Natural Rubber Latex: Is a natural material (from the Hevea tree) that resists a number of chemicals such as acids, bases, alcohols and diluted aqueous solutions. Natural rubber latex offers fair protection against undiluted ketones and aldehydes The inherent physical properties of natural rubber latex allows the material to be resistant to cuts and punctures while remaining extremely flexible.
In some rare instances products containing natural rubber latex may cause allergic reactions in some people. If latex sensitivity is known or suspected, switching to Nitrile, Neoprene, or PVC is often recommended. Synthetic Rubber Compounds
Synthetic Rubber Compounds:Nitrile offers good protection against bases, oils, many solvents and esters, grease and animal fats. Nitrile is not recommended for ketones and some organic solvents. Excellent resistance to snags and punctures, abrasions and cuts. Neoprene (polychlroprene) is resistant to a broad range of oils, acids, caustics and solvents, but is less resistant to snags, punctures, abrasions and cuts than nitrile or natural rubber. Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA): Very high resistance to aliphatics, aromatics, chlorinated solvents, esters and most ketones. Also resists snags, punctures, abrasion and cuts but quickly breaks down when exposed to water and light alcohols. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Good protection against many acids, caustics, bases and alcohols. Not recommended for ketones and many other types of solvents. Good abrasion and cut resistance, but some styles are susceptible to cuts. Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene (PE): Economical protection from chemicals, oils, fats, punctures and abrasion. Component materials comply with FDA regulations for food contact. Polyurethane (PU)
Polyurethane (PU): Resists bases, acids, alcohols, grease and animal fats. Not recommended for most types of organic solvents. Excellent resistance to snags, punctures, abrasions and cuts. In the form of a foam, it can be a highly effective insulating liner inside some types of supported gloves. LCP Film
LCP Film: This polyolefin/polyamide multi-layer film is one of the most chemical resistant materials available and is used in the construction of Barrier gloves. Highly resistant to a wide range of hazardous materials, but very low resistance to physical damage. Polyester/Cotton Blends (Poly/Cotton)
Polyester/Cotton Blends (Poly/Cotton): Used in various combinations as a yarn from which protective products can be woven or knitted. Can also be coated with various compounds. In shredded form, poly/cotton is often used as a flock lining material in some types of unsupported gloves. In the form of felt and similar materials, it may be used as an insulating liner inside some types of supported gloves. Kevlar®
Kevlar: Five times stronger than steel by weight, this cut resistant aramid fibre is easily formed into yarns that can be woven into a variety of glove and sleeve styles. Kevlar is known for its strength and heat resistance, but is not recommended for use in abrasive applications. Additionally, laundering Kevlar in bleach is not recommended. To find out more about Dupont Kevlar click here. Dyneema®
Dyneema: This polyethylene fibre is known for its strength and cut resistance. It is easily formed into yarns that can be woven into a variety of light, medium and heavy duty gloves and sleeves. Dyneema is a popular choice for the food industry as it can be bleached to kill bacteria. To find out more about DSM Dyneema click here.
