Glove Materials
Natural latex, Nitrile, Polyisoprene or Vinyl?
What you need to know about glove materials
Gloves can be made from a variety of materials. The most commonly used raw materials for the production of gloves are natural rubber latex (generally referred to as latex), nitrile butadiene rubber (or simply, nitrile) and polyvinylchloride (commonly called vinyl or PVC gloves). We also use synthetic polyisoprene. However, not every material is suitable for every use. Every glove material has different chemical properties and thus is only suitable for its intended use.
Let us briefly go through the advantages and disadvantages of the four glove materials sempermed uses, so you can choose the right glove.
Latex Gloves
The 'classic' glove material
However, they may not be suitable for all chemical applications, as permeation can occur with certain substances, including most common, organic solvents. In addition, latex proteins may be associated with the potential for sensitization or allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
Nitrile gloves
The 'allrounder' glove material
They typically offer improved resistance to a broad range of chemicals, oils, and greases compared to natural rubber latex. Chemical resistance depends on the specific substance, concentration, and exposure time and should always be verified prior to use.
Polyisoprene gloves
Latex-like properties without latex allergies
Unlike natural rubber latex, synthetic polyisoprene is produced without natural latex proteins and therefore does not contain latex allergens associated with Type I (immediate) allergic reactions.
It is primarily used in surgical gloves, particularly in settings where users require latex-like performance while avoiding exposure to natural rubber latex proteins. It is also increasingly used in healthcare environments as part of latex-sensitive risk management strategies.
Vinyl Gloves
The skin-friendly alternative
Inherently, PVC gloves require plasticisers to provide flexibility and softness. These plasticisers are not chemically bound to the polymer matrix and may therefore be subject to migration under certain conditions. Depending on formulation, this can include phthalate or non-phthalate plasticisers.
HARPS’ PVC gloves are manufactured without phthalates.
Vinyl gloves generally provide lower elasticity and mechanical strength compared to latex or nitrile gloves and are therefore less suitable for demanding applications involving high stress or extended use.
* CAUTION: Before gloves are used in contact with chemicals, please consult the chemical resistance lists, which can be found here. Failure to observe this information can result in personal injury and/or material damage. In case of doubt obtain expert advice before use.