Chloroprene vs. Nitrile Gloves
Summary – Chloroprene gloves are comfortable and functional for many professions needing specific chemical resistance. Chloroprene rubber is comparable in fit and feel to nitrile.
3 Benefits of Chloroprene
1. Strength and Durability
Chloroprene has a tensile strength rating of 10 Mpa before aging, and retains that same strength after aging. Elongation after aging is 650% verses 750% before. What does this mean? The glove wont tear under extended wear, and it conforms to the fit of your hand.
Comfortable for Extended Use
A 6.0 mil thick chloroprene glove is more comfortable than an equally thick latex glove. And you won’t compromise dexterity. Some people benefit from wearings cotton or nylon glove liners to protect their skin from irritation.
Broad Chemical Resistance
Chloroprene has exceptional chemical resistance and you can see the full chart here. Expect consistent protection from chloroprene gloves, especially gloves that are produced in ISO 9001 cleanroom environments. Producing gloves in cleanroom settings yields lower defect rates.
What is Chloroprene Rubber?
Chloroprene is a synthetic rubber designed to provide the strength and comfort of natural latex along with the broad chemical resistance of nitrile. Chloroprene is one of the most comfortable, strong and durable, dextrous gloves.
Technically speaking, Chloroprene is a synthetic monomer, a precursor to polychloroprene used in manufacturing of disposable gloves.
To summarize the most valuable features of Chloroprene, also known as Neoprene:
· Strong and durable in all situations
· Comfortable fit for all sizes
· Exceptional chemical resistance
Chloroprene is an ideal disposable glove material because it has the positive qualities of nitrile and latex. The choice of material comes down to your application.
Should I use Nitrile or Chloroprene Disposable Gloves?
For Medical Applications, nitrile gloves are superior. We recommend exam gloves for medical and dental offices, along with hospital and urgent care. Extra long 12″ chloroprene gloves may accommodate industrial food service and processing applications by allowing the gloves to be tucked into disposable apparel (sleeves, coveralls, etc.).
Like nitrile, chloroprene does not contain the proteins found on latex gloves which often trigger allergic reactions. While chloroprene may be more expensive than latex, it is more affordable than many nitrile competing brands. Some other gloves at a higher price point contain aloe for added comfort.
Is Chloroprene and Neoprene the same material?
Chloroprene is the same as Neoprene. Dupont® patented the polychloroprene structure, commonly called chloroprene, and branded it Neoprene. Gloves labeled as chloroprene or neoprene are the same material. But, gloves labeled neoprene are Dupont® brand.
You can buy chloroprene gloves at Harmony Lab & Safety Supplies with decades of experience providing disposable gloves and safety supplies to companies, government agencies, and non-profits.
