A guide to using all types of gloves

Material

PE

Vinyl

Nitrile

Latex

 Composition/Source   

Polyethylene

Polyvinylchloride

Acrylonitrile and butadiene

Cis 1,4 Polyisoprene

Strength / durability

Very poor/breaks easily in use

Poor_breaks and punctures easily in use

Good_possesses some puncture resistance

Good, strong and durable

Puncture resistance

Punctures easily when stressed

Low tensile strength, puncture easily during use

Has puncture resistant properties

Has puncture resistant properties

Tear resistance

Very poor

Poor

Poor

Good

Chemical barrier properties

Extremely poor protection, soluble in some solvents including alcohol

Limited protection, eaily permeated by organic solvents, oils and alocohol

Resists most solvents better than latex, but sensitive to alcohols and ketones

Good protection from most caustics and detergents, soluble to solvents including alcohol

Strength deterioration in 02, 03 and UV light

Yes

No

Yes

 Yes

Elasticity

Dexterity very compromised

Dexterity compromised

Less than latex, over time tends to cramp wearer’s hand if tight

Very good

Softness

Fair

Fair

Good

Very good

Fit and comfort

Very limited

Loose cuff, fit limited

Tighter fit

Very comfortable

Allergenicity

Contains no latex proteins, but contact dermatitis reported from additives

Contains no latex proteins, but dermatitis and other complaints reported from additives

Contains no latex proteins, but dermatitis reported from accelerators and other additives

Contains latex proteins, low powder is always recommended

Use

Short task, single use

Single use

Single use

Single use

Wear life

< 5 mins

15-30 mins

< 1 hour

1-2 hours

Cost per use

Very low

Low

Moderate

Low

Advantages

Low cost, lightweight and mild chemical resistance

Low cost, no protein allergens, resists acids, alkalis, fats and resists ageing

Moderate cost, good physical properties and dexterity

Good elasticity and dexterity, low cost, good physical properties and memory

Disadvantages

Only for short-duration tasks, limited fit, feel and strength, dangerous around high heat

Moderate flexibility, limited fit and feel, punctures and fatigues easily, contains irritating chemicals, plasticisers can leach

Limited fit, feel and flexibility, poor memory, possible finger fatigue, contains sensitising chemicals

Not good for use with oils, greases, organics, large quality variations, contains allergens and sensitisers