 to 25% by weight of hardwood fibers.

In one embodiment, the forming comprises one or more of contacting the cellulosic pulp mixture containing cellulosic pulp fibers and water with a table in the papermaking machine, removing at least a portion of the water from the cellulosic pulp mixture containing cellulosic pulp fibers and water with a suction box below. table in paper making machine, at least partially drying the cellulosic pulp mixture containing cellulosic pulp fibers and water in a flotation dryer, heating the cellulosic pulp mixture containing cellulosic pulp fibers and water, or a combination thereof.

[0015] In one embodiment, the web may be dried in a dryer to form a dried web or cellulosic pulp. The web can be suitably drained in the drying section. Any drying method generally known in the art of making cellulosic pulp paper can be used. The drying section may include a drying can, flotation dryer, cylinder drying, Condebelt, IR or other drying means and mechanisms known in the art. The cellulose pulp may be dried to contain any chosen amount of water. In one embodiment, the web is dried using a flotation dryer.

[0016] As used herein, the term "cellulose pulp" may be used interchangeably with "dried web". Unless otherwise stated, the weight percentages or weight percentages are suitably based on the weight of the cellulosic pulp, flocs or core. The term "fluff" as used herein means fibrous or frayed cellulose pulp, the terms "fibrous" and "frayed" are used interchangeably herein as is common in the art. The term "core" as used herein means a composition comprising flocs and at least SAP particles.

[0017] In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp may have a base weight ranging from 500 to 1100 g / m2.² This range includes all values ​​and subranges inside, for example 500, 525, 550, 575, 600, 625, 650, 675, 700, 725, 750, 757, 775, 800, 825, 850.875, 900, 950, 1000 , 1150 and 1100 g / m², or any combination or range thereof.

[0018] In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a moisture content of 15% by weight or less. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6.3, 7, 8, 8.5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15% by weight, or any combination or range thereof. In another variation

In embodiments, the cellulose pulp has a moisture content of 20% or less. In another embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a moisture content of 10% or less. In another embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a moisture content of 6 to 9%. In another embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a moisture content of about 6.3 to 8.5%. Moisture can be adequately measured using TAPPI T 412.

[0019] In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a density of 0.1 to 0.75 g / cm³(uncompressed by the compressibility test (defined below)). This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, 0.45, 0.5, 0, 55, 0.6, 0.65, 0.7 and 0.75 g / cm³, or any range inside.

[0020] In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a thickness of 0.5-3 mm. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5, 2.7, 2.9 and 3mm, and any range inside. In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp is 1.1 to 1.5 mm thick. In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a thickness of 1.3 0.2 mm.

[0021] The fibrotic energy, sometimes called the cellulose pulp shred energy, is not particularly limited. This may suitably be less than 170 kJ / kg. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 155, 160, 165 and 170 kJ / kg, or any combination of them or any range within. In one embodiment, the fiberizing energy of the cellulosic pulp is less than or equal to 160 kJ / kg. In another embodiment, the fiberizing energy of the cellulosic pulp is less than or equal to 160 kJ / kg. In another embodiment, the fiberizing energy of the cellulosic pulp is from 100 to 160 kJ / kg. In another embodiment, the fiberizing energy of the cellulosic pulp is from 120 to 160 kJ / kg.

[0022] In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp has a Mullen value> 621 kPa (90 psi). This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 621, 655, 689, 724, 758, 793, 827, 861, 897, 931, 965, 1000, 1034, 1069, 1103, 1138, 1172, 1207, 1241, 1276, 1310, 1344, 1379, 1413, 1448, 1482, 1517, 1551, 1586,1620 1655, 1689, 1724kPa (90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145 , 150, 155, 160, 165, 170, 175, 180, 185, 190, 195, 200, 205, 210, 215, 220, 225, 230, 235, 240, 245, 250 psi) and above, or any range inside. The Mullen value can be easily determined according to TAPPI T 807.

[0023] In one embodiment, SAP retention is greater than about 60%, greater than about 65%, greater than about 70%, greater than about 75%, greater than about 80%, or greater than about 85%, greater than about 90% including, but not limited to, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 and 100%, including any and all ranges and sub-ranges inside.

[0024] In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp has greater compressibility as measured by the thickness and density of the compressed insert using the Compressibility Test (defined below in Example 2) at a predetermined pressure load of 1110 kPa (161 PSI) or 1551 kPa (225 PSI). Compressed thickness below 1110 kPa (161PSI) can

-5 be less than approximately 7.11 mm (280 mi), less than approximately 6.86 mm (270 mi), less than approximately 6.6 mm (260 mi), less than approximately 6.35 mm (250 mi), less than approximately 6.22 mm (245 mil), less than approximately 6.1 mm (240 mi), less than approximately 5.97 mm (235 mi), less than approximately 5.84 mm (230 mi), less than approximately 5.72 mm (225 mil), less than approximately 5.59 mm (220 mi), less than approximately 5.46 mm (215 mi), less than approximately 5.33 mm (210 mi) including, no acting as limitations, 5.84, 5.82, 5.79, 5.77, 5.74, 5.72, 5.69, 5.66, 5.64, 5.61, 5.59, 5.56, 5.54, 5, 51, 5.49, 5.46, 5.44, 5.41, 5.38, 5.36, 5.33 mm (230, 229, 228, 227, 226, 225, 224, 223, 222, 221 , 220, 219, 218, 217, 216, 215, 214, 213, 212, 211, 210 mil) and less than 5.31 mm (209 mil), including any and all ranges and sub-ranges inside. Compressed thickness below 1551 kPa (225PSI) may be less than approximately 5.21 mm (205 mil), less than approximately 5.05 mm (200 mi), less than approximately 4.83 mm (190 mi), less than approximately 4 .57 mm (180 mil) less than approximately 4.45 mm (175 mil) less than approximately 4.32 mm (170 mil) less than approximately 4.19 mm (165 mil) less than approximately 4.06 mm (160 mil) less than approximately 3.94 mm (155 mi) less than approximately 3.81 mm (150 mi) including, without limitation 4.57, 4.55, 4.52, 4, 5, 4.47, 4.45, 4.42, 4.39, 4.37, 4.34, 4.32, 4.29, 4.27, 4.24, 4.22, 4.19, 4.17, 4, 14, 4.11, 4.09, 4.06mm (180, 179, 178, 177, 176, 175, 174, 173, 172, 171, 170, 169, 168, 167, 166, 165, 164, 163 , 162, 161, 160 mil), and less than about 4.04 mm (159 mil), encompassing any and all ranges and subranges within. Compressed density below 1110 kPa (161 PSI) may be greater than about 0.13 g / cm³greater than about 0.14 g / cm3, greater than about 0.15 g / cm3³greater than about 0.16 g / cm³greater than about 0.17 g / cm³greater than about 0.18 g / cm³greater than about 0.19 g / cm³greater than about 0.20 g / cm³including any and all ranges and sub-ranges inside. Compressed density below 1551 kPa (225PSI) may be greater than 0.18 g / cm³greater than about 0.19 g / cm³greater than about 0.20 g / cm³greater than 0.21 g / cm³greater than about 0.22 g / cm³greater than about 0.23 g / cm³greater than 0.24 g / cm³greater than about 0.25 g / cm³, including any and all ranges and sub-ranges inside.

[0025] In one embodiment, the Gurley Stiffness of the cellulosic pulp is measured according to the Gurley Stiffness (defined below in Example 2) of an insert (the insert may be of any density, including, but not limited to, the insert having a density of 0.31 g / cm 2).³ or an insert having a density of 0.62 g / cm³) may be less than about 750 mg, less than about 800 mg, less than about 850 mg, less than about 900 mg, less than about 1000 mg, less than about 1200 mg, less than about 1300 mg, less than about 1350 mg , less than about 1400 mg, less than about 1500 mg, less than about 1600 mg, less than about 1700 mg, less than about 1800 mg, less than about 2000 mg, less than about 2200 mg, less than about 2400 mg, less than about 2500 mg, less than about 3000 mg, less than about 4000 mg, less than about 5000 mg, less than about 5500 mg, less than about 6000 mg, and less than about 6800 mg, including any and all ranges and subranges therein. In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp further comprises one or more additives such as a bleach, dye, pigment, optical brightener, moisturizer, binder, whitening agent, other additive, or a combination thereof. If present, the amount of additive

-6 is not particularly limited. In one embodiment, the additive may be present in amounts ranging from about 0.005 to about 50 percent by weight. This range includes all values ​​and subranges therebetween, including approximately 0.005, 0.006, 0.007, 0.008, 0.009, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07 , 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3 , 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 weight percent, or any combination thereof based on the weight of the cellulose pulp mixture.

[0026] The cellulose pulp may or may not contain a disintegrant surfactant. In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp comprises one or more debonding surfactants. In another embodiment, the cellulose pulp is free of a debonding surfactant. If present, the debonding surfactant may be present in an amount of> 0.04 kg (0.1 lbs) of solid deboning surfactant per ton of cellulose pulp. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including = 0.04, 0.06, 0.09, 0.11,

0,14, 0,16, 0,18, 0,20, 0,23, 0,25, 0,27, 0,3, 0,32, 0,35, 0,37, 0,39, 0,41, 0,43, 0,45, 0,50,0,54,

0,59, 0,64, 0,68, 0,73, 0,77, 0,82, 0,86, 0,91, 0,95, 1,0, 1,04, 1,08, 1,13, 1,18, 1,22, 1,27,1,32,

1,36, 1,41, 1,45, 1,5, 1,54, 1,59, 1,63, 1,68, 1,72, 1,77, 1,81, 2,05, 2,72, 2,77, 3,18, 3,63,4,08,

4.54, 6.8, 9.07 kg (0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, 0.45, 0.5, 0 , 55, 0.6, 0.65, 0.7, 0.75, 0.8, 0.85, 0.9, 0.95, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1 , 4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2 , 6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3 , 8, 3.9, 4, 4.0, 5, 5.0, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20 Ibs) solid disintegrating surfactant per ton of cellulose pulp and above, or any of them combination or any range inside. In one embodiment, if more than one debonding surfactant is used, this range is the total amount including all debonding surfactants present in the cellulose pulp.

[0027] Disintegrating surfactants are known in the art of cellulosic pulp and cellulosic pulp fibers. Any sizing surfactant is suitable for use in the application, and its selection is within the skill of one skilled in the art of cellulosic pulp and cellulosic pulp fibers. Some examples, which are not intended to be limiting, include a linear or branched monoalkyl amine, a linear or branched dialkyl amine, a linear or branched tertiary alkyl amine, a linear or branched quaternary alkyl amine, an ethoxylated alcohol, a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated surfactant hydrocarbon , fatty acid amide, fatty acid amide quaternary ammonium, dialkyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium salt, dialkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salt, dialkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt, triethanolamine dibasic fatty acid, ethoxylated primary amine fatty acid ester, ethoxylated quaternary ammonium fatty acid, dialkyl fatty acid ammonium fatty acid, dialkyl fatty acid a non-ionic surfactant Ci-C18 unsaturated ethoxylated alkyl alcohol, a commercially available compound having No. 68155-01-1 in the CAS Registry, a commercially available compound having No. 26316-40-5 in the CAS Registry, commercially available F60 ™, commercially available Cartaflex TS LIQ ™,

- commercially available F639 ™, commercially available Hercules PS9456 ™, commercially available cellulose solutions 840 ™, commercially available 1009 ™ cellulose solutions, commercially available ΕΚΑ 509H ™, commercially available EKA 639 ™, alone or in any combination. Other examples of tackifier surfactants are disclosed in US Patent 4,425,186.

[0028] In one embodiment, the finished cellulose pulp may be fibrous or frayed in accordance with methods known in the art. For example, the fibrosis or fraying can be done in a hammer mill.

[0029] In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp and / or fibrous or shredded cellulose pulp or core or combinations thereof may be suitably incorporated into one or more of an absorbent product, a paper product, a personal care product, a medical product, an insulation product, a structural product. , structural material, cement, food product, veterinary product, packaging product, diaper, tampon, sanitary napkin, gauze, bandage, fireproof material or combinations thereof. These products and methods for their preparation and use are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0030] Another embodiment relates to cellulosic pulp made by a method as described herein.

Another embodiment relates to an absorbent product, a paper product, a personal care product, a medical product, an insulation product, a construction product, a structured material, a cement, a food product, a veterinary product, a packaging product, a diaper, a tampon, a sanitary napkin, gauze, a bandage, fireproof material or a combination thereof including cellulosic pulp and / or fibrous or frayed cellulose pulp or a core, or a combination thereof and a supporting structure.

Another embodiment relates to the use of an absorbent product, a paper product, a personal care product, a medical product, an insulation product, a construction product, a structured material, a cement, a food product, a veterinary product, a packaging product, a diaper, a tampon, a pad, gauze, a bandage. , fireproof material or a combination thereof, including cellulosic pulp and / or fibrous or frayed cellulose pulp, or in the form of a core, or a combination of them.

[0033] One or more or any combination of fibers may be used in the cellulosic pulp in the form of a core. The fibers may be treated or untreated and may optionally contain one or more additives or a combination thereof as is known in the art. According to the teachings provided herein, the level of treatment, if desired, and the amount of additives can be readily determined by one of ordinary skill in the art of cellulosic pulp and cellulose pulp fibers.

[0034] Likewise, it is within the skill of those skilled in the art of cellulosic pulp and cellulosic pulp fibers to form a web of cellulosic pulp or cellulosic pulp fibers, or from a cellulosic pulp mixture or finish on the head table in the papermaking machine.

[0035] The type of cellulosic pulp or cellulosic pulp fiber suitable for use herein is not intended to be limiting. The cellulose pulp typically comprises cellulosic fibers. The type of cellulose fibers in the cellulosic pulp is not critical. For example, cellulose pulp can be made of pulp fibers derived from hardwood trees, softwood trees, or a combination of hardwood trees and softwood trees. The cellulose pulp may also contain synthetic fibers in addition to one or more types of cellulose fibers. The cellulosic pulp fibers may be prepared by one or more known or suitable etching, refining and / or bleaching operations, such as, for example, known mechanical, thermomechanical, chemical and / or semi-chemical pulp formation and / or other well known methods of pulp formation. The term "hardwood pulp" as used herein includes fibrous pulp derived from wood material from deciduous trees (angiosperms) such as birch, oak, beech, maple and eucalyptus. The term "softwood pulp" as used herein includes fibrous pulp derived from the wood substance of conifers (gymnosperms) such as fir, spruce and pine varieties such as, for example, Taeda pine, Elliott pine, Blue spruce, Balsam fir and Douglas fir. green. In some embodiments, at least some of the pulp fibers may be derived from non-woody herbaceous plants including, but not limited to, kenaf, hemp, jute, flax, sisal, or Manila banana, although legal and other considerations may make the use of hemp and other fiber sources. impractical or impossible. Both bleached and unbleached cellulose pulp fibers can be used. The recycled cellulose pulp fibers are also suitable for the application. The cellulose pulp may suitably contain from 30 to 100 wt. of the cellulosic pulp fibers based on the total weight of the cellulosic pulp. In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp may contain 30 to 99 wt. of the cellulosic pulp fibers based on the total weight of the cellulosic pulp. In another embodiment, the cellulose pulp comprises 40 to 95 wt. of the cellulosic pulp fibers based on the total weight of the cellulosic pulp. These ranges include any and all values ​​and subranges therebetween, for example 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99 and 100 wt.%, Or any subrange within, based on the total weight of the cellulosic pulp.

[0036] The cellulose pulp may optionally contain from 75 to 95 wt. cellulose pulp fibers derived from softwood species, based on the total weight of the cellulosic pulp. The range is 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94 and 95 wt%, or any other subrange inside, based on total weight of the cellulosic pulp.

[0037] All or a portion of the softwood fibers may optionally be derived from softwood grades having a Canadian Standard Freeness (CSF) from 500 to 800. In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp comprises softwood pulp fibers having a CSF of 500 to 800. . These ranges include any and all values ​​and subranges in between, for example, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370, 380, 390, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, 450, 460, 470, 480, 490, 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, 670, 680, 690, 700, 710,

-9720, 730, 740, 750, 760, 770, 780, 790 and 800 CSF or any sub-range inside. Canadian Standard Freeness is measured by the TAPPI T227 Standard Test.

[0038] The cellulose pulp may optionally contain from 5 to 25 wt. cellulose pulp fibers derived from hardwood species. These ranges are 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 and 25 wt.%. or any subrange within, based on the weight of the cellulosic pulp.

[0039] All or some of the hardwood fibers may optionally be derived from hardwood grades having Canadian Standard Freeness from 500 to 650. This range includes 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, and 650 CSF, or any sub-range within.

[0040] In one embodiment where only hardwood and softwood fibers are present in the cellulosic pulp, the hardwood / softwood cellulosic pulp ratio by weight may be from 3/97 to 35/65. These ranges include all values ​​and subranges between them, including 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25 (for hardwood) to 100 minus the above-mentioned values ​​(for softwood).

[0041] Softwood fibers, hardwood fibers or both may optionally be modified by physical and / or chemical methods to obtain cellulosic pulp. Examples of physical methods include, but are not limited to, electromagnetic and mechanical methods. Examples of electrical modifications include, but are not limited to, methods involving contacting a fiber with a source of electromagnetic energy, such as light and / or electric current. Examples of mechanical modifications include, but are not limited to, methods involving contact of a fixed object with the fiber. Examples of such stationary objects include those with sharp and / or blunt edges. Such methods also include, for example, cutting, kneading, mashing, stuffing, and so on, and combinations thereof.

[0042] If present, the synthetic fibers are not particularly limiting. Non-limiting examples of such fibers include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol, core / sheath fibers, bicomponent fibers, bicomponent fibers, or polyethylene and polypropylene core / sheaths. Combinations of different synthetic fibers are possible.

[0043] The simple sugar or slightly branched sugar may optionally be present in the cellulose pulp, the flocs or the core. Non-limiting examples include sucrose, fructose, dextrose, hexose, L-arabinose, oligosaccharide, monosaccharide, disaccharide, glucose, galactose, maltose, lactose, sugar pulp, pomace, sugarcane pulp, sugarcane pulp or a combination thereof. When present, the sugar may be present in amounts ranging from 1 to 40% by weight, which range includes all values ​​and subranges therebetween, including 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40. % by weight, or whatever

-10ich combination or sub-range inside. Sugar can be added at any time during the production of the cellulosic pulp, flocs and / or core if desired. In one embodiment, the sugar may contact the cellulose pulp before, during or after the airlaid process, or a combination thereof.

[0044] Non-limiting examples of chemical modifications include conventional chemical methods for the fibers, such as bleaching, cross-linking and / or precipitation of complexes thereon. Other examples of suitable fiber modifications include those included in US Patents 6,592,717, 6,592,712, 6,582,557, 6,579,415, 6,579,414, 6,506,282, 6,471,824, 6,361,651, 6,146,494, 5,731,080, 5,698,688, 5,698,074, 5,667,637, 5,662,831, 5,667,637, 5,662,712, 5,662,557, 5,667,637 , 5,160,789, 5,049,235, 4,986,882, 4,496,427, 4,431,481, 4,174,417, 4,166,894, 4,075,136, and 4,022,965.

[0045] As described herein, additives such as a pH adjusting agent, bleach, dye, pigment, optical brightening agent, moisturizing agent, binder, whitening agent, trivalent cationic metal, alum, other additive, or a combination thereof may be used if desired. . Such compounds are known in the art and otherwise commercially available. According to the guidance provided herein, a person skilled in the art of cellulosic pulp and cellulosic pulp papermaking will be able to select and apply them accordingly. When present, the amount of the additive is not particularly limited. In one embodiment, the additive may be present in amounts ranging from about 0.005 to about 20 weight percent based on the weight of the cellulosic pulp. This range includes all values ​​and subranges therebetween, including approximately 0.005, 0.006, 0.007, 0.008, 0.009, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, 0.07 , 0.08, 0.09, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3 , 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, and 20 weight percent, or any combination or sub-range therein, based on the weight of the finished cellulosic pulp.

[0046] One or more optical brightening agents may be present optionally. Typically, optical brighteners are fluorescent dyes or pigments that absorb ultraviolet radiation and re-emit it at longer wavelengths in the visible spectrum (blue), thereby producing a white, bright appearance to cellulose pulp, but any optical brightening agent may be used. Examples of optical brighteners include, but are not limited to, azoles, biphenyls, coumarins, furans, stilbens, ionic brighteners including anionic, cationic, and anionic (neutral) compounds such as Eccobrite ™ and Eccowhite ™ compounds available from Eastern Color & amp; Chemical Co. (Providence, RI); naphthalimides; pyrazines; substituted (e.g. sulfonated) stilbenes such as the Leucophor ™ line of optical brighteners available from Clariant Corporation (Muttenz, Switzerland) and Tinopal ™ from Ciba Specialty Chemicals (Basel, Switzerland); salts of such compounds including, but not limited to, alkali metal salts, alkaline earth metal salts, transition metal salts, organic salts, and ammonium salts of such brightening agents; and combinations of one or more of the above agents.

[0047] Examples of optional fillers include, but are not limited to, clay, calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate hemihydrate, and calcium sulfate anhydrous, chalk, GCC, PCC, and the like.

[0048] Examples of optional binders include, but are not limited to, polyvinyl alcohol, Amres (Kymene type), Bayer Parez, polychloride emulsion, modified starch such as hydroxyethyl starch, starch, polyacrylamide, modified poly and acrylic amide, polyol, polyol carbonyl adduct, ethanedial / polyol condensate, polyamide, epichlorohydrin, glyoxal, glyoxal urea, ethanedial, aliphatic polyisocyanate, isocyanate, 1,6 hexamethylene diisocyanate, diisocyanate, polyisocyanate, polyester, polyester resin, polyacrylate, polyacrylate resin, acrylate and methacrylate. Other optional materials include, but are not limited to, silicas such as colloids and / or sols. Examples of silicas include, but are not limited to, sodium silicate and / or borosilicates.

[0049] The composition may optionally and additionally contain one or more pigments. Non-limiting examples of pigments include calcium carbonate, kaolin clay, calcined clay, aluminum trihydrate, titanium dioxide, talc, plastic pigment, ground calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, amorphous silica, modified calcium carbonate, modified calcined clay, aluminum silicate, zeolite, aluminum oxide , colloidal silica, colloidal alumina suspension, modified calcium carbonate, modified ground calcium carbonate, modified precipitated calcium carbonate or a mixture thereof.

[0050] The cellulosic pulp fibers may be formed into a single or multilayer web on a papermaking equipment such as a Fourdrinier or any other suitable papermaking equipment known in the art. The basic methodologies for producing cellulose pulps in various papermaking equipment configurations are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art and will therefore not be described in detail here. In one embodiment, the one or more of cellulosic pulp finishes, hardwood slurry, and softwood slurry may be in the form of an aqueous slurry of relatively low consistency pulp fibers, optionally with one or more additives. In one embodiment, the cellulose pulp finish is projected from the headbox onto a table, e.g., a porous endless moving forming sheet or conduit, where you enjoy, e.g. the water is gradually drained through the small openings in the conduit, optionally with the aid of one or more suction boxes, until a mat of pulp fibers and optionally other materials is formed on the conduit. In one embodiment, the still wet web is transferred from the conduit to the wet press, where more fiber-to-fiber consolidation takes place and the moisture is further reduced. In one embodiment, the web is then passed to the dryer section to remove some, most, or substantially all of the retained moisture and further consolidate the fibers in the web. After drying, the dried cellulose web or pulp may be further treated with a shaping jet, spraying bar or the like.

[0051] If desired, the cellulosic pulp may be rolled into a roll to form a cellulosic pulp role, or it may be cut into sheets and stacked to form a cellulosic pulp roll. Alternatively, the (wet) web may be sent to a flash dryer or the like and dried inside and then bagged to form a bag containing cellulose pulp.

[0052] Once obtained, the cellulose pulp may be subjected to fiberization or shredding to produce flocs. The fluff contains cellulose pulp in a fibrous form.

[0053] In one embodiment, the flocs have a multidose rehydration value of 3 to 8 grams for the second and third doses. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.25, 5.5, 5.75, 6, 6.25, 6.5, 6, 75, 7, 7.5 and 8 grams.

[0054] In one embodiment, the flocs have a SCAN-C adsorption time of 33:80 <4.0 sec. The range includes all values ​​and subranges therebetween, including 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.0, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 , 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7 , 3.8, 3.9 <4.0 sec, or any range inside.

[0055] In one embodiment, the flocs have an absorption capacity of 4 to 10 g / g. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, and 10 g / g, or any range inside. The absorption capacity, sometimes called shred absorption, can be suitably measured using the SCAN Absorption Assay described herein.

[0056] In one embodiment, the fluff after fractionation on the filter has a% Good Elements> 50%. This range includes all values ​​and subranges therebetween, including 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100% or any range within.

[0057] In one embodiment, the fluff after fractionation on the filter has a% Fine <40%. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40%, or any combination thereof or any range inside.

[0058] In one embodiment, the fluff after fractionation on the filter has a% Particles <30%. This range includes all values ​​and subranges therebetween, including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30%, or any combination thereof or any range within.

[0059] One embodiment relates to a core, including flocs and one or more superabsorbent polymer (SAP).

[0060] One embodiment relates to a method of making a core comprising contacting the flocs with one or more superabsorbent polymers.

[0061] In the method of making the core, the flocs may be combined with one or more superabsorbent polymers (SAPs). SAPs are known in the absorbent product art and are not particularly limited. Non-limiting examples of SAP include starch-acrylonitrile copolymer, hydrolyzed starch-acrylonitrile copolymer, (co) polymer

-13 acrylic acid, acrylamide (co) polymer, poly (vinyl alcohol), polyacrylate / polyacrylamide copolymers, polyacrylic acid (co) polymers, sodium polyacrylate, ethylene maleic anhydride copolymer, cross-linked carboxymethylcellulose, copolymer, poly (vinyl alcohol) polyethylene, cross-linked polyethylene oxide, starch-grafted polyacrylonitrile copolymer, salts thereof, and combinations thereof.

[0062] The amount of SAP in the core is not particularly limited and may suitably be from 1 to 95% by weight of the core. This range includes all values ​​and subranges therebetween, including 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90 and 95% by weight of the core. In one embodiment, the "high" SAP charge content is> 50% by weight of the core.

[0063] The SAP may suitably be in contact with the flocs during the airlaid process during core manufacture.

[0064] In one embodiment, the core has a thickness of 2 to 500 mm. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 400 and 500, and any range inside. In one embodiment, the core is 2 to 50 mm thick. In one embodiment, the "thin" core thickness is 2 to 25 mm.

[0065] In one embodiment, the porosity is related to the volume of the core. In one embodiment, higher porosity is associated with higher volume and lower porosity is associated with lower volume. The unit of measure for porosity is a second, which is the length of time it takes for a given amount of air to pass the test. A sample with a higher porosity will allow a given amount of air to pass faster than a sample with a lower porosity. In one embodiment, a higher proportion of hardwood results in a higher density as well as a lower porosity. For example, typical values ​​for volumes of 1-1.5 cm³/ g are observed for most papers and 6 cm³/ g would be considered high.

[0066] In one embodiment, the core may have a volume value of 2 to 6 cm³/ g. This range includes all values ​​and subranges between them, including 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 cm³/ g, or any subrange inside.

[0067] In one embodiment, the core can be made by the airlaid process. This may include one or more of the steps of fiberising the fibers, forming a web, tying the web, or a combination of two or more of these.

[0068] In the fiberising of the fibers, the cellulose pulp or the dried web may be fed to one or more hammer mills, sawmills and / or pin mills, or any combination thereof. They may have a series of saws or pins, or small hammers, for example rotating at high speed, to separate the pulp into individual loose fibers. The fibers are then transported to the web-forming system. Synthetic fibers, natural fibers, or both synthetic and natural fibers can also be added in this step. These can be delivered as compact bales and fed to bale opening systems that loosen and separate the bales into individual fibers.

[0069] In forming the web, any known forming technology may be used to produce the airlaid flock web. In one embodiment, the cellulosic fibrous pulp fibers are screened through a coarse filter and deposited by means of a vacuum onto the conduit forming below. In another embodiment, forming drums may be used with the fibers passing through a series of holes or slots in a large cylinder that covers the width of the forming conduit. In one embodiment, the fluff web is held in place by a vacuum system located below the forming duct, and additives such as superabsorbent polymers or odor control powders may be incorporated into the web at this stage.

[0070] More than one web forming device may be used to allow flexibility in web forming and increase line efficiency. Technology often allows the composition and structure of the network to be controlled to achieve the various functions required. Prior to bonding, the web may be compacted by large rollers to ensure some integrity and consistency. It can also be embossed with a pattern or logo according to customer requirements.

[0071] Any method as needed may be used for tying and consolidating the network. For example, latex, thermal and / or hydrogen bonding may be used. One embodiment has multiple bonds with more than one bonding method being used in combination. In one embodiment, latex and thermal bonding may be used in combination. Other combinations are possible.

[0072] A latex bond may be used to bond the web with the web in contact with the latex binder. In one embodiment, the top of the compacted web is latex sprayed and oven dried; and then the net is turned so that it can be sprayed on the other side. It then passes through a second furnace which dries and hardens the binder before the web is cooled, cut and wound onto rollers. In another embodiment, latex foam is used in place of the spray.

[0073] Synthetic binder fibers are present in the thermal bonding. In one embodiment, the synthetic binder fibers include bi-component polyethylene and polypropylene fibers. In one embodiment, after compaction, the web is transported to a furnace, which softens and melts the fiber sheaths so that they connect to each other and bind the various web components. Thereafter, the web may be calendered for thickness correction as needed, cooled, and transported to the cutting / winding system.

[0074] In hydrogen bonding, the cellulose fibers bond to each other when the naturally occurring moisture contained in the fibers is removed when the fibers are in close contact. This can be suitably done under conditions of high temperature and pressure. Synthetic binders can be added to the airlaid network or eliminated from the airlaid network.

[0075] In one embodiment of multiple bonding, a combination of latex and thermal bonding is used; the web is thermally bonded and latex is sprayed as necessary on both sides of the web to reduce the fluff that is often released in high speed conversion operations.

[0076] The fluff or core pulp may suitably be used in an absorbent product, paper product, personal care product, medical product, insulation product, construction product, structured material, cement, food product, veterinary product, packaging product, diaper. , tampon, sanitary napkin, gauze, bandage, fireproof material or a combination thereof, containing cellulosic pulp and / or fibrous or frayed cellulosic pulp, or a core, or a combination thereof. These products typically include the flocs or a core (as a whole or part of the absorbent portion) and one or more support structures or materials.

For example, the support structure or material may include one or more nonwovens, a nonwoven layer, a nonwoven cover sheet, a braided layer, a film, a backsheet, a moisture barrier, a non-porous layer, a wicking retainer, or the like, or a combination thereof. . The support structure or material may or may not perform a support function for the core; for example, it may simply include the core, or provide a barrier between the user and the core, or between the core and the environment. The female panty liner may include a core and a nonwoven and / or braided layer between the core and the skin of the wearer; and a back sheet or a moisture barrier on the back side thereof to alleviate or prevent fluid loss or stain; and optionally one or more wings, an adhesive strip, deodorant and the like. The tampon can include a core, nonwoven or braided material between the core and the wearer; a pull cord, and optionally an insertion device having a cylinder, handle, plunger or the like. The diaper may include a core and a nonwoven layer, a braided layer or the like, and a non-porous outer layer such as a polypropylene or polyethylene outer layer. The medical product may include a core and a nonwoven or braided layer between the core and the user, and a back optionally non-porous layer. The bandage may further comprise an adhesive layer for sticking the bandage including the core to the skin. The oil barrier may include a mesh or porous layer surrounding all or part of the core. Such support structures are known in the art. According to the teachings provided herein, combined with the knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art, an absorbent product comprising at least a core and a support structure can be easily produced.

[0078] Shred Energy Procedure. For cellulose pulp shredding, the Kamas hammer mill is a simulation of commercial equipment manufactured and supplied by Kamas Industri AB for use in making cellulose pulp products. As commercial equipment, it has variable rotor speed, variable pulp feed speed and replaceable filters. The pulp strips are hand fed into the mill and defibrated with freely swinging hammers until the resulting fluff is broken enough to pass through the filter openings. Controlled conditions are used in the fluff testing room, 72 ° F and 55% (+/- 5) relative humidity; and a Kamas H 01 type laboratory defibrator was used for the apparatus. The samples were prepared by conditioning the pulp sheets in the test room for at least 4 h. For lab formed sheets, trim approximately '/ 2' from the edge. Cut the pulp sheets (machining direction) into strips, 5-10 strips / trial, 2 inches wide. Save your weight. Air flow during operation

-16 should be 32.5-35 1 / s; set impeller to 3300 rpm, feeder to -15 cm / s, time for 7 seconds, and use a 10 mm filter, unless otherwise stated; pass the next test strip and repeat; collect the frayed pulp in the filter receiving funnel; empty the fluff into a plastic bag; mix by hand, then seal the bag and shake vigorously until a homogeneous fluff mixture is obtained.

[0079] Shred Quality: The shredded cellulosic pulp fractionation test on four filters can determine the fiber size distribution in the dry ragged pulp. The high velocity moving air stream disperses the frayed pulp in a covered standard test sieve, while individual fibers are removed through the wire mesh by the applied vacuum. The amount of fluff retained on the screen wire is determined by weight. The fiber is fractionated through a series of screens with successively increasing holes. The fractions are counted as the percentage of the original weight of the whole fluff. The apparatus includes a cellulose pulp air fluff turbulence generator and a separator; USA Standard Test Sieves: 8 "diameter x 2" height; USA Std # 200 (75 pm bore); USA Std # 50 (300 pm bore); USA Std # 14 (1400 pm bore); USA Std # 8 (2360 pm bore). This test must be performed in a controlled room with 48% to 52% relative humidity and 21.1 to 22.2 ° C (70 to 72 ° F).

[0080] Procedure: (1) Condition the frayed pulp for at least 4 h in the test room. Mix the fluff in the plastic bag by hand and by vigorously shaking the closed bag, which contains the air space, until the fiber sections are uniformly distributed and a representative test sample is obtained. (2) Take the pulp from different places in the bag and weigh out 5 grams (+/- 0.01 gram). Record weight and place on a tared # 200 sieve. Place the sieve on the fluff separator and cover. Seal the seam formed by the screen with a large rubber gasket to allow a more uniform air / vacuum distribution. (3) Set the timer for 5 minutes and start the fractionator. Adjust compressed air to 30 psi (206.8 kPa) and vacuum to 4 in. (10.16 cm). Small parts will pass through the sieve into a vacuum. When finished, remove the sieve, remove the cover and weigh the sieve plus pulp on a tared balance. Record the weight of the pulp remaining on the # 200 sieve. The weight of the fines is the difference in the pulp weight before and after fractionation. (4) Tare # 50 sieve and transfer the pulp from step 3 to # 50 sieve, cover, place on fractionator and close. Set the timer for 5 minutes; Start the fractionator and proceed as in step 3 (adjust air and vacuum as needed). Record the weight of the pulp retained on filter # 50. (5) Tare # 14 sieve and transfer pulp from # 50 sieve to # 14, cover, place on fractionator and seal as in step 2. Set the clock to 5 minutes. Reset the switch by turning knob to off, then back to auto. Start the fractionator and proceed as in step 3 (adjust air and vacuum as needed). Record the weight of the pulp retained on filter # 14. (6) Transfer the pulp from filter # 14 to # 8. Repeat the above method (5 minutes, 30 psi (206.8 kPa) and vacuum at 4 in. (10.16 cm) and record the weight of the pulp retained at # 8. Calculation: For the calculation of (1) the original fluff weight; (2) weight remaining on # 200; (3) weight remaining on # 50; (4) weight remaining on # 14; and (5) the weight remaining on # 8. Percentage of Passing Through # 200 = {(1) - (2)} / (1) x 100 =% Minor Items. Percentage of detainees on # 200 = {(2) - (3)} / (1) x 100 =%

-17 good elements. Percentage of Retained on # 50 = {(3) - (4)} / (1) x 100 =% Good Items. Percent Retained at # 14 = {(4) - (5)} / (1) x 100 =% Defective Parts (fiber agglomerates). Percent Retained at # 8 = (5) / (1) x 100 =% of Sub-Items. The percentage of # 200 passes is reported as Minor items. The percentage of people stopping on filter # 200 but passing # 50 is reported as Good Elements. The percentage of # 50 retained but passing # 14 is reported as Good Elements. (The good elements together are the sum of two fractions of the good elements) The percentage retained on filter # 14 but passing through filter # 8 is reported as Defective Elements (fiber agglomerates). The percentage retained on filter # 8 is reported as Partial Elements. It is recommended to conduct a minimum of three sample tests.

[0081] The Scan absorption test can determine the absorption properties (shred absorption, sometimes called absorption capacity) of the cellulose pulp plugs. The method is based on the Scandinavian standard SCAN-C 33:80. The amount of fluff (volume), absorption rate and absorption capacity are measured by placing a test pad on the unit, applying a uniform charge, and letting the pad absorb liquid from bottom to saturation. The apparatus is a SCAN Absorption Tester which comprises a test piece forming device, an absorption unit and a time measuring device. Reagents include 0.9% saline solution (NaCl). Procedure:

(1) Prepare an aqueous solution of 0.9% sodium chloride in deionized water (e.g. 180 g / 20 L) and transfer to a carboy for brine supply; (2) Rinse the electrode plate and dry it with a cloth; rinse the filter and the tank to remove the residual, dry and replace in the sampler. Open the valve on the ridge tile and pour the brine until it flows into the overflow cup; Close the valve; If necessary, stabilize the instrument by overflowing several samples before analyzing the test samples; (3) Mix the fluff by vigorously shaking the inflated sample bag; Weigh approximately 3.20 g of cellulose pulp (take a few small parts from the entire bag to obtain a representative sample); (4) Neat the forming tube (plexiglass cylindrical mold with 50 mm base filter) and place it firmly on the insert forming machine (make sure it is firmly seated on the gasket); Turn on the vacuum and feed the pulp to the forming device in small amounts, allowing the greatest possible separation of fibers; Avoid feeding lumps of pulp; (5) After shaping the insert, turn off the vacuum and remove the mold / filter assembly; Place a tared assembly with insert on the balance and remove excess pulp to a final weight of 3.00 g +/- 0.01; Place the pulp as needed until a uniform thickness is obtained; Fibers sometimes accumulate on one side of the pipe, especially when there are many defective parts; Remove from this area first to obtain 3.00 g, then refold as needed, carefully lifting mat / fibers to a thinner area; Gently beat the shifted fibers to a uniform thickness; Prepare 6-8 test pads; (6) Test weight 3.00 g; (7) Pre-wet the SCAN sampler sample basket and use a cloth to remove excess; Lower the electrode plate and zero the height sensor; Lift and latch the electrode plate; (8) Remove the bottom filter from the tube

-18 forming; Place the plexiglass tube on the SCAN wire basket; gently lower the electrode plate (with load on the upper shaft) onto the insert; carefully pick up the form (keep it in place); start the clock, then tilt the handle and put the pipe on it; Avoid touching the wires and shaft with the pipe; start brine flow at about 18-20 seconds; at 30 s. lift the tank in one even movement and hold it in place; If required, lower the tank, close the brine valve and let it drain out of the insert; Lift the electrode plate up through the forming tube when requested; If the insert is stuck to the plate, gently tap the edge of the pipe to release the basket insert; Snap the electrode plate, remove the forming tube and carefully transfer the insert to the balance; Record wet weight; Enter the weight of the wet liner into the computer; Record the dry height (thickness, mm), specific volume (cm³/ g), absorption time (s) and wet weight in a spreadsheet; Report absorption time (s), absorption speed (cm / s), specific volume (g / cm)³) and yield (g / g); Perform 6-10 tests on a sample; Report means and standard deviations.

[0082] Multiple dose acquisition test procedure: A 5 "x 12" frayed cellulose pulp airlaid sample is compressed to a density of 0.15 g / cm.³; a sheet of cardboard is placed on top of the compressed sample; a 1 "diameter dosing tube weighing 1000 g is centered on the top of the sample; 30 ml of 0.9% saline solution is dosed at a flow rate of 7 ml / sec; the timing begins when dosing begins and ends when all the saline solution is absorbed and the absorption time is recorded; 300 seconds after absorption of the first dose, a second dose of saline solution is administered and the timing procedure is repeated and the absorption time is recorded; 300 seconds after the second dose has been absorbed, the third dose is administered and the timing procedure is repeated and the absorption time recorded.

[0083] Multiple dose rehydration test procedure / Two dose rehydration test: 5 "x 12" frayed cellulose pulp airlaid sample is compressed to a density of 0.15 g / cm.³; a sheet of cardboard is placed on top of the compressed sample; a 1 "diameter dosing tube weighing 1000 g is centered on the top of the sample; 30 ml of 0.9% saline solution is dosed at a flow rate of 7 ml / sec; after 300 seconds a second dose of saline solution is applied; 300 seconds after the second dose, the dosing tube is removed and a pre-weighed 8 "x 8" sheet of Verigood tissue paper recorded in advance is placed on top and a 50 cm load² 3kpa is applied for 60 seconds; the load is removed and the filter paper is weighed. The difference between wet and dry paper is written as rehydration.

[0084] SAP retention procedure: Prepare cellulose pulp by fiberising the sheets in a Kamas H 01 hammer mill under specified conditions. Form 1.9 g inserts as follows: Insert the 14 mm filter into the hammer mill. Set the rotor to -800 rpm. Place the nonwoven backing piece on the 322.6 cm forming filter² (50 in²) and attach the filter to the funnel and install in the vacuum chamber. Weigh -1.9 g of cellulose pulp in a weighing dish. Weigh out the required% SAP for the test.

-19 Spray the SAP evenly over the fluff. Start the rotor and feed the entire pulp directly to the crusher through the front chute. Stop the impeller and remove the funnel apparatus from the bottom of the chamber. Use a tamping device to compress the pulp on the forming filter. Remove the top funnel. Pull off the inlay and the fleece backing together. Fold the fleece over the top insert. Place the press ring on the nylon block. Place the insert inside the bottom of the ring and place the rod inside the ring. Place 1000 g of weight on the rod and place in the Carver press. Press down to 6895 kPa (1000 psi) and release the pressure. Set the sonic separator to amplitude 2. Prepare a stack of screens with a 60 mesh filter on top and a 400 mesh filter on the bottom. Remove the fleece insert and place on the 60 mesh screen. Place the stack in the separator. Set the clock to three minutes and press start. Take and weigh the SAP from the fleece, 60 and 400 sieves. Calculate the SAP retention.

[0085] Compressibility procedure: The compressibility was tested on airlaid inserts of 900 g / m². The inserts are made by forming 9 grams of conditioned (50% relative humidity, 25 ° C (77 ° F)) fibrous cellulose pulp per 100 cm² round forming plate. The airlaid inserts were then placed at 100 cm² the ring and a cylinder on top of the insert. The liner, ring and cylinder were placed under a Carver press and a predetermined pressure charge (to be determined by scientist) was applied for 1 minute (in Example 2 below, the predetermined pressure charge was 1110 kPa (161 PSF) or 1551 kPa (225 PSI) respectively ). The pressure was then released and the compressed liners removed from the ring. 20 minutes later the pad thickness was measured and the pad density calculated.

[0086] Gurley stiffness procedure: The Gurley stiffness measurement procedure follows the procedure outlined below using procedure T 543 Paper Flex Strength (Gurley Type Tester).

EXAMPLES

Example 1:

[0087] On the paper machine, four cellulose pulps as described herein were prepared which contained different levels of hardwood fiber. The four cellulose pulps were 0%, 8%, 15% and 23% by weight of hardwood fibers. These cellulose pulps have been characterized for their cellulosic pulp properties and for the quality of the flocs as described herein. The SAP retention capacity of the compacted airlaid core of the cellulosic pulp was also measured as described herein.

Figure 1 shows SAP retention according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 2 depicts Mullen values ​​according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 3 shows the shred energy values ​​according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 4 shows the shred quality as a percentage of good and fine elements according to example and comparative embodiments.

Figure 5 shows the tear quality as a percentage of the defective items and partial items according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Figure 6 shows the absorption of the shreds according to the absorption capacity and speed according to exemplary and comparative embodiments.

[0088] Table 1 lists the multi-dose acquisition test data for exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Table 1

<td colspan="4">MULTI-DOSE ACQUISITION TEST - Acquisition times, seconds</td>

<td>% HARDWOOD</td><td>FIRST DOSE</td><td>SECOND DOSE</td><td>THIRD DOSE</td>

<td> 0</td><td> 27,4</td><td> 74,4</td><td> 98,0</td>

<td> 8</td><td> 33,2</td><td> 88,3</td><td> 115,3</td>

<td> 15</td><td> 37,3</td><td> 99,7</td><td> 127,4</td>

<td> 34</td><td> 40,8</td><td> 110,1</td><td> 135,1</td>

[0089] Table 2 shows test data for rehydration at multiple doses for exemplary and comparative embodiments.

Table 2

<td colspan="2">MULTIPLE DOSES Rehydration Test The importance of rehydration</td><td></td>

<td>% HARDWOOD</td><td>SECOND DOSE</td><td>THIRD DOSE</td>

<td> 0</td><td> 5,5</td><td> 7,0</td>

<td> 8</td><td> 5,3</td><td> 6,1</td>

<td> 15</td><td> 5,6</td><td> 6,8</td>

<td> 34</td><td> 5,3</td><td> 6,6</td>

[0090] The results show that the addition of even only 8% of the hardwood achieved a significant improvement in SAP retention.

[0091] The results show that Mullen values ​​and shred energy are reduced with hardwood substitution.

[0092] The results show that the quality of the shreds is maintained with an increased amount of fines in the shred.

[0093] The results show that the acquisition rate increased with the hardwood but there was no effect on rehydration.

[0094] These results suggest that a slight substitution with hardwood can provide the benefits of producing cores with high SAP content and improved SAP retention and thinner cores are possible.

[0095] From the examples shown, it can be seen that the examples falling within the scope of the claims have better advantages over the comparative examples.

Example 2: For these examples, the "insert" may be the core of an absorbent article.

[0096] Two cellulose pulps were produced on a pulp machine in the Southeast US. One cellulose pulp was made of 100% softwood fiber (control), while another cellulose pulp was made of 82% softwood fiber and 18% hardwood fiber (18% hardwood). These cellulose pulps were fiberized on a 25.4 cm (10 inch) hammer mill operated at 3000 rpm and a feed rate of 0.094 kg / min / cm (0.24 kg / min / in) wide. Fibrous cellulose pulps were sampled and made into airlaid inserts, which were typical inserts used in the absorbent core of absorbent products. These inserts have been tested for compressibility and stiffness.

[0097] The compressibility was tested on airlaid inserts of 900 g / m2² These inserts were made by molding 9 grams of conditioned (50% RH, 25 ° C (77 ° F)) fibrous cellulose pulp per 100 cm.² round forming plate. The airlaid inserts were then placed at 100 cm² the ring and a cylinder on top of the insert. The liner, ring, and cylinder were placed under a Carver press and a predetermined load was applied for 1 minute (as shown in Table 3 below). The pressure was then released and the compressed liners removed from the ring. 20 minutes later the pad thickness was measured and the pad density calculated. The results are presented in Table 3.

Table 3.

<td>Cellulose pulp</td><td>Pressure at the liner kPa (PSI)</td><td>Insole thickness cm (mil)</td><td>Insole density g / cm³</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 1110(161)</td><td> 0,73 (287)</td><td> 0,13</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 1110(161)</td><td> 0,56 (219)</td><td> 0,16</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 1551 (225)</td><td> 0,52 (205)</td><td> 0,18</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 1551 (225)</td><td> 0,41 (160)</td><td> 0,22</td>

[0098] The results in Table 3 clearly show that the cellulose pulp containing 18% hardwood was compressed into a thinner insert and higher density than the control.

Cellulose pulp that is compressed into a thinner insert is a desirable characteristic for manufacturers of absorbent products as there is a need to make thinner absorbent products.

[0099] However, making products thinner by increasing the density will result in an undesirable increase in the stiffness of the liner. These stiffer inserts will be inconvenient for the user of the absorbent product, so there is a need for a liner that is thinner, yet flexible and soft. The inserts were made of control cellulose pulps and 18% Hardwood, and their stiffness was measured using a Gurley-type tester to measure the flexural strength of the inserts (see procedure Tappi T 543 Paper Flex Strength). The inserts were made at 300 g / m2² and compressed to different densities using different pressures in a Carver press. A 1.5 inch by 1.0 inch piece was cut from the circular insert and placed in the Gurley stiffness tester. The results are summarized in Table 4. Additionally, lightly processed commercially produced cellulose pulp (ST 160) was also included in this analysis. Lightly processed cellulose pulp is made by adding a small amount of debubber (&lt;1 lbs / t) to the pulp feed system at the wet end of the pulp machine. Debonders are typically added to cellulosic pulp to reduce the amount of energy required to fiberize the cellulosic pulp as well as to increase the quality of the shreds of the cellulosic fibrous pulp. This cellulose pulp is made from 100% US Southeast softwood fiber.

Table 4

<td>Cellulose pulp</td><td>Insole density g / cm³</td><td>Gurley's stiffness mg</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,12</td><td> 760</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,31</td><td> 1383</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,34</td><td> 2534</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,62</td><td> 6822</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,14</td><td> 825</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,31</td><td> 1184</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,35</td><td> 1806</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,62</td><td> 5808</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td>0, H.</td><td> 799</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td> 0,22</td><td> 947</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td> 0,36</td><td> 1458</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td> 0,56</td><td> 1287</td>

[0100] These results clearly show that for a given density and thickness (as these inserts were made with the same base weight) the stiffness of the inserts made of 18% Hardwood is lower than the control made of 100% Softwood fibers. These results advantageously show the added advantage of adding some hardwood to the cellulosic pulp; the addition of hardwood will not only make the liner thinner and denser, but also reduce the stiffness of the liner at a given density, which is desirable for manufacturers of absorbent products looking to make thinner products that are flexible and soft.

[0101] The results in Table 4 also clearly show the drastic effect of the breaker on stiffness. The cellulose pulp containing the cones, however, increased the stiffness only slightly with the increase in density. At the highest densities there is a very large difference in the stiffness of these inserts .______________________________________________________________

<td>Cellulose pulp</td><td>Insole density g / cm³</td><td>Gurley's stiffness mg</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,12</td><td> 760</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,31</td><td> 1383</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,34</td><td> 2534</td>

<td>Checklist</td><td> 0,62</td><td> 6822</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,14</td><td> 825</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,31</td><td> 1184</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,35</td><td> 1806</td>

<td>18% Hard wood</td><td> 0,62</td><td> 5808</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td>0, H.</td><td> 799</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td> 0,22</td><td> 947</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td> 0,36</td><td> 1458</td>

<td>ST 160 - Lightly machined</td><td> 0,56</td><td> 1287</td>

[0102] These results clearly show that for a given density and thickness (as these inserts were made with the same base weight) the stiffness of the inserts made of 18% Hardwood is lower than that of the control made of 100% Softwood fibers. These results advantageously show the added advantage of adding some hardwood to the cellulosic pulp; the addition of hardwood will not only make the liner thinner and denser, but also reduce the stiffness of the liner at a given density, which is desirable for manufacturers of absorbent products looking to make thinner products that are flexible and soft.

[0103] The results in Table 4 also clearly show the drastic effect of the breaker on stiffness. The cellulose pulp containing the cones but increased the stiffness only slightly

-24 when increasing the density. At the highest densities, there is a very large difference in the stiffness of these inserts. Accordingly, the inventors have indicated one embodiment of this invention which consists in that by combining the effects of hardwood fiber and debonder (or otherwise disintegrated fibers), a highly desirable core-shaped cellulose pulp can be produced for an absorbent product manufacturer requiring compressed flexible networks, cores, inserts, etc.

[0104] Ranges as used herein are used as a shorthand to describe any and any value that is within the range, including all subranges within.

[0105] Further aspects of the invention are summarized as follows:

Described is cellulose pulp comprising: softwood fibers and 3 to 35% by weight hardwood fibers, the cellulose pulp preferably containing 5 to 30% by weight of hardwood fibers and the cellulose pulp preferably having a moisture content of &lt;15% by weight and / or preferably it contains a grammage from 500 to 1100 g / m². Described is a method of producing cellulose pulp, comprising: contacting a first aqueous slurry containing softwood fibers with a second aqueous slurry containing hardwood fibers to form a finish; contacting the finish with the moving wire to form the web; and drying and optionally pressing the web to form a cellulosic pulp and / or comprising pressing the web and / or preferably comprising winding the cellulosic pulp into a roll or cutting the cellulosic pulp into sheets, and stacking the sheets to form a bale, and / or preferably drying comprises drying instant nets to form cellulose pulp and then bag the cellulose pulp, and / or preferably additionally involving contacting the first and second suspensions in the mixing box. The method preferably, prior to contacting the first and second suspensions, further comprises:

forming the hardwood fiber by one or more steps selected from the group consisting of shredding, grinding and whitening the hardwood, or a combination of two or more thereof; and forming the softwood fiber by one or more steps selected from the group consisting of shredding, grinding and whitening the softwood, or a combination of two or more thereof, and / or the cellulose pulp is in the form of a bale or roll, or in a bag and / or lint , including cellulosic pulp in fibrous form as previously described. A method for producing flocs comprising fiberizing cellulosic pulp and / or preferably airlaid. The method also includes taking the cellulosic pulp from a bale, roll, or bag, or combinations thereof, and fiberising the cellulosic pulp in the form of a core, comprising: flocs containing from 5 to 25 wt. hardwood fibers and one or more superabsorbent polymer (SAP) having a SAP retention greater than 75%, and / or preferably the SAP is selected from the group consisting of a starch-acrylonitrile copolymer, a hydrolyzed starch-acrylonitrile copolymer, an acrylic acid (co) polymer, ( co) acrylamide polymer, poly (vinyl alcohol), polyacrylate / polyacrylamide copolymers, polyacrylate (co) polymers, sodium polyacrylate, ethylene maleic anhydride copolymer, cross-linked carboxymethylcellulose, poly (vinyl alcohol) copolymer, polyethylene oxide, cross-linked polyethylene oxide, starch-grafted copolymer

The polyacrylonitrile, a salt of one or more thereof, and a combination of two or more thereof, and / or preferably the SAP is present in an amount in the range of 1 to 85% by weight of the core. A method of producing a core comprising contacting the fluff and one or more superabsorbent polymers and / or preferably further comprising forming a web after contact and compacting the web in the drum, and / or preferably the contact is made in an airlaid line. An absorbent product, paper product, personal care product, medical product, insulation product, construction product, structural material, cement, food product, veterinary product, packaging product, diaper, tampon, sanitary napkin, gauze, bandage, fireproof material or a combination thereof is described comprising a core and a supporting structure. A method of producing an absorbent product which comprises contacting at least a portion of the core with a support structure. In addition, the pulp contains 5 to 25 wt. the hardwood fibers and / or preferably the pulp comprises 5 to 20 wt. hardwood fibers, and / or preferably 8 to 18 wt. the hardwood fibers and / or preferably the pulp comprises 5 to 25 wt. hardwood fiber and has SAP, while in core form, greater than 75%, and / or preferably has a compressed thickness, while in core form, less than 7.11 mm (280 mil) at 1110 kPa (161 PSI) and compressed thickness less than 5.08 mm (200) at 1551 kPa (225PSI), and / or preferably has a compressed density, while in core form, greater than 0.13 g / cm2³ at H10kPa (161PSI) and a compressed density greater than 0.18 at 1551 kPa (225PSI), and / or preferably has a Gurley stiffness, being in the form of a core having a density of about 0.31 g / cm 2³(uncompressed) less than 1350 mg, and / or preferably further comprises a debonder, and / or preferably the debonder comprises at least one debonder selected from the group consisting of a linear or branched monoalkyl amine, a linear or branched dialkyl amine, a linear or branched tertiary alkyl amine. linear or branched quaternary alkyl amine, ethoxylated alcohol, linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon surfactant, fatty acid amide, fatty acid amide quaternary amide, dialkyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium salt, dialkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salt, dialkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt, triethanolamine dicylate fatty acid, ethoxylated fatty acid amine, dialkyl fatty acid amine fatty, dialkyl amide fatty acid, cationic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, a C16-C18 unsaturated ethoxylated alkyl alcohol, a compound having no. 68155-01-1 in the CAS Registry and a compound having no. 26316-40-5 in the CAS Registry, and / or preferably a pulp having Gurley stiffness, while in the a core having a density of about 0.31 g / cm³ (uncompressed) less than 1350 mg, and / or preferably further comprises a debonder, and / or preferably the debonder comprises at least one debonder selected from the group consisting of a linear or branched monoalkyl amine, a linear or branched dialkyl amine, a linear or branched tertiary alkyl amine. linear or branched quaternary alkyl amine, ethoxylated alcohol, linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon surfactant, fatty acid amide, quaternary ammonium amide

-26 fatty acid, dialkyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium salt, dialkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium salt, dialkyl ester quaternary ammonium salt, triethanolamine double tallow fatty acid, ethoxylated primary amine fatty acid ester, ethoxylated fatty ammonium fatty acid, dialkyl fatty acid ammonium fatty acid cationic surfactant, non-ionic surfactant, Ci-C18 unsaturated ethoxylated alkyl alcohol, compound having CAS Registry No. 68155-01-1 and CAS Registry No. 26316-40-5, and / or preferably a pulp having Gurley stiffness, being in the form of a core having a density of about 0 , 62 g / cm³(uncompressed) less than 6800 mg, and / or preferably the pulp further comprises a debonder, and / or preferably the debonder comprises at least one debonder selected from the group consisting of a linear or branched monoalkyl amine, a linear or branched dialkyl amine, a linear or branched tertiary alkyl amine linear or branched quaternary alkyl amine, ethoxylated alcohol, linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon surfactant, fatty acid amide, fatty acid amide quaternary ammonium, dialkyl dimethyl quaternary ammonium, dialkyl imidazoline quaternary ammonium, dialkyl ester quaternary ammonium, triethoxyl fatty acid ester diate, fatty acid triethanolamine ethoxylated quaternary ammonium salt, dialkyl amide fatty acid, dialkyl amide fatty acid, cationic surfactant, nonionic surfactant, C16-C18 unsaturated ethoxylated alkyl alcohol, compound having No. 68155-01-1 in the CAS Registry and compound having No. 26316-40-5 in the CAS Registry.

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