Contact Resistance
Electrical resistance through the glove is the resistance measured when current flows through the glove from the back of the hand to the inner surface (or vice versa). It is the decisive test parameter in EN 16350 for antistatic protective gloves.
Testing per EN 16350:
- Resistance measured under defined conditions (pressure, electrode positions)
- Limit: < 1x10^8 ohms
- Below this limit, electrostatic charges can be safely dissipated through the glove
- Above 1x10^8 ohms, the glove is not considered antistatic
Significance for ATEX:
In explosive atmospheres, electrostatic discharges can create ignition-capable sparks. Antistatic gloves with sufficiently low through-resistance prevent the wearer from building up charge and generating sparks when touching earthed objects.
Distinction from EN 1149:
- EN 16350: through-resistance for gloves (dissipation through the glove)
- EN 1149: surface resistivity and through-resistance for protective clothing
Material dependence: through-resistance depends strongly on glove material. Conductive fillers (carbon black, graphite, metal) or conductive coatings can reduce resistance.
Frequently asked questions
What does a through-resistance below 10^8 ohms mean for gloves?
A resistance below 1x10^8 ohms means charges can flow away through the glove quickly enough before building up to ignition-capable discharges. This is the EN 16350 limit for antistatic gloves.
Can standard nitrile gloves meet the EN 16350 limit?
Standard nitrile gloves typically have too high a resistance (>10^8 ohms). Antistatic nitrile gloves contain conductive additives (carbon black, graphite) or special formulations to meet the limit.
What is the difference between antistatic and conductive for gloves?
Antistatic (< 10^8 ohms per EN 16350): charge dissipation without dangerous sparks. Conductive (very low resistance, < 10^5 ohms): not suitable for ATEX, as too-rapid charge dissipation can cause sparks. Antistatic is the correct term for ATEX applications.