What's the difference between neoprene gloves and latex gloves?

The differences between neoprene and latex gloves are as follows:

 

Material

Neoprene gloves are made from synthetic rubber produced through polymerization, using chloroprene as the primary raw material. Latex gloves generally are made from natural latex harvested from rubber trees, processed with the addition of other additives.

 

Performance

------Chemical Resistance. 

Neoprene gloves offer strong resistance to a wide range of chemicals and are effective against common acidic & alkaline solutions, such as certain concentrations of sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, and sodium hydroxide. They also have some resistance to toluene and alcohol.

 

Latex gloves provide effective protection against alkalis, alcohols, and various dilute chemical solutions. They offer good protection against aldehydes and ketones, but have limited protection against aromatic and halogenated reagents.

 

------Abrasion Resistance. 

Neoprene gloves offer high hardness and strength and excellent abrasion resistance, as well as maintain their outstanding integrity in environments with frequent handling, high friction between hands and surfaces. 

 

Latex gloves can offer some abrasion resistance, but are more susceptible to wear and tear in prolonged, high-friction environments than neoprene gloves.

 

------Waterproof 

The compact molecular structure of neoprene gloves makes them impermeable to moisture, effectively keeping hands dry in humid environments or when working with water.

 

Latex gloves can offer some water resistance, but their overall waterproofing performance is inferior to that of neoprene gloves.

 

------Strength and Comfort. 

Neoprene gloves offer similar comfort to natural rubber with good flexibility, allowing for greater hand flexibility.

 

Latex gloves offer excellent elasticity, soft, comfortable and conform to the hand, allowing for greater freedom of movement.

 

------Aging Resistance. 

Neoprene gloves offer strong aging resistance, which is resistant to ozone and UV rays, they also can offer more stable performance when used outdoors or in exposed sunlight.

 

Latex gloves are relatively weak in aging resistance, which are prone to aging, hardening and brittleness when exposed to sunlight or high temperatures for extended periods.

 

Applications. 

Neoprene gloves are widely used in industries such as chemical engineering, electroplating, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, where contact with chemicals such as acids & alkalis is a concern. They are also commonly used in automotive repair, painting, aquaculture, and wastewater treatment. 

 

Latex gloves are commonly used in routine medical examinations and treatments, food processing, household cleaning and beauty salons. They can also be used for auxiliary operations in industries, such as electronics and chemicals where protective measures are less stringent.

 

Allergy Risk. 

Neoprene gloves generally do not cause allergic reactions and are suitable for people allergic to latex.

 

Latex gloves. Some people may be allergic to the proteins in latex and may experience allergic symptoms, such as itching, redness and rashes after use.

 

Lifespan. 

Neoprene gloves have a long lifespan with proper use and maintenance, they can withstand repeated use and harsh working environments.

 

Latex gloves may be increased the risk of wear and tear with frequent use or use in harsh environments, leading to a relatively short lifespan.