Safety Glove Definition of Key Terms

Permeation is a process by which a chemical can pass through a protective film without going through pinholes, pores, or other visible openings. Individual molecules of the chemical enter the film, and “squirm” through by passing between the molecules of the glove compound or film. In many cases the permeated material may appear unchanged to the human eye.

Chemical permeation can be described in simple terms by comparing it to what happens to the air in a balloon after several hours. Although there are no holes or defects, and the balloon is tightly sealed, the air gradually passes through (permeates) its walls and escapes. This simple example uses gas permeation, but the principle is the same with liquids or chemicals.

Permeation data are presented in two values: Breakthrough time and Rate. Breakthrough times (min.) are the times observed from the start of the test to first detection of the chemical on the other side of the sample (for test methodology, see the outside back cover of this guide). These times represent how long a glove can be expected to provide effective permeation resistance when totally immersed in the test chemical.

Permeation rates are the highest flow rates recorded for the permeating chemicals through the glove samples during a six-hour or eight-hour test. These qualitative ratings are comparisons of permeation rates to each other.

Degradation is a reduction in one or more physical properties of a glove material due to contact with a chemical. Certain glove materials may become hard, stiff, or brittle, or they may grow softer, weaker, and swell to several times their original size. If a chemical has a significant impact on the physical properties of a glove material, its permeation resistance is quickly impaired. For this reason, glove/chemical combinations rated “Poor” or “Not Recommended” in degradation testing were not tested for permeation resistance. Please note, however, that permeation and degradation do not always correlate.


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WARNING
The information in this chart was supplied to Cole-Parmer by other reputable sources and is to be
used ONLY as a guide in selecting gloves for chemical compatibility testing. Variability in material
thickness, chemical concentration, temperature, and length of exposure to chemicals will affect
specific performance.

Always test the products with the specific chemicals and under the specific conditions of the user's
application. Cole-Parmer does not make any express or implied warranties regarding the accuracy
or completeness of this chart or that any material is suitable for any purpose, and hereby expressly
disclaims any and all such warranties.

This chart is not designed to address every possible factor or circumstance relative to safety in
every environment. To select the appropriate glove protection, a hazards analysis and risk
assessment should be performed, including identification of the chemicals and chemical hazards
related to the user’s task and work environment, determination of the potential for exposure and
the type of exposure that is expected (i.e. splash, saturation, spray, immersion, etc.), and
determination of the consequences related to exposure. It is the responsibility of the user to
assess the types of hazards and the risks associated with exposure and to make a final decision
on the appropriate glove protection needed for his specific circumstance, and the user assumes
all risk associated with such assessment and decision.

Gloves should be replaced immediately if ripped, torn, abraded or punctured. Gloves are not
flame resistant and should be kept away from sparks, flames and sources of heat and ignition.
Melting fabric can cause severe burns.