Osmotic and capillary absorbent structure having differential density and process of manufacture therefor

Abstract From the Canadian patent

An absorbent structure having both osmotic and capillary absorbing capabilities. The absorbent structure comprises a capillary absorbent substrate, such as paper. The substrate has regions of relatively high and relatively low densities. The osmotic absorbent structure may include superabsorbents and is preferentially applied to the low density regions of the substrate. Preferably the low density regions are discrete so, that an essentially continuous high density network is present between the low density regions. This arrangement provides for better absorption of liquids without gel blocking. The absorbent structure is suitable for use in the cores of disposable absorbent articles.