In the early 1980's Johnson & Johnson developed a revolutionary process for the production of webs containing superabsorbent polymers (SAP) produced by in-situ polymerization of partially neutralized acrylic monomers directly on a synthetic nonwoven substrate. A fresh look at this forgotten technology will be presented from both a manufacturing and application perspective. In particular, In-situ, SAP-containing nonwovens offer many unique properties for application in the personal hygiene industry, such as, improved fluid acquisition, permeability, compressibility and pH control. These materials also provide a more homogenous SAP distribution, eliminate the need for SAP powder handling and have superior wet integrity as compared to conventional fluff pulp/SAP air laid structures. This technology also offers some unique opportunities for designing and manufacturing profiled absorbent articles with specific zones tailored to perform specific functions.
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