Abstract: A medical packaging substrate that is able to withstand ozone sterilization without generating a significant amount of odor and without undergoing a substantial degradation in strength is provided. This is accomplished by selectively controlling the components of the medical packaging substrate to optimize ozone compatibility. For example, the medical packaging substrate may be formed from a cellulosic fibrous material having a pH of about 7.0 or more. The present inventor has surprisingly discovered that such high pH values may allow the substrate to be effectively sterilized with ozone without generating substantial amounts of odor. In addition, a wet-strength agent and/or binder composition may also be selected that optimize the strength properties of the substrate without resulting in substantial odor.

Abstract: Fibrous webs having a visible security image and products constructed from such webs are generally disclosed. The fibrous webs having the security image also contain a binder composition that strengthens the web without significantly affecting the ability to see security image. The application of a binder composition to a watermarked or shadow marked web can be achieved without affecting the ability to see the security image formed by the watermark or shadow mark. In one embodiment, the present invention is generally directed to medical packaging substrates having security features, such as watermarks or shadow marks, in at least one surface of at least one fibrous web of the substrate.

Abstract: A medical packaging substrate formed from a cellulosic pulp and/or synthetic fibers and a binder material is provided by the present invention. The substrate is usable to form medical packages for surgical instruments, medical devices, and medical appliances. The fabric is gas-pervious so that gas sterilization techniques may be used to sterilize the contents of any package made from the material. The substrate is manufactured using a latex deposition process wherein the binder material is applied prior to or during formation of the web.