Nitrile gloves are valued for their durability and protective qualities in many professions. As individuals increasingly encounter ultraviolet (UV) light sources, a common question arises: do these gloves offer reliable protection against UV radiation? Understanding this interaction is important for safeguarding skin health.
Nitrile Glove Composition and UV Interaction
Nitrile gloves are crafted from acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), a synthetic polymer offering chemical and oil resistance and elasticity. This material can absorb, reflect, or scatter UV rays, providing a barrier against radiation. While nitrile gloves offer some UV protection, this interaction is complex and not absolute.
The nitrile polymer is susceptible to degradation when exposed to UV light, including direct sunlight. This breaks down polymer chains, making the material brittle and reducing its protective integrity. Studies note approximately 10% UV transmission through certain nitrile gloves, meaning some radiation passes through and prolonged exposure affects the glove’s physical properties.
Variables Affecting UV Protection
The degree of UV protection offered by nitrile gloves is not uniform and is influenced by several factors. Glove thickness plays a role, with thicker gloves generally providing a better barrier against UV radiation. Nitrile glove thickness is typically measured in mils, ranging from 2 to 8 mils or more depending on the intended use. However, a direct correlation between thickness and UV attenuation is not always observed, suggesting other manufacturing parameters are also at play.
Glove color, often chosen for practical reasons, does not fundamentally alter the inherent UV protection level of the nitrile polymer. However, pigments incorporated into the material can act as UV absorbers, potentially offering a marginal increase in initial blocking. Overall manufacturing quality, including batch variations, can lead to differences in UV attenuation capabilities among gloves from different brands.
Practical Considerations for UV Exposure
Despite offering some barrier against UV radiation, nitrile gloves are not designed as primary UV protective gear and have limitations. In situations with significant UV exposure, such as laboratory work with concentrated sources, nail salons using curing lights, or outdoor occupations, relying solely on nitrile gloves is insufficient.
UV radiation can compromise glove integrity over time, reducing their effectiveness as a barrier. For comprehensive hand protection against UV, additional strategies are advisable. These include using specialized UV-blocking gloves with a UPF 50+ rating, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to hands before donning gloves, and controlling environmental factors like using shields on UV equipment or storing gloves away from direct sunlight.