Chemical and Liquid Resistant Gloves

Chemical resistant gloves and liquid-resistant gloves are suitable to use for protection against intentional contact—i.e., long-term exposure to significant amounts—with acids, alkalis, and various other aqueous solutions. Depending on the particular chemical or solvent used in the application, these types of gloves are available in a variety of materials, including:

• Nitrile: Also known as nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), this material is capable of withstanding exposure to oils, greases, and acids. However, industry professionals advise against using this material with ketones, strong oxidizing agents, and organic nitrogen-based compounds. Nitrile gloves may also be treated or lined with additional materials, such as neoprene, for additional insulation and safety sealing purposes.
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Commonly known as vinyl chloride plastic, this waterproof material is suitable for use when handling a range of detergents and aqueous solutions. PVC coated gloves are commonly formulated to be germ resistant and may be used for handling diluted oxidizing agents and oil-soaked components, but they are not recommended for use with concentrated agents or solvents.
• Butyl and Neoprene: Combinations of these synthetic rubbers are used to produce gloves that are resistant to various oils and petroleum. Neoprene is also suitable for protection against alcohols, alkalis, and an array of hydraulic fluids and oil types, while butyl resists oxidation and is commonly used for processes with highly corrosive acids and solutions, such as nitric and sulfuric substances. 
• Latex: Commonly used for light-duty operations and medical and laboratory procedures, this type of glove is suitable for complex and intricate operations as they are less bulky than other, more durable and heavy-duty materials. Latex gloves are considered multi-purpose gloves and are often used in cleanrooms and for processes involving acid, ketone, and salt solutions. Additionally, they may be treated with a polyurethane coating for cleanroom applications. 
• Polyethylene: Commonly used for food handling operations, this material is used to fabricate thin, disposable gloves for operations similar to those of latex. Manufacturers also fabricate variations of these gloves that include liners for sensitive skin types.