Abstract: A deposited sheet of foraminous material (e.g., elastomeric material such as a latex) having a lace-like configuration repeated over the extent of the sheet. This configuration includes relatively open mesh regions, and relatively closed solid petal regions. Portions of the configuration have a substantial plurality of perforated openings per unit area, with the open regions having a greater area of such openings per unit surface area than in the closed regions. At least some of the closed petal regions have a predetermined lesser thickness than the open mesh regions such that the lesser thickness closed regions have a greater surface of elastomeric material per unit area than in the open regions without having a corresponding greater amount of elastomeric material per unit area. Some of the openings bordering said closed regions may be of reduced cross section. Apparatus and method for manufacturing such a sheet are also described.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of a substantially water-insoluble, particulate sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose, suitable for use as an absorbent in tampons and other catamenial devices or the like. The process involves heating solid, water-soluble sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, having a degree of substitution of at least 0.4, with carbon dioxide gas to substantially insolubilize the carboxymethyl cellulose and convert it to a form suitable for absorbent applications.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of substantially water-insoluble, particulate sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, suitable for use as an absorbent in tampons and other catamenial devices, or the like. The process involves treating solid, water-soluble sodium carboxymethyl cellulose having a degree of substitution of at least 0.4 with hydrogen chloride gas and heating the carboxymethyl cellulose, either after the hydrogen chloride treatment or concurrently therewith, to produce a cross-linked, insoluble, partially acid form carboxymethyl cellulose suitable for absorbent applications.

Abstract: A sanitary napkin including a stiffening means which because of its resilient properties enables the napkin to lie flat and help it to retain a large degree of its original configuration even after it is subjected to the type of compressive forces that occur during use, is disclosed.

Abstract: Improved padded brassieres in which the padding layer within the cup structure includes a batting of fibers formed together into a cohesive fibrous web, the batting having a plurality of areas devoid of fibers to provide a patterned openwork structure. The open areas are typically in the range of approximately 1/32 to 1/4 of an inch in length and width, arranged in rows of predetermined linear alignment to provide an aesthetic arrangement having porosity, strength, integrity and excellent drapable characteristics.

Abstract: Solutions of cellulose in hydrazine are formed by dissolving cellulose therein. The cellulose solutions formed may be utilized for the preparation of fibers, films, foams or other cellulose fabricated articles. Alternatively, the dissolution of cellulose in hydrazine may be employed as a means for the direct extraction of cellulose from lignocellulosic materials without the necessity of pulping operations.

Abstract: A brassiere having breast cups molded from a heat settable, thermoplastic fabric, such as polyester, of warp knit construction and including top, middle and bottom guide bar yarns. The bottom and/or middle guide bar yarns have a denier per filament of at least 10. The stitch construction is particularly selected so that the bottom and middle guide bars run in opposition to each other and each have an underlap length which extends between at least two wales. Preferably, the stitch configuration of the bottom guide bar should be 1-0/1-2 and the middle guide bar should be 1-2/1-0. Alternatively, a stitch configuration of 1-0/2-3 may be employed in the bottom guide bar and 2-3/1-0 in the middle guide bar. The top guide bar primarily controls the aesthetics of the fabric and preferably may have a stitch configuration of 1-0/2-3 or, alternatively, a stitch configuration of 1-0/3-4. The molded bra cups have excellent shape retention properties, especially after repeated washings.