Method of making an absorbent composite

Abstract

Absorbent composites containing particles of absorbent gelling material and chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers, the fibers being wrapped around and adhered to the particles, which are in individual form. The chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers are preferably cellulosic fibers in substantially individual form having a crosslinking agent reacted with the fibers in intrafiber crosslink bond form. The absorbent composites are particularly suitable for use in the absorbent core of disposable absorbent articles such as sanitary napkins and diapers.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A method of making an absorbent composite comprising particles of polymeric, absorbent gelling material, cellulosic fibers being wrapped around and adhered to said particles by a bonding agent, and crimped, synthetic fibers being attached to said particles of polymeric, absorbent gelling material and said chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing particles of polymeric, absorbent gelling material, chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers and crimped, synthetic fibers;   (b) applying a bonding agent in liquid form onto said chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers and said crimped, synthetic fibers to form treated fibers thereof;   (c) physically associating said particles of polymeric, absorbent gelling material and said chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers and said crimped, synthetic fibers while said bonding agent is in liquid form, said particles being in substantially individual form, such that said chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers and said crimped, synthetic fibers wrap around said particles; and   (d) adhering said particles to said chemically stiffened, cellulosic fibers and said crimped, synthetic fibers by said bonding agent.