Chlorination is a widely utilized process in the manufacturing of disposable gloves, particularly latex and synthetic latex gloves. This process involves exposing gloves to a chlorine solution to remove excess powder and reduce surface friction. This article explores the benefits of chlorinated gloves, the reasons for their adoption, their commercial impact on the glove manufacturing industry, and the details of the chlorination process.

Introduction of Chlorination in Glove Manufacturing

Initially, powdered gloves were the industry standard, with cornstarch commonly used to facilitate ease of donning and doffing. However, powdered gloves presented several challenges:

• Allergic Reactions: Powder could carry latex proteins, potentially triggering allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

• Contamination Risks: In medical and cleanroom environments, powder could contaminate sterile fields and sensitive equipment.

• Respiratory Concerns: Inhaling glove powder could contribute to respiratory issues among healthcare workers and patients.

To address these issues, chlorination was introduced as an alternative to powder. This process reduces the tackiness of gloves, facilitating easier donning and removal without the need for additional lubricants.

Physio-Chemical Effects of Chlorination

Chlorination significantly modifies the surface properties of rubber gloves through various physio-chemical interactions:

• Surface Modification: Chlorine reacts with the double bonds in natural rubber, forming dichloro cyclopropyl rings, reducing surface tackiness, and improving smoothness.

• Protein Breakdown: The process degrades latex proteins, decreasing the likelihood of allergic reactions.

• Altered Surface Properties: Studies using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) indicate increased surface roughness and stiffness, which can enhance grip.

• Enhanced Chemical Resistance: Chlorination forms protective compounds on the glove surface, improving resistance to oils, solvents, and other chemicals.

Chlorination Process in Glove Manufacturing

Chlorination can be conducted through two primary methods: online and offline chlorination.

Online Chlorination

Performed during manufacturing while gloves remain on formers (molds):

• Dipping: Gloves are immersed in a dilute chlorine solution (typically containing sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and water (H₂O)) , reducing surface friction and tackiness.

• Neutralization: Gloves are washed in an aqueous ammonia solution to neutralize residual chlorine.

• Rinsing and Drying: Gloves undergo thorough rinsing and drying to remove chemical residues before packaging.

  

  
  

Offline Chlorination

Conducted after gloves have been removed from formers:

• Prewashing: Gloves are washed to eliminate residual manufacturing powders.

• Chlorination: Gloves are immersed in a diluted chlorine solution, typically containing sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and water (H₂O).

• Neutralization: Residual chlorine is neutralized using a solution such as sodium thiosulfate (Na₂S₂O₃).

• Rinsing and Drying: Gloves undergo thorough rinsing and drying to ensure quality and safety.

  

  
  

Benefits of Chlorinated Gloves

Chlorinated gloves offer several advantages:

• Ease of Donning

• Lower Allergen Exposure

• Powder-Free Composition

• Improved Grip

• Enhanced Comfort

• Maintained Durability

Commercial Impact on the Glove Manufacturing Industry

The adoption of chlorination has yielded significant advantages for the glove industry:

• Cost-Effective Production

• Market Expansion

• Regulatory Compliance

Applications of Chlorinated Gloves

Chlorinated gloves are widely used across various industries, including:

• Healthcare and Dentistry

• Laboratories

• Cleanrooms

• Food Industry

• Chemical Handling

• Industrial Applications

Chlorinated gloves provide numerous advantages, including enhanced donning ease, allergen reduction, powder-free properties, improved grip, and user comfort. The adoption of chlorination has not only addressed the limitations of powdered gloves but also contributed to significant commercial benefits for the glove manufacturing industry. These advantages make chlorinated gloves a preferred choice across multiple professional sectors, ensuring safety, efficiency, and comfort for users.

References

[1] Preece, D. (2021). "The Effects of Chlorination, Thickness, and Moisture on Glove Donning Efficiency." Ergonomics.

[2] Karunaratne, G. (2007). "A Study to Reduce the Level of Chlorination of Examination Gloves While Keeping the Glove Moisture Content Low." University of Sri Jayawardanapura.

[3] Roberts, D., & Brackley, J. (1992). "The Manufacture of Gloves from Natural Rubber Latex." Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.