Everyone is familiar with gloves as essential protective equipment for our hands. Knitted gloves with coatings add functionality in terms of durability, grip, and suitability for heavy-duty tasks such as chemical protection, sharp object handling, oil resistance, and other hazards that may come from bare-hand contact. Gloves can be categorized into various types based on their intended use.
Today, Glovetex will introduce two popular coating types in our region: Nitrile and PU (Polyurethane). We’ll explore their similarities and differences.
Coated knitted gloves” involve applying or coating fabric gloves on the palm area with various types of coatings, such as natural rubber (Latex), polyurethane (PU), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nitrile, etc., to enhance their suitability for different applications. Gloves can be categorized into various types based on their intended use. As previously discussed by GLOVETEX, you can check out the types of safety gloves and how to choose the right one for your tasks here.
This time, GLOVETEX will help you understand two popular coating types: Nitrile and PU (Polyurethane). While they may seem similar, their properties and uses are quite distinct. Let’s explore how these coatings differ.
- Nitrile Rubber Coating
Nitrile rubber, commonly used, is a synthetic rubber derived from petroleum and key chemicals such as acrylonitrile, butadiene, and carboxylic acid. This type of rubber is particularly notable for its resistance to petroleum oils and non-polar solvents, such as phosphoric acid (used in detergents, soaps, fertilizers), and sulfuric acid (found in fertilizers and ores).
When applied as a coating on fabric gloves, nitrile enhances the durability and versatility of the gloves, making them suitable for various applications. Nitrile-coated gloves are particularly popular for tasks involving oil contact, slip resistance, and the need for a firm grip.
Properties of Nitrile Rubber:
- Less flexible compared to natural rubber
- Resistant to weather conditions and heat
- Effective protection against oils and solvents
- Durable with a long service life
- Polyurethane (PU) Coating
Polyurethane (PU) is a type of thermosetting plastic, meaning it cannot be melted and reshaped. It is a synthetic rubber used as a replacement for natural rubber in various applications, including coating surfaces and gloves. PU coating provides resistance to chemicals and has a lightweight feel, offering a good touch experience for users. It is composed of biochemistry units formed from at least two different monomers, with notable properties including toughness, hardness, and density.
When applied to fabric gloves, PU coating enhances grip while maintaining a lightweight and comfortable feel. PU-coated gloves are commonly used for tasks requiring comfort and ease of handling, reducing hand fatigue and providing good breathability. They are generally preferred for dry work environments.
Cautions for Using PU Coating:
- Not suitable for temperatures above 80°C
- Highly flammable and burns rapidly
- When burned, it produces intense heat, dense smoke, and toxic gases, such as dioxins, isocyanides, hydrogen cyanide, and carbon dioxide.
Properties of PU Rubber:
- Excellent grip without stickiness
- Flexible and breathable
- Liquids do not permeate
- Provides electrical insulation
- Resistant to abrasion
- Durable against water, oil, chemicals, and some solvents
Summary of Differences between Nitrile and PU Coated Gloves:
Even though both nitrile and PU coated gloves offer resistance to various chemicals, they are not universally resistant to all types and concentrations of chemicals. For appropriate selection based on your specific needs or industry, please consult with a GLOVETEX expert. Free samples are available upon request to ensure optimal usage. We are ready to provide guidance.
For sample requests, please contact:
- Call Center: 063-565-6789
- Provide: Name, district/province, and industry type
