Abstract: A nonwoven composite material comprising a meltblown fabric layer of a thermoplastic polymer sandwiched between two prebonded, spunbonded reinforcing fabric layers of a thermoplastic polymer, all continuously-bonded together to form a composite material. The preferred thermoplastic polymer for both the meltblown and spunbonded layers is polypropylene. The nonwoven composite material contains a minimal number of loose fibers, is highly resistant to the penetration of liquids and would also be expected to exhibit good abrasion resistance, while maintaining tear resistance and softness comparable to non-prebonded materials characterized by discrete bonding patterns. The nonwoven composite material is especially useful as a sterilization wrap for surgical and other health care items.

Abstract: An improved dispensing carton for elongated flat articles such as milk filters is disclosed. The carton is of generally rectangular configuration and in preferred embodiments is adapted to dispense such elongated articles end-wise and one-at-a-time. Included within the container is a self-supporting member having a pull means that may be accessed through the dispensing opening. When the stack of articles is depleted to the point where access through the dispensing opening is difficult, the pull member may be slid forward carrying the remaining articles towards the dispensing opening and making them readily available. In a preferred embodiment resilient highly frictional foam tape is placed on the interior of a major panel and contacting the edges of the articles to be dispensed. Thus the articles other than the one actually dispensed tend to resist displacement and facilitate one-at-a-time dispensing. The container may be formed from conventional cartonboard or corrugate or from plastic materials.