Abstract: An article made from a fabric layer permeable to a first liquid such as water, blood or urine. The article has one side that repels the liquid and another side which absorbs the liquid. The article can be disposed of by heating in a selected liquid, which dissolves or disperses the article. The article may also have a plastic layer affixed thereto to provide additional impermeability. Two of the fabric layers may be affixed with the impermeable sides facing each other to provide an article capable of absorbing fluids from both sides, yet preventing fluids from penetrating from one side to the other. An optional plastic layer may be juxtaposed between the facing sides to provide a further fluid barrier. A method of disposing of such articles comprising contacting the articles with a sufficiently hot second liquid for a sufficient period of time to disperse or dissolve substantially the articles.

Abstract: A method of forming a useful molded part or film of polyvinyl alcohol. The polyvinyl alcohol, together with a plasticizer is injection or blow molded to form the useful molded part or melt processed (blown or cast extrusion) to form the film wherein upon forming the useful molded part or film, the plasticizer is substantially removed to create the useful molded part or film which is selectively hot water soluble and which is resistant to the affects of moisture below the solubility temperature.