Posted on December 1, 2022
In recent years, nitrile disposable gloves have become increasingly popular, as more and more people recognise the many benefits they offer. Compared to latex gloves, nitrile gloves are more comfortable to wear, provide better protection against chemicals and other hazards, and are more durable.
In addition, nitrile gloves are less likely to cause allergies, making them a good choice for people with sensitive skin. With so many advantages, it’s not surprising that nitrile disposable gloves are now the preferred choice for many medical professionals.
In this article, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about nitrile gloves, their uses, benefits and characteristics.
Nitrile gloves are made from a copolymer of nitrile and butadiene rubber. This copolymer is created by bonding two chemicals: acrylonitrile and butadiene. Acrylonitrile is a synthetic rubber that is resistant to oils, greases, and solvents. Butadiene is a synthetic rubber that is resistant to abrasion and heat.
Together, these two synthetic rubbers create a material that is strong and durable, making it an ideal choice for gloves. Nitrile gloves are also latex-free, making them a safe choice for people with latex allergies.
In addition, nitrile gloves have a higher resistance to punctures and chemicals than latex gloves. As a result, they are often the preferred choice for medical and industrial applications.
Nitrile gloves are used in a range of industries, including:
They are commonly used by medical professionals, including dentists, surgeons and nurses to handle biological materials, examine patients or dispose of medical waste.
Nitrile gloves are also used in the food industry, as they provide a barrier between food and the hands.
The manufacturing industry makes use of nitrile gloves, as they can protect workers from harmful chemicals and materials. In addition, nitrile gloves are often used by mechanics and other workers who need to avoid skin contact with grease, oil, or other fluids.
You may find different industries using different varieties, such as tattooists will often use black nitrile gloves, whilst the most common variety, blue nitrile gloves, will commonly be used in medical professions.
Nitrile gloves provide an excellent barrier of protection from a variety of chemical substances, including oils, acids, alcohols, caustics, fuels, petroleum products and some solvents. They also protect against bacteria, viruses and fungi.
Nitrile gloves are also more puncture resistant than latex gloves, making them ideal for use in high-risk environments.
The main reason for this is exposure to the natural oils on the hands, which react with acids in sweat and heat. These reactions cause the gloves to discolour. Prolonged UV exposure can also contribute to this problem.
Regularly switching them out between uses for a new pair will help to avoid discolouration.
When it comes to food safety, nitrile gloves are stronger and more puncture-resistant than latex gloves and provide a good grip, even when wet, so you can safely handle slippery items. And because they resist chemicals and oils, they can be used in a variety of different settings, including food preparation.
As long as cross-contamination is managed, by ensuring nitrile gloves are stored safely and that you dispose of used gloves between uses, nitrile gloves are suitable for use in food production and processing.
Nitrile gloves are not biodegradable and cannot be recycled. It is recommended to dispose of used gloves between uses to maintain safety and hygiene.
If you’re in need of nitrile gloves for your workplace, browse our wide range of nitrile gloves online. Available in a variety of sizes and colours.
