Refastenable adhesive fastening systems for disposable absorbent articles

Description DISPOSABLE ABSORBENT ARTICLES WITH ADHESIVE FIXING SYSTEM REUTILI 7ÁVFT SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to adhesive fastening systems for disposable absorbent articles, such as baby diapers or incontinent adult briefs, and more specifically, to an easily attaching, rectilizable adhesive bonding system. It is easily reopened and readjusted without tearing the receiving member even if it comprises a back sheet of low caliber polyethylene film without any reinforcement for tear strength.

Mod. 71 · 30,000 o. · 90/0 «

ORIGINS OF THE INVENTION

Disposable absorbent articles such as baby diapers or incontinent adult underpants are well known in the art and widely sold on the market. Many commercially available diapers or briefs include a tape bonding system for securing the articles to an incontinent baby or adult. The actuation of the fastening system represents a key element for the functionality of such articles, thus contributing to the commercial success of the absorbent articles having built-in tape fastening systems.

This is reflected in the large amount of references for absorbent articles disposable with adhesive fastening systems. In particular, adhesive fastening systems that allow the absorbent article to be opened and re-closed to check whether or not it is time to exchange, often referred to as reusable systems, have drawn much attention. in the branch.

design of the fastening systems ade

<img file="PT101797B_D0001.tif" />

65-387

Case 4516

MO 4. / 1 ​​· ADJUSTED a. · Disposable absorbent absorbers focuses on two main criteria that normally oppose each other: adhesive bonding safety and reusability. The purpose of such adhesive fastening systems is to achieve both strong bonding security (a bond that remains in use) and non-destructive removal of the tapes for reuse. It is generally believed that the pulling force of a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape from a substrate is one of the most important factors in determining how an adhesive fastening system actually acts during use. This force shows that higher forces improve the bonding safety of the fastening system, but make it more difficult to remove without tearing the receiving member. Thus, the older solutions for providing an improved adhesive fastening system were aimed at balancing pull strength to optimize bonding safety and reusability. One of the target areas was the adjustment of the properties of the adhesive bonding system elements. In particular, the tensile strength (tensile strength) of the receiving member, usually the unreinforced backsheet of the absorbent article, was improved so that the backsheet could withstand high tensile loads caused by the removal of the tape. However, such back sheets tend to be rigid, noisy, expensive and more costly in material resources and the environment (requiring more materials). Conversely, the tape properties were adjusted to increase the contact area and decrease the pulling force so that the backing sheet strength was not exceeded. These systems were expensive, inconvenient, and had low connection security against any low pressure application. When high-security adhesive bonding systems began to be required to meet the conditions of use

<img file="PT101797B_D0002.tif" />

65.387

Case 4516

Mod.? L · 20,000 &lt;&lt;. 20) 08 Absorbent pads, additional strength had to be added to the backsheet to prevent tearing. This additional strength has been imparted to the backsheet by increasing its thickness and / or reinforcing it for example by laminating the additional materials into or out of the backsheet in the bonding area.

For example, U.S. Patent Nos. 3,875,621 and 3,931,666 each describe diaper adhesive tapes providing reusability by transferring a target tape to the backsheet, thereby avoiding destruction of the backsheet when removing the tape and providing a target surface for reuse. In U.S. Patents 3,950,824, 4,067,337 and 4,769,283, reusability is obtained by providing particular adhesive surfaces, selecting particular adhesive materials, subdividing the adhesive surface into small areas or using different adhesive materials on different portions of the adhesive surface. Scotch tape. All of these attempts to achieve reusability have resulted in additional cost and complexity in the manufacture of articles and some have also made it more complicated for users to use.

U.S. Patents 4,237,889, 4,389,212 and 4,769,283 disclose improved tape carrier materials and tape carrier designs. These improvements were intended to reduce tape holder failure by providing transverse elasticity or improved flexibility and softness in the tape holder material.

U.S. Patent Nos. 3,867,940, 4,296,750 and 4,983,176 are directed to reinforcing the backsheet to prevent tearing of the backsheet when opening the adhesive fastening system. In particular, great use has been described and found especially

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0003.tif" />

/ in baby diapers, a coating of a hot melt dowel on the backsheet, as well as applying an additional layer of film material to reinforce the backsheet. This solution provides simplified reusable adhesive fastening systems for the target tape type of the fastening systems, as a single piece of high strength reusable tape can be used without destroying the backsheet material. . However, these systems increase the complexity of manufacture, the cost of the article and the environmental costs when disposing of the articles containing the extra reinforcing materials.

OOO / Μ ·· OOOOÍ · ΙΖ

U.S. Patent Nos. 4,655,761, 4,743,242 and 4,880,422 address part of the above problems by reinforcing the systems by providing backsheets capable of accepting tape without reinforcement areas. These references focus on strengthening the backsheet material when selecting polymer film material compositions or embossing patterns, however, in order to maintain the primary function of the tape, namely secure adherence to the backsheet of the disposable article. , these systems require high tape pulling force values, thereby compromising the reusability of the tape with the increased likelihood of destruction of the backsheet. In addition, the bonding security problem is compounded by deep etching (i.e. more than 50 microns) of the backsheet, which reduces the available adhesive contact area.

U.S. Patent Nos. 4,540,415 and 4,728,325 describe special adhesive compositions or backsheet polymer film compositions to provide reusability. However, its technical, economic and / or ecological action has so far not resulted

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0004.tif" />

MoJ / 1 · 20,000 · «. · 90 / 0β in commercial availability of low cost reusable tape fastening systems.

In general, all adhesive fastening systems for disposable absorbent articles have met the respective technical requirements for reusability, contamination sensitivity, initial adhesion and long term bond strength with economic, ecological and convenience requirements. However, none of the adhesive bonding systems on the market are currently able to meet all requirements and requirements. The essential technical action of aggressive backing tape fastening systems with expensive reinforcement areas or transferable target tape multi-layer tape systems with low consumption acceptance due to their complexity. These systems are particularly unsuitable for incontinent adult underpants, where the costs of such complex systems are much higher, since such underpants are much larger and the range of the user's physical dimensions is larger requiring upper area receiving members to provide for adjustability. . In addition, recent environmental concerns have dictated the use of less material. However, simple, low-cost, low-cost adhesive bonding systems; cannot exist without compromising connection security or reusability.

Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to provide an adhesive fastening system with an essential bonding security to a fastening action while providing reusability without tearing the receiving member.

It is a further object of this invention to reduce or maintain the amount of materials used in the construction.

65.387

Case 4516 of the adhesive system, thereby providing environmentally acceptable and economically disposable absorbent articles.

Another object of this invention is to provide superior bonding security and superior reusability when the receiving member is a reinforced backsheet.

so / m -> ooo ot · tz

A further object of this invention is to provide disposable absorbent articles with a low cost reusable adhesive fastening system using only the low caliber backsheet as the receiving member.

Still another object of this invention is to provide incontinent briefs or a baby diaper using the reusable tape fastening systems according to the present invention.

These and other objects of the present invention will become clearer as types with reference to the following description and when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to this invention, a disposable absorbent article such as a baby diaper or incontinent adult panties is provided with a reusable adhesive bonding system. 0 The bonding system should comprise a pair of bonding tapes, each having an adhesive surface, which, in use, is adhered to a receiving member having a bonding surface that may comprise only the backsheet of the absorbent article. disposable without any reinforcement for tear resistance or may comprise a reinforced backsheet. In par30

65-387

In this case, this invention provides an easily bonded, secure, and reusable adhesive tape fastening system (i.e. delamination and re-adherence of adhesive to the adhesive tape). backsheet without damaging the backsheet).

This invention improves bonding security while making it easy to remove a low caliber polyethylene backsheet without tearing by carefully optimizing the properties of the bonding tape and the receiving member (backsheet). These properties are optimized and measured by valuation techniques and methods that are much more predictive of the key consumer action attributes of such adhesive fastening systems. In particular, by combining the physical properties of the tapes, their backing materials and the receiving member (backsheet), the adhesive fastening system can give the desired reusability without extra materials or reinforcement parts without sacrificing connection security.

The best test to see how adhesive bonding behaves when under stress in a diaper and which best simulates a wide range of design, environmental, and consumption variables is the shear stress test. This test measures how long an adhesive alloy can hold against a given stress during a shear stress. Modified shear stress test results and typical corrugations show a very good correlation with consumer usage action. Thus, it was concluded that the adhesive fastening system should have a Standard Shear Stress Time greater than about 155 minutes per square centimeter (1000 minutes per square inch), log (TTC) of 3.0 under test conditions. standard, and a higher Modified Shear Stress Time

65-387

Case 4516 rt, Q at about 77.5 minutes per square centimeter (500 minutes per square inch), log (TTCM) of 2.7, under modified test conditions as described below.

In another aspect of the invention, bonding security and reusability may be enhanced by providing a receiving member with certain defined surface characteristics. The grip surface of the receiving member is textured to have a surface roughness with an Average Leveling Depth of between about 2 microns and about 20 microns. These surface features provide a bonding security of the adhesive fastening system.

• iz

There are two tape failure mechanisms that have some variables in common and several important variable differences. The two failure mechanisms are: crimping, which is the very slow flow of the adhesive under stress that causes the adhesive to be free of the grip surface of the receiving member; and fracture propagation, which results when stress development initiates a rapidly propagating fracture along the interface of the adhesive / receiving member until the tension energy is depleted. Shear stress tests report failure through either mechanism. Rough substrate surfaces and soft (amorphous flowable) adhesives tend to promote crimping failure, while soft substrate surfaces and hard (crystalline) adhesives tend to promote fracture propagation failures. Either mechanism contributes to failure during the use of adhesive fastening systems on disposable absorbent articles and is best avoided by balancing the adhesive and substrate properties that contribute to these failure mechanisms.

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0005.tif" />

Mod. 71 · 20,000 «> .. yo / oe

Thus, in another aspect of this invention, the properties of the tape (adhesive) and the receiving member are combined to minimize these failure mechanisms.

When the fastening system is subjected to stressful conditions due to the user's movements during use, the strap and the receiving member stretch under the load. If there is a very large difference in elongation properties, the tension is then transferred to the adhesive bond, which may cause pulling forces, which causes premature adhesive bond failure. If the tape and the receiving member have similar elongation or stretching properties, then the stress transferred to the adhesive bond is minimized and the bonding tends to stay in a stronger fault shear stress mode. Thus, in this invention, it has been found that the Young's Modulus (modulus of elasticity) of the receiving member should be increased to more closely resemble the modulus of elasticity of the tape (by a factor of at least about 2 or 3). For this reason, the receiving member, the backsheet, should have a Young's modulus (modulus of elasticity) greater than about 175 N / mm in order to withstand greater tension in the face of longer elongation.

Adhesive aggressiveness (rapid adherence) to the receiving member determines the bonding strength of the fastening system against light application pressures. This aggressiveness must be controlled to maximize bond strength but also to minimize the energy transmitted to the receiving member when the strips are removed (especially when the strips are pulled out). The impact strength or impact energy of the receiving member provides a measure of the maximum rate at which this force may be

65,387 i

&lt;θ &lt;ί. / | ·

Case 4516 /

/ transferred without initiating a tear or tear failure of the receiving limb. Thus, the adhesive is preferred to have a fast adhesion of at least 150 g / cm3 while the receiving member, the backsheet, has a strength as measured by an impact test of greater than about 1200 ergs.

Improved bonding safety and reusability of the adhesive fastening system can be achieved without reinforcement of the receiving member (which reduces the cost and improves the environmental impact of the adhesive fastening system) and with minimum materials (which reduces cost and improves ease of use as well as aesthetic appearance). The weight of the adhesive coating may be relatively low, preferably less than about 22 g / m @ 2. In addition, the back sheet, which does not need to be reinforced, may have a relatively low calculated caliber (nominal average thickness) between about 0.02 mm (0.8 mil) and about 0.036 mm (1.4 mils). .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PICTURES The summary concludes with the claims, which refer in particular and clearly claim the subject-matter of the invention. It is believed, however, that this invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying engraving, in which like designations are used to designate substantially identical elements, and wherein:

Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the disposable absorbent article (incontinent briefs) incorporating a reusable adhesive tape fastening system of this invention.

65-387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0006.tif" />

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

W / M · «ΟΟΟ Οί · ΙΖ

The reusable adhesive fastening systems of this invention of this invention are useful and beneficial when applied to disposable absorbent articles. TA1 as here is¹"absorbent article" means articles that absorb and contain body exudates, more specifically articles that are placed against or in close proximity to the wearer's body to absorb and contain the various exudates released by the wearer's body and which are supposed to be washed or restored otherwise or reused as an absorbent article (ie they are supposed to be disposed of after single use and preferably recycled, compounds or otherwise disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner). An ideal model of a disposable absorbent article of this invention is an incontinent adult diaper or underwear, shown in Figure 1 as a diaper 20. As used below, the term diaper refers to an absorbent article commonly used for incontinent children and adults that is worn between the legs and fixed around the user's waist. Examples of the type and diaper to which the present invention easily fits are shown in U.S. Pat. 26 151, B2 3,860,003, 4 253 461 is 4,704,115. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference. It will be clear from the following description that the reusable adhesive fastening system illustrated and described herein may be applied to the body portion of such diapers. On the other hand, it should be noted that the invention is not limited to any specific diaper structure or configuration, provided that the ►

which has a fastening system and is compatible with the requirements of these disposable absorbent articles.

Regarding the figure, it should be noted that the

65-387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0007.tif" />

1 AND

Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of frall da 20 according to this invention before being placed on a user. As shown in Figure 1, a preferred diaper 20 comprises a body portion and a reusable adhesive tape fastening system commonly referred to as 24. A preferred body portion 22 comprises a liquid permeable topsheet 26, an absorbent core 28, a liquid impermeable backsheet 30, and elastic leg cuffs 32 comprising a side flap 34 and one or more elastic members 36. For simplicity, only one elastic member is shown in the engravings, although more than one band can be placed on each side flap 34). Although the topsheet 26, the absorbent core 28, the backsheet 30, the side flaps 34 and the elastic members 36 may be joined in a variety of well known configurations, a preferred diaper configuration is shown, which is generally described. in the above mentioned US patent B2

860 003, issued to Kenneth B. Buell, of January 14, 1975, and U.S. Patent 4,253,461, issued to Strickland &amp; Visscher, of March 3, 1981.

Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of the body portion 22, wherein the topsheet 26 and the backsheet 30 are co-extendable, having length and width dimensions typically larger than those of the absorbent core 28. The topsheet 26 it is superimposed on the sheet 30, thus forming the periphery 38 of the body portion 22. The periphery 38 defines the outer perimeter or, in other words, the outer extent of the body portion 22. The periphery 38 comprises longitudinal edges 40 and end edges 42.

The body portion 22 has an inner surface 44 and an outer surface 45. In general,

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0008.tif" />

Moi ? l · Μ.000 «> .. ro / οβ the outer surface 45 of the diaper 20 extends from one end edge 42 to the other end edge 42 of the diaper and from one longitudinal edge 40 to the other longitudinal edge 40 of the diaper the surface being furthest from the wearer during the diaper sweat 20. The backsheet 30 should form most of the outer surface 45 of the body portion 22. The inner surface 44 is that surface of the diaper which is opposite to the outer surface 45 and which, in the embodiment shown, must be formed of the topsheet 26. Preferably, the inner surface 44 of the diaper 20 is coextensive with the outer surface. 45 and generally the inner surface 44 is mostly in contact with the wearer when the diaper 20 is used.

The diaper 20 has a first and a second end region 48 and 50, respectively, extending from the end edges 42 of the diaper periphery 38 towards the lateral centerline of the diaper 20. The first end region 48 and the second region of end 50 extend a distance of about half the length of the diaper 20, so that the end regions each comprise half of the diaper 20.

The absorbent core 28 of the body portion 22 may be any absorbent medium that is normally compressible, conformable, non-irritating to the wearer's skin, capable of absorbing and retaining liquids such as urine and other body exudates. 0 Absorbent core 28 may be manufactured in a variety of sizes and shapes (e.g. rectangular, hourglass-shaped, asymmetrical, T-shaped, etc.) and from a wide variety of commonly used liquid-absorbent materials in diapers and other disposable absorbent articles such as air felt. Examples of other absorbent materials include wrinkled cellulose fillers, blow molded polymers including

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0009.tif" />

S &lt;'

I i

coformium, crosslinked cellulosic fibers, fabrics including fabric blankets and fabric laminates, absorbent foams, absorbent sponges, superabsorbent polymers absorbent gelling materials, or any other equivalent materials or combination of materials. The configuration and construction of the absorbent core may also vary (for example, the absorbent core may have variable gauge zones, a hydrophilic gradient, a superabsorbent gradient or lower average base weight or lower average density acquisition zones; or may comprise one or more layers or structures). The total absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 28 should, however, be compatible with its intended exudate ear and the intended use of the diaper 20. In addition, the size and absorbent capacity of the absorbent core 28 may be varied to accommodate users ranging from children to adults.

One of the ideal diaper models 20 has an hourglass-shaped absorbent core. An exemplary absorbent structure for use as an absorbent core is described in US Patent 4,610,678, named High-Density Absolvent Strutures, issued to Weisman and Goldman. , September 9, 1986. U.S. Patent 4,673,410 under the name of Absorbent Articles With Dual-Layered Cones, issued to Weisman, Houghton and Gellert, June 16, 1987; and U.S. Patent 4,888,231, entitled Absorbent Core Having A Dusting Layer, issued to Angstadt of December 19, 1989 also describe the absorbent structures useful in this invention. 0 absorbent core 28 should be the commercially successful absorbent member described in US Patent 4,834,735, under the name High Density and Cower Basis Weight Acquisition Zones issued to Alemany and Berg on May 30, 1989. Other absorbent cores are described in US patents 4,685,915 and

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0010.tif" />

Morph 71 · 20,000 «&lt;. ro / οβ

781 710, comprising fibrous structures having areas of different absorbent capacity, density or rate of liquid acquisition. A thin alternative absorbent core useful in this invention can be found in U.S. Patent 4,600,458. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference.

The absorbent core 28 is superimposed on the backsheet 30 and must be joined by means of core bonding (not shown) such as those well known in the art, for example, pressure sensitive adhesives, hot melt adhesives or other adhesives; ultrasonic bondsB; heat / pressure connections; dynamic mechanical connections; or any other suitable binding means or combinations of these binding means well known in the art. For example, the absorbent core 28 may be secured to the backsheet 30 by a uniform continuous layer of adhesive, an adhesive pattern layer, or an adhesive filament web, such as any arrangement of separate lines, spirals, or points of sticker. The most suitable adhesives for this purpose are hot melt adhesives, such as those manufactured by Century Adhesives, Inc., of Columbus, Phio, marketed under the tradename Century 5227, and HB Fuller Company of St. Paul; Minnesota and which have the trade name HL-1258. The core bonding medium should comprise an open-patterned network of adhesive filaments as seen in U.S. Patent 4,573,866, entitled Disposable Waste-Containably Garment, issued to Minetola and Tucker of March 4, 2004. 1986, incorporated herein by reference. An exemplary bonding means of an open-patterned filament network comprises several lines of adhesive filaments arranged in a spiral pattern as seen by the apparatus and methods set forth in US Patent 3,911,173 to Sprague, Jr. Ou15

<img file="PT101797B_D0011.tif" />

05.387

Case 4516

Mod.? Ι · M.ooo · ro / οβ tubro 1975; U.S. Patent 4,785,996 to Ziecker et al. , November 22, 1978; and Werenicz U.S. Patent 4,842,666 of June 27, 1989. Each of these patents is incorporated herein by reference.

Backsheet 30 is impermeable to liquids (e.g., urine) and should be manufactured from a thin plastic film, preferably a thermoplastic film, although other flexible liquid impervious materials may also be used. As used herein, the term flexible refers to materials that are malleable and easily adaptable to the general shape and contours of the human body. The backsheet 30 prevents the absorbed exudates contained in the absorbent core 28 from soiling the articles in contact with the diaper 20, such as sheets and underwear. The backsheet may thus comprise polymeric films such as thermoplastic polyethylene or polypropylene films, or composite materials such as a film-coated nonwoven material. For economic, aesthetic and ecological reasons, the backsheet 30 should be of an average nominal caliber, a caliber calculated to be less than about 0.036 mm (1.4 mils), preferably a caliber of about 0.020 mm (0 1.8 mils) and about 0.036 mm (1.4 mils), preferably between about 0.025 mm (1.0 mils) and about 0.030 mm (1.2 mils).

The backsheet 30 should be a flexible polyethylene film. As used herein, the term "polyethylene film" refers to films which are essentially made of polyethylene, however, it should be noted that the polyethylene film should contain a variety of additives to provide characteristics such as opacity, strength, color or any other requirements. another characteristic that can be obtained by adding me30 quantities

65.387

<img file="PT101797B_D0012.tif" />

Case 4516 cell numbers. THE

Mod. Η 20,000 · &lt;. · 20/04 of the film materials, titanium 2-6%, weight relative to the film preferably less substances other than polyethylene in the total amount of additive should be less than 15% relative to the Weight

Particularly the dioxide is preferably used 3.5 - 4.8% for film opacity purposes. Exemplary backing films of the present invention are manufactured by Tredegar Industries, Inc. of Terrehaute, Indiana, designated X-8526. Backsheet 30 should have a texture as described below to enhance the action of the fastening system and to provide a more laundry-like appearance. In addition, the backsheet 30 may also allow vapors to escape from the absorbent core 28 while still preventing the passage of exudates. The backsheet 30 may have, for example, micro slits 4,681,793 as Serial and with the title as described, for example. The backsheet may also be the film described in Application 07/721 066, title of Backsheets, June 1991.

N2 in Biodegradable US Patent, Commonly Assigned US Patent, Copending Disposable Absorvent Articles With of Toms and Wnuk, filed

Biodegraded on 26th Ju0 backsheet size 30 depends on absorbent core 28 and the exact selected diaper design. In a preferred embodiment, the backsheet 30 has a modified hourglass shape that extends beyond an absorbent core at a minimum distance of at least about 1.3 cm to about 2.5 cm for baby diapers and 1,3 cm to about 6 cm for incontinent adult briefs around the entire periphery of the diaper 38.

of the size of

The top sheet 26 of the color portion

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0013.tif" />

IZ po 22 of this invention is malleable, soft, and non-irritating to the user's skin. In addition, the topsheet 26 is liquid permeable allowing liquids (e.g. urine) to rapidly penetrate through its thickness. A suitable topsheet 26 may be made from a wide range of materials, such as porous foams, crosslinked foams, perforated films; or woven or non-woven fabrics of natural fibers (eg, wood or cotton fibers), synthetic fibers (for example polyester or polypropylene fibers) or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers. It should be made of a material that isolates the wearer's skin from liquids trapped in the absorbent core 28.

There are a number of manufacturing techniques that can be used to make the topsheet 26. For example, the topsheet 26 may be a nonwoven fiber web. Where the topsheet comprises a nonwoven web, it may be spun, carded, humidified, fused, hydro-tangled, hydroformed, combinations of these techniques or the like. An exemplary topsheet 26 is carded and thermally bonded by means well known in the art, comprising staple length polypropylene fibers having a denier of about 2.2 and a basis weight of between about 15 and about 30 grams per meter. square. As used herein, the term staple fibers refers to those fibers having a length of at least about 15.9 mm (0.625 inch). This topsheet is manufactured by Veratec, Inc., a Division of International Paper Company of Walpole, Mass., Designated as P-8. A particularly ideal topsheet for incontinent adult panties according to this invention comprises a shaped thermoplastic film as described in U.S. Patent 3,929,135 under the title Absorbent.

65-300

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0014.tif" />

Structure Having Tapened Capillaries issued to Thompson, December 30, 1975, incorporated herein by reference.

The topsheet 26 and the backsheet 30 are joined in any suitable shape as is known in the diaper industry. As used herein, the term bond refers to configurations wherein the topsheet 26 is directly joined to the backsheet 30 by attaching the topsheet 26 directly to the backsheet 30, in configurations in which the topsheet 26 is securely joined. indirectly to the backsheet 30 by attaching the topsheet 26 to the intermediate members (e.g. absorbent core 28), which in turn are attached to the backsheet 30. In a preferred embodiment, the topsheet 26 and the backsheet 30 are joined directly to each other at the periphery of the diaper 38 by a flap attachment means such as an adhesive or any other attachment means known in the art. In general, the core attachment means securing the absorbent core 28 to the backsheet 30 is the same as the flap attachment means 56 securing the upper sheet 26 to the backsheet 30. Thus, for example, a continuous continuous adhesive layer, an adhesive pattern layer, an array of separate lines, spirals, or dots of adhesive such as a web of adhesive filaments as described in the patent may be used. USA 4-573 986.

The diaper 20 should further comprise elastic leg cuffs 32 to provide improved containment of liquids and other body exudates. Each elastic leg cuff 32 may comprise several different models for reducing leakage of body exudates in the region of the legs. (Leg cuffs may be referred to as leg cuffs, side flaps, barrier cuffs or elastic cuffs). US Patent B2 3 860 003 with the name Contractable Side Portions Outside Dispersable

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0015.tif" />

Buell, issued Jan. 14, 1975, discloses a disposable diaper which provides a retractable leg opening with a side flap and elastic members to provide an elastic leg cuff (sealing cuff). U.S. Patent 4,909,803 entitled Disposable Article Having Elasticized Flaps issued to Aziz and Blaney of March 20, 1990, discloses a disposable diaper with high elastic tabs (barrier cuffs) to improve containment of the leg regions. U.S. Patent 4,695,281, Absorbent Article Having Dual Copps, issued to Lawson of September 22, 1987, discloses a dual-handle disposable diaper including a sealing handle and a barrier handle. U.S. Patent 4,704,115, Disposable Waist Containment Gorment, issued to Buell of November 3, 1987, discloses a disposable diaper or an incontinent adult garment with side-edge guards in a shape that allows free liquid retention. inside the garment. While each elastic leg cuff 32 may have a configuration that makes it similar to any leg garter, side flap, barrier cuffs or elastic cuffs described above, it is advisable that in the incontinent adult briefs of this invention each leg cuff elastic 32 comprises a side flap 34 and one or more. elastic limbs 36 as shown in Figure 1.

The diaper may also have an elastic waist which helps to better fit and retain or any other theft feature that normally gives incontinent adult diapers or garments the same kind of facilities and which are known in the art. A typical elastic waist is described in U.S. Patent 4,515,595, issued to Kievet and Osterhage on May 7, 1985, incorporated herein by reference.

Diaper 20 has an alloy system20

65-387

<img file="PT101797B_D0016.tif" />

Case 4516

Mod. · «.000 · &lt;. The adhesive 24 for forming a side closure on each side of the diaper 20. Thus, the diaper 20 is adapted to the wearer and the first end region 48 and the second end region 50 are kept in an overlapping configuration, when the diaper 20 is worn so that the side tension is maintained around the circumference of the diaper to keep the diaper on the wearer.

In a said mode of this invention, as shown in Figure 1, the fastening system 24 comprises two elements - a locking member 52, which should comprise fastening strips 58 and a receiving member 54, which are adhered to each other during the use. The locking member 52 is intended to provide a means for securing the receiving member 54 to provide a security connection or a lock. Thus, the locking member 52 should comprise a locking means for securing the receiving member. 0 The locking member 52 should also comprise a means for placing the securing means adjacent the receiving member to provide a connection. Preferred locking members comprise a locking member or a locking tape.

There is an inner attachment member comprising a tape, flap or layer of adhesive affixed to the body portion of the diaper. Important examples of internal fixation members are described in US Patent 4,699,622, entitled Disposable Diafer Having An Improved Side Closure issued to Toussant and Hasse, October 13, 1987; U.S. Patent 5,019,072 issued to Polski of May 28, 1991; and U.S. Patent 4,850,988 issued to Aledo et al. of July 25, 1989, all incorporated herein by reference.

As shown in Figure 1, each closure 52 should comprise a securing strap 58. At least one securing strap 58 is placed in the form ad30.

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0017.tif" />

MoJ 71 30,000 ·, · ente / οβ protruding from each longitudinal edge 40 of the body portion 22 in the first end region 48 of the diaper 20. (For large incontinent adult underpants, two or more attachment straps are placed on each longitudinal side , as shown in the above-mentioned U.S. Patent 4,253,461, however, for simplicity, Figure 1 shows only one securing strap on each side). Each securing tape 58 has a fixed end 61 'and a connective end 62. Fixed end 61 (i.e. that end of securing tape 58 attached to body portion 22 during manufacture) is permanently bonded to body portion 22. The term permanently bonded as used herein means a bond that is not releases under normal use conditions of a disposable diaper 20. The connective end 62 is that end of the securing strap 58 extending outwardly from the body portion 22 beyond the longitudinal edge 40 and which is grasped by the diaper user to secure the diaper thereon. The connective end 62 has a fastening surface 60 on which an adhesive layer is coated.

In a said embodiment of the fastening system 24 shown in Figure 1, each fastening tape 58 should further comprise a release tape 63 attached to the upper tab 26. Release tape 63 allows the connective end 62 to be bent inwardly during manufacture to Protect the adhesive on the retaining surface 60 from contamination or delamination before use. An alternative embodiment for the bonding tape is a Y-shaped bonding construction as shown and explained in detail in US Patent 3,848,594, under the name Tape Fastening System For Disposable Diaper issued to Kenneth B. Buell, 19. November 1974, incorporated herein by reference.

Optionally, the securing tape 58

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0018.tif" />

it may have clamping tapes at the distal edge of the bonding tape 58. The clamping tapes may be formed, for example, by folding part of the bonding surface 60 at the outer outer end of the connective end 62 on itself.

The grab strips should be between 8 mm and 8 mm, preferably about 3 mm wide. Claw strips may also have a distal edge not covered by adhesive. In addition, the distal edge of the gripper tape 58 may have rounded corners for additional user comfort.

Moi 7 | · 20,000 · ». ro / οβ

Binding tape 58 comprises a tape carrier material which may be any of the tape carrier materials known in the art. For example, they are suitable for use as a support material. tape polyester films, polypropylene films, paper carriers, or other materials that provide the strength necessary to be useful as part of a fastening tape 58 during use of a diaper. In particular, about 0.15 mm gauge polypropylene film tape backing materials are particularly favorable. The same materials used for the release tape tape carrier material 63 may be used. In order to perform its release function, the release tape side that is not attached to the topsheet 26 may be coated with a release agent, preferably with a silicone release coating, well known in the art.

The connective end 62 has a fastening surface 60 with a layer of coated adhesive over the tape support material. (As used herein, the term coated is not limited to any technique or method for applying adhesive to the material

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0019.tif" />

<img file="PT101797B_D0020.tif" />

»0) 04 ·· 000 01 · | ('tape support Feb). The fastening system may use any suitable adhesive that provides the desired shear stress times, fast adhesion, release member releasability, and coating weight properties. The composition of the adhesive is not as important as the properties of the overall tape system as described below. 0 The adhesive may, for example, be a hot melt adhesive that is coated on the tape support by any of the hot melt coating processes as well. known (e.g., a crack coating process). Alternatively, the adhesive may be applied by a solvent coating process. Preferably, the adhesive should be an elastomeric pressure sensitive adhesive. It is particularly advisable that such adhesive material comprises a viscous rubber elastomer. As described herein, the adhesive should have shear stress times, fast adhesion values ​​and bond strength. release together with relatively low coating weights to provide the action described herein. According to this invention, it has been found that tapes (tape and adhesive backing material) such as are manufactured by Minnesota. Mining and the Manufacturing Company, St. Paul Minnesota, under the designation KS 1294 are those which provide the most satisfactory action the fastening system of the present invention.

Unification of the fixed end 61 to the body portion 22 may be accomplished by mechanical means or preferably by adhesive means. In a preferred embodiment, the tape holder of said fastener 58 is covered in full width with a layer of adhesive. This adhesive, however, provides the attachment means at the connective end 62 and the bond for permanently adhering the attachment tape 58 to the backsheet 3θ at the fixed end 61.

adhesive tape fastening system

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0021.tif" />

Moi 71 - OJ.000 <>. The adhesive tape fastening system further comprises a receiving member 54. The receiving member 54 provides a means for reusable adhesion and the adhesive is placed on the connective end 62 of the securing tape 58 to form a secure but reusable connection to provide a side closure for the diaper 20. 0 The receiving member 54 may be placed anywhere on the outer surface 45 of the body portion 22 provided it secures the securing tape 58. In general, the receiving member 54 is placed at the second end region 50. 0 receiving member 54 may be a discrete discrete member joined to body portion 22 (e.g., a reinforcing member joined to the outer surface of the backsheet, as seen in US Patent 4,710,190 issued to Wood et al., 1 December 1987, incorporated herein by reference) or a unitary element, which is not separate or discontinuous from any diaper element (for example, only the backsheet 30 or a reinforcing member joined to the inner surface of the backsheet, so that the grip surface is the backsheet, as seen in US Patent 3,867,940, issued to Mesek of February 1975, incorporated herein by reference).

In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the receiving member comprises at least a portion of the unreinforced backsheet 30 only. The adhering surface 31 of the receiving member (generally the same surface as the outer surface of the backsheet 30) is the same. surface to which the adhesive tape 58 is reusably adhered during use of the diaper 20.

The properties of the overall attachment system, including the properties of the adhesive on the bonding strips and the properties of the receiving member, are important design criteria in the action of the adhesive attachment systems of this invention on absorbable carton articles. Fastening systems for disposable absorbent articles must provide a bond against light application pressures that is secure during use.

65.387

<img file="PT101797B_D0022.tif" />

Case 4516 and a connection to higher application pressures that can also be opened and re-closed without destroying or damaging the receiving member. These values ​​have to be balanced against the environmental and economic need to reduce the materials and costs of such fastening systems. Adhesive clamping system shear stress times, fast adhesive adhesion property, backing sheet strength, and backing sheet surface characteristics are all important variables for superior bonding safety and wearability. re-use without further reinforcement of the receiving member.

Adhesive clamping system shear stress time is a very confident predictor of bonding safety during use. The object of the shear stress test is to measure how long an adhesive bond is maintained given a certain tension in the shear stress modc (i.e. the shear stress time). Thus, the shear stress time evaluates adhesive bonding safety, durability under constant shear stress conditions.

The standard shear stress test as used in this invention is a variation of the PSTC # 7 test. An adhesive tape surface of 25.4 mm (1 inch) width and a length of 25.4 mm (1 inch), and a length of 25.4 mm (1 inch) to the grip surface of the receiving member, to the backsheet, which is reinforced on the opposite side of the tape bond with an adhesive coated film whose Properties are similar to the fixing tape. The pressure exerted by a 2043 gram (4.5 lb) roll with a diameter of 100 mm (4 inches) and a width of 50 mm (2 inches) is applied to the attachment tape. The test sample

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0023.tif" />

βθ / M - ·> »000« · u pow is conditioned at a temperature of about 37,8 ° C (100 ° F) A shear stress equivalent to a uniformly distributed stress exerted by a weight of 1000 shall apply uniformly. grams along the width of the securing tape. The time taken for adhesive bond failure (i.e. releasing the tape from the receiving member) is measured. 0 Time of shear stress is usually correlated with other variables (area, voltage, applied pressure, temperature, performance in use, etc.). Thus, data analysis and interpretation should be adequate for logarithmic scales.

Preferred Standard Tension Cutoff Time, TTC, for fastening systems of this invention for use in diapers should be greater than about 155 minutes per square centimeter (1000 minutes per square inch) (log TTC) of 3.0) . However, for adhesive fastening systems of this invention, it has been found that Standard Shear Stress Times should be greater than about 465 minutes per square centimeter 3000 minutes per square inch (log (TTC) of 3.5), preferably greater than about 1550 minutes per square centimeter (10,000 minutes per square inch) (log (TTC) of 4.0) by optimizing the design criteria of the reclosable system as described below. In fact, certain systems have been able to achieve Standard Shear Stress Times greater than about 2325 minutes per square centimeter (1500C minutes per square inch) (log (TTC) of 4.2).

Those skilled in the art have used the standard shear stress test to qualify adhesives for use in disposable absorbent articles (e.g., US 4,655,761). However, the shear stress test is operated at very high temperatures and at application compressions that are not indicative of the conditions of use.

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0024.tif" />

Mod. 7 | · J0.000 ««. · K / oa found by the adhesive fastening system so that the test does not serve to assess whether the properties of a particular adhesive are useful in normal use of the fastening system. Therefore, it is necessary as a secondary test for connection safety to modify the standard shear stress test to be able to perform the test under indicative conditions simulating realistic conditions of use.

Modified Shear Stress Test used in this invention evaluates the adhesive bonding quality of the particular fastening system through the use of specific unreinforced receiving member (which simulates the low tensile strength of the insulated backs) and the fastening tape used in forming. of the adhesive diaper attachment system. A 25.4 mm (1 inch) wide, 25.4 mm (1 inch) long adhesive tape surface is applied to the grip surface of the receiving member, the backsheet, with an exerted pressure for a roll of 250 grams. (Since a measuring instrument for finished products, where it is common for the adhesive or other materials - such as the core - to interfere with the uniform application of pressure by a roller, an alternative method would be to place the sample in an equilibrium and apply a force of 250 grams with the passage of the thumb to the logno of the sample). The test sample is conditioned to a temperature of about 32.2 ° C (90 ° F). A shear stress equivalent to a uniformly distributed stress exerted by a weight of 750 grams over the width of a fastening tape shall be applied uniformly. The time taken to the adhesive bonding sheet (i.e. release of the tape from the receiving member) is measured.

With these modifications to measure conditions that affect the tape sheet rate, the Modified Shear Stress Test correlates with

65-387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0025.tif" />

measured by the consumer over a wider range of adhesive / substrate designs versus the Standard Shear Stress Test, lighter application pressures, the use of this receiving member not a realistic user temperature range -from the during use. Like this. It is believed to be a realistic test of when under stress simulate various bonding mechanisms occur and simulate what the Modified Shear Stress Ref test is of this as the adhesive bonding is used in the diaper once by the system. fixing invention holds that it can from commonly encountered adhesive failures (ie failure immediately due to improper surface adhesion and the propagation of rupture or long-term failure during the period of use due to slow release of adhesive under stress). Preferred Modified Shear Stress Time, TTCM, for adhesive fastening systems of this invention for use in diapers should be greater than about 77.5 minutes per square centimeter (500 minutes per square inch) (log (TTCM) of 2 , 7). However, for the adhesive fastening systems of this invention, it has been found that Modified Shear Stress Times can be achieved greater than about 248 minutes per square centimeter (1600 minutes per square inch) (log TTCM). 3.1), preferably greater than about 465 minutes per square centimeter (3000 minutes per square inch) (log (TTCM) of 3.5) by optimizing fastening system design criteria as described below.

receiving member 54, the backsheet 30 · should be manufactured to provide an adhesion surface 31 that will optimize adhesion, release and reuse of the securing tape 58. For strong adhesion of the adhesive to the receiving member and good alloy safety, the adherent surface of the re29 member

65.387

Case 4516

Mo4. fl 20,000 ««. · The type must be receptive to the adhesive at low application pressures. In general, it has been found that a soft tack surface enhances bonding security as the adhesive moistens most of the surface. However, embossed adhering surfaces are generally considered aesthetically pleasing due to their matte appearance, to the detriment of bonding safety since the entire area is not moistened by the adhesive. It turned out however, that there is a roughness of? optimum surface for the grip surface of the receiving member, the backing sheet, which increases the Cutting Tensile Time and Modified Cutting Tensile Time even than can be achieved even with a soft grip surface.

The adhesion surface 31 of the receiving member 54, the backsheet 30, should have certain surface characteristics believed to produce bonding security to the adhesive fastening system 24. In general, the adhesion surface does not have a regular structure; however, a number of devia are divided into shape, undulation and roughness. Of the various roughness parameters, the Average Leveling Depth, R_pm, [ISO / DIS 4287 / IE or DIN 4768] is a parameter that most strongly correlates with connection security. Average Leveling Depth is the average of 5 leveling depths of 5 successive sample lengths (1/5 of the evaluation length). The leveling depth is the largest depth as measured from the midline (offsets from the midline). For a preferred embodiment of this invention, the Average Leveling Depth, R, is from about 2 microns to about 20 microns, preferably from about 2 microns to about 10 microns, more preferably from about 3 microns. and about 8 microns. Aspe30

<img file="PT101797B_D0026.tif" />

65-387

Case 4516

Surface area (including Average Level depth) is measured with a Perthometer S6P prophylometer, such as that sold by Feinpruef of Blue Ash, Ohio. The Perthometer S6P is operated with a cutting length of 2.5 mm (12.5 mm evaluation length) and a better acuity FocusDyn T9 laser probe that does not come into contact with the surface like styling probes. Diamond.

According to this invention, a receiving member 54, preferably being a thermoplastic film, more preferably backsheet 30, and having surface characteristics according to the above criteria, may have a texture, surface roughness, provided in a structured pattern or a random pattern. In general, the texture of thermoplastic films is guided by passing the film between a tooth of a steel roll and a rubber roll. 0 The steel roll contains the pattern such as square, round, random shapes or any other shapes deemed suitable for particular use in thermoplastic films. The thermoplastic film is pulled to the tooth between the two rollers which are pressed together. The depth of the texture depends on the pattern given on the steel roll. Depending on the thermoplastic film material, the preheating phases of the thermoplastic film and cooling after etching may also be added to the process. The grip surface of the receiving member has normally been that surface which is engraved by the steel roll. A more detailed description of texturing processes and related apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,436,520, 4,595,021, 4,546,029, 4,376,147 or WO 88/07336. However, according to this invention, the texture of the thermoplastic film is imparted by the use of a process in which, for example, a smooth and non-smooth steel roll is used.

<img file="PT101797B_D0027.tif" />

65.387

Case 4516

Morph 7 | 20,000 «>. - 70) 04 a rubber roller similar to that already described. In this case, the surface of the rubber roll textured material is used as the grip surface of the receiving member. Preferably, the steel roll should have a smooth arched surface. The texture of the grip surface of the receiving member results from the rubber roll.

As already mentioned, the strength of the receiving member, the backsheet, is an important variable in determining the reuse of the adhesive fastening system. As used herein, the term strength refers to the ability of a film to absorb a sudden impact of energy without initiating a tear or tear in the material. This parameter is important, since one of the major failure mechanisms for tearing the receiving member when the tape is removed for absorbent articles stems abruptly as the user removes the tapes from the product rather than slowly removing them. Thus, the receiving member must be able to absorb this energy without any failures. However, in the past, the focus on backsheet resistance has been on properties and only as a result of this a certain deficiency in resistance. For this reason, it has been found that the strengthened reusability of the fastening system is provided when the receiving member has a resistance beyond a certain value as measured by the javelin impact test. In preferred embodiments of this invention, the receiving member, more particularly the backsheet, has been designed to have a strength (as measured by the javelin impact test) of greater than about 1200 ergs of impact energy. more precisely, more than about 1600 ergs.

The resistance of a receiving member

65-387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0028.tif" />

The definition as defined for this invention is measured according to ASTM D 1709-85 with some modifications. (ASTM method D 1709-85 is incorporated herein by reference).

Modifications to the standard test are as follows: 1) the diameter of the test area is 76 mm and not 127 mm; 2) a 100 gram fixed weight steel dart with a smooth spherical surface whose diameter is 19 mm on the leading edge is used instead of a dart. adjustable weight; and 3) the impact energy (ergs) is adjusted by changing the pitch at which it is thrown and not by the weight of the dart.

Mod.? L 20,000 · «. · 4/20 receiving member 54 is also selected to have a Young's Modulus more correlated with the modulus of elasticity of the securing strips 58. The securing tapes should have a very high Young Modulus of about 175 N / mm and about 310 N / / mm. Thus, the receiving member, preferably the backsheet, is selected to have a Young 2 modulus of at least about 175 N / mm, more preferably greater than about 200 N / mm, more preferably greater than about 200 N / mm. 225 N / mm, so that the

Young of the receiving member is increased further as it approaches the attachment straps · Young's modulus is the modulus of elasticity of a material (ie, a material constant) that describes the elastic behavior of a backsheet under pressure. The larger the Young's modulus, the less elongation that results from a given force applied to the limb. In other words, a take-up member with an upper Young Modulus can withstand a higher tension at the same length as a take-up member with a lower Young Modulus. While not intending to be limited by any particular technique, he believes

It is noted that by reducing the elongation of the tensioned receiving member by relatively high Young Modulus requirement of more than about 175 N / mm,

65.387

Case 4516

Cl

<img file="PT101797B_D0029.tif" />

a more stable adhesive interface between the adhesive and the receiving member. On the other hand, a receiving member is believed to have a Young Module less than about

175 N / mm, elongate it relatively easily under tension, thereby causing the adhesive interface between the securing tape and the backsheet to deform along with the elongation of the backsheet. This elongation has to be compensated for by the adhesive-securing tape along the adhesive surface. It is believed that internal compensation of the adhesive will reduce the bonding resistance that leads to shutdown (ie failure of the adhesive fastening system).

Young's modulus as defined for this invention is measured according to method ASTM D 882-83 with some modifications, which method is incorporated herein by reference. (Care should be taken to distinguish between Young's modulus as defined in this test procedure versus other elasticity modules that may have been used or measured previously described in the art.) The modulus of elasticity described above, including patents referred to herein, are well below the Young's Modulus required (recognized by this invention as a lower threshold to provide the deregulation member of the fixation system). In particular, the ASTM A method of D 882-83 Constant Claw Separation Test Rate is used to measure the Modulus of elasticity as defined by the ASTM method, with only minor changes. The following description indicates the particular changes used in Young's Module for its measurement according to this invention. A test sample for Young's Module evaluation is 25 mm wide and 200 mm long. The length direction of the sample is parallel to the lateral direction of the absorbent article. Test samples are evaluated in your direction.

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0030.tif" />

δ £

Μθ &lt;. / 1 in length and conditioned according to the ASTM method. The apparatus used in the Young Module evaluation can be any commercially available tensile testing machine having a constant claw separation rate. Particularly suitable here is an Instron 4201 machine, such as that of Instron Engineering Corporation, Canton, Massachusetts. Extra claws are also from Instron according to the ASTM method. The initial gripping distance is fixed at 50.8 mm. The testing speed is set at 508 mm / min. Other provisions of the test procedure as well as the elastic modulus calculation are made according to the ASTM method.

The fast bonding property of the adhesive is also important to provide the initial bond strength and, to a lesser extent, the reusability of the fastening system. The fast adhesive property of the adhesive measures the ability of the adhesive to moisten the surface and form strong adhesive bonds at low application pressures. The rapid adhesion of the adhesive should be sufficiently high to provide good bonding safety and high but not too high shear stress to exceed the strength of the receiving member to ensure good reusability. use. The fast tack properties of the adhesive of this invention should be greater than about 150 g / cm 2, more preferably greater than about 200 g / cm 2. 0 The ideal fast grip value for the entire attachment system of this invention is greater than about 300 g / cm2 for secure diaper attachment. The rapid adherence test is performed by placing 25.4 mm (width) of the tape on the receiving member and removing the tape at an angle of 90 °. This test is thus a modification of PSTC No. 25, using the receiving member as the substrate and a pressure of 1,167.

Pa 17.1 g / cm.

65.387

Case 4516

<img file="PT101797B_D0031.tif" />

90/04 · «· 000'04 · Ιί F^DW

The improved bonding safety and reusability of the adhesive fastening system can be achieved without reinforcement of the receiving member and with a minimum of materials. Preferred coating weights for adhesives that provide an optimal balance between bonding safety and reusability are different for each adhesive. Higher coating weights will normally provide stronger adhesive bonds at minimal application pressure, while lower coating weights will generally reduce the likelihood of the receiving member tearing. However, it has been found for the adhesive fastening systems of this invention for use in absorbent articles such as diapers that the ideal coating weight of the adhesive is often below about 22 g / m 2. More preferably, the ideal coating weight

2 from about 14 g / m to about 18 g / m, preferably from about 15 g / m to about 16 g / m. The backsheet, which need not be reinforced, may also have a relatively low calculated caliber to reduce material costs, from about 0.025 mm (1 mil) to about 0.036 mm (1.4 mil).

The ability to remove the securing tape without tearing the receiving member * (ie reusability) can be measured in the laboratory as well as in the consumer's hands. In a laboratory test, the tape is placed as firmly as possible and then measured at the frequency at which the repression member breaks when realistically removed. In order to make the tape as clearly as possible, the tape is placed on the receiving member and heated to 37.8 ° C (100 ° F) for 30 minutes or more.

It is then slid with a 2.2 kg roller at 37.8 ° C (100 ° F) for a further 30 minutes. After cooling to room temperature for at least about 30

65.387

Case 4516 minutes, the fastening straps are removed by a quick pull, just as a typical consumer would do. Any tearing that occurs is considered a failure. This test provides the worst case and is about 6 times the tearing experience of the average receiving member currently in use. For the adhesive fastening systems of this invention, the reusability for the most severe laboratory tests should be greater than about 90%, preferably greater than about 95%, more preferably greater than about 98%.

Several particular embodiments of this invention have been described herein. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various other alterations and modifications may be made without implying beyond the scope of this invention. It is intended to encompass in the appended claims all such changes and modifications within the scope of this invention.