Abstract:
Composite polymeric comprising, in order, first, second, and third polymeric layers. The first layer is compositionally different than the second layer. The third layer is compositionally different than the second layer. The second layer comprises an array of void spaces therein, but not through the first and second major surfaces. The void spaces each have a series of areas through the void spaces ranging from minimum to maximum areas. The minimum area is not adjacent to either the first or third layer. Methods for making the composite polymeric layers are also disclosed. Polymeric layers described herein are useful, for example, as components in personal care garments such as diapers and feminine hygiene products. They can also be useful for filtering (including liquid filtering) and acoustic applications.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/840,156, filed Jun. 27, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Co-extrusion of polymeric layers is well known in the art. Effective co-extrusion is facilitated by matching layer properties such as melt viscosity and processing temperatures. It is also helpful for layers to adhere well to each other to prevent mechanical delamination when the composite layer is stressed. 
         [0003]    There exists a need for additional polymeric layers constructions. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0004]    In one aspect, the present disclosure describes a composite polymeric layer having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, the composite layer comprising, in order, first, second, and third polymeric layers, wherein the first layer is compositionally different than the second layer, wherein the third layer is compositionally different than the second layer, wherein the second layer comprises an array of void spaces therein, but not through the first and second major surfaces (i.e., they may extend into other layers (e.g., the first and third layers, but not through the first and second major surfaces), wherein the void spaces each have a series of areas through the void spaces ranging from minimum to maximum areas, and wherein the minimum area is not adjacent to either the first or third layer. 
         [0005]    The term “different” in terms of polymeric materials means at least one of (a) a difference of at least 2% in at least one infrared peak, (b) a difference of at least 2% in at least one nuclear magnetic resonance peak, (c) a difference of at least 2% in the number average molecular weight, or (d) a difference of at least 5% in polydispersity. Examples of differences in polymeric materials that can provide the difference between polymeric materials include composition, microstructure, color, and refractive index. 
         [0006]    The term “same” in terms of polymeric materials means not different. 
         [0007]    In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of making composite polymeric layers described herein, the method comprising at least one of passing through a nip or calendaring a netting comprising an array of polymeric strands periodically joined together at bond regions throughout the array, wherein the netting has first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, wherein the bond regions are generally perpendicular to the first and second major surfaces, wherein the array comprises a first plurality of strands having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, wherein the array comprises a second plurality of strands having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, wherein the first major surface of the netting comprises the first major surfaces of the first and second plurality of strands, wherein the second major surface of the netting comprises the second major surfaces of the first and second plurality of strands, wherein the first major surface of the first plurality of strands comprises a first material, wherein the second major surface of the first plurality of strands comprises a second material, wherein the first major surface of the second plurality of strands comprises a third material, wherein the second major surface of the second plurality of strands comprises a fourth material, wherein there is a fifth material disposed between the first and second materials, wherein there is a sixth material disposed between the third and fourth materials, wherein the first and fifth materials are different, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth are the same, and wherein the first material does not extend to the second major surface of the first plurality of strands. 
         [0008]    Composite polymeric layers described herein are useful, for example, as tapes and packaging materials, as well as components in personal care garments (e.g., diapers and feminine hygiene products). They can also be useful as layered films and tapes where adhesion to the core material is facilitated by adhesion through the core. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0009]      FIG. 1  is a schematic view of an apparatus for making forming composite polymeric layers having void spaces therein as described herein; 
           [0010]      FIG. 2  is a cross-section view of the forming composite polymeric layer having void spaces therein as described herein taken along section lines  2 - 2  in  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0011]      FIG. 3  is a plan view of an exemplary shim suited to form a repeating sequence of shims capable of forming a netting having optionally two different types of strands where at least one strand has optionally two different materials in a three layered arrangement; 
           [0012]      FIG. 3A  is a detail view of the section referenced as “detail  3 A” in  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0013]      FIG. 4  is a plan view of another exemplary shim suited to form a repeating sequence of shims capable of forming a netting having two different types of strands each of optionally two different materials in a three layered arrangement; 
           [0014]      FIG. 4A  is a detail view of the section referenced as “detail  4 A” in  FIG. 4 ; 
           [0015]      FIG. 5  is a plan view of another exemplary shim suited to form a repeating sequence of shims capable of forming a netting having two different types of strands each of optionally two different materials in a three layered arrangement; 
           [0016]      FIG. 5A  is a detail view of the section referenced as “detail  5 A” in  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0017]      FIG. 6  is a plan view of another exemplary shim suited to form a repeating sequence of shims capable of forming a netting having two different types of strands each of optionally two different materials in a three layered arrangement; 
           [0018]      FIG. 7  is a plan view of another exemplary shim suited to form a repeating sequence of shims capable of forming a netting having two different types of strands each of optionally two different materials in a three layered arrangement; 
           [0019]      FIG. 7A  is a detail view of the section referenced as “detail  7 A” in  FIG. 7 ; 
           [0020]      FIG. 8  is a plan view of another exemplary shim suited to form a repeating sequence of shims capable of forming a netting having two different types of strands each of optionally two different materials in a three layered arrangement; 
           [0021]      FIG. 8A  is a detail view of the section referenced as “detail  8 A” in  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0022]      FIG. 9  is a plan view of another exemplary shim suited to form a repeating sequence of shims capable of forming a netting having two different types of strands each of optionally two different materials in a three layered arrangement; 
           [0023]      FIG. 9A  is a detail view of the section referenced as “detail  9 A” in  FIG. 9 ; 
           [0024]      FIG. 10  is an exploded perspective view of a single instance of a repeating sequence of shims suitable to form the netting shown in  FIG. 11 ; 
           [0025]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view of an exemplary first netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein; 
           [0026]      FIG. 12  is a detail view of the repeating sequence of shims of  FIG. 10  emphasizing the dispensing surfaces; 
           [0027]      FIG. 13  is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary mount suitable for an extrusion die composed of multiple repeats of the repeating sequence of shims of  FIG. 10 ; 
           [0028]      FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the mount of  FIG. 13  in an assembled state; 
           [0029]      FIG. 15  is a schematic perspective view of an alternate arrangement of the extrusion die relative to the nip; and 
           [0030]      FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a composite polymeric layer formed from three-material strands, sized and nipped so as to close the openings within the layers that comprise the first and the second major surfaces, and further permit these two layers to contact one another through openings in a layer between within the layers that comprise the first and the second major surfaces. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0031]    Composite polymeric layers described herein can be made, for example, from co-extruded polymeric netting. 
         [0032]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , exemplary apparatus  20  for making a composite polymeric layer having void spaces therein is shown. Apparatus  20  has extruder  22  extruding polymeric netting  24  joined together at bond regions  30 . Useful polymeric netting is described, for example, in co-pending application having U.S. Ser. No. 61/779,997, filed Mar. 13, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. As will be illustrated in  FIG. 2  below, netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein includes strands that have at least three layers. 
         [0033]    As shown, polymeric netting  24  is extruded vertically, into nip  40 . Nip  40  includes backup roll  42 , and nip roll  44 . In some embodiments, backup roll  42  is a smooth, chrome-plated steel roll and nip roll  44  is a silicone rubber roll. In some embodiments, both backup roll  42  and nip roll  44  are temperature controlled with, for example, internal liquid (e.g., water) flow. 
         [0034]    In some embodiments, for example, the one depicted in  FIG. 1 , polymeric netting  24  passes directly into nip  40 , where nip  40  is a quench nip. However, this is not considered necessary, and the extrusion of the netting and the entry into the nip need not be immediately sequential. 
         [0035]    After passing through nip  40 , polymeric netting  24  has been transformed into composite polymeric layer  50  having void spaces  56 . In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to allow composite polymeric layer  50  to remain wrapped around backup roll  42  for at least a portion of its circumference. Composite polymeric layer  50  comprises first, second, and third layers  53 ,  55 , and  57 , respectively, (second layer  55  will is hidden in this view, but will be seen in  FIG. 2 ) first major surface  52  on the side towards the viewer, and second major surface  54  on the side opposite from the viewer. Numerous void spaces  56  allow the first layer  53  to contact the third layer directly, passing through void spaces in the second polymeric layer  55 . 
         [0036]    These features of void spaces  56  can be better appreciated in  FIG. 2 , which is a cross-section view of composite polymeric layer  50  taken along section lines  2 - 2  in  FIG. 1 . Here it can be seen that first and third layers  53  and  57  do contact each other internally, passing through void spaces  56  in the second layer  55 . In some embodiments, the area of the void spaces  56  range from 0.005 mm 2  to 5 mm 2 , although other sizes are also useful. 
         [0037]    Referring to  FIG. 11 , exemplary second netting  11200  which can be substituted, for example, for netting  24  has array of polymeric strands  11210  periodically joined together at bond regions  11213  throughout array  11210 . Netting  11200  has first and second, generally opposed major surfaces  11211 ,  11212 . Bond regions  11213  are generally perpendicular to first and second major surfaces  11211 ,  11212 . Array  11210  has first plurality of strands  11221  having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces  11231 ,  11232 . Array  11210  has second plurality of strands  11222  having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces  11241 ,  11242 . First major surface  11211  comprises first major surfaces  11231 ,  11241  of first and second plurality of strands  11221 ,  11222 . Second major surface  11212  comprises second major surfaces  11232 ,  11242  of first and second plurality of strands  11221 ,  11222 . First major surface  11231  of first plurality of strands  11221  comprises a first material. Second major surface  11232  of first plurality of strands  11221  comprises a second material. First major surface  11241  of second plurality of strands  11222  comprises a third material. Second major surface  11242  of second plurality of strands  11222  comprises a fourth material. A fifth material  11255  is disposed between the first and second materials. A sixth material  11256  is disposed between the third and fourth materials. The first and fifth materials are different, the first, second, third, and fourth are the same, and the first material does not extend to second major surface  11232  of first plurality of strands  11221 . Optionally, the third material does not extend to second major surface  11242  of second plurality of strands  11222 . 
         [0038]    Referring now to  FIG. 15 , a schematic perspective view of another exemplary apparatus  20   a  with a different arrangement of extrusion die  22  relative to nip  40  is shown. In alternate apparatus  20   a , extrusion die  22  is positioned so that polymeric netting  24  is dispensed onto nip roller  44  and carried on that roller into nip between nip roller  44  and backup roller  42 . By positioning extrusion die  22  quite close to nip roller  44 , there is little time for the strands that make up polymeric netting  24  to sag and extend under the force of gravity. An advantage provided by this positioning is that void spaces  56   a  in composite polymeric layer  50   a  tend to be rounder. More in this regard can be achieved by extruding not only very close to one of the rolls forming nip  40 , but also at an extrusion speed similar to the circumferential speed of that roll. 
         [0039]    In some embodiments, it may be desirable to pattern one side or both sides of the layer. This can be achieved, for example, using patterning the surface of one or both of nip roller  44  and backup roller  42 . It has been shown in the field of polymeric hook forming that the use of patterned rolls can preferentially move polymer in the cross direction or downweb direction. This concept can be used to shape the hole on one or both sides of the layer. 
         [0040]    An exemplary netting for making second embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein comprises an array of polymeric strands periodically joined together at bond regions throughout the array. The netting has first and second, generally opposed major surfaces. The bond regions are generally perpendicular to the first and second major surfaces. The array comprises a first plurality of strands having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces. The array comprises a second plurality of strands having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces. The first major surface of the netting comprises the first major surfaces of the first and second plurality of strands. The second major surface of the netting comprises the second major surfaces of the first and second plurality of strands. The first major surface of the first plurality of strands comprises a first material. The second major surface of the first plurality of strands comprises a second material. The first major surface of the second plurality of strands comprises a third material. The second major surface of the second plurality of strands comprises a fourth material. There is a fifth material disposed between the first and second materials. There is a sixth material disposed between the third and fourth materials, wherein the first and fifth materials are different. The first, second, third, and fourth are the same. The first material does not extend to the second major surface of the first plurality of strands. In some embodiments, the third material does not extend to the second major surface of the second plurality of strands. In some embodiments, the first and sixth materials are the same. In some embodiments, the fifth and sixth materials are the same. 
         [0041]    Suitable netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein include a method comprising: 
         [0042]    providing an extrusion die comprising a plurality of shims positioned adjacent to one another, the shims together defining at least a first cavity, a second cavity, and a dispensing surface, wherein the dispensing surface has a first array of dispensing orifices alternating with a second array of dispensing orifices, wherein at least the first dispensing orifices are defined by an array of first vestibules, and wherein the plurality of shims comprises a plurality of a repeating sequence of shims, wherein the repeating sequence comprises: shims that provide a fluid passageway between the first cavity and one of the first vestibules, shims that provide a second passageway extending from the second cavity to the same vestibule, such that the area where the second fluid passageway enters the first vestibules is below the area where the first fluid passageway enters the first vestibules; and 
         [0043]    dispensing first polymeric strands from the first dispensing orifices at a first strand speed while simultaneously dispensing second polymeric strands from the second dispensing orifices at a second strand speed, wherein one of the strand speeds is at least 2 (in some embodiments, in a range from 2 to 6, or even 2 to 4) times the other strand speed to provide the netting. In some embodiments, the extrusion die further comprises a third passageway extending from a cavity to the first vestibule, such that the area where the second fluid passageway enters the first vestibule is above the area where the third fluid passageway enters the first vestibule. In some embodiments, each of the second dispensing orifices are defined by a second vestibule, and wherein each second vestibule has at least two passageways extending from it each to a different cavity, such that the area where one of those passageways enters the second vestibule is above the area where the other of those passageways enters the second vestibule. 
         [0044]    In another aspect, the present disclosure describes a first extrusion die having at least first and second cavities, a first passageway extending from the first cavity into a first vestibule defining a first dispensing orifice, and a second passageway extending from the second cavity to the vestibule, such that the area where the first fluid passageway enters the vestibule is above the area where the second fluid passageway enters the vestibule. In some embodiments, the extrusion die further comprises a third passageway extending from a cavity to the first vestibule, such that the area where the second fluid passageway enters the first vestibule is above the area where the third fluid passageway enters the first vestibule. In some embodiments, the extrusion die comprises a plurality of first vestibules, together defining a first dispensing array, and further comprises a plurality of second dispensing orifices, together defining a second dispensing array alternating along a dispensing surface with the first dispensing array, each of the second dispensing orifices having at least one passageway extending to a cavity, wherein in some embodiments, the second dispensing orifices are defined by a second vestibule, and each second vestibule has at least two passageways extending from it each to a different cavity, such that the area where one of those passageways enters the second vestibule is above the area where the other of those passageways enters the second vestibule. 
         [0045]    In another aspect, the present disclosure describes a second extrusion die comprising a plurality of shims positioned adjacent to one another, the shims together defining at least a first cavity, a second cavity, and a dispensing surface, wherein the dispensing surface has an array of dispensing orifices defined by an array of vestibules, wherein the plurality of shims comprises a plurality of a repeating sequence of shims, wherein the repeating sequence comprises: shims that provide a fluid passageway between the first cavity and one of the vestibules, shims that provide a second passageway extending from the second cavity to the same vestibule, such that the area where the second fluid passageway enters the vestibule is below the area where the first fluid passageway enters the vestibule. In some embodiments, the second fluid passageway is diverted into branches that meet the first fluid passageway at areas above and below the first fluid passageways at the point where the second fluid passageway enters the vestibule. 
         [0046]    In some embodiments, the extrusion die further comprises a third passageway extending from a cavity to the first vestibule, such that the area where the second fluid passageway enters the first vestibule is above the area where the third fluid passageway enters the first vestibule. In some embodiments, the extrusion die comprises a plurality of first vestibules, together defining a first dispensing array, and further comprises a plurality of second dispensing orifices, together defining a second dispensing array alternating along a dispensing surface with the first dispensing array, each of the second dispensing orifices having at least one passageway extending to a cavity, wherein in some embodiments, the second dispensing orifices are defined by a second vestibule, and each second vestibule has at least two passageways extending from it each to a different cavity, such that the area where one of those passageways enters the second vestibule is above the area where the other of those passageways enters the second vestibule. 
         [0047]    In some embodiments, the plurality of shims comprises a plurality of at least one repeating sequence of shims that includes shims that provide a passageway between a first and second cavity and the first dispensing orifices. In some of these embodiments, there will be additional shims that provide a passageway between the first and/or the second cavity, and/or a third (or more) cavity and second dispensing orifices. Typically, not all of the shims of dies described herein have passageways, as some may be spacer shims that provide no passageway between any cavity and a dispensing orifice. In some embodiments, there is a repeating sequence that further comprises at least one spacer shim. The number of shims providing passageway to the first dispensing orifices may be equal or unequal to the number of shims providing a passageway to the second dispensing orifices. 
         [0048]    In some embodiments, the first dispensing orifices and the second dispensing orifices are collinear. In some embodiments, the first dispensing orifices are collinear, and the second dispensing orifices are also collinear but offset from and not collinear with the first dispensing orifices. 
         [0049]    In some embodiments, extrusion dies described herein include a pair of end blocks for supporting the plurality of shims. In these embodiments it may be convenient for one or all of the shims to each have one or more through-holes for the passage of connectors between the pair of end blocks. Bolts disposed within such through-holes are one convenient approach for assembling the shims to the end blocks, although the ordinary artisan may perceive other alternatives for assembling the extrusion die. In some embodiments, the at least one end block has an inlet port for introduction of fluid material into one or both of the cavities. 
         [0050]    In some embodiments, the shims will be assembled according to a plan that provides a repeating sequence of shims of diverse types. The repeating sequence can have diverse numbers of shims per repeat. For example, referring to  FIG. 10  (and  FIG. 12 , which is a more detailed view of  FIG. 10 ), a sixteen-shim repeating sequence is shown which can be used with molten polymer to form a netting with three-layered strands alternating with each other so that a netting generally as depicted in  FIG. 11  can be formed. As another for example,  FIG. 18  (and  FIG. 18A , which is a more detailed view of  FIG. 18 ), a four-shim repeating sequence is shown which can be used with molten polymer to form a netting with two-layered strands alternating with each other so that a netting generally as depicted in  FIG. 2  can be formed. 
         [0051]    Exemplary passageway cross-sectional shapes include square and rectangular shapes. The shape of the passageways within, for example, a repeating sequence of shims, may be identical or different. For example, in some embodiments, the shims that provide a passageway between the first cavity and a first dispensing orifice might have a flow restriction compared to the shims that provide a conduit between the second cavity and a second dispensing orifice. The width of the dispensing orifice within, for example, a repeating sequence of shims, may be identical or different. 
         [0052]    Additional cavities can be used to create layered strands of more than two layers by joining the passageways at the vestibule in a top down configuration. It may be desired to ratio the passageway opening to that of the desired layer ratio of the resultant strand. For example, a strand with a small top layer would have a die design with a relatively narrow passageway for the top cavity merging with a wide passageway for the bottom cavity. In some embodiments, three or more layers are present where two or more layers are the same material, and it may be desirable to use one cavity for the layers that are the same. A passageway can be created from a set of spacer shims (e.g., shims  400  and  800  in  FIG. 10 ) to provide a passage within a vestibule (e.g., vestibule  1101  in  FIG. 10 ). Into such a passageway, on each side of the vestibule, a furcated terminus (e.g.,  364   a  in  FIG. 3A ) can feed into the vestibule from the side, and within the spacer shims, to provide one or more layers of the same material. In some embodiments, polymer for the top and bottom layers (as shown) of a three-layer construction from one side only may create a layer of varying thickness across the strand. 
         [0053]    In some embodiments, the assembled shims (conveniently bolted between the end blocks) further comprise a manifold body for supporting the shims. The manifold body has at least one (or more (e.g., two, three, four, or more)) manifold therein, the manifold having an outlet. An expansion seal (e.g., made of copper or alloys thereof) is disposed so as to seal the manifold body and the shims, such that the expansion seal defines a portion of at least one of the cavities (in some embodiments, a portion of both the first and second cavities), and such that the expansion seal allows a conduit between the manifold and the cavity. 
         [0054]    In some embodiments, with respect to extrusion dies described herein, each of the dispensing orifices of the first and the second arrays have a width, and each of the dispensing orifices of the first and the second arrays are separated by up to two times the width of the respective dispensing orifice. 
         [0055]    Typically, the passageway between cavity and dispensing orifice is up to 5 mm in length. In some embodiments, the first array of fluid passageways has greater fluid restriction than the second array of fluid passageways. 
         [0056]    In some embodiments, for extrusion dies described herein, each of the dispensing orifices of the first and the second arrays have a cross sectional area, and each of the dispensing orifices of the first arrays has an area different than that of the second array. 
         [0057]    Typically, the spacing between orifices is up to two times the width of the orifice. The spacing between orifices is greater than the resultant diameter of the strand after extrusion. This diameter is commonly referred to as die swell. This spacing between orifices is greater than the resultant diameter of the strand after extrusion leads to the strands repeatedly colliding with each other to form the repeating bonds of the netting. If the spacing between orifices is too great the strands will not collide with each other and will not form the netting. 
         [0058]    The shims for dies described herein typically have thicknesses in the range from 50 micrometers to 125 micrometers, although thicknesses outside of this range may also be useful. Typically, the fluid passageways have thicknesses in a range from 50 micrometers to 750 micrometers, and lengths less than 5 mm (with generally a preference for smaller lengths for decreasingly smaller passageway thicknesses), although thicknesses and lengths outside of these ranges may also be useful. For large diameter fluid passageways several smaller thickness shims may be stacked together, or single shims of the desired passageway width may be used. 
         [0059]    The shims are tightly compressed to prevent gaps between the shims and polymer leakage. For example, 12 mm (0.5 inch) diameter bolts are typically used and tightened, at the extrusion temperature, to their recommended torque rating. Also, the shims are aligned to provide uniform extrusion out the extrusion orifice, as misalignment can lead to strands extruding at an angle out of the die which inhibits desired bonding of the net. To aid in alignment, an alignment key can be cut into the shims. Also, a vibrating table can be useful to provide a smooth surface alignment of the extrusion tip. 
         [0060]    The size (same or different) of the strands can be adjusted, for example, by the composition of the extruded polymers, velocity of the extruded strands, and/or the orifice design (e.g., cross sectional area (e.g., height and/or width of the orifices)). For example, a first polymer orifice that is three times greater in area than the second polymer orifice can generate netting with equal strand sizes while meeting the velocity difference between adjacent strands. 
         [0061]    In general, it has been observed that the rate of strand bonding is proportional to the extrusion speed of the faster strand. Further, it has been observed that this bonding rate can be increased, for example, by increasing the polymer flow rate for a given orifice size, or by decreasing the orifice area for a given polymer flow rate. It has also been observed that the distance between bonds (i.e., strand pitch) is inversely proportional to the rate of strand bonding, and proportional to the speed that the netting is drawn away from the die. Thus, it is believed that the bond pitch and the netting basis weight can be independently controlled by design of the orifice cross sectional area, the takeaway speed, and the extrusion rate of the polymer. For example, relatively high basis weight nettings, with a relatively short bond pitch can be made by extruding at a relatively high polymer flow rate, with a relatively low netting takeaway speed, using a die with a relatively small strand orifice area. Additional general details for adjusting the relative speed of strands during net formation can be found, for example, in PCT Pub. No. WO 2013/028654 (Ausen et al.), published Feb. 28, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0062]    Typically, the polymeric strands are extruded in the direction of gravity. This facilitates collinear strands to collide with each other before becoming out of alignment with each other. In some embodiments, it is desirable to extrude the strands horizontally, especially when the extrusion orifices of the first and second polymer are not collinear with each other. 
         [0063]    In practicing methods described herein, the polymeric materials might be solidified simply by cooling. This can be conveniently accomplished passively by ambient air, or actively by, for example, quenching the extruded polymeric materials on a chilled surface (e.g., a chilled roll). In some embodiments, the polymeric materials are low molecular weight polymers that need to be cross-linked to be solidified, which can be done, for example, by electromagnetic or particle radiation. In some embodiments, it is desirable to maximize the time to quenching to increase the bond strength. 
         [0064]    Dies and methods described herein can be used to form netting where polymeric strands are formed of two different materials in a layered arrangement.  FIGS. 3-9  illustrate exemplary shims useful for assembling an extrusion die capable of producing netting where both of the strands are of a layered, of optionally different materials.  FIG. 10  is an exploded perspective assembly illustration of an exemplary repeating sequence employing those shims.  FIG. 12  is a detail perspective view of the exemplary dispensing surface associated with the repeating sequence of  FIG. 10 .  FIG. 13  is an exploded perspective view of a mount suitable for an extrusion die composed of multiple repeats of the repeating sequence of shims of  FIG. 10 .  FIG. 14  shows the mount of  FIG. 13  in an assembled state. 
         [0065]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a plan view of shim  300  is illustrated. Shim  300  has first aperture  360   a , second aperture  360   b , third aperture  360   c , and fourth aperture  360   d . When shim  300  is assembled with others as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12 , aperture  360   a  helps define first cavity  362   a , aperture  360   b  helps define second cavity  362   b , aperture  360   c  helps define third cavity  362   c  and aperture  360   d  helps define fourth cavity  362   d . Shim  300  has several holes  47  to allow the passage of, for example, bolts to hold shim  300  and others to be described below into an assembly. Shim  300  has dispensing surface  367 , and in this particular embodiment, dispensing surface  367  has indexing groove  380  and identification notch  382 . Shim  300  has shoulders  390  and  392 . Shim  300  has dispensing opening  356 , but it will be noted that this shim has no integral connection between dispensing opening  356  and any of cavities  362   a ,  362   b ,  362   c , or  362   d . There is no connection, for example, from cavity  362   a  to dispensing opening  356 , via, for example, passageway  368   a , but the flow has a route to the dispensing surface in the perpendicular-to-the-plane-of-the-drawing dimension when shim  300  is assembled with shim  400  as illustrated in assembly drawing (see  FIG. 12 ). This facilitates material to flow all the way to point  364   a . More particularly, passageway  368   a  has furcated terminus  364   a  to direct material from cavity  362   a  into a passageway in the adjacent shim as will be discussed below in connection with  FIG. 4 . Passageway  368   a , furcated terminus  364   a , and dispensing opening  356  may be more clearly seen in the expanded view shown in  FIG. 3A . 
         [0066]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a plan view of shim  400  is illustrated. Shim  400  has first aperture  460   a , second aperture  460   b , third aperture  460   c , and fourth aperture  460   d . When shim  400  is assembled with others as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12 , aperture  460   a  helps define first cavity  362   a , aperture  460   b  helps define second cavity  362   b , aperture  460   c  helps define third cavity  362   c , and aperture  460   d  helps define fourth cavity  362   d . Shim  400  has dispensing surface  467 , and in this particular embodiment, dispensing surface  467  has indexing groove  480  and identification notch  482 . Shim  400  has shoulders  490  and  492 . Shim  400  has dispensing opening  456 , but it will be noted that this shim has no integral connection between dispensing opening  456  and any of cavities  362   a ,  362   b ,  362   c , or  362   d . Rather, blind recess  494  behind dispensing openings  456  has two furcations and provides a path to allow a flow of material from the furcated terminus  364   a  as discussed above in connection with  FIG. 3 . Blind recess  494  has two furcations to direct material from passageways  368   a  into top and bottom layers on either side of the middle layer provided by second polymeric composition emerging from third cavity  568   c . When the die is assembled as shown in  FIG. 12 , the material flowing into blind recess  494  will form, for example, layers  11231  and  11232  in strand  11221  of  FIG. 11 . Blind recess  494  and dispensing opening  456  may be more clearly seen in the expanded view shown in detail drawing  FIG. 4A . 
         [0067]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a plan view of shim  500  is illustrated. Shim  500  has first aperture  560   a , second aperture  560   b , third aperture  560   c , and fourth aperture  560   d . When shim  500  is assembled with others as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12 , aperture  560   a  helps define first cavity  362   a , aperture  560   b  helps define second cavity  362   b , aperture  560   c  helps define third cavity  362   c , and aperture  560   d  helps define fourth cavity  362   d . Shim  500  has dispensing surface  567 , and in this particular embodiment, dispensing surface  567  has indexing groove  580  and an identification notch  582 . Shim  500  has shoulders  590  and  592 . It might seem that there is no path from cavity  362   c  to dispensing opening  556 , via, for example, passageway  568   c , but the flow has a route in the perpendicular-to-the-plane-of-the-drawing dimension when the sequence of  FIGS. 10 and 12  is completely assembled. Passageway  568   c  includes furcations  548  that further conduct the flow of a molten polymeric composition from cavity  362   a  via furcations  494  in shim  400 . When assembled and in use, molten material from cavity  362   c  flows through passageway  568   c  to form material  11255  in strand  11221  in  FIG. 11 . These structures may be more clearly seen in the detail view of  FIG. 5A . 
         [0068]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a plan view of shim  600  is illustrated. Shim  600  has first aperture  660   a , second aperture  660   b , third aperture  660   c , and fourth aperture  660   d . When shim  600  is assembled with others as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12 , aperture  660   a  helps define first cavity  362   a , aperture  660   b  helps define second cavity  362   b , aperture  660   c  helps define third cavity  362   c , and aperture  660   d  helps define fourth cavity  362   d . Shim  600  has dispensing surface  667 , and in this particular embodiment, dispensing surface  667  has indexing groove  680  and identification notch  682 . Shim  600  has shoulders  690  and  692 . There is no passage from any of the cavities to dispensing surface  667 , as this shim creates a non-dispensing area along the width of the die, in actual use separating the shims producing first strand  11221  from the shims producing second strand  11222 . 
         [0069]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a plan view of shim  700  is illustrated. Shim  700  is a near reflection of shim  300 , and has first aperture  760   a , second aperture  760   b , third aperture  760   c , and fourth aperture  760   d . When shim  700  is assembled with others as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12 , aperture  760   a  helps define first cavity  362   a , aperture  760   b  helps define second cavity  362   b , aperture  760   c  helps define third cavity  362   c , and aperture  760   d  helps define fourth cavity  362   d . Shim  700  has several holes  47  to allow the passage of, for example, bolts to hold shim  700  and others to be described below into an assembly. Shim  700  has dispensing surface  767 , and in this particular embodiment, dispensing surface  767  has indexing groove  780  and an identification notch  782 . Shim  700  has shoulders  790  and  792 . Shim  700  has dispensing opening  756 , but it will be noted that this shim has no integral connection between dispensing opening  756  and any of the cavities  362   a ,  362   b ,  362   c , or  362   d . There is no direct connection, for example, from cavity  362   b  to dispensing opening  756 , via, for example, passageway  768   b , but the flow has a route to the dispensing surface in the perpendicular-to-the-plane-of-the-drawing dimension when shim  700  is assembled with shim  800  as illustrated in assembly drawing  FIG. 12 . This facilitates material to flow all the way to point  769   b . More particularly, passageway  768   b  has furcated terminus  769   b  to direct material from cavity  362   b  into a passageway in the adjacent shim as will be discussed below in connection with  FIG. 8 . 
         [0070]    Passageway  768   b , furcated terminus  769   b , and dispensing opening  756  may be more clearly seen in the detail view shown in  FIG. 7A . It will be observed that the shape of dispensing opening  756  is slightly different from dispensing opening  356  in  FIG. 3 . This illustrates that netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein does not require that the first and second strands ( 11221  and  11222  in  FIG. 11 ) be the same size. 
         [0071]    Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a plan view of shim  800  is illustrated. Shim  800  is a near reflection of shim  400 , and has first aperture  860   a , second aperture  860   b , third aperture  860   c , and fourth aperture  860   d . When shim  800  is assembled with others as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12 , aperture  860   a  helps define first cavity  362   a , aperture  860   b  helps define second cavity  362   b , aperture  860   c  helps define third cavity  362   c , and aperture  860   d  helps define fourth cavity  362   d . Shim  800  has dispensing surface  867 , and in this particular embodiment, dispensing surface  867  has indexing groove  880  and an identification notch  882 . Shim  800  has shoulders  890  and  892 . Shim  800  has dispensing opening  856 , but it will be noted that this shim has no integral connection between dispensing opening  856  and any of the cavities  362   a ,  362   b ,  362   c , or  362   d . Rather, blind recess  894  behind dispensing openings  856  has two furcations and provides a path to allow a flow of material from furcated terminus  769   b  as discussed above in connection with  FIG. 7 . The two furcations on blind recess  894  has direct material from passageway  768   b  into top and bottom layers on either side of the middle layer provided by the polymeric composition emerging from fourth cavity  362   d  as will be discussed with more particularity in connection with  FIG. 9  below. When the die is assembled as shown in  FIG. 12 , the material flowing into blind recess  894  will form, for example, layers  11241  and  11242  in strand  11222  (see  FIG. 11 ). Blind recess  894  and dispensing opening  856  may be more clearly seen in the expanded view shown in detail drawing  FIG. 8A . Analogous from the observation made in connection with  FIG. 7A  above, it will be observed that the shape of dispensing opening  856  is slightly different from dispensing opening  456  in  FIG. 4 . This illustrates that the netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein does not require that the first and second strands ( 11221  and  11222  in  FIG. 11 ) be the same size. 
         [0072]    Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a plan view of shim  900  is illustrated. Shim  900  has first aperture  960   a , second aperture  960   b , third aperture  960   c , and fourth aperture  960   d . When shim  900  is assembled with others as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12 , aperture  960   a  helps define first cavity  362   a , aperture  960   b  helps define second cavity  362   b , aperture  960   c  helps define third cavity  362   c , and aperture  960   d  helps define fourth cavity  362   d . Shim  900  has dispensing surface  967 , and in this particular embodiment, dispensing surface  967  has indexing groove  980  and an identification notch  982 . Shim  900  has shoulders  990  and  992 . It might seem that there is no path from cavity  362   d  to dispensing opening  556 , via, for example, passageway  968   d , but the flow has a route in the perpendicular-to-the-plane-of-the-drawing dimension when the sequence of  FIGS. 10 and 12  is completely assembled. Passageway  968   d  includes furcations  994  that further conduct the flow of a molten polymeric composition from cavity  362   b  via the furcations  894  in shim  800 . When assembled and in use, molten material from cavity  362   d  flows through passageway  968   d  to form material  11256  in strand  11222  (see  FIG. 11 ). These structures may be more clearly seen in the detail view of  FIG. 9A . 
         [0073]    Referring new to  FIG. 10 , an exploded perspective view of a single instance of a sixteen-shim repeating sequence  1000  of shims  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900 , suitable to form, for example, netting  11200  shown in  FIG. 11 , is illustrated.  FIG. 12  is a detail view of the repeating sequence of shims  1000  of  FIG. 10  emphasizing the dispensing surfaces. In  FIG. 12 , it can be appreciated that when shims  300 ,  400 , and  500 , are assembled together, first vestibule  1101  is formed having a dispensing orifice jointly defined by the dispensing openings of the shims. Similarly, when shims  700 ,  800 , and  900 , are assembled together, second vestibule  1102  is formed having a dispensing orifice jointly defined by the dispensing openings of those shims. It should be noted that in the depicted embodiment the area of the dispensing orifices associated with first vestibule  1101  is one half that of the dispensing orifices associated with the second vestibule  1102 . This facilitates dispensing first polymeric strands from the first dispensing orifices at a first strand speed while simultaneously dispensing second polymeric strands from the second dispensing orifices at a second strand speed while keeping the total relative flowrate from the first and second vestibules  1101  and  1102  the same. Whether by making sizes of the orifices different or by varying the pressure of the molten polymer within the cavities, netting is properly formed when one of the strand speeds is at least two (in some embodiments, in a range from 2 to 6, or even 2 to 4) times the other strand speed. 
         [0074]    Referring now to  FIG. 13 , an exploded perspective view of a mount  2000  suitable for an extrusion die composed of multiple repeats of sequences of shims of  FIGS. 10 and 12  is illustrated. Mount  2000  is particularly adapted to use shims  300 ,  400 , 500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900  as shown in  FIGS. 3-9 . However for visual clarity, only a single instance of shim  500  is shown in  FIG. 13 . The multiple repeats of sequences of shims of  FIGS. 10 and 12  are compressed between two end blocks  2244   a  and  2244   b . Conveniently, through bolts can be used to assemble the shims to the end blocks  2244   a  and  2244   b , passing through holes  47  in shims  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 ,  700 ,  800 , and  900 . 
         [0075]    In this embodiment, four inlet fittings  2250   a ,  2250   b , and  2250   c  (and fourth inlet fitting hidden in this view on the far side of end block  2244   a ) provide a flow path for four streams of molten polymer through end blocks  2244   a  and  2244   b  to cavities  362   a ,  362   b ,  362   c , and  362   d . Compression blocks  2204  have a notch  2206  that conveniently engages the shoulders on the shims (e.g.,  390  and  392  on  300 ). When mount  2230  is completely assembled, compression blocks  2204  are attached by, for example, machine bolts to backplates  2208 . Holes are conveniently provided in the assembly for the insertion of cartridge heaters  52 . 
         [0076]    Referring now to  FIG. 14 , a perspective view of mount  2000  of  FIG. 13  is illustrated in a partially assembled state. A few shims (e.g.,  500 ) are in their assembled positions to show how they fit within mount  2000 , but most of the shims that would make up an assembled die have been omitted for visual clarity. 
         [0077]    Modifications of the shims shown in  FIGS. 3-10, 12 , can be useful for making other embodiments of netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein. For example, the shims shown in  FIGS. 3-10 and 12  can be modified to have only two cavities, and first passageways  568   a  and third passageways  868   c  can be modified to extend from the same cavity. With this modification, netting having first and second strands  11221  and  11222  as depicted in  FIG. 11 , where the first strand  11221  and second strand  11222  have layers of identical composition can be made. In other embodiments, the shims shown in  FIGS. 3-10 and 12  can be modified to provide first and/or second strands that have four, five, or even more layers. In planning and using such modifications, it remains necessary to arrange for the differential between the first and second speed speeds, either with restrictions in the passageways, restrictions in the dispensing orifices, or control of the flowrate of polymer via the pressure in the cavities. 
         [0078]    Portions of the exteriors of the first and second strands bond together at the bond regions. In methods described herein for making nettings for making composite polymeric layers described herein, the bonding occurs in a relatively short period of time (typically less than 1 second). The bond regions, as well as the strands typically cool through air and natural convection and/or radiation. In selecting polymers for the strands, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to select polymers of bonding strands that have dipole interactions (or H-bonds) or covalent bonds. Bonding between strands has been observed to be improved by increasing the time that the strands are molten to enable more interaction between polymers. Bonding of polymers has generally been observed to be improved by reducing the molecular weight of at least one polymer and or introducing an additional co-monomer to improve polymer interaction and/or reduce the rate or amount of crystallization. In some embodiments, the bond strength is greater than the strength of the strands forming the bond. In some embodiments, it may be desirable for the bonds to break and thus the bonds will be weaker than the strands. 
         [0079]    Suitable polymeric materials for extrusion from dies described herein, methods described herein, and for nettings for making composite polymeric layers described herein include thermoplastic resins comprising polyolefins (e.g., polypropylene and polyethylene), polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, nylons, polyesters (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate) and copolymers and blends thereof. Suitable polymeric materials for extrusion from dies described herein, methods described herein, and for making netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein also include elastomeric materials (e.g., ABA block copolymers, polyurethanes, polyolefin elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, metallocene polyolefin elastomers, polyamide elastomers, ethylene vinyl acetate elastomers, and polyester elastomers). Exemplary adhesives for extrusion from dies described herein, methods described herein, and for making composite polymeric layers described herein include acrylate copolymer pressure sensitive adhesives, rubber based adhesives (e.g., those based on natural rubber, polyisobutylene, polybutadiene, butyl rubbers, styrene block copolymer rubbers, etc.), adhesives based on silicone polyureas or silicone polyoxamides, polyurethane type adhesives, and poly(vinyl ethyl ether), and copolymers or blends of these. Other desirable materials include, for example, styrene-acrylonitrile, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate propionate, cellulose triacetate, polyether sulfone, polymethyl methacrylate, polyurethane, polyester, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polyethylene naphthalate, copolymers or blends based on naphthalene dicarboxylic acids, polyolefins, polyimides, mixtures and/or combinations thereof. Exemplary release materials for extrusion from dies described herein, methods described herein, and for making composite polymeric layers described herein include silicone-grafted polyolefins such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,465,107 (Kelly) and U.S. Pat. No. 3,471,588 (Kanner et al.), silicone block copolymers such as those described in PCT Publication No. WO96039349, published Dec. 12, 1996, low density polyolefin materials such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,228,449 (Meyer), U.S. Pat. No. 6,348,249 (Meyer), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,948,517 (Adamko et al.), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0080]    In some embodiments, at least one of the first, second, third, or fourth materials comprises an adhesive (including pressure sensitive adhesives). In some embodiments, netting described herein, at least some of the polymeric strands comprise a first polymer that is a thermoplastic (e.g., adhesives, nylons, polyesters, polyolefins, polyurethanes, elastomers (e.g., styrenic block copolymers), and blends thereof). 
         [0081]    In some embodiments, one or both of the major surfaces of nettings described herein comprise a hot melt or pressure sensitive adhesive. In some embodiments, the first polymeric strands and the second polymeric strands are both formed with an over/under arrangement. In particular, the first polymeric strands may have a first major surface of a first polymeric material and a second major surface of a second, different polymeric material, and the second polymeric strands may have a first major surface of a third polymeric material and a second major surface of a fourth, polymeric material. The die design for this scenario utilizes cavities. In some embodiments, the first polymeric strands and the second polymeric strands are both formed with a layered arrangement. In particular, the first polymeric strands may have a first major surface and a second major surface of a first polymeric material sandwiching a center of a second, different polymeric material, and the second polymeric strands may have first and second major surface of a third polymeric material sandwiching a center of a fourth, polymeric material. The die design for this scenario utilizes four cavities. 
         [0082]    In some embodiments, polymeric materials of the composite polymeric layers described herein and nettings for making composite polymeric layers described herein may comprise a colorant (e.g., pigment and/or dye) for functional (e.g., optical effects) and/or aesthetic purposes (e.g., each has different color/shade). Suitable colorants are those known in the art for use in various polymeric materials. Exemplary colors imparted by the colorant include white, black, red, pink, orange, yellow, green, aqua, purple, and blue. In some embodiments, it is desirable level to have a certain degree of opacity for one or more of the polymeric materials. The amount of colorant(s) to be used in specific embodiments can be readily determined by those skilled in the (e.g., to achieve desired color, tone, opacity, transmissivity, etc.). If desired, the polymeric materials may be formulated to have the same or different colors. When colored strands are of a relatively fine (e.g., less than 50 micrometers) diameter, the appearance of the web may have a shimmer reminiscent of silk. 
         [0083]    In some embodiments, strands netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein do not substantially cross over each other (i.e., at least 50 (at least 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 99, or even 100) percent by number). 
         [0084]    In some embodiments, netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein have a thickness up to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, up to 500 micrometers, 250 micrometers, 100 micrometers, 75 micrometers, 50 micrometers, or even up to 25 micrometers; in a range from 10 micrometers to 750 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 750 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 250 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 100 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 75 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 50 micrometers, or even 10 micrometers to 25 micrometers), although thicknesses outside of these size are also useful. 
         [0085]    In some embodiments, the polymeric strands of netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein have an average width in a range from 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 10 micrometers to 400 micrometers, or even 10 micrometers to 250 micrometers), although other sizes are also useful. 
         [0086]    In some embodiments, netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein, the bond regions of the netting have an average largest dimension perpendicular to the strand thickness, wherein the polymeric strands of the netting have an average width, and wherein the average largest dimension of the bond regions of the netting is at least two (in some embodiments, at least 2.5, 3, 3.5, or even at least 4) times greater than the average width of the polymeric strands of the netting. 
         [0087]    To facilitate converting netting to the polymeric layers described herein having void spaces, in some embodiments, the materials creating the continuous layer has a lower melting or softening temperature than the layer providing the blind holes, the continuous layer is formed from a material that crystallizes slower than that of the void space layer, and/or the nip rolls that form the continuous layers have embossing patterns to enable the layers to flow and create a continuous layer. 
         [0088]    In some embodiments, the first material layer of the netting has a thickness in a range from 2 micrometers to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 5 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even 25 micrometers to 250 micrometers), although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, the second material layer of the netting has a thickness in a range from 2 micrometers to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 5 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even 25 micrometers to 250 micrometers), although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, the third material layer of the netting has a thickness in a range from 2 micrometers to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 5 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even 25 micrometers to 250 micrometers), although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, the fourth material layer of the netting has a thickness in a range from 2 micrometers to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 5 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even 25 micrometers to 750 micrometers), although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, the fifth material layer of the netting has a thickness in a range from 2 micrometers to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 5 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even 25 micrometers to 250 micrometers), although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, the sixth material layer of the netting has a thickness in a range from 2 micrometers to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 5 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even 25 micrometers to 250 micrometers), although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. 
         [0089]    In some embodiments, netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein have a basis weight in a range from 5 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2  (in some embodiments, 10 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2 , 10 g/m 2  to 400 g/m 2 , or even 400 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2 ), for example, netting as-made from dies described herein, although basis weights outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein after being stretched have a basis weight in a range from 0.5 g/m 2  to 40 g/m 2  (in some embodiments, 1 g/m 2  to 20 g/m 2 ), although basis weights outside of these sizes are also useful. 
         [0090]    In some embodiments, netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein has a strand pitch (i.e., center point-to-center point of adjacent bonds in the machine direction) in a range from 0.5 mm to 20 mm (in some embodiments, in a range from 0.5 mm to 10 mm), although other sizes are also useful. 
         [0091]    In some embodiments, a composite polymeric layer described herein is stretched to achieve a desired thickness. The composite polymeric layers may be stretched in the cross direction only to achieve void spaces that are extended in the cross direction, or stretched only in the machine direction to achieve void spaces that are extended in the machine direction, or stretched in both the cross and machine direction to achieve relatively round void spaces. Stretching can provide a relatively easy method to for yielding relatively low basis weight composite polymeric layers. In addition, the void space size can be reduced after stretching by calendaring a composite polymeric layer. 
         [0092]    In some embodiments, netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein are elastic. In some embodiments, the polymeric strands of netting for making composite polymeric layers have a machine direction and a cross-machine direction, wherein the netting or arrays of polymeric strands is elastic in machine direction, and inelastic in the cross-machine direction. In some embodiments, the polymeric strands of netting for making composite polymeric layers have a machine direction and a cross-machine direction, wherein the netting or arrays of polymeric strands is inelastic in machine direction, and elastic in the cross-machine direction. Elastic means that the material will substantially resume its original shape after being stretched (i.e., will sustain only small permanent set following deformation and relaxation which set is less than 50 percent (in some embodiments, less than 25, 20, 15, or even less than 10 percent) of the original length at moderate elongation (i.e., about 400-500%; in some embodiments, up to 300% to 1200%, or even up to 600% to 800%) elongation at room temperature). The elastic material can be both pure elastomers and blends with an elastomeric phase or content that will still exhibit substantial elastomeric properties at room temperature. 
         [0093]    It is within the scope of the instant disclosure to use heat-shrinkable and non-heat shrinkable elastics. Non-heat shrinkable means that the elastomer, when stretched, will substantially recover sustaining only a small permanent set as discussed above at room temperature (i.e., about 25° C.). 
         [0094]    In some embodiments of netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein, the array of polymeric strands exhibits at least one of diamond-shaped, triangular-shaped, or hexagonal-shaped openings. 
         [0095]    In some embodiments, the polymeric strands of netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein have an average width in a range from 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 10 micrometers to 400 micrometers, or even 10 micrometers to 250 micrometers), although other sizes are also useful. 
         [0096]    In some embodiments, the strands of netting for making composite polymeric layers described herein (i.e., the first strands, second strands, and bond regions, and other optional strands, each have thicknesses that are substantially the same. 
         [0097]    In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein for at least a majority of the void spaces, the area of each void space is not greater than 5 (in some embodiments, not greater than 2.5, 2, 1, 0.5, 0.1, 0.05, 0.01, 0.075, or even not greater than 0.005) mm 2 , although other sizes are also useful. 
         [0098]    In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein at least some of the void spaces have at least two pointed ends. In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein at least some of the void spaces are elongated with at least two pointed ends. In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein at least some of the void spaces are elongated with two opposed pointed ends. In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein at least some of the void spaces are oval. 
         [0099]    Some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein have in a range from 50,000 to 6,000,000 (in some embodiments, 100,000 to 6,000,000, 500,000 to, 6,000,000, or even 1,000,000 to 6,000,000) void spaces/m 2 , although other sizes are also useful. 
         [0100]    In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein the void spaces have a length and a width, and a ratio of lengths to widths in a range from 2:1 to 100:1 (in some embodiments, 2:1 to 75:1, 2:1 to 50:1, 2:1 to 25:1, or even, 2:1 to 10:1), although ratios outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, composite polymeric layer described herein the void spaces have a length and a width, and a ratio of lengths to widths in a range from 1:1 to 1.9:1, although ratios outside of these sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, composite polymeric layer described herein the void spaces have widths in a range from 5 micrometers to 1 mm (in some embodiments, 10 micrometers to 0.5 mm), although other sizes are also useful. In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein the void spaces have lengths in a range from 100 micrometers to 10 mm (in some embodiments, 100 micrometers to 1 mm), although other sizes are also useful. 
         [0101]    Some embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein have a thickness up to 2 mm (in some embodiments, up to 1 mm, 500 micrometers, 250 micrometers, 100 micrometers, 75 micrometers, 50 micrometers, or even up to 25 micrometers; in a range from 10 micrometers to 750 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 750 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 250 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 100 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 75 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 50 micrometers, or even 10 micrometers to 25 micrometers, although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. 
         [0102]    Some embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein are sheets having an average thickness in a range from 250 micrometers to 5 mm, although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. Some embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein have an average thickness not greater than 5 mm, although thicknesses outside of these sizes are also useful. 
         [0103]    Some embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein have a basis weight in a range from 25 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2  (in some embodiments, 50 g/m 2  to 250 g/m 2 ), although basis weights outside of these sizes are also useful. 
         [0104]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of composite polymeric layer  24024  formed from three-material strands, sized and nipped so as to close the openings within the layers that comprise the first and the second major surfaces, and further permit these two layers to contact one another through void spaces in a layer between within the layers that comprise the first and the second major surfaces. In the depicted embodiment, void spaces  24056  are retained only within the third, core, material  24057 . Thus there is no through hole from first major surface  24052  to second major surface  24054 . Depending on the choice of first material  24053 , second material  24055 , and third material  24057 , diverse flexible net-like structured tapes can be prepared. For example, if the core material is relatively stiff and the first and second materials are adhesive, a relatively strong double-stick tape can be prepared with adhesive-to-adhesive bonding through openings  24056 . 
         [0105]    Some embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein are also useful, for example, for breathable (i.e., a moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) value of at least 500 g/m 2 /day as measured using ASTM E 96 (1980) at 40° C. The use of this test in connection with web material is discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,614,310 (Delgado et al.), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. When wrapping a limb with a compression wrap, it is typical to apply the wrap so that one course partially overlaps the previous course. Therefore, it is convenient for compression wraps to have a first major surface that has some tendency to self adhere to a second major surface of the wrap. Typically therapeutic regimens performed with compression wraps apply a force in a range from about 14 to about 35 mm Hg to the wrapped portion of the patient&#39;s body (see, e.g., the discussion at, “Compression Bandaging in the Treatment of Venous Leg Ulcers;” S. Thomas; World Wide Wounds, September 1997). It is therefore convenient for a compression wrap to have some extensibility so that minor changes in the diameter of the patient&#39;s limbs will not drastically change the compression force against the skin from the target pressure prescribed for the patient&#39;s indication. The compression wrap force can be measured as described in “Is Compression Bandaging Accurate? The Routine Use of Interface Pressure Measurements in Compression Bandaging of Venous Leg Ulcers;” A. Satpathy, S. Hayes and S. Dodds;  Phlebology  2006 21: 36, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein are convenient for use as compression wrap, for example, have openings in each of the first and second major surfaces that comprise in a range from 10 to 75 percent of their respective surface areas. 
         [0106]    In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein exhibit a tensile force per inch (2.54 cm) of width at 28% elongation of less than 7.78 N (1.75 lbf) as determined by the Stretching Test below. In some embodiments, the tensile force per inch of with at 28% elongation ranges from 6.89 N (1.55 lbf) to 0.44 N (0.1 lbf), or even 5.78 N (1.3 lbf) to 1.1 N (0.25 lbf). The Stretching Test is conducted as follows: A tensile strength tester (available under the trade designation “INSTRON 5500R”; Model 1122 from Instron, Norwood, Mass.) with a 22.68 Kg (50 lb) load cell is used to measure the force required to stretch the polymeric layer to 200% elongation. Force (lbf) and tensile strain (%) are measured every 0.1 second (100 ms). A 15.24 cm (6 inch) long (in the machine direction) by 7.62 cm (3 inch) wide sample of polymeric layer is clamped between 7.62 cm (3 inch) wide grips. The initial gap length is 10.16 cm (4 inch). The rate of crosshead separation is 0.127 m/min (5 in/min.). An average of 5 replicates are tested to determine the average value. 
         [0107]    In some embodiments, composite polymeric layers described herein exhibits preferable hand tearable characteristics in the crossweb direction. For example, some embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein have a crossweb load at break less than 26.7 N (6 lbf) (in some embodiments in a range from 20.0 N (4.5 lbf) to 2.22 N (0.5 lbf) as determined by the Cross Web Strength Test. The Cross Web Strength Test is conducted as follows: A 2.54 cm (1 inch) wide strip of the polymeric layer (cut across the web) is loaded into a tensile strength tester (“INSTRON 5500R”; Model 1122) with a 22.68 Kg (50 lb) load cell. The load and tensile strain (%) at break for each sample is recorded where the initial gap is 5.08 cm (2 inch) with a crosshead separation rate of 1.27 m/min. (50 in/min.). An average of 10 replicates are tested to determine the average value. 
         [0108]    The cross web strength and tearability of embodiments of composite polymeric layers described herein can be adjusted, for example, by adjusting the extrusion temperature (e.g., until microscopic surface melt fracture is present or not), adjusting the speed of the take away chill roll speed, by extruding netting used to make composite polymeric layers described herein through shorter (decreased height) orifice holes, by adjusting the straight-to-oscillating strand area ratios (height by width of orifice holes), and by adjusting the oscillation strand relative to the straight strand extruder rates. 
       Exemplary Embodiments 
       [0109]    1A. A composite polymeric layer having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, the composite layer comprising, in order, first, second, and third polymeric layers, wherein the first layer is compositionally different than the second layer, wherein the third layer is compositionally different than the second layer, wherein the second layer comprises an array of void spaces therein, but not through the first and second major surfaces (i.e., they may extend into other layers (e.g., the first and third layers, but not through the first and second major surfaces), wherein the void spaces each have a series of areas through the void spaces ranging from minimum to maximum areas, and wherein the minimum area is not adjacent to either the first or third layer. 
         [0110]    2A. The composite polymeric layer of Exemplary Embodiment 1A, wherein the first major surface comprises an adhesive. 
         [0111]    3A. The composite polymeric layer of Exemplary Embodiment 1A, wherein the first major surface comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive. 
         [0112]    4A. The composite polymeric layer of either Exemplary Embodiment 2A or 3A, wherein the second major surface comprises an adhesive. 
         [0113]    5A. The composite polymeric layer of either Exemplary Embodiment 2A or 3A, wherein the first major surface comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive. 
         [0114]    6A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein at least a portion of the first major surface comprises a third material different than the first material. 
         [0115]    7A. The composite polymeric layer of Exemplary Embodiment 6A, wherein the third material is an adhesive. 
         [0116]    8A. The polymeric layer of Exemplary Embodiment 6A, wherein the third material is a pressure sensitive adhesive. 
         [0117]    9A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 5A, wherein at least a portion of the first major surface comprises a third material different than the first material, and wherein at least a portion of the second major surface comprises a fourth material different than the second and third materials. 
         [0118]    10A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 5A, wherein at least a portion of the first major surface comprises a third material different than the first material, and wherein at least a portion of the second major surface comprises a fourth material different than the second material. 
         [0119]    11A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 5A, wherein at least a portion of the first major surface comprises a third material different than the first material, and wherein at least a portion of the second major surface comprises a fourth material different than the second and third materials. 
         [0120]    12A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 5A, wherein at least a portion of the second major surface comprises a material that is the same as the first material. 
         [0121]    13A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein the total void spaces area for a cross-section of the second polymeric layer taken parallel to the first major surface is not greater than 50 (in some embodiments, not greater than 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, 0.75, 0.5, 0.25, or even not greater than 0.1; in some embodiments, in a range from 0.1 to not greater than 50, 0.1 to not greater than 45, 0.1 to not greater than 40, 0.1 to not greater than 35, 0.1 to not greater than 30, 0.1 to not greater than 25, 0.1 to not greater than 20, 0.1 to not greater than 15, 0.1 to not greater than 10, or even 0.1 to not greater than 5) percent of the total area of the cross-section. 
         [0122]    14A. The composite polymeric layer of Exemplary Embodiment 13A, wherein for at least a majority of the void spaces in the cross-section, the area of each void space is not greater than 5 (in some embodiments, not greater than 2.5, 2, 1, 0.5, 0.1, 0.05, 0.01, 0.075, or even not greater than 0.005) mm 2 . 
         [0123]    15A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein at least some of the void spaces have at least two pointed ends. 
         [0124]    16A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 14A, wherein at least some of the void spaces are elongated with at least two pointed ends. 
         [0125]    17A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 14A, wherein at least some of the void spaces are elongated with two opposed pointed ends. 
         [0126]    18A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 14A, wherein at least some of the void spaces are oval. 
         [0127]    19A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A having in a range from 50,000 to 6,000,000 (in some embodiments, 100,000 to 6,000,000, 500,000 to, 6,000,000, or even 1,000,000 to 6,000,000) void spaces/m 2 . 
         [0128]    20A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein the void spaces have a length and a width, and a ratio of lengths to widths in a range from 2:1 to 100:1 (in some embodiments, 2:1 to 75:1, 2:1 to 50:1, 2:1 to 25:1, or even, 2:1 to 10:1). 
         [0129]    21A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 19A, wherein the void spaces have a length and a width, and a ratio of lengths to widths in a range from 1:1 to 1.9:1. 
         [0130]    22A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein the void spaces have widths in a range from 5 micrometers to 1 mm (in some embodiments, 10 micrometers to 0.5 mm). 
         [0131]    23A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein the void spaces have lengths in a range from 100 micrometers to 10 mm (in some embodiments, 100 micrometers to 1 mm). 
         [0132]    24A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein the layer has a thickness up to 2 mm (in some embodiments, up to 1 mm, 500 micrometers, 250 micrometers, 100 micrometers, 75 micrometers, 50 micrometers, or even up to 25 micrometers; in a range from 10 micrometers to 750 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 750 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 250 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 100 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 75 micrometers, 10 micrometers to 50 micrometers, or even 10 micrometers to 25 micrometers). 
         [0133]    25A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 23A, wherein the polymeric layer is a sheet having an average thickness in a range from 250 micrometers to 5 mm. 
         [0134]    26A. The composite polymeric layer of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1A to 23A, wherein the composite polymeric layer is a film having an average thickness not greater than 5 mm. 
         [0135]    27A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A having a basis weight in a range from 25 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2  (in some embodiments, 50 g/m 2  to 250 g/m 2 ). 
         [0136]    28A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A comprising at least one of a dye or pigment therein. 
         [0137]    29A. The composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A having a crossweb load at break less than 26.7 N (6 lbf) (in some embodiments in a range from 20.0 N (4.5 lbf) to 2.22 N (0.5 lbf) as determined by the Cross Web Strength Test. 
         [0138]    30A. A breathable compression wrap comprising the composite polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, wherein the composite polymeric layer has first and second generally opposed major surfaces, and wherein the first major surface has an affinity for the second major surface. 
         [0139]    31A. The breathable compression wrap of Exemplary Embodiment 30A exhibits a tensile force per inch (2.54 cm) of width at 28% elongation of less than 7.78 N (1.75 lbf) (in some embodiments, in a range from 6.89 N (1.55 lbf) to 0.44 N (0.1 lbf), or even 5.78 N (1.3 lbf) to 1.1 N (0.25 lbf)) as determined by the Stretching Test. 
         [0140]    32A. The breathable compression wrap of either Exemplary Embodiment 30A or 31A, wherein in a range from 10 to 75 percent of each of the first and second major surfaces comprise said openings. 
         [0141]    1B. A method of making a polymeric layer of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment A, the method comprising at least one of passing through a nip or calendaring a netting comprising an array of polymeric strands periodically joined together at bond regions throughout the array, the netting has first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, wherein the bond regions are generally perpendicular to the first and second major surfaces, wherein the array comprises a first plurality of strands having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, wherein the array comprises a second plurality of strands having first and second, generally opposed major surfaces, wherein the first major surface of the netting comprises the first major surfaces of the first and second plurality of strands, wherein the second major surface of the netting comprises the second major surfaces of the first and second plurality of strands, wherein the first major surface of the first plurality of strands comprises a first material, wherein the second major surface of the first plurality of strands comprises a second material, wherein the first major surface of the second plurality of strands comprises a third material, wherein the second major surface of the second plurality of strands comprises a fourth material, wherein there is a fifth material disposed between the first and second materials, wherein there is a sixth material disposed between the third and fourth materials, wherein the first and fifth materials are different, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth are the same, and wherein the first material does not extend to the second major surface of the first plurality of strands. 
         [0142]    2B. The method of Exemplary Embodiment 1B, wherein the third material of the netting does not extend to the second major surface of the second plurality of strands of the netting. 
         [0143]    3B. The method of either Exemplary Embodiment 1B or 2B, wherein the first and sixth materials of the netting are the same. 
         [0144]    4B. The method of either Exemplary Embodiment 1B or 2B, wherein the fifth and sixth materials of the netting are the same. 
         [0145]    5B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein at least one of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises an adhesive. 
         [0146]    6B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 4B, wherein at least two of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises an adhesive. 
         [0147]    7B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 4B, wherein at least three of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises an adhesive. 
         [0148]    8B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 4B, wherein each of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises an adhesive. 
         [0149]    9B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 4B, wherein at least one of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive. 
         [0150]    10B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 4B, wherein at least two of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive. 
         [0151]    11B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 4B, wherein at least three of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive. 
         [0152]    12B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 4B, wherein each of the first, second, third, or fourth materials of the netting comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive. 
         [0153]    13B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the netting has a thickness in a range from 2 micrometers to 750 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 5 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even 25 micrometers to 250 micrometers). 
         [0154]    14B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the polymeric strands of the netting do not substantially cross over each other (i.e., at least 50 (at least 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 99, or even 100) percent by number). 
         [0155]    15B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the netting has a basis weight in a range from 5 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2  (in some embodiments, 10 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2 , 10 g/m 2  to 400 g/m 2 , or even 400 g/m 2  to 600 g/m 2 ). 
         [0156]    16B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the netting has a basis weight in a range from 0.5 g/m 2  to 40 g/m 2  (in some embodiments, 1 g/m 2  to 20 g/m 2 ). 
         [0157]    17B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the netting has a strand pitch (i.e., center point-to-center point of adjacent bonds in the machine direction) in a range from 0.5 mm to 20 mm (in some embodiments, in a range from 0.5 mm to 10 mm). 
         [0158]    18B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the netting is elastic. 
         [0159]    19B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the netting has a machine direction and a cross-machine direction, and wherein the netting is elastic in the machine direction, and inelastic in the cross-machine direction. 
         [0160]    20B. The method of any of Exemplary Embodiments 1B to 18B, wherein the netting has a machine direction and a cross-machine direction, and wherein the netting is inelastic in the machine direction, and elastic in the cross-machine direction. 
         [0161]    21B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the array of polymeric strands of the netting exhibits at least one of diamond-shaped or hexagonal-shaped openings. 
         [0162]    22B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein at least some of the polymeric strands of the netting comprise a first polymer that is a thermoplastic (e.g., adhesives, nylons, polyesters, polyolefins, polyurethanes, elastomers (e.g., styrenic block copolymers), and blends thereof). 
         [0163]    23B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the first strands of the netting have an average width in a range from 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 10 micrometers to 400 micrometers, or even 10 micrometers to 250 micrometers). 
         [0164]    24B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the second strands of the netting have an average width in a range from 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers (in some embodiments, in a range from 10 micrometers to 400 micrometers, or even 10 micrometers to 250 micrometers). 
         [0165]    25B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B where the netting is stretched. 
         [0166]    26B. The method of any preceding Exemplary Embodiment B, wherein the bond regions of the netting have an average largest dimension perpendicular to the strand thickness, wherein the polymeric strands have an average width, and wherein the average largest dimension of the bond regions of the netting is at least 2 (in some embodiments, at least 2.5, 3, 3.5, or even at least 4) times greater than the average width of the polymeric strands. 
         [0167]    Advantages and embodiments of this invention are further illustrated by the following examples, but the particular materials and amounts thereof recited in these examples, as well as other conditions and details, should not be construed to unduly limit this invention. All parts and percentages are by weight unless otherwise indicated. 
       Example 
       [0168]    A co-extrusion die as generally depicted in  FIG. 14  and assembled with a multi shim repeating pattern of extrusion orifices as generally illustrated in  FIG. 12 , was prepared. The thickness of the shims in the repeat sequence was 4 mils (0.102 mm) for shims  300 ,  600 ,  700 , and  900 . The thickness of the shims in the repeat sequence was 2 mils (0.051 mm) for shims  400 ,  800 . The thickness of the shims in the repeat sequence was 8 mils (0.204 mm) for shims  500 , one shim was used in the repeat. These shims were formed from stainless steel, with perforations cut by a wire electron discharge machining. The height of dispensing orifices were both cut to 30 mils (0.765 mm) The extrusion orifices were aligned in a collinear, alternating arrangement, and resulting dispensing surface was as shown in  FIG. 12 . The total width of the shim setup was 15 cm. 
         [0169]    The inlet fittings on the two end blocks were each connected to three conventional single-screw extruders. The extruder feeding the cavities  362 C and  362 D were loaded with polyolefin elastomer (obtained under the trade designation “8401 Engage” from Dow, Midland Mich.) dry blended with 3% red color concentrate, (obtained under the trade designation “RED POLYPROPYLENE PIGMENT” from Clariant, Minneapolis, Minn.). Cavity  362   a  was left empty for this example. Cavity  362   b  was loaded with acrylate copolymer adhesive (obtained under the trade designation “93/7” from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn.). 
         [0170]    The melt was extruded vertically into an extrusion quench takeaway nip. The quench nip was a smooth temperature controlled chrome plated 20 cm diameter steel roll and an 11 cm diameter silicone rubber roll. The rubber roll was about 60 durometer. Both were temperature controlled with internal water flow. Both rolls were wrapped with a release liner. The nip pressure was generated with two pressurized air cylinders. The web path wrapped 180 degrees around the chrome steel roll and then to a windup roll. A schematic of the quench process is shown in  FIG. 1 . Under these conditions a polymeric layer generally as depicted in  FIG. 20  with the top and bottom adhesive layer contacting through the center layer apertures was produced. 
         [0171]    Other process conditions are listed below: 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 Orifice width for the first orifice: 
                 0.51 
                 mm 
               
               
                   
                 Orifice height for the first orifice: 
                 0.765 
                 mm 
               
               
                   
                 Orifice width of the second orifice: 
                 1.02 
                 mm 
               
               
                   
                 Orifice height of the second orifice: 
                 0.765 
                 mm 
               
               
                   
                 Land spacing between orifices 
                 0.408 
                 mm 
               
               
                   
                 Flow rate of first polymer (first cavity core) 
                 1.4 
                 kg/hr. 
               
               
                   
                 Flow rate of second polymer (2 nd  cavity core) 
                 0.9 
                 kg/hr 
               
               
                   
                 Flow rate of third polymer (2 nd  cavity skins) 
                 1.1 
                 kg/hr. 
               
               
                   
                 Extrusion temperature 
                 204° 
                 C. 
               
               
                   
                 Quench roll temperature 
                 15° 
                 C. 
               
               
                   
                 Quench takeaway speed 
                 2.3 
                 m/min. 
               
               
                   
                 Melt drop distance 
                 2 
                 cm 
               
               
                   
                 Nip Pressure 
                 1 
                 kg/cm 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0172]    Using an optical microscope, at 50× magnification, the dimensions of the resulting polymeric layer having an array of void spaces between the major surfaces were measured, and are listed below. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
                 Film thickness 
                 0.28 
                 mm 
               
               
                   
                 Film basis weight 
                 230 
                 g/m 2   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Hole general shape 
                 vesica piscis 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Void space cross direction 
                 0.09 
                 mm 
               
               
                   
                 Void space machine direction 
                 2.3 
                 mm 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 voids/cm 2   
                 8.3 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0173]    Foreseeable modifications and alterations of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this invention. This invention should not be restricted to the embodiments that are set forth in this application for illustrative purposes.