Both neoprene and nitrile gloves are suitable for various applications. Given that both types of gloves have excellent elasticity and chemical resistance, it is essential to determine which protective glove is best for you.
Neoprene Gloves vs. Nitrile Gloves – What’s the Difference?
Here are some specific differences between neoprene gloves and nitrile gloves to help you decide which is the most suitable for you.
Material
Both gloves are made of synthetic materials, but the materials differ. Nitrile gloves are made from a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene, whereas neoprene gloves are made from chloroprene rubber.
Protection
Neoprene gloves offer excellent resistance to abrasion, tearing, heat, water, oil, mild acids, corrosion, and most solvents. Nitrile gloves also provide excellent chemical, grease, and abrasion resistance, as well as hypoallergenic properties. Additionally, they offer puncture and cut resistance, and bacterial and contamination resistance.
In terms of chemical protection, neoprene gloves may outperform nitrile gloves for certain specific chemicals. Conversely, for puncture resistance in high-intensity protective environments, nitrile gloves are more suitable.
Uses
Neoprene and nitrile gloves have their advantages in different work environments. Nitrile gloves are typically used in medical, food processing, industrial, household, and beauty care applications. Neoprene gloves are suitable for industrial, laboratory, food processing, and household tasks.
If you need gloves that handle petroleum, are abrasion-resistant, and can withstand high temperatures, nitrile gloves are your best choice. Nitrile gloves can withstand short-term contact with temperatures up to 302°F. However, nitrile gloves have poor flame resistance. Therefore, if your work requires sun, fire, ozone, or weather protection, opt for neoprene gloves.
Let’s dive into the specifics of these two types of gloves, including their pros and cons.
What Are Neoprene Gloves?
Neoprene gloves are made from a synthetic rubber called chloroprene (CR) or chloroprene rubber. “Neoprene” is part of the synthetic rubber family, distinct from natural rubber, which is why many refer to it as “neoprene.”
Advantages of Neoprene Gloves
- Finger dexterity and good flexibility
- High density, impact resistance, strong rebound, cut resistance, durability, and tear resistance
- Excellent resistance to sunlight, weather, oxidation, ozone, aging, freon, and mild acids
- Ideal for outdoor use
- Chemical and grease resistance
- High flexibility
- Durability
- Good elasticity
- Warmth
- Heat resistance and waterproof
What Are Nitrile Gloves?
Nitrile gloves are made from a synthetic rubber called nitrile. They are produced from an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymer through a free polymerization process, known for their chemical resistance. They are famous for high chemical stability, good flexibility, elasticity, low permanent deformation, and a high strength-to-weight ratio.
Advantages of Nitrile Gloves
- Chemical resistance
- Solvent resistance
- Resistant to oils, acids, alkalis, aliphatic hydrocarbons, fuels, and gasoline
- Good abrasion resistance
- Tear resistance
- Waterproof and do not degrade in water
- Puncture resistance
- Cut resistance
Do All Nitrile Gloves Have Chemical Resistance?
Not all nitrile gloves have chemical resistance. While nitrile gloves are typically designed to offer some degree of chemical protection, their effectiveness depends on the glove’s material composition, thickness, and design. It is essential to understand the specific chemicals that need to be protected against to choose the right gloves.
When Should You Use Nitrile Gloves?
Nitrile gloves are particularly useful in environments involving acids, solvents, or oils. They provide good chemical resistance, flexibility, and tactile sensitivity, making them ideal for laboratory work, processing industries, handling body fluids, and automotive industries.
Are Nitrile Gloves Safe to Use?
Nitrile gloves are generally safe to use when selected and used correctly, following safety protocols. Unlike latex gloves, they do not cause allergic reactions for most people, making them a safer choice.
FAQ
Do Neoprene Gloves Cause Cancer?
According to current research, neoprene rubber is not considered a carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and therefore, neoprene gloves are not known to cause cancer.
Do the Colors of Nitrile Gloves Have Any Significance?
The colors of nitrile gloves do not inherently hold specific meanings. Colors are often chosen for personalization or to differentiate purposes, so the color itself does not have a substantial significance.
Are Neoprene Gloves Waterproof?
Yes, neoprene gloves effectively prevent water and liquids from penetrating the glove material.
Will Nitric Acid Corrode Nitrile Gloves?
Yes, nitric acid can corrode nitrile gloves. Although nitrile gloves generally have good chemical resistance, they are limited in their protection against strong acids like nitric acid.
Can Nitrile Gloves Be Recycled?
Yes, nitrile gloves can be recycled. However, the recycling process is more challenging compared to latex gloves and used nitrile gloves are often contaminated, requiring proper handling and disposal.
Do Nitrile Gloves Block UV Radiation?
Nitrile gloves offer some UV protection, but the level of protection depends on the glove’s specific material and thickness. For primary UV protection, specialized UV-blocking gloves are recommended.
Comparison Summary of Neoprene and Nitrile Gloves
Both gloves have numerous benefits. Nitrile gloves excel in protection against toxic substances and chemicals, while neoprene gloves offer high durability and weather resistance. The best glove for you depends on your specific needs and work environment.
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How to Measure Glove Sizes – Source: AIBON
Latex gloves– Source: AIBON
Safety gloves– Source: AIBON
Working gloves– Source: AIBON