FR3162136A1 - Antibacterial absorbent complex for clothing - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an absorbent complex for bodily fluids intended for integration into clothing articles comprising: - a wicking layer (D) intended to be placed against the wearer's body, comprising casein fibers, - an absorbent layer (A) free of superabsorbent polymers and comprising natural fibers, and - a breathable waterproof membrane (R). (Fig. 1)

Description

Antibacterial absorbent complex for clothing

The present invention relates to an absorbent complex intended for use in underwear, whether male or female, adult or child, which can be used daily and which is provided with an absorbent system for bodily fluids, such as urine, sweat, breast milk, menstrual or vaginal discharge or any other liquid excreted by the human body.

STATE OF PRIOR ART

Today there is a growing need to find substitutes for single-use products and to develop new solutions with a lower environmental impact.

The market has thus seen the arrival of new categories of washable and reusable products such as menstrual underwear (FR3077981A1) and washable sanitary napkins (WO2022218820A1) which are used by women to collect menstrual flow, vaginal discharge and other light urinary leaks

Bras (WO2022198272A1) incorporating fixed or removable nursing discs have been developed for the purpose of collecting breast milk leaks.

Finally, absorbent underwear including bras (EP4147869A1) or undershirts (EP2306856B1) have also appeared on the market with the aim of absorbing sweat in the context of sports practice, high temperatures or cases of hyperhidrosis.

To address users' concerns about odor and hygiene, manufacturers have incorporated textiles with antibacterial or antimicrobial properties into these garments.

Most existing textile fibers, whether natural, artificial, or synthetic, do not possess any inherent antibacterial activity. Some, like polyester, even promote the growth of these bacteria. Furthermore, textile fibers are all the more likely to harbor microorganisms when they have high moisture-absorbing properties.

Many reusable menstrual products, such as period panties, incorporate bamboo viscose in their gusset (Bahrum Prang Rocky & Amanda J. Thompson – Investigation and comparison of antibacterial property of bamboo plants, natural bamboo fibers and commercial bamboo viscose textiles , 2020) for its bacteriostatic properties. However, studies show that natural bamboo fiber loses its effectiveness once it is processed into viscose.

These undergarments are usually made of textiles treated with biocidal products (Ahmad Ibrahim, Joseph-Émile Laquerre, Patricia Forcier, Vincent Deregnaucourt, Justine Decaens and Olivier Vermeersch – Antimicrobial Agents for Textiles: Types, Mechanisms and Analysis Standards , 2021), mainly metallic agents based on silver, copper or zinc.

These biocidal treatments, designed to limit bacterial growth within textile fibers, must not alter the skin's bacterial ecosystem. This is why treated textiles are generally not in direct contact with the skin and/or mucous membranes but are located in intermediate layers of the garment.

Most absorbent articles are thus made of multi-layered materials (EP2879534) featuring a drainage layer, an absorbent textile core often treated with antibacterial agents and a waterproof membrane.

These substances are currently under scrutiny by health authorities ( Nanos and textiles , AVICENN, 2024). Due to their infinitesimal size, they raise questions about their migration into the body through skin pores, their inhalation, their dispersion and their accumulation in the environment.

It is also possible that the metallic agents used to combat odors may also attack a non-pathogenic bacterium, lactobacillus, present in the vaginal microbiota and which helps protect against infections. The benefit/risk balance of using these agents thus appears unfavorable, due to the lack of data on potential risks and their questionable effectiveness.

These products offer little sense of security to the user, especially since the manufacturer is not required to mention the presence of antibacterial agents in the absence of a resulting commercial claim.

Therefore, there is a need for absorbent underwear that provides stain prevention, moisture wicking, antimicrobial management and skin comfort without negative impact on human health and the environment.

The results obtained with casein fiber (a cow's milk protein – Kedafi Belkhir, Caroline Pillon, Aurélie Cayla and Christine Campagne – Antibacterial Textile Based on Hydrolyzed Milk Casein , 2021) help address these concerns by offering highly effective antibacterial agents derived from a bio-based and edible substance. They also show promise for addressing the problems of dairy product waste and recycling.

Patent application US2022/0040368 indicates that casein fibers can be incorporated into a complex to absorb body fluids.

However, this document indicates that the absorption function is achieved using superabsorbent polymers (“SAP”), which are synthetic chemical substances whose effects on the human body and the environment are not fully understood.

The present invention aims in particular to offer a new washable and reusable absorbent complex, based on casein fibers, possessing effective absorption characteristics, inhibiting bacterial proliferation in contact with bodily fluids, promoting the safety and well-being of the user, and not presenting the risks associated with the use of chemical substances of the prior art.

This objective of the invention is achieved with an absorbent complex for bodily fluids intended to be integrated into clothing articles, comprising:

- a drainage layer designed to be placed against the user's body, comprising casein fibers,

- an absorbent layer free of super-absorbent polymers and comprising natural fibers, and

- a breathable, waterproof membrane.

This absorbent complex, surprisingly, by replacing super-absorbent polymers with natural fibers, achieves the desired results of body fluid absorption.

Furthermore, the use of these natural fibers instead of super-absorbent polymers makes it possible to wash the absorbent complex according to the invention for reuse.

The various components of the complex work together in a complementary manner to provide enhanced benefits or functionalities that could not be achieved by each component individually. These synergistic interactions improve the overall performance of the product.

Increased absorption capacity: the combination of a draining layer based on casein fibers with hydrophilic properties and an absorbent layer increases the overall absorption capacity of the complex, the first layer quickly draining moisture away from the skin while the second absorbs and retains a large amount of liquid.

Odor and bacteria reduction: Liquid buildup in the absorbent layer can sometimes lead to unpleasant odors due to bacterial growth. The casein fibers in the wicking layer, in contact with the skin and mucous membranes, protect users against pathogenic or odor-causing microorganisms, leaving a feeling of freshness throughout the garment's wear. Casein has antibacterial effects against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (Kedafi Belkhir, Caroline Pillon, Aurélie Cayla and Christine Campagne – Antibacterial Textile Based on Hydrolyzed Milk Casein , 2021).

Preventing mold growth: Although casein can be sensitive to moisture and predisposed to mold growth, combining it with an absorbent intermediate layer will help reduce the risk by quickly removing moisture from the drainage layer.

Enhanced comfort: The casein fibers in the absorbent layer provide a soft and comfortable feel against the skin by reducing chafing, while the absorbent middle layer and PUL jersey keep the panty breathable by limiting heat and moisture buildup. This combination improves the overall comfort of the garment.

In summary, the interactions between the casein fibers and the various components of the absorbent complex create a synergy that improves the garment's overall performance compared to existing solutions on the market. This unique combination of materials guarantees effective absorption, protection against odors and leaks, and optimal comfort, all while respecting the environment and the user's health.

Depending on other optional characteristics of the absorbent complex according to the invention, taken alone or in combination:

- said drainage layer further comprises cotton and/or micromodal® fibers;

- said drainage layer comprises 40% casein fibers and 60% cotton and/or micromodal® fibers;

- said drainage layer has a jersey structure;

- said absorbent layer comprises a non-woven textile;

- the non-woven textile comprises cotton and/or lyocell® and/or bamboo viscose and/or polyester and/or nylon fibres, preferably distributed at 28%, 26%, 23%, 13%, 10% respectively;

- said non-woven textile is sewn between two layers of honeycomb jersey fabric;

- one of the jersey fabric layers is laminated with a film forming said breathable waterproof membrane;

- said absorbent layer comprises a mixture of cotton fibers (70%), polyurethane (25%) and lycra (5%) having a stretch jersey structure, laminated with a film forming said breathable waterproof membrane;

- said breathable permeable membrane comprises polyurethane.

The present invention is thus composed of a set of three superimposed layers: a first draining layer comprising a combination of cotton or cellulosic fibers with casein fibers adapted to the absorption of body fluids and with naturally antibacterial properties; a second layer which may comprise a combination of natural fibers such as cotton, wool or hemp, cellulosic fibers and/or synthetic fibers capable of absorbing and retaining moisture; and a third layer which may comprise a polymer membrane, microporous and impermeable to liquids strategically positioned to prevent leakage through clothing and maintain the integrity of the absorbent complex.

The absorbent complex comprises several superimposed textile layers, composed of specific materials, each providing unique advantages in terms of absorption, odor neutralization, comfort and protection against moisture.

Their thickness is adjusted according to the specific absorption capacity requirements and the intended location in the final garment.

The present invention also relates to a gusset or pad intended to be integrated into a garment, incorporating an absorbent complex in accordance with the above.

The present invention also relates to a garment selected from the group including panties, briefs, bras, undershirts, comprising at least one gusset or pad conforming to the foregoing.

The absorbent complex of the present invention can thus be integrated into underwear for men or women, adults or children for daily use, along the area of absorption of bodily fluids, namely the genital area for menstrual flow, vaginal discharge and light urinary leakage, the breast area for breast milk discharge or the axillary area for sweat.

PRESENTATION OF THE FIGURES

For better understanding, figures are attached which represent embodiments which are not intended to limit the scope of this description.

FIG. 1 : schematic representation in exploded perspective of an embodiment of the absorbing complex according to the invention;

FIG. 1 : photo of superimposed textiles that can be used to form the absorbent complex according to the invention;

FIG. 2 : schematic representation of a pair of panties equipped with an absorbent complex according to the invention;

FIG. 2 : schematic representation of a bra equipped with absorbent complexes according to the invention;

FIG. 2 : schematic representation of an undershirt equipped with absorbent complexes according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the context of the present invention, the terms "draining layer", "absorbent layer" and "waterproof and breathable membrane" refer to superimposed layers of materials intended to form the absorbent complex according to the invention, the draining layer being intended to be positioned opposite the skin of the user, the waterproof and breathable membrane being intended to be positioned on the outside of the complex, and the absorbent layer being sandwiched between the draining layer and the waterproof and breathable membrane.

“Waterproof and breathable membrane” refers to a membrane made of a microporous material that prevents liquid leakage but allows air to pass through.

As shown in Figures 1a and 1b, the absorbent complex according to the present invention thus comprises a set of three superimposed layers: a first draining layer D which may comprise a combination of cotton or cellulosic fibers with casein fibers adapted to the absorption of body fluids and to naturally antibacterial properties; a second absorbent layer A which may comprise a combination of natural fibers such as cotton, wool or hemp, cellulosic fibers and/or synthetic fibers capable of absorbing and retaining moisture; and a third waterproof and breathable layer R which may comprise a polymer membrane, microporous and liquid-impermeable, strategically positioned to prevent leakage through clothing and maintain the integrity of the absorbent complex.

The absorbent complex thus comprises several superimposed textile layers, composed of specific materials, each providing unique advantages in terms of absorption, odor neutralization, comfort and protection against moisture.

Their thickness is adjusted according to the specific absorption capacity requirements and the intended location in the final garment.

Underwear incorporating this absorbent complex can be found in the form of menstrual panties, nursing bras or absorbent undershirts.

Menstrual panties ( FIG. 2 )

In this embodiment, the absorbent core is incorporated into the gusset 1 of the panty 3. It can be wide and covering and extend fully up the front and back of the garment. The gusset does not exceed 3 mm in thickness.

The drainage layer is made from a blend of 40% casein fibers and 60% cotton fibers with antibacterial properties. It has a jersey weave. The mass per unit area of this first layer is 240g/m².

The absorbent layer comprises a three-dimensional absorbent fabric. More specifically, it is a non-woven material made from a combination of entangled natural, cellulosic, and synthetic fibers, sewn between two layers of textured jersey fabric. The outer lining features a honeycomb pattern composed of 70% bamboo fibers and 30% organic cotton fibers, while the absorbent core contains a blend of 28% cotton fibers, 26% lyocell® fibers, 23% bamboo viscose fibers, 13% polyester fibers, and 10% nylon fibers. The 3D honeycomb pattern allows the fabric to absorb, retain, lock in, and distribute moisture more quickly than a standard fabric. It is as effective as four layers of flannel, three layers of unbrushed fleece, or two and a half layers of polar fleece. The total thickness of the absorbent layer is between 1.7 and 2.1 mm. The mass per unit area of this second layer is 475g/m2.

The waterproof and breathable layer is made from a blend of 75% polyester and 25% polyurethane. It consists of a jersey structure laminated with a waterproof and breathable polyurethane film. The water vapor transmission rate, tested according to ASTM E 96 Section E, reaches a value of 850 g/m² per 24 hours, ensuring excellent breathability and comfort. The thickness of this layer is between 0.46 and 0.56 mm. The mass per unit area of this second layer is 155 g/m².

Nursing bra ( FIG. 2 )

In this embodiment, the absorbent material is incorporated into cups 5 and 7 of the bra 9 in the form of removable or fixed pads. These pads are designed to absorb milk leakage and prevent leaks onto clothing. The pads are no more than 2 mm thick.

The drainage layer is composed of a blend of 40% casein fibers and 60% cotton fibers. It has a jersey weave. The mass per unit area of this drainage layer is 240 g/m².

The absorbent layer is made of a technical, absorbent, and waterproof fabric. More specifically, it is a non-woven material made from a combination of entangled natural, cellulosic, and synthetic fibers, sewn between two layers of jersey fabric, one of which incorporates a laminated polyurethane film forming the waterproof and breathable membrane. The outer lining is made of 100% polyester fibers, while the absorbent core contains a blend of 28% cotton fibers, 26% lyocell® fibers, 23% bamboo viscose fibers, 13% polyester fibers, and 10% nylon fibers. This fabric offers high fluid retention, rapid moisture distribution, and less leakage under compression. It absorbs 10 times its weight in less than 2 seconds and becomes saturated 20 times faster than other materials (bamboo, cotton, hemp knit). The total thickness of this second layer is between 1.4 and 1.7 mm. The mass per unit area of this second layer is 425 to 475 g/m².

Absorbent undershirt ( FIG. 2 )

In this embodiment, the absorbent complex is integrated into the garment 11 in the form of stretchable pads 13, 15 sewn at the armpits. The pads do not exceed 1 mm in thickness.

The drainage layer is composed of a blend of 40% casein fibers and 60% cotton fibers. It has a jersey weave. The mass per unit area of this first layer is 240g/m².

The absorbent layer is composed of a blend of 70% cotton fibers, 25% polyurethane, and 5% Lycra®. It features a stretch Lycra jersey structure (15% lengthwise and 20% widthwise), laminated with a polyurethane film that forms the waterproof and breathable membrane. The water vapor transmission rate, tested according to ASTM E 96 Section E, reaches a value of 850 g/m² per 24 hours, ensuring excellent breathability and comfort. The total thickness of this layer is between 0.4 and 0.5 mm. The mass per unit area of this second layer is 175 g/m².

These undergarments offer improved environmental performance throughout their entire lifecycle, as they can be washed and reused. Furthermore, the casein fibers in the absorbent layer retain their antibacterial properties even after machine washing, without releasing any particles or biocidal substances.

The absorbent complex of the present invention allows the user to maintain a normal life, without worrying about odors or leaks related to the secretion of bodily fluids, whether it be urine, sweat, breast milk, menstrual or vaginal discharge.

Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

For example, cotton fibers could be replaced by other cellulosic fibers such as hemp fibers, or by wool fibers, and the non-woven material of the absorbent layer could be replaced by a micro-sponge, fleece, or flannel.

Preferably, the polyurethane forming the waterproof and breathable membrane is made from fossil or bio-based materials.

Claims (12)

Absorbent complex for bodily fluids intended for integration into clothing articles comprising:
- a drainage layer (D) intended to be placed opposite the user's body, comprising casein fibers,
- an absorbent layer (A) free of super-absorbent polymers and comprising natural fibers, and
- a breathable waterproof membrane (R). Complex according to claim 1, wherein said drainage layer (D) further comprises cotton and/or micromodal® fibers. Complex according to claim 2, wherein said drainage layer comprises 40% casein fibers and 60% cotton and/or micromodal® fibers. Complex according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said drainage layer (D) has a jersey structure. Complex according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said absorbent layer (A) comprises a non-woven textile. Complex according to claim 5, wherein the non-woven textile comprises cotton and/or lyocell® and/or bamboo viscose and/or polyester and/or nylon fibers, preferably distributed at 28%, 26%, 23%, 13%, 10% respectively. Complex according to any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein said non-woven textile is sewn between two layers of honeycomb jersey fabrics. Complex according to claim 7, wherein one of the layers of jersey fabric is laminated with a film forming said breathable waterproof membrane (R). Complex according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said absorbent layer (A) comprises a mixture of cotton fibers (70%), polyurethane (25%) and lycra (5%) having a stretch jersey structure, laminated with a film forming said breathable waterproof membrane (R). Complex according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said breathable permeable membrane (R) comprises polyurethane. Gusset (1) or pad (7, 9; 13, 15) intended to be integrated into a garment (1; 9; 11), incorporating an absorbent complex conforming to any one of the preceding claims. Article of clothing selected from the group comprising panties (1), briefs, bras (9), undershirts (11), comprising at least one gusset (1) or pad (7, 9; 13, 15) conforming to claim 11.