Preliminary Research: Validation of the Method of Evaluating Resistance to Surface Wetting with Liquid of Protective Materials Intended for Polymer Protective Gloves

Abstract

The article presents validation argumentation of the novel method of evaluating resistance to surface wetting with different liquids of protective materials intended for polymer protective gloves based on the three parameters: water permeability index, non-wettability index and absorption index. Using our own method of evaluating resistance to surface wetting, it was shown that the knurled structure of the palm part of polymer protective gloves may inhibit transport of harmful and hazardous liquids outside the area of the protective glove. Currently, there is lack of objectifying methods for evaluation of surface wettability focused on the mentioned aspects. In view of the above facts, an original method for evaluating the resistance of protective materials to surface wetting with mineral oils and water has been invented and validated. It was assumed that the non-wettability index will be subjected to metrological analysis. Consequently, the validation process refers to this index. A precise assessment of the uncertainty budget of the individual components was obtained. On the basis of the obtained results, the measurement errors that may affect the quality and reliability of the test result performed in the laboratory were identified.

Enhanced Hydrophobicity of Polymers for Protective Gloves Achieved by Geometric, Chemical and Plasma—Surface Modification

“…The gloves are meant to protect their users' hands from harmful factors, but their comfort-which also improves safety-is an equally vital aspect. Considering the safety of using polymer gloves, particularly in a contaminated and humid environment, good wettability and hydrophobicity are essential because they enable effective draining of hazardous and harmful chemicals away from the glove [4,5]. Hydrophobic materials are characterised by a contact angle greater than 90 • , whereas the contact angle of superhydrophobic surfaces exceeds 150 • [6][7][8].…”

Enhanced Hydrofobicity of Polymers for Personal Protective Equipment Achieved by Chemical and Physical Modification

“…Protective clothing (personal protective equipment, PPE), including but not limited to protective gloves, constitute a vital area of polymer material application. Materials with improved hydrophobicity used in protective gloves may enhance the safety of polymer gloves users [ 36 , 37 , 38 ]. Therefore, the development of hydrophobic surfaces in such products is currently among the important research directions.…”