Abstract A method for economically and efficiently securing a withdrawal string to a regenerated cellulose sponge tampon in the manufacture of menstrual tampons. A string which includes a heatreactive adhesive element is inserted into a sponge tampon, and sonic energy is then applied to the tampon to provide a rapid and highly localized heating of the adhesive element, causing it to flow into intimate contact with the surrounding sponge material and form a secure bond between the string and sponge when cooled. The disclosure alternatively shows a means for simultaneously applying an adhesive substance to a string as it is being drawn into a sponge tampon so that an adhesive coating is applied only to the portion of the string contained within the tampon.
The method of claim wherein said adhesive is applied only to the portion of said string which is inserted into said tampon.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 1 wherein said adhesive substance is a hot melt adhesive material.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 1 wherein said adhesive substance is a fluid dispersion including a carrier solvent causing the remaining adhesive element to securely bond said string to the tampon.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 1 wherein said sonic energy has at least 20,000 cycles per second.