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GLOSSARY
NITRILE - a protein-free, low-chemical, non-latex, non-vinyl examination glove, made from a 100% nitrile polymer. Nitrile offers 3 times the chemical and puncture resistance of latex of comparable mil thickness.
MODULUS- refers to the formulation of an exam glove in relation to its elasticity. The lower the modulus, the higher the elasticity. Black Lightning gloves are low modulus. ELASTICITY- with little or no relation to thickness or tensile strength, the ability of a glove to stretch before breakage or damage occurs. ACCELERATORS - Additional chemicals in the manufacture of latex gloves added mainly for elasticity and durability. MERCAPTOBENZOTHIAZOLE (MBT) - a common accelerator used in the manufacture of latex and some nitrile exam gloves. While most people are not sensitive to this chemical, a growing number of people are reporting irritations in relation to the presence of this chemical in exam gloves. Examples of irritation include itching and profuse sweating. MBT-free Black Lightning Nitrile Gloves offer an excellent alternative for those with a known MBT sensitivity. LATEX - latex is the product of the milky sap of the rubber tree, Hevea Brasiliensis. It is a complex product of a system of cells that synthesise a polymer (cis-1, 4-polyisoprene), which is the main component of natural rubber. Latex is made heat stable and elastic by a process called vulcanization ( heating in the presence of sulphur). Fractions of proteins present in latex are responsible for the Type I (anaphylactic) allergic reactions. Additional chemicals, such as accelerators and antioxidants, are added for strength, stretch, and durability. These additives may be responsible for Type IV (contact dermatitis) allergic reactions. Latex is NOT as chemically resistant as nitrile. Petroleum products will degrade a latex glove. TYPE I / TYPE IV HYPERSENSITIVITY - Type I reaction to latex refers to a potentially life-threatening anaphylactic reaction (shock symptoms such as sudden change in blood pressure, respiration, and can include generalized hives and swelling of the throat). Type IV reaction refers to contact dermatitis, by various degrees of irritation (dry and crusty patches on the skin that resolve when no longer in contact with latex ) or a delayed reaction ( irritation that occurs within 6-48 hours of initial latex contact, that can include sores and blisters that extend beyond local area where contact occurred ). |