Abstract: Materials have at least one layer comprising a mixture of thermoplastic and other fibers. This latter layer may be thermobonded together and then densified along at least a section of the eventual peripheral edge margin of an article to be formed from the material. Thermoplastic material-containing cover sheets may also be secured to the core and densified in this manner. The entire eventual peripheral edge margin of the article is typically densified. The material is cut within the densified region or slightly outside the densified region to provide a soft peripheral edge. Absorbent materials may be thermobonded within the layer and surrounded by a densified edge to fix them within the article. The composite materials are used in manufacturing infant car seat liners and other articles. In addition, sections of the material may be densified and provided with weakened areas, such as perforations, to enable users to selectively separate the articles along the perforations.

Abstract: The present invention is a sanitary napkin, or similar article such as a diaper, which has a flexible, moisture impervious barrier which can also serve as an envelope for maintaining cleanliness of the pad prior to use and/or for discreet and sanitary disposal after use. The barrier comprises a longitudinal envelope having one open edge. This edge has a flap which is normally turned inside the envelope and retained there by one or more areas of pressure sensitive adhesive while the article is in use. The flap can be withdrawn and, while grasping the pad only at the ends, the envelope can be turned inside out to protect the pad or prepare it for disposal. The flap is then pressed down and held by the areas of pressure sensitive adhesive to complete the package.