Rubber gloves serve various purposes, from protecting against oil and grease to ensuring safety in hospitals, factories, and laboratories. Among these, the rubber glove commonly used in medical applications stands out. These gloves are available in different shapes, sizes, and thicknesses, and are made from latex extracted from rubber trees. However, in recent years, synthetic latex gloves have gained popularity and replaced traditional cotton and rubber gloves in surgeries and other medical procedures where additional protection is essential.
Understanding Rubber Gloves Materials
Rubber gloves, as the name implies, are typically made of natural or synthetic latex. They are used as protective clothing to prevent contact with various substances. The term “rubber” refers to a durable, waterproof, and elastic material made from tree sap or synthetic latex. Rubber gloves can be either unsupported (made entirely of rubber) or supported (a rubber coating over a textile glove).
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However, there are other types of disposable gloves available to the public. The primary materials used for rubber gloves are latex, nitrile, and vinyl. Each type of glove has its unique qualities. Let’s explore the differences between these materials.
Latex Disposable Gloves
Natural rubber latex has long been the preferred material for glove manufacturing. It comes from the sap of rubber trees and is treated with chemicals to provide flexibility and durability. Latex is high in water and contains proteins, sterol glycosides, resins, ash, and sugars. These components form a concentrated and stable compound.
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To enhance the properties of latex, manufacturers add chemicals such as sulfur, zinc oxide, accelerators, pigments, stabilizers, a de-webbing agent, and antioxidants. These chemicals enable the rubber to maintain its structure while being stretched, preventing the material from developing holes. Additionally, they increase the rubber’s resistance to ultraviolet radiation.
Before the latex is ready for use, it goes through a maturing process of 24 to 36 hours. The latex is usually colored with special dyes before it is hardened. Latex-dipped products, like surgical gloves and condoms, act as highly effective barriers against microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, and are impermeable to infectious fluids. However, natural rubber latex can cause allergies. Those who are allergic to latex can safely wear nitrile and vinyl gloves, as they do not contain the proteins found in natural latex.
Nitrile Disposable Gloves
Nitrile gloves are made from synthetic rubber and provide an effective barrier against viruses, chemicals, and caustic liquids. Unlike latex, nitrile gloves do not trigger allergies.
Nitrile is a synthetic co-polymer made from butadiene and acrylo-nitrile. The nitrile used in disposable gloves contains more acrylo than butadiene, making it resistant to petroleum-based oils and hydrocarbon fuels.
Acrylonitrile, produced through the ammoxidation process using propylene as a source material and an oxidizing agent, creates a synthetic chemical used in textiles, resins, and plastics. The final product’s properties depend on the catalyst used.
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Initially, nitrile gloves were more expensive than latex gloves due to an extra step in the manufacturing process. However, technological advancements have made nitrile glove manufacturing cost-effective.
Vinyl Disposable Gloves
Vinyl gloves are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a petroleum-based film, which is the same material used in PVC pipes. Vinyl gloves are created by bonding PVC molecules through polymerization and adding a plasticizer to make the material flexible.
Vinyl gloves are cost-effective and easy to manufacture. However, they are less durable than latex or nitrile gloves and provide minimal protection against chemicals or biohazards. When stretched, the molecules in vinyl gloves separate, compromising their protective barrier. These gloves are commonly used in low-risk environments where low cost is prioritized over durability.
Final Thoughts
Rubber gloves are crucial safety equipment in various industries. Understanding their composition and how they are made is essential when choosing gloves for personal or professional use. It is also important to consider the grade and thickness of the gloves based on their intended application. Opting for extra thick, non-sterile gloves can provide an additional level of protection against skin reactions. Additionally, selecting gloves from reliable brands that are certified to be free from harmful substances is paramount.
Remember, the materials used in gloves play a vital role in their effectiveness and suitability for specific tasks. Whether it’s latex, nitrile, or vinyl gloves, making an informed decision will ensure safety and comfort in various settings.
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