Abstract: An elongate, liquid absorbent pad for controlling liquids and/or collecting liquid spills and leaks. The pad includes: (1) an elongate, substantially coherent, liquid absorbent structure formed of a matrix of fibrous material having a substantially polygonal cross-section; (2) a flexible, liquid permeable cover enclosing the absorbent core, and; (3) at least one fastening means positioned on at least a portion of the liquid permeable cover. The fastening means may be a hook and loop fastening system, a magnetic fastening system, clips, snaps, fasteners, eyes, hooks, pins or the like. The fastening means may also be an adhesive layer or a combination of mechanical systems and adhesives. The fastening means is adapted to secure the absorbent pad or sock to a surface, to another absorbent pad, or to a device for wiping up liquid.

Abstract: A beauty coil that is in the form of a rod which is comprised of a mass of continuous fibers which run the length of the rod. The fibers are held in a compressed state by an outer sheathing, which when removed, allows the fiber mass to expand or blossom prior to use.

Abstract: A drinking straw that purifies water by forced movement of water through the straw. The straw is composed of: 1) a filter plug made of a fibrous structure, the filter plug having sides, a first end, a second end, and a firmness sufficient to avoid collapse of the fibrous structure under a specified pressure drop; 2) a water purification material integrated in the fibrous structure; and 3) a liquid impervious wrapper covering the sides of the filter plug, the wrapper defining openings at the first and second ends of the filter plug.