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Abstract

A nonwoven laminiferous structure is provided which has three melt-extruded nonwoven layers, each of which includes at least a portion of a nonwoven web. The first nonwoven web is adjacent to one surface of the second nonwoven web and the third nonwoven web is adjacent to the other surface of the second nonwoven web. The first and third nonwoven webs consist of continuous and randomly deposited filaments having an average filament diameter in excess of about 7 micrometers. The second nonwoven web consists of substantially continuous and randomly deposited microfibers having an average diameter of from about 0.1 to about 10 micrometers. The microfibers of the second nonwoven web are prepared from a mixture of an additive and a second thermoplastic polymer, which additive imparts alcohol repellency to the surfaces of the microfibers. The three nonwoven layers can be prepared independently from polyolefins, polyesters, polyetheresters, and polyamides. The boundary between any two adjacent melt-extruded nonwoven layer is distinct in that fibers at or near the surfaces of such adjacent layers are not significantly intermingled. At least one of the first and third nonwoven webs has been treated independently by topical application of at least one agent to alter or enhance the surface characteristics of the filaments in the web, the topical treatment being carried out in a manner such that each topically applied agent is substantially restricted to the web to which it was applied. Finally, the laminiferous structure has been pattern bonded by the application of heat and pressure.

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First Claim