Nitrile
Nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) is a synthetic copolymer of butadiene and acrylonitrile. The acrylonitrile content substantially determines chemical resistance: a higher nitrile content means better resistance to oils and solvents, but slightly reduced low-temperature flexibility.
- Latex-free – suitable for people with Type I latex allergy
- Good resistance to mineral oils, greases and many chemicals
- High resistance to micro-organisms and viruses
- Lower elasticity than latex, although modern nitrile formulations achieve a comparable fit
- Susceptibility to ketones, esters and some polar solvents
Important distinction: nitrile is latex-free but not automatically free from vulcanisation accelerators (thiurams, carbamates). People with a Type IV allergy to accelerators need accelerator-free nitrile gloves.
Nitrile gloves may be classified as a medical device, as PPE, or as both. Nitrile (NBR) is a synthetic rubber – not natural latex.
Frequently asked questions
Are nitrile gloves truly latex-free?
What is the difference between nitrile and latex for protective gloves?
Latex offers higher elasticity and better tactile sensitivity but is unsuitable for people with latex allergy. Nitrile is latex-free, more chemically resistant to oils and solvents, but susceptible to ketones. Latex degrades faster with mineral oils.
What are accelerator-free nitrile gloves?
Accelerator-free nitrile gloves are vulcanised without thiurams, carbamates, or benzothiazoles. They are suitable for individuals with Type IV allergy to vulcanisation accelerators – but are not automatically superior for all latex allergy sufferers compared to standard nitrile gloves.