What is vulcanisation in rubber gloves?

Vulcanisation creates cross-links in rubber molecules to enhance properties such as elasticity, tensile strength and tear resistance in rubber gloves (Mok & Eng, 2018). Chemical accelerators have traditionally been used to carry out the vulcanisation process during the production of natural rubber latex, nitrile and neoprene gloves.

Are rubber gloves causing allergic contact dermatitis?

Chemical accelerators, such as carbamates, thiurams, 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), and 1,3-diphenylguanidine (DPG) in rubber gloves are proven contributing factors to contact allergies (Cao et al. 2010). Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a skin reaction directly linked to the chemical accelerators used in the manufacture of rubber gloves.

Are secondary accelerators safe in nitrile latex glove formulation?

These accelerators are nitrosamine safer compared to more traditional accelerators like zinc diethyldithiocarbamate (ZDEC) and zinc dibutyldithiocarbamate (ZDBC). Our work investigated the contribution of these secondary accelerators in nitrile latex glove formulation from a rheological point of view and mechanical testing of dipped films.

Are nitrile gloves safe for workers with ACD?

In recent years, glove manufacturers have introduced new production processes resulting in low-protein rubber gloves, vulcanisation accelerator-free gloves and specific purpose gloves (Crepy, 2016). For instance, GloveOn COATS Nitrile has non-detectable levels of accelerators, making it a great alternative for workers with ACD.

Can nitrile rubber latex be cured?

In order to overcome the concerns relating to health issues, a cure system based on safer chemical accelerators such as bis [bis (3,5,5-trimethylhexyl)dithiocarbamate-S,S’]zinc and di-isopropyl xanthogen polysulfide were investigated for use in the nitrile rubber latex.

Are primary and secondary accelerators a problem in nitrile latex applications?

Primary accelerators are relatively slow and have a delayed onset of cure. Secondary accelerators activate primary accelerators and increase speed of vulcanisation but they are well known contact sensitizers (Type IV allergy) and can pose serious health implications, and therefore can be major problem in nitrile latex applications like gloves.