Abstract: A novel process for forming a compressed tampon includes the steps of forming an open structure comprising at least about 5 wt-% of cellulosic materials; heating the open structure to a temperature of at least about 40° C.; compressing the heated open structure to form the compressed tampon; and releasing the compressed fibrous tampon from compression. Surprisingly, both the force required for compression and the degree of over-compression are significantly reduced when the fibrous web is heated prior to compression. Indeed, what we have found is that heating the fibrous web prior to compression into the tampon form provides a more consistent, dimensionally-controlled product. It also requires lower compression forces to achieve a dimensionally stable product with reduced fiber damage.

Abstract: An environmentally-friendly tampon assembly of the type which includes an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve and an absorbent pledget has inner and outer sleeves which are fabricated from a biodegradable, flushable material such as paper. The outer sleeve has an inwardly extending tang for preventing movement of the pledget during retraction of the inner sleeve. The tang is also formed of biodegradable material, and may be formed of material which is from the same blank out of which the outer sleeve was formed. Six different methods of forming the outer sleeve and tang are disclosed.

Abstract: An environmentally-friendly-tampon assembly of the type which includes an inner sleeve, an outer sleeve and an absorbent pledget has inner and outer sleeves which are fabricated from a biodegradable, flushable material such as paper. The outer sleeve has an inwardly extending tang for preventing movement of the pledget during retraction of the inner sleeve. The tang is also formed of biodegradable material, and may be formed of material which is from the same blank out of which the outer sleeve was formed. Six different methods of forming the outer sleeve and tang are disclosed.