| abstract |
Normally hydrophobic foams, such as polyurethane foams and polymerized water-in-oil emulsion foams, are made hydrophilic by treatment with sorbitan monolaurate. Accordingly, polymeric foams are prepared or treated using sorbitan monolaurate and then dried to allow the residue of sorbitan monolaurate on the foam inner surface to be distributed substantially uniformly. The resulting treated foam is hydrophilic, making it suitable for use in absorbent products, including diapers, sanitary napkins, bandages, and the like. |