Chloroprene, as technical as it might sound, is actually neoprene – a synthetic rubber. When used to produce gloves, it outperforms other rubbers (e.g., nitrile, PVA, vinyl) in many aspects. Chloroprene exam gloves are more flexible and durable than others. They also resist flame and corrosive chemicals that penetrate most disposable gloves.
Read below to learn “What are chloroprene gloves” and why you should use them instead of nitrile and latex gloves.
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Everything You Need to Know About Chloroprene Gloves
There is no difference between chloroprene vs neoprene; they are the same material, originally called polychloroprene. Dupont patented chloroprene and named it Neoprene. It is a combination of hydrogen, carbon, and chlorine polymers.
Polychloroprene is ideal for glove production because it combines the valuable properties of latex and nitrile. It is synthetic but has the molecule structure of natural rubber.
The material inherits the flexibility and comfort of latex while eliminating latex allergies. Polychloroprene gloves will fit firmly and comfortably against the skin. The flexibility offers a snugger fit and makes them reliable for extended use and meticulous jobs.
Polychloroprene also has the durability, flame resistance, and chemical resistance of nitrile. The material doesn’t catch fire and is mandatory for welder glove production. It protects against many harmful substances and corrosive acids.
However, the production cost of neoprene is high, which is why wearers usually opt for alternatives, such as nitrile and vinyl. So, why should you pay more money for neoprene gloves?
Read more: What to use instead of latex gloves.
Why Are Chloroprene Gloves Superior to Others?
1. Strength
The tensile strength of chloroprene ranges from 5 to 20 Mpa and endures aging and stretching. Its elongation rating is 100% to 800%, meaning it can stretch up to eight times its original form. This elongation range is equal to latex and higher than nitrile. The strength offers high abrasion resistance, even when the gloves age.
Chloroprene also resists gas permeation and can function well in temperatures up to 275°F (135°C). The best part is it stays flexible and reliable even at high temperatures.
2. Comfort
Chloroprene gloves feel more comfortable than latex gloves without compromising dexterity. They stay conformed to your hands and won’t tear or split under extended wear.
3. High chemical resistance
Chloroprene gloves resist a wide range of harmful chemicals. They provide superior protection against oils, alcohols, inks, caustic acids, and most organic substances. Some examples are pentachloro naphthalene, pentachlorophenol, and hydrazine. Find more substances that neoprene protects against here.
You can rely on chloroprene gloves for consistent protection. They won’t degrade after contact with the chemicals.
Despite the material’s incredible resistance, it won’t protect you from all types of substances. When encountering ketone and ethers, chloroprene gloves will deteriorate. So, be careful to read the manufacturer’s instructions and select the appropriate chemical-resistant gloves for your working conditions.
4. High impact and weather resistance
Neoprene is insulating, water-repellent, and great for watersport gloves and wetsuits. The fabric combines small closed cells that are filled with air. These cells trap the body heat and provide insulation against extreme weather, preventing hypothermia.
If you work outdoors or in low-temperature environments, neoprene gloves will keep your hands from freezing.
Should I Use Nitrile or Chloroprene Gloves?
Many people confuse between polychloroprene gloves vs nitrile gloves because they are both synthetic. But unless you are working with hazardous chemicals, deciding between the two shouldn’t be difficult.
Both are latex-free, which prevents the development of latex allergies. Both are strong, resilient, puncture-resistant, and suitable for people who work with needles, such as dentists, tattoo artists, and nurses.
Chloroprene is more comfortable for longer use while nitrile is more cost-effective for jobs that require changing gloves frequently. Nitrile also takes time to warm up and conform to your hands.
You can watch this video for usage areas of latex gloves vs chloroprene gloves vs nitrile gloves:
Conclusion
To sum up this article on what are chloroprene gloves, chloroprene is a type of synthetic rubber, also known as polychloroprene or neoprene. Chloroprene gloves can be heavy-duty or disposable. Both are used widely in many industrial and medical settings.
Veronica is our content editor. She is a talent in delivery. Her main work is editing and writing articles that are both informative and simple to follow. She is in charge of synthesizing our understanding of what personal protection equipment (PPE) is needed in each job, how to best apply it, and how to visualize that equipment.