Nitrile gloves are latex gloves made from synthetic rubber. Nitrile is the most commonly used material in creating medical gloves, but it's also frequently found in other products, such as paper, plastic containers, rubber gloves, synthetic fabrics, etc. Nitrile is usually derived from rubber trees in the Assemblage Process (or by another process). Today, nitrile is produced synthetically through a process called solublization. Solublization produces a wide range of chemical compounds, including nitrile. This article discusses the uses of this medical grade silicone-based product, its structure and properties, how it is used, why it's used, the potential side effects, and how to care for your gloves.

Nitrile gloves are used in a variety of applications in the medical community. Nitrile rubber, called nitrile butadien, Nbr, Buna-Ns, acrylate butadien, etc., is a synthetic, water-soluble rubber made from butadiene and acrylate. These substances are used to create gloves that provide chemical resistance. Trade names for these gloves include Perbunan, Nipol and Krynac. This rubber is particularly noted for having good chemical resistance, being resistant to petroleum jelly and several oils, yet maintaining its flexibility and ability to form a strong protective layer when combined with an elastomeric or silicone backing.

The major benefit of using nitrile gloves is that they have many benefits, including the ability to offer high levels of chemical resistance, are able to form a protective barrier, are comfortable to wear, provide a non-sticking surface, good abrasion resistance, latex's natural stretch characteristics make it easy to put on, stretch and tear, they are inexpensive, reusable, and available in a wide range of colors and designs. Nitrile gloves offer high puncture resistance up to a 160-grit rating, making them good for a variety of job-related tasks. Nitrile gloves also resist oil, grease, and latex leaks and stains, which can be an issue for some materials and in the case of oil, a serious safety concern. A synthetic alternative to latex, vinyl, is often preferred because of its lower costs, though the benefits of the synthetic material can be negated if the glove is not properly designed.

Nitrile gloves are frequently used as disposable gloves, especially in the food industry. Food workers need a durable, slip-resistant, comfortable fit to prevent contamination, while still allowing the individual to perform his or her duties. Nitrile gloves are most commonly used as latex-free disposable gloves, though it is common to see nitrile gloves made with petroleum-based ingredients as well. The petroleum-based alternative offers an improved comfort and more resistance to chemicals and foods, but may not offer the protection that latex offers.

Nitrile gloves offer a number of other advantages over other latex-free alternatives. They are resistant to food allergies and will not cause latex allergies when they are used regularly, which is important in the food service industry. Nitrile gloves are also more comfortable than vinyl based gloves, making them more appropriate for long-term use. Nitrile has the added benefit of being able to withstand oil and other chemicals that can be present on food. It is also waterproof when it is applied to the outside of the skin, offering ultimate protection against water. Lastly, because it is completely non-porous, it makes it difficult to see whether or not substances have been mixed with the nitrile, making it important to always know where your gloves are while working.

While vinyl gloves offer the comfort, flexibility, and durability that many healthcare workers need, they do come with some risks. Nitrile is completely non-porous, offering better resistance to chemicals and food allergens. Many doctors and medical professionals in the healthcare field prefer Nitrile gloves and others are switching to them for the greater safety and resistance that they provide.