Disposable diaper having elastic side panels

摘要

A form fitting diaper comprises a backsheet having a front section, a back section, and a crotch section, and has bonded thereto an absorbent layer. The diaper further comprises a pair of elastic side panels bonded between the front and back sections of the backsheet and define therewith a circumferentially continuous and elastic waist, and further defining leg openings. The side panels having substantially unidirectional elasticity whereby the panels are elastic in the circumferential direction and substantially inelastic in the direction perpendicular thereto. The side panels being of composite construction comprising an elastomeric layer with a unidirectionally elastic nonwoven layer bonded thereto. The composite combines the barrier and strength properties of the elastomeric layer with the unidirectional elasticity and fabric-like properties of the nonwoven layer. The unidirectional elasticity of the composite is useful for putting on and taking off the diaper. The elastic nonwoven layer being formed by heat drawing substantially nonelastic meltblown or spunbond fibers.