Abstract: The invention relates to a tampon (10), to the essentially cylindrical circumferential surface of which a liquid-permeable, thermoplastic material is fastened, with the application of pressure and heat. The dome-like constriction (10b) at the introduction end (10a) and the withdrawal end (10c) of the tampon (10) remain free of the liquid-permeable, thermoplastic material. The fastening of the liquid-permeable material to the outer surface of the absorbent material of the tampon (10), which consists of a nonwoven ribbon section rolled up on itself and pressed radially to give the final form of the tampon (10), guarantees that the high absorbency of the nonwoven fibre material, based on capillary action, continues through the liquid-permeable, thermoplastic material onto its outside. In addition, the liquid-permeable material offers protection against fibres becoming detached and makes it easier to introduce the tampon into and remove it from the body cavity.

Abstract: A lickerin and feed mechanism create a supply of individual fibers which follow the rotation of the lickerin. These fibers are deflected from the lickerin in the form of a stream by means of a plate arranged parallel to the lickerin. A conveying screen intercepts the stream of fibers and accumulates them into a web without the use of a high velocity stream of air to doff the fibers from the lickerin or to capture fibers on the conveyor. Further, the housing for the apparatus is opened so that there are no seals to compress the web after it is produced. Multiple lickerins and feed mechanisms may be spaced along the conveying screen to create multiple-layer or blended products. The feed mechanism may include devices for spraying particulate material on previously formed layers or blending it with fibers as a layer is formed.

Abstract: A spray syringe is disclosed which includes in combination a hypodermic syringe and a tubular member having a spray orifice at a distal tip. The tubular member is flexible permitting orientation of the spray orifice independent of the orientation of the syringe. The tubular member is sized such that the needle of the syringe is received within the bore in a fluid tight seal.