Working environments with higher rates of chemical spills, splashes, and leaks necessitate a greater degree of protection from fluids. Chemical-resistant aprons are vital in creating an additional, impermeable barrier to protect employees from harmful industrial chemicals. But to protect your team properly, you need to know what kind of aprons they need. The various materials comprising reusable, chemical-resistant aprons, such as synthetic plastics and certain types of rubber, have a different resistance levels to a many hazardous substances as well as to other environmental factors like heat and abrasion. Read on to learn what materials are commonly used to make reusable aprons and which you need for your facility.

      1. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC is a common option for protective gear due to its durability and versatility. It has a long lifespan and offers both affordability and lightweight comfort. It’s most effective against light chemical exposure rather than high-temperature materials or concentrated acids. Its splash resistance makes it a common option when bloodborne pathogens are a hazard. Vinyl aprons offer similar protection levels but have increased flexibility that may be relevant in applications requiring more movement.

Resists: Oils, grease, water-based solutions, light splashes

Best Uses: Light chemical exposure, food processing, medical facilities, research laboratories, cleaning

      2. Polyurethane (PU)

Polyurethane is a lightweight and flexible material with moderate resistance to chemicals and water, as well as abrasion. This makes it a popular choice for cleaning applications and other environments requiring a lot of movement.

Resists: Water, oils, weak acids and bases

Best Uses: Food processing, cleaning, light industrial use

     3. Neoprene

A durable synthetic rubber that has a robust protection level against a variety of aggressive substances. Its wide range of resistances and its flexibility make it a popular option in food processing and laboratory settings. It also resists both heat and abrasion.

Resists: Oils, solvents, certain acids

Best Uses: Laboratories, food processing settings, general industrial settings

      4. Butyl Rubber

A synthetic rubber that offers not only strong chemical resistance, but also high impermeability against gases, vapors, and liquids. This makes it a popular choice in high-exposure settings. It’s somewhat less flexible than neoprene but offers flexibility in low temperatures. However, it will degrade upon contact with some oils.

Resists: Gases, vapors, liquids, organic solvents, acids, and bases

Best Uses: Medical research laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturing, industrial cleaning, low-temperature settings

     5. Nitrile Rubber

This synthetic rubber has high abrasion resistance that enhances its durability in applications requiring significant movement. That durability limits its flexibility, but it’s a versatile option that’s widely popular for its excellent resistance to oils, fuels, grease, and certain chemicals.

Resists: Acids, solvents, petroleum-based oils, fuels, and greases

Best Uses: Automative manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, the petrochemical sector