Abstract: Apparatus 200 for applying particulate flowable super-absorbent or anti-odourant substance to an article comprises a metering component 202 rotatable about an axis. A plurality of circumferentially spaced metering chambers are provided in this component. The apparatus includes a feed device 18 for depositing the flowable substance successively in the chambers in a loading zone as the chambers move through the loading zone on rotation of the metering component so that each chamber contains a fixed quantity of the substance as it passes from the loading zone. The apparatus also includes a vacuum extraction device 50 for extracting the quantities of the substance successively from the chambers in a discharge zone spaced from the loading zone and an application device for applying the extracted quantities of substance to an article.

Abstract: This invention concerns an absorbent pad which is particularly useful for absorbing body fluids. The absorbent pad comprises a fluid-absorbent fibrous layer having a central portion and a peripheral portion, and a flexible fluid-pervious covering sheet for covering at least one side of the fibrous layer. A first wicking means is provided, conveniently by embossing, in the fibrous layer to conduct fluid outwardly from the central portion towards the peripheray of the fibrous layer. A second wicking means is in fluid conductivity with the first wicking means and conducts fluid from the first wicking means in a direction away from the first wicking means. Generally, the second wicking means conducts fluid around, but spaced from the periphery of the fibrous layer. A liquid-impervious, vapor permeable backing sheet can be provided. Helical or radial paths may be utilized for the wicking means.