Abstract: A medical treatment or testing mask includes a first profile having a first fastening mechanism, and a second profile, that is separate from the first profile, having a second fastening mechanism that is fastenable to the first fastening mechanism. The mask further includes a first sheet of thermoplastic material attached to the first profile and to the second profile, wherein, when the second fastening mechanism is fastened to the first fastening mechanism, the first profile and the second profile create a single frame structure.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a low-linting laminated nonwoven fabric comprised of a reticulated film layer and an associated absorbent layer, which is suitable for medical, hygiene, and industrial applications, wherein said nonwoven fabric performs to absorb liquids, such as human exudates, while significantly reducing the amount of particulates released. The reticulated film of the invention is comprised of a series or network of small, geometrically profiled, depressed areas, wherein the depressed areas of the film are able to collect liquids such as blood, and channel such liquids through openings in the film layer into the associated absorbent layer.

Abstract: An improved internal wetting agent is provided for blending with polymeric material, with the formation of apertured films and/or polymeric fibrous webs contemplated. Films and/or nonwoven fabrics of this nature are suited for use in disposable absorbent articles, particularly for the so-called topsheet or facing layer, which contacts the wearer during use. Because polymeric materials from which these types of facing layers are made are typically hydrophobic, the provision of an internal wetting agent facilitates the passage of liquid through the facing layer into an associated absorbent structure.

Abstract: A method for replacing a damaged brake beam on a railcar having a car body supported on a railcar truck. The railcar truck includes a wheel and axle assembly mounted between a pair of laterally spaced side frames. The side frames include structure, on an inboard side thereof, for guiding and supporting the brake beam, and with the structure on the side frame members defining a predetermined lateral distance therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apertured or reticulated film, and more specifically, the present invention relates to a method of imparting one or more raised elements into a previously apertured or reticulated film utilizing a forming surface. A forming apparatus can accept an apertured film, preferably but not limited to a thermoplastic composition, and impart one or more raised continuous or discontinuous profiled elements into the surface of the apertured film by exposing the apertured film to an air stream having an elevated temperature (such as by exposure of the air stream to direct contact with a heating element). The heated air stream affects the apertured film by inducing the film to deflect onto profiled elements defined in the forming surface of the forming apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an unitized cover and transfer layer for hygiene applications that have the appearance, strength, and drape of a nonwoven and the surface characteristics of a film. The lightweight apertured film surface the present invention is comprised of a series of void spaces that act to collect liquids and channel such liquid into an associated underlying absorbent layer, while reducing potential release of particulates inherent to the absorbent layer. Further, the unitized cover and transfer layer of the present invention exhibits significantly reduced frictional noise and discomfort induced by prolonged contact.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a low-linting laminated nonwoven fabric comprised of a reticulated film layer and an associated absorbent layer, which is suitable for medical, hygiene, and industrial applications, wherein said nonwoven fabric performs to absorb liquids, such as human exudates, while significantly reducing the amount of particulates released. The reticulated film of the invention is comprised of a series or network of small, geometrically profiled, depressed areas, wherein the depressed areas of the film are able to collect liquids such as blood, and channel such liquids through openings in the film layer into the associated absorbent layer.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a nonwoven fabric construct in the form of a laminate material suitable for medical applications. The laminate includes a nonwoven fabric layer, and first and second polymeric film layers, with the resultant material exhibiting superior viral protection in accordance with established testing procedures, ASTM F1671. In accordance with the present invention, the first and second polymeric film layers are co-extruded and adhered to one surface of the nonwoven fabric layer, with the second polymeric film layer being disposed between the first polymeric film layer and the nonwoven fabric layer. Notably, the first polymeric film layer comprises a blend of between about 0 to 100% low density polyethylene, and between about 0 to 100% linear low density polyethylene.

Abstract: An improved internal wetting agent is provided for blending with polymeric material, with the formation of apertured films and/or polymeric fibrous webs contemplated. Films and/or nonwoven fabrics of this nature are suited for use in disposable absorbent articles, particularly for the so-called topsheet or facing layer, which contacts the wearer during use. Because polymeric materials from which these types of facing layers are made are typically hydrophobic, the provision of an internal wetting agent facilitates the passage of liquid through the facing layer into an associated absorbent structure.