1. Understanding Chemical Exposure
1.1 Acid Types & Protection Requirements
- Strong Acids (pH <2):
Sulfuric acid, Hydrochloric acid, Nitric acid
Critical Protection Needed: Neoprene (Chloroprene) > Nitrile > Natural Rubber blends - Weak Acids (pH 2-6):
Carbonic acid, Acetic acid
Optimal Materials: Neoprene/Natural Rubber blend ≥ Nitrile > PVC
1.2 Alkali Types & Material Compatibility
- Strong Alkalis (pH >12):
Sodium hydroxide, Calcium hydroxide
Recommended: Nitrile = PVC > Neoprene - Weak Alkalis (pH 8-12):
Sodium carbonate, Ammonia solutions
Cost-Effective Choice: Disposable PVC gloves
2. Material Performance Matrix
| Material | Strong Acids | Weak Acids | Strong Alkalis | Weak Alkalis | Hydrofluoric Acid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neoprene | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ❌ |
| Nitrile | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ❌ |
| PVC | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ❌ |
| Natural Rubber | ❌ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ❌ |
| Fluorocarbon | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
★ = Protection effectiveness | ❌ = Not recommended
3. Prohibited Material Combinations
- Acrylic Latex: Fails in all strong acid/alkali environments (pH <3 or >11)
- Polyethylene: Permeable to most organic solvents and inorganic acids
- Standard Latex: Degrades rapidly when exposed to oxidizers
4. Selection Protocol (Per OSHA 1910.138)
- Chemical Identification
Obtain SDS (Safety Data Sheet) Section 8/10 data - Permeation Test:
Verify breakthrough time exceeds task duration (ASTM F739) - Degradation Check:
Material swelling <10% after 8h immersion (ASTM D471) - Grip Requirements:
Micro-textured surfaces for wet environments (EN 388:2016) - Cuff Design:
≥15cm gauntlet style for splash protection
5. Maintenance Best Practices
- Inspection Frequency: Before each use + every 30 days
- Retirement Criteria:
Discoloration | Hardening >20% | Visible cracks >3mm - Decontamination:
Neutralization wash (pH 7±0.5) for 10min before storage
Post time: Apr-11-2025