Abstract: An absorbent article containing a composite mixture of absorbent macroporous particles and binder particles. Preferably, the absorbent macroporous particles are those having a macroporous structure which allow for the rapid flow of liquid therein, e.g., aerogels, xerogels, cryogels, or mixtures thereof. The absorbent articles produced thereby are preferably thin and lightweight, but maintain an ample rate of absorption allowing for a more rapid uptake of higher volumes of liquids.

Abstract: A composite filter medium for removing at least 99.95 percent of particulates of a size in the 3 to 4 micron range and dissolved chemical contaminants from a fluid and filters of various configurations employing the composite filter medium are disclosed. The composite filter medium comprises an adsorbent layer containing an adsorbent agent and a hydrophilic particulate intercepting layer disposed adjacent to the adsorbent layer. The composite medium has a mean flow pore diameter of about 1 to 10 microns, a bubble point of about 3 to 15 microns and an air permeability of about 0.5 to 7 liters per minute/cm2 with a pressure drop of about 0.1 bar.