A STUDY TO REDUCE THE LEVEL OF

CHLORINATION OF EXAMINATION GLOVES

WHILE KEEPING THE GLOVE MOISTURE
CONTENT (WET GLOVE ) LOW

am

Gamini 1(arunaratne

M.Sc. Polyiiier Science and Technology October, 2007

 A STUDY TO REDUCE THE LEVEL OF
CHLORiNATION OF EXAMINATION GLOVES
WHILE KEEPING THE GLOVE MOISTURE
CONTENT (WET GLOVE ) LOW

By

ITanini Kiartinaratne

This thesis was submitted for the partial fulfillment of the requirement
for the Master Degree of Science in Polymer Science and technology of
the Faculty of Applied Science, University of Sri Jayawardanapura, Sri
Lnka,

()ciohcr, 2007
The work described in this thesis was carried out by me under the supervision

of Dr. Laleen Karunanayaka and the report on the same has not been

submitted to any other university for another degree.

G. Karunaratne
I certify that the above statement made by candidate is true and this thesis is

suitable lbr submission to the university for tile purpose of evaluation.

................... ......

DrenKaiunaiiayaka

Iv
 Con te,,ts

Page
Topic

Title page
viii
List ollabie

List or Figures
xi
Abbreviations
xii
Acknowledgment
xiv
Abstract

01
1 .lntroduction

01
.1 Back ground to the study
02
1.1.1 Identification of the problem
03
1.2 Aims and Objectives of the study
03
1.2.1 Overall aim
03
1 .2.2 Objectives
03
1.3 Literature survey
04
1.3.1 Leaching
06
1.3.2 Gloves and Powder
07
1.3.3 The surface modification of the article
08
1.3.4 Surface chlorination
08
1.3.4.1 General
Steps of the chlorination process 11
1.3.4.2

16
2.0 Experimental
16
2.1 Materials

V
l() p i C Page

2.2 Analytical Instruments and Machinery used 16

2.3 Methods 16
2.3. 1 Qual ilv evaluation of' centrifuged latex 19
2.3. 1. I Determination of N 1-h content 19
2.3. 1.2 Determination of Mccliaiucal Stability 'lime 20
2.3.1 .3 Determination of VFA number 21
2.3.1.4 Determination of Mg2F content 23
2.3.1.5 Viscosity 25
2.3.2 Compounding 26
2.3.3 Maturation process oI'gloves 26
2.3.4 Quality evaluation of powdered gloves 26

2.3.4. 1 Permanent set value 27

2.3.4.2 Tensile strength 28
2.3.4.3 Assessment of residual Ca2 content in glove 30
2.3.5 Chlorination of powdered gloves in the chlorinator 31
2.3.6 Determination of effect of EDTA addition in the pre wash step and changing

the chlorine concentration in chlorination step by changing C12/H20 flow rate 32

2.3.7 Determination of physical properties of chlorinated gloves 33

2.3.7.1 The measuring of the sticky glove percentage 33

2.3.7.2 The Measuring of the Wet Glove Percentage 34

3.() Results & I)iscLlssioll 35

3.1 Physiochemical quality evaluation of gloves 35
3.2 Chlorination process of gloves 35
3.3 hDTA trial - I (Pilot trial ) 44
).4 EDTA trial —2 45
3.5 EDTA trial —3 46

vi
 .1(1p I C Iagc

3.6 EDTA IL1UI -4 46

3.7 EDTi\ trial -5 46

3.8 !iDTA trial -6 47

3 .') ( iciieia I I) sc ussi nu S-i

3. 1 0 (.'onclusion 56

4.0 References 57

vi
 LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

l'alilc -N'l I I .aRx Speci Ication and Test Results 17

Fable - M2 I .ahoratory Chemicals 17

Table - M3 Rubber Processiw.t. Chemicals 18

Table - M4 Physical Properties of Chlorine Gas 18

Table -3,1a Test parameter before chlorination of Trial-I 36

Table -3.1 b Chlorination conditions of Trial -1 36

Table 3.lc Test parameter after chlorination of Trial - i 36

Table -3 .2a Test parameter bekre chlorination o l'l,ri'il -2 37

Table -3 .2b Chlorination conditions olTriul --2 37

Table -3.2c lest parameter after chlorination of Trial -2 37

l'able -3.3a Test parameter before chlorination of l'riail -3 38

Table -3 .3b Chlorination conditions of Trial -3 38

Table -3.3c Test parameter after chlorination of Trial -3 38

Table -3 .4a Test parameter before chlorination o fIr ial -4 39

Table -3.4b Chlorination conditions of Trial -4 39

Table -3.4c Test parameter after chlorination olTrial -4 39

Table -3.5a Test parameter before chlorination o lTr ial -5 40

Table -3.51) Chlorination conditions olTrial -5 40

Table -3 Sc Test parameter oIler chlorination of Trial -5 40

Table -3 .6a Test parameter before chlorination of Trial -6 41

VIII
Table Page

Table -3.6b Chlorination conditions of 'l'rial —6 41

Table -3.6c Test parameter after chlorination of Trial —6 41

Table 7 The average test parameters of the gloves before

the chlorination process 42

Table 8 The average lest parameters of the gloves after

chlorination process 42

Table 9 The tensile value of the gloves after the chlorination at

different chlorine concentrations and different EDTA
additions in chlorination process 42

Table 10 The wet glove % of the gloves after the chlorination at

different chlorine concentrations and different EDTA
additions in chlorination process 43

Table I I The average reduction of calcium iron content of gloves

heibre and alter chlorination process in series of
trials 43

ix
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page

Figure- 1(1) Chlon nation steps in chlorinator 15

l'iuic- I The Ca ion content on the gLove surface before and aller

chlorination 48

Figure- 2 The variance of TS of the test series vs. additions of EDTA

at different Cl level 49

Figure- 3 The average TS of glove film vs. addition of EDTA

before and after Chlorination 30

Figure- 4 IEB of test series vs addition of EDTA 51

Figure- 5 The average wet glove Vu in the trial series vs additions

of LD1'A 32

liuic- 6 Wet glove Vu vs [D1'A additions at different Cl

LtvIs 53

x
 ABBREVIATIONS

TS 'l'cnsile Strength

SV Pernianent Set Value

SO Sticky Glove

WG Wet Glove

EAB Elongation At Break

EDTA Ethylene Diammine Tetra Acetic acid

ppill parts per million

I'll. Field Latex

C/L Centrifuged Latex

I Ca2 .1 Calciuiii ion

xl
 ACKNOLEDOEM [NT

I Wish to express my most sincere appreciation and gratitude to my supervisor. Di

I alcen Karunanayaka. Senior I ecturci- , Department of Chemistry. University of Sri

ivawardanapitra. Sri I .anla Ir [lie generous ideas, val noble advices ud guidance given.

in conducting this StLidy. His unhesitant help and co-operation at all times has contributed

immensely to make this study in success. it is my bounden duty to thank him most

sincerely.

I extend my gratitude to Mr. Damitha Dharmasena who was the former Executive Director

of I lan\vel In Rubber Products ( l>vt ) I Ad. for sponsorinu me to follow this M Sc. (Polymer

Science and lechnology) course.

1 especially, wish to express my deepest sense of gratitude to Mrs. Theja Herath The Senior

Research O.flcer. Industrial lechnology Institute for the valuable advice, kind guidance

and professional expertise in Wi' iting my l'hesis.

My special thanks go to Mrs. Chandani Somaratne, Lecturer, University of Moraituwa, who

provides kind assistance during period of writing up of my l'hesis.

I wish to thank Mr. Nilaksha Pushpukumara who is the Factory Manager of 1-lanwella

Rubber Products (pvt) Ltd and my colleagues for their kind helps in various ways and their

iriendl co-operation during my research.

XII
NspcciiHv I cxicnd my thank to Miss. \\'athsala lcrei'a. Compounding Executive Of

I IaIl\VCI Ia Rubber PiOdLitS (pvt) I .td for her kind dSsiStOflCCS and genCi'OUS contri butR)n in

\arloUs \\a.
 A I3STRAC'F

Ihe primary purpose of modifying the surface of the examination gloves by

chlorination process is to reduce the tackiness, which is a characteristic of the rubber. This

also reduces the friction between the rubber film and other surfaces with which it comes

I11() eonlaeL

one ol the major problems in chlorinated examination gloves is, wetting when stored

al'ter manufacture. Wetting of the gloves is caused by absorption of moisture by Ca 2 ions

lrese1t on the surface of articles. Exposing the latex articles to the long hot water leaching

process and also to the higher degree of chlorination can minimize this wetting problem. A

Long [lot water leaching process is expensive. The higher degree of chlorination seriously

affects the gloves quality as they cause degradation of gloves.

[his trial experiments were carried in a glove manufacturing plant. Initially the same

quality gloves were manufactured in order to subject to chlorination trials. There were six

lots of gloves chlorinated with varying dosage of EDTA. 0.00g, 100g, 200g, 300g. 400g

and 500g respectively at initial pre wash step in chlorination process. In one series of trial

lot, the chlorine concentration was changed to 873, 764, 655, 546, 436, 327, 218 and 109

pm respectively while keeping the rate addition of EDTA constant. The hatch size was

5000 gloves per one lot in chlorination cycle.

Addition of EDTA dosage in pie wash step in chlorination process enhanced the

ieduelioii ol('a ioiis cuiiteiil in a glove. l'lie (t ions concelilrutiun oki glove is ie.duced

due to the removal or deaeiivation of the Ca ions by EDI'A which leads to lesser moisture

xiv
 Z71 ovc. Our restil ts showed that the dosage ol chioriiie used in
idoi1t ion to tilL' surIice ol il

chlorination process could be reduced, without effecting physical properties of the gloves.

Finally this study could be concluded as, the thin rubber articles could be chlorinated at

low degree o I chlorination without wetung and cnlianciiig the good physical properties by

the addition ol' FDTA belore washing.

xv
 I fltrOdUCtiOfl

1.1 Background to the Study

Rubber has been a traditional export commodity in Sri Lanka since the

colon al time. The Rubber industry in Sri Lanka mainly consists of' the plantations

sector, whei'e Rubber gro\VS and harvests latex from trees and converts it into processed

raw rubbers of different types. In the rubber products manufacturing sector, which

converts raw rubber into value added rubber goods.

Rubber plantation was established in Sri Lanka in 1 876 with the planting of

rubber plants imported from Brazil. The rubber products manufacturing industry

primarily to retread tires and then industry expanded rapidly. At

emerged in the 1940s

present, the export value of the rubber products is live times greater than the export

value of raw rubber from Sri Lanka.

Accoi'd ing to the Central Bank Report of Sri Lanka of 2005, the domestic

consumption of rubber in the industrial sector increased by 34 %, when compared to the

last IWO yeal". It is a significant improvement in rubber products industry. It is mainly

due to the increasing world demand for rubber products such as solid tyres, tubes,

various types of gloves such as household gloves, surgical gloves, industrial gloves,

examination gloves, rubber thread and other rubber related products.

Sri Lanka has 11600 hetares of cultivated rubber land and total production of

dry rubber from these rubber lands is around 104,400 Metric Tones per year'. Out of

which, the local consumption is around 73,000 Metric 'lones . Nearly 2/3 ol' this

consumption is directly used for dry rubber industry and 1/3 of consumption is used in

the form of latex The main latex based products in Sri Lank are various type of gloves,

hot water bottles and condoms ..,cct.

 Lspecial ly very thin articles like condoms, exam nation gloves and surgical

gloves, which are produced by using centrifuged latex, are chlorine washed to remove

soluble / leachable protein. Present study considers one of the main problems

encountered with chlorination of thin articles from latex.

1.1.1 IddntilicatLon of the Problem

One of the major problems in chlorinated thin latex dipped articles is the

absorption of moisture (wetting) during storage of the product.Wetting is due to ttie

adsorption of moistLire, by Ca2 ions, which are attached to the surface of articles.

Wetting results the stickiness of thin articles together and the moisture on the surfaces

causes acceleration of the degradation process of thin rubber products. It is a major

problem liiced by the manu fucturers of dipped latex articles.

This wetting problem can be minimized by exposing the latex articles to long

hot water leaching process and also by subjecting the articles to a high degree of

cli lorinalion. Since the boiling and maintaining high temperature hot water is practically

very expensive to the manufacturers, there are some limitations in the glove machine

liich makes it di iflcult to subject the articles for long hot water leaching process.

Ilowever. the high degree ol'chlorination process will also seriously affbct the higher

level o I' degradation of thin latex articles.

lThereforc this study was carried out to identify the remedies to the above

problem.
1.2 Aims and Objectives of the Study

1.2.1 Overall aim

Overall aim of this stLldy is to reduce the level of chlorination and improve

the film pI-oj)erties and avoiding wetting of gloves produced.

1.2.2 Objectives

I. Production of thin latex articles in order to achieve the same physical

quality parameters in the final products.

1st
The determination of the effect of EDTA dosages in pre wash step of

the chlorination process.

Determination ol physical and chemical properties in the final

product.

Determination of wet article percentage in the samples.

1.3 Literature Survey

In glove manutacturing process, moulds ( Formers ) are dipped in coagulant

bath before latex dipping. The most common coagulant for thin articles manufacturing

process is Ca (NO 3 ) 2. The wetting agents are used in coagulant solution to enhance the

wetting ability of Ca (NO 3 ) 2 on the mould surface by reducing the surface tension of

water from 78 dines to nearly 30-40 dines.

In coagulant dipping, the duration of the dual time and coagulant strength are

determined by the thickness of the deposit required in relation to the colloidal stability

of the latex and Total Solid Strength of latex as described by D.C.Blackly in Polymer

2
Latices

3
 A fler i'iuin thin layer of the latex around the surface of the mould, the

necessity of the Ca (NO) 2 is over. The remaining Ca (NO3 ) 2 in the glove surface

makes severe effect to the quality of' gloves by causing discoloration, and also making

i rritatR)n to the skin of' the person who ware gloves. Ca (NO3 ) 2 makes further

implication l'or secondary process ol' glove. Therefore leaching is caused out to

eliminate the Ca (NO3) 2 and oilier unreacted chemicals on (lie glove surktce.

1.3.1 Leaching

As Gazeley described in Leaching behavior ofprevulcanized natural rubber

latex ii Im . the operation of leaching is performed on most products made by the

(lipping, process, and the efficiency o 1 the process may have a significant effect on latex

characteristics such as clarit\, bloomiiie and discolouration.

I Luther lie explained the absorption of' waler in to rubber material is very high when

ironic non-rubber material like Ca2 in the material.

As describe in Latex dipping-Leaching treatments, Natural Rubber 'l'echnical

8,
In fOrmation Sheet- LI 6 Leaching is the process of removing water-soluble substances

by washing in water. Virtually all dipped products are leached although the intensity of

the treatment varies greatly according to the application for which the product is

intended. The removal of water-soluble sLibstances improves the film clarity, prevents

the fOrmation of' surface 'blooms" of hydrophihic materials and reduces the water

absorption of the product. The last of these is vital in, for e.g. the nianufi'tcture of'

electrician's gloves where absorption ol'water by the glove will greatly reduce it's

electrical resistance.

4
[here arc two methods ()C leaching OI rubber articles

a, Wet-gel leaching

'[his consists of washing the wet —gel (the gel deposits on the

mould prior to vu lcanii,ation) and as it is a primary production of line

process the time availability l'or it is limited (two mifliLtes Or less).

Longer leaching would mean undue lengthening ol' the plant. For these

reasons wet-gel leaching is usually carried out on products for which the

extraction of water-solLible substances is non critical.

b. Dry Film Leaching

['his consists of wushint the dried, vLi leanized products online or after

renioval ftom molds.

Factorsat'l'ecting the leaching

[he efficiency of leaching depends on the temperature ol'the water and

water flow mate. Hotter the \vater, the more rapid is the rate of extraction, although the

effect is somewhat greater in the wet-gel leaching. Some latex formulations contain

materials, which are insoluble in hot water, e.g. polyvinyl methyl ether, polypropylene

o-ionic suriactants. These materials will only be extracted

glycol or certain types of nn

by a cold water leaching. An important factor in leaching operation is the rate of flow of'

water, or the frequency of changing water during the process. For the most efficient

bo
r
leaching. water should either he flowing continuously e changed at frequent

intervals.
1.3.2 C loves and Powder

In Vulcanized products prodLiced from natural rubber latex process, there is a

high leveL ol sell— tacL which is Corning Erom row rubber as an inherent ftature, unless

they contain large amoLints of a mineral tiller. It is often necessary to remove this source

o I' adhesion bet\veen surlaces by means ot' dressings, diem ical treatment ol' the surface,

or modi lication of the original latex mix, to facilitate handling as described in Latex

products-detackilying techniques in Natural Rubber Technical Information Sheet- L60 9

In normal glove manu lacturing procesS, wet powdering dipping is used to give

the powder lubrication to the inside of the glove surlace. Amongst powders, talc is

probably the most widely used material, bLit other tillers such as line clay or fine ground

whiting may also be efThctive. laic gives the smoothest li.el to the article. If the article

encounter contacts with body tissues as in the case ofstirgeons' gloves, the surftices arc

usual ft dressed \vitll a special steri tiLed starch, which can be absorbed by the body

ithout any irritation.

II 12
[lizabeth D. Jacobson , etal has reported that the powder on glove sLirface

contributes to a number ol' adverse health effects for patients on wFiom, the powder may

get deposited. e.g. threign body reactions, inflammation, granulomas and adhesions of

peritoneal tissue after surgery. FDA in USA also has significant concerns aboLit the role

of glove donning powder (typically corn starch) in the sensitization reaction to natural

latex. Natural latex allergens have been shown to hind to cornstarch. The dispersal into

the air of glove powder carrying latex proteins may be a significant agent for sensitizing

6
null-a Icicle individuals \VIl() breathe in the powder. The studies reveal that a deciease in

levels ol clove powder will decrease the prevalence ol adverse health effects,

But. Natural rubber latex gloves are recognized currently as the best overall

iilaLeriil ui harrier protection in health care settings. The use Of powder as a lubricant is

widespread. Increasiig sensitivity to natural rubber latex and the concern that corn
I
starch powder play a role in this increasing sensitivity of protein allergies.1

Alternative manufacturing processes to remove the powder allergy due to the

powder gloves, is Chlorination. Chlorination of natural rubber latex gloves that can

11.12 These processes must be highly

control led,
dim male the need for donning powders.

however, to avoid deleterious effects on the properties of the natural rubber latex.'

1.3.3 The Surface Molillcatioii of the Article

Various surlice treatment methods may be applied to latex dipped articles in

order to achieve special eflcts. These treatments can be applied to surfaces of the

rubber article at the on line producing stage or after the removing articles li'om moulds.

The combination of the different treatment can also be applied to same articles.

- I One side polymer coated and inner side chlorinated examination gloves.

2. One-side powders and other side polynier coated glove.

The physical character of the surlice or its' appearance of the dipped articles is

changed by above treatments. Some treatments like chlorination penetrate to a lesser or

greater extent to the interior o I' rubber Ini . Theii properties o I' the 1111111 may be changed

7
1 .3.4 S ui-face Cli lo rina I io ii

1.3.4.1 General

the surface lubricity of the rubber article is increased by chemical

modification of the surface by reaction of the rubber with the halogens. 01 the various

halogens, chlorine is, most widely used. But sometimes, bromine is also used as an

alternative for some articles. Any article produced from a rubber, which is reacted with

chlorine, and modify surface of the article is called Surface Chlorination.

The primary purpose of modifying the surface of thearticle by chlorination

process is to reduce the tackiness, which is a characteristic ol'the rubber. This also

reduces the l'rietion between the rubber fm and other surlitces with which it comes into

contact.

The chlorination process is commonly used in latex dipped glove industries

because. it gives a smooth sLid ace of pleasing lel by considerably reducing the friction

between the glove and the hand. Therelbrc, the user can easily remove the chlorinated

glove

During the chlorination process certain unevenness on the surluice of the

rubber articles can be created and this phenomena has been described as Micro

Textured. This can weaken the latex fl Im surface. Thereibre the products, which are

extremely thin are recjuired to be subjected to chlorination under special care. Failure to

do so won Id result in Ii igli reject rates.

Romberg found that chlorination had a drastic affect on the physicaL structure of'

the glove surface besides changing the chemical fuinctionatity of the surthce.

Ronigerg's studies revealed that because ol' chlorination, cracks developed on both

8
unaged and aged glove samples. The tensile strength or chlorinated glove samjilcs oi

both types was hund to decrease sign Ficantly at 0.3% concentration of the chlorinating

solLition compared to concentration of 0.0!, 0.03,0.05 and 0.1% respectively. Decreases

>f 3 0/0 in the tensile strength were observed aller I & 20 miii. respectively of'

tinic of chlorination LIS1I1L!. 0.3% so! 1111011 compared to the tensile strength of the sample

ch Ion itated using a 0. I % so! Liti011

l3oth, Robert Francis Mausser3 and D.C.Blackly2 believe that better

concentration of chlorine solution for chlorination is around 0.15% and contact time of

article with this solution is around 4 1/2 - 71/2 iii mutes. Now days in industries, actual

proceng chlorine concentratiOn and contact time with examination gloves are lower

than the above Figures. Even under better conditions in chlorination process, there is a

considerable eject level due to pinholes. The weakening of the glove Film enhances the

lii h rate ol P1nlioles.

'7 found that surface morphology and physical properties

Atit and Suniit Sen

('1'S) arc compromised in chlorinated gloves. This may resLilt in the reduction of sell' Ii

grip and durability. Chlorination beyond the optimum level has led to cases of skin

irritation among users and development of strong order

D.C.Blackly2 described that chlorination improves the resistance of a rubber

Film to synthetic detergents. The reasons for this may be due to forming of chlorinated

rubber layer on the surface of the article as a results, the reaction between the chlorine

and natural rubber. The chlorinated natural rubber is harder than normal vulcanized

natural rubber and it has a lower friction coelficient.

9
 )thcr main advantage of' the chlorination of latex dipped articles is the drastic

reduction of' extractable protein content on them The protein content of normal

powdered examination glove, which is received from well-controlled production line, is

around 90-200111/per a glove. I )ui'iiie. the chlorination this quantity should be

reduced to less than the 50mg/per glove. Viyavood Sincharoenkul , Poonsuk

cherdkiatgumchai , in Development of' l.ow Protein Latex and impact on Latex

lxaru,iation Gloves' 2 empathized above extractable protein levels in gloves and the

further revealed that medical glove market profile was changed from powder gloves to

chlorinated gloves due to protein allergy problem, which is enhanced ftom extractable

q
i
protein.

F ).C. 13 lackl y2 described that certain excess compounding ingredients, notably

dithiocarbamLite and thiuram vulcanization accelerators, are removed floni the surfuce

by chlorination process. This is beneflcial because in that the level of residual

vulcanization accelerators at the surface of the product is reduced. However, it can be

adverse. in that these accelerators also functions as antioxidants for the rubber, so that

the resistance of' the rubber to oxidative degradation is reduced.

The chlorination process of the thin articles normally done in the cli brine

macli inc cal led chiorinators. There are various types of chlorinators and those

chlorinators are fully or partially automated. This research was carried out using a fully

automated chlorinator and It showed very high accuracy and perfurmance. The

calibrated results showed the variation of chlorine concentration of' set values and actual

values learl\ '- or IS ppm. As 15 time of' large ( 50001)cs ) glove batches were

subjected to chlorination process. above variation of chlorine concentration does not

eThel in ucli to the properties oh' chlorinated gloves.

 During this research, an attempt was made to improve the existing industrial

chlorination process to enhance the physical properties of chlorinated glove by

renloving the wetting (absorbing moisture when storing) problem of them The

11t)i1tIre ahsorbsiori to the litte.\ article can be minimized by removing the metal ions

from tile tubber surface using EDTA or deactivating the metal ions by chelating agents

such as [DTA. The previous research on metal ion absorption from surface ol tile

rubber lim is not possible to 1nd. [3ut. lots ol researches were done on metal ions

absorption irom human body tissues vdiere EDTA is used.

Garry F. Gordon reveals on his research. EDTA and Chelation Therapy't

klYlA or LDTA based chelators are effective in accelerating the excretion ofPb and

other toxic heavy metals when EDTA solution is taken orally. As cation like Ph2 . Ca

can be absorb from human body tissues by using EDTA, this EDTA treatment can be

easily applied to the gloves without creating any further implications.

There are few steps to follow in the chlorinator during in the chlorination

process, The time of the steps and also the concentration of the chemicals can be

changed

1.3.4.2 Steps of the chlorination process

he gcnerai process can be described as fbi lows; [ Figure —l( I) ]

I.
1'' pi'easIi

A her loading, of 5000 pcs o the exam inatioti gloves into the chlorinator, the

door is closed. Belore the machine is started, fill the cabiti with fresh water to the

level earl icr program med.

[he articles are tumbled with water and wash away all the powder on the surihce of

the ardc Ic. The set time is ln ished: water in the chani her is dumped.

)lA was added into the chamber at this water 1 Ii ing in I pre wash step. [here

was coouidi lime in nix i;D'IA in water and contact with surlace ol the gloves.

11d
2. 2 re wash

2I1
Ike above same cycle is done lbr the time for cleaning of glove surlOce

.3. Chlorination Ste1).

According to D.C.Blackly24 the required chlorine in aqueous media for

chlorination process can be obtained in mainly three ways.

Chlorine water prepared by dissolving chlorine gas in water.

11. Acidifying the aqueous solution of sodium hypo chloride with hydrochloric

acids.

I I . Aqueous solution ofan organic chlorine sokition.

During this research, chlorination operation was done using a solution of'

chlorine in water. Chlorine gas is mixed in water using automated mixing and

masterine unit. Solution of chlorine ill water forms the molecular chlorine but also

hpo chorus acid. hypo chloride anion, chloride anions and hydrogen ions. These

later SCC es lbrm by reversible i iiteraction between molecular chlorine and water

niolecoles as 1011o\\ S

('l +1 k() 0011 -i- I C - I- (' lU

U
Co-- + 1-1k

12
 lie react ion bel\\ ecu Rubber chlorine occurs very rapidly in the presence of' al

above three-chlorine sources. This indicates that the mechanism of chlorination is

eeuiiallv the same br all three niethods

In the chlorinator, chlorine gas how rate and chlorine gas dosing time can be

changed. Water volume that held to the chamber of the chlorinator can be

ealcLilated. Ilierelore, the required chlorine concentration can be adjusted in

chlorinator for reaction with rLibber gloves. The treatment is carried out at normal

am bient tern perature, Chlorine filling time is 280 sec. and contact time of gloves

('hlorine tumbler time ) \vitll this solution is around 1080 sec. in the chlorinator.

4. Neutralizing step

A tier chlorine tumble ring of the latex articles, this chlorine solution

can t be reused 'or the next batch because of this toxicity. Therefore Lising Ammonia

soliti ion or Sodlulli I 'h iosu I phate solution or using combination ol' both in in ml ize

the damage to the environment from the chlorine solution by neutralizing the

cli brine solution. At the neutralizing cycle p1-I of the solution should become to 6-8

and cli brine ppm should be zero. Only the Th iosulphate makes the local

discoloration of' the article. Thcrel'ore Animon ia is recommended over Thiosu Iphate.

When Ammonia is only used for neutralizing purpose, it works perfectly for the

lent 'al uing process. But it al'kcts to the final effluent treatment of wastewater d Lie

to the increasing of' the Ammon cal Nitrogen.

13
 In this research, mixture of Am nionia and Thiosulphate was used.

Post-wash step- I

i\[ normal production, only one post-washing step to wash out rubber gloves with

ater is used. In this research toO one post wash cycle was used.

l'ost-wash step- 2

This step was by passed during these trails.

I-teat tumble ring

A 11cr unloading the articles From the chlorinator, they are then ready to tumble dry

prelërably at a lower temperature. The temperature is between 50 °C - 55 °C which

is (]uile sufficient to the articles with out causing severe colour changes. In this

research the gloves were kept for 2411 in covered baskets after cooling and then

parameters were measured. C 2 ion on gloves was identified using a method as

described in literature.

14
liLtLIic (3). Chloriiiatioii steps in chlorinator3

('liluritic (t ----------.. Watci (_lilurinc water Chlorine water solution

() 56% chlorine diluted lurtlier -
By weight w/water to .15%
Chlorine by weight

Latex Goods Tumbler Tumbler Pie wash step

0 0
Pre-loaded with ON
Rinse water -
Latex goods perform two/three times)

4 1/-7-1 / iilIfl.
Chlorination treatment
Chlorine water
discharged

Neutralizer solution I
L.g. i\ ni nionia water or
aqueous Sodium Th iosu litc
Solution)
5-7 miii.
Neutralization

Neutralizer solution
discharged

Rinse water 4-6 mm. 11 Rinse water

(perornl iwo/three ii tiles) rinse discharged

Goods removed
from tumbler
a 11cr lii ird rinse

Goods discharged Goods Goods

from drier tumbled at Placed in warm
40-50 Oc Air drier

Q. . inspection and packaging

15
2. Experimental

2.1 Materials

2.2 AnaLytical instruments and machinery used

2.3 Methods

2.1 Materials

Raw materials

I. TMTD/ZnO was preset-ved low Ammonia latex (Table-MI )

Normal laboratory chemicals ( Table - M2 )

Wet rubber processing, Rubber Chemicals ( Table - M3 )

Chlorine gas [Industrial Chlorine , Paranthan Chemicals ]

( Table —M4)

2.2 Analytical Instruments and Machinery used

2.2. 1 General laboratory equipment.

E.g.: - Four decimal electronic balances (Mettler- Japan)

MST meter (Klaxon —UK)
Markham stilt apparatus (UK)
Steam generator
Viscometer (Ford cup-UK)
2.2.2 Processing machinery

I. I OOm long m'dern examination glove manufttcturing machine ([3RG 4T-900()

Malaysia)

2. Cli Ion lawn [The macli inc wh icli is used to chlorine the gloves]

(25131) , Jetico. USA )

Ff1
laI)!e - 1I I. Ia1ex S1)cciflcation and Test Results

li ra nc1er fication I Test Results

Dr\ Rubber Content-DRC ( %) 59.5-61 .0 60.32

tOtal Solid ()I1te1L:lSC ( V I DR(' 1.5 61.60
Non Rubber ('oiitent-N ftC ( % - 1.28
Aniinon ia Content in Latex ( % ) 0. 17-0.25 0.22
Mechanical Stability I'irne-MSl ( Sec. ) 500-900 720
8.5-10.5 9.87
1)11
Volatile Fatty Acid No.-VFA 0.000- 0.032 0.028
MagnesiLim Iron C011tent-[Mg2 (ppm) 35 Max. 7.50

Density ((,/cm3) - 0.940

Viscosity(at 28-33oC: - 69.00
Spindle-I, 60 rpm) (('P
C0,1111.111.1111 Content ( %)
0.005

lahic - rvl2. Laboratory Chemicals

No. Chemicals 'i'ypc

I Aninion iul11 chloride GPR

2 Anirnoniurn Sulphate AR
3 I3arium Ilydroxide AR
4 I'otassi urn I Iydrogei 1 Phth late AR
5 Sodium hydroxide AR
6 EDIA GPR
7 Arnnio,iiuni oxalate GPR
8 Sodium oxalate GPR
9 Eriochrorne blacL I ( E13l') AR
I0 Bromothyniol blue ( BIB) AR
1 Phenopthel in AR
12 Calcium carbonate AR
13 Hydrochloric acid GPR
4 Acetic acid GPR
IS Sulphuric acid ( l>R
16 Ethanole AR
17 Chloral'orm AR
18 Tolueeiie GPR
19 Ammonia GPR

17
Fable - M3. Iuhber Iiocessing ('liemicals

i'radc Name Chemical NaIIIC Purpose

Potassi U111 Ilydrt>x ide Potassium I lydroxide Primary latex siahi I iïcr
Potassi 11111 I ;u rate Potassium Lau ate Second ry latex stabilizer
Sodium alLy I sulphate Secundry latex stabiliier and-
l)arvau - \V,\()
wetting Agent
Sulphur Vulcanizing agent
Sulphu1'-99.89/0
Zinc d ibutyl d ith iocarbamate Rubber accelarator
Mercap-Z D BC
Zinc diethyl ditluocarhamate Rubber accelarator
Mercap-ZDC
Zinc mcreaptobenzth iazole Rubber accelarator
Mercap-ZM 131
Zinc Oxide Activator
White seci
Polymeric stericaly hindered phenol Antioxidant
Ralox LC
(2.2 Mcth)leue-BIS)
Titanium Dioxide Inorganic pigment
TR-92
Anchoid Sodium salt ol' polymarised alkyl aryl- Dispersing agent
sttphoii ic acid
ant --it) Calcium Nitrate Latex coagulating Agent
k 'oat Anti tack agent-
Superlile Precipitted Calcium Carbonate
(Lubricant for latex Fi ni
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Thickeningg a ten
Cetlosize - I OOM II
Poly nonylphenol SurLce active agent
leric 320
Secrete 13 lend Anti Forming agent
Bevaloid
Nitric Acid Nitric Acid
A111111011,111111 hydrate
Latex preservative
I iqu id A mmon a
Caustic Soda (Na011 ) Sodium 1-1ydroxide Neutralizer
Dispersion oF CaCO3 Latex Filler
Carbivl N SOt)
Ground Calcium Carbonate Latex filler
Zancrab 3 NC
Corn Starch Anti tack agent-
Adsoho Starch
2dium Thiosulphate Sodium Thiosulphate Cl, neutralizer

laMe - M4. Physical Properties of Chlorine Gas

- lnra,neIcr Spccihcalioii
Boiling point (L ) -34
Melting point (C) -lot
Liquid Density (Kg / Lt at 10 °C) 147
Vapour Density ( Kg. Lt at 10 C) 2,49
Vapour pressure at tO C ( Kg/ cm2 ) 5.5

18
2.3 Method

2.3 1 Quality evaluation of Centrifuged Latex

2.3.1.1 Determination of NH3 content

2.3.1.2 Determination of Mechanical Stability Time

2.3. I .3 Determination Volatile Fatty Acid nLtmber

2+ content
2.3. I .4 Determination of Mg

2.3.1.5 Viscosity

2.3.1.1 Determination of NH3 Content

Principle:

The NH3 is reported as NH3 based on grams of NH3 per

100 grams of latex

Apparatus:

I. Weighing bottle

2. Balance (Electronic, Digital display with two decimal

Points)

Reagents:

I. 0.IN Hydrochloric Acid (HCI)

2. 0. I % Methyl Red indicators

 Procedure:

300 i-nI of low hardness water was taken to a clean beaker. lOg of Latex sample was

iakeii into a glass weighing bottle and weighed to ihe nearest I 0mg and 8111g o I' the

sample poured into the beaker. Just after the adding the bottle re stopped quickly to

prevent loss of ammonia & set aside for re weighing.

About 6 drops of 0. 1 % Methyl Red indicator was added to it and the content in the

beaker was titrated with 0. IN HCI. End point can be observed before complete

coagulation takes place.

Calculation:

1.7 x Nx V
Ammonia content % =
W
Whe me

N = Normality of standard HCI

V = Volume of HCI in ml required for the titration

W = Weight of Latex in grams

2.3.1.2 Determination of Mechanical Stability Time

P ri n CI Ic:

II i gh Speed St i rn n" Teclin ique

Apparatus:

Mechanical Stability Time Meter, which consists ola veitical shall

high-speed stirrer maintaining a speed of 14000 ± 200 rpm.

20
 2 Stop Watch.

Reagent:

0.6% Aniinonia Solution

Procedure:

lOOg ol Centi- iluged Latex was diluted to get the TotaL Solid Content exactly to 55 %

with aqueous 0.6% Ni-I 3 Solution. From that 80 g of the Latex was transferred to the

test CU of the meter.

'I'hen the latex sample was stirred at 14000 rpm. Starting the stopwatch immediately,

at the point, MS'L' meter reaches to the above speed

The end point was determined by frequently dipping a glass rod into the Latex and

drawing it once lightly over the palm of the hand.

Results:

The MST ValLie of Latex is expressed as the numbers of seconds elapsed from the

start of the test to the end point.

2.3.1.3 Determination of Volatile Fatty Acid Number

Princi pie:

[he number of grams of Potassium l-lydroxide (KOH) required neutralizing the

volatile Iitty acid iii a latex sample containing IOU g ol total solids.

Apparatus:

Markham still apparatus

Steam generator

P1
Reagents:

I. 35% Ammoni urn Su I !ite so! ulion [(NI 14 )2 SO4 J

0.01 N Barium I lydroxide solution I B11(01- )21

50V0 S ul iui'ie Acid (1 LS().1 ) So I ulioll

Broritothyrnol 131 LIC indicator / Phenopthaline Indicator.

P ro ced u

SOg of cOflCefltFltCd L.atex was taken to a 250 ml beaker and SOmI (NH 4 ) 2 SO4

solution was added and sti tied with a itlass rod.

The beaker was immersed iii a water bath at approximately 700 UC lbr about 15

minutes. The serum was filtered through a filter paper and squeezed the coagulum in

the beaker with a glass rod to remove the remain serum. 25 ml of filtered serum was

pipette out into another beaker with 5 ml of' 50% 1-17SO 4 and swirl to mix.

The inner chamber of still apparatus was flushed out with distilled water and added 10

ml of' acidi fled serum into it (distillation rate 3 - 6 ml / mm)

100 ml ol condense was collected and titrated with standard Ba(01- I)2 solution using

13n.mothym01 Blue as the indicator.

(alculat ion:

07.32 x N x (V - 13)1 1
W (100 -
I

50+
W x TSC 100 x 1.02
L J L

\V here
 Where

N Normality of' 13a(Ol-1 )2 solution.

V Volume ol 13a( 011)2 in ml, requ irecl ioi' the titration

ol'the sample

B = Volume of Ba(017)2 in ml, required for the titration

of the blank sample

TSC = Percentage of Total Solids Content in the Latex

DRC = Percentage of Dry Rubber Content in the Latex

W = Mass oF latex corresponding to tO ml acidilied

seru iii.

1.02 = Specific gravity of the serum.

2+ content
2.3.1.4 Determination of Mg

P tin Ci P Ic:

Latex is coagulated with Acetic Acid; the resultant serum is titrated with

di sodium ethylene d iam mine Ictra acetic acid (EDTA)

Reagents:

I. 2% Acetic Acid (CH 3CO011)

2. l3u lThr solution (NI h / Ni 14c1)

3, 4% Potassium Cyanide solution (KCN)

Erichrome Black T Indicator (EBT)

0.005 M EDTA

23
 7 .% Animonis.iiu Oxulate I (INI l.1 ) ('2 041

Magnesium Nitrate reagent L Mg(NO3)2 ]

35% Ammonia solution.

lroCe(lurC

10 g ol' latex was taken LO a 1001111 beaker and diluted it with water to 20g and

removed the solid part of this sample using 25m1 of 2% Acetic Acid. After 20 minutes

10 ml of clear serum was taken and 5m1 of 4% CI-I3COONa and 5m1 of 5% of (NH4)2

C2 0 was added to it. The solution was neutralized with Ammonia and filtered .51111

Mg(N 03)2 regent, 4m1 4% KCN accurately and 5nil NH3 / NH 4 cI buffer were added

to the filtrate.

The solution was titrated with 0.005M FDTA solution using EBT as the indicator.

Calculation :
' ( 1 00 - TSC)
Vs = ------------+ VI
100

Mx (V2-V)x 24.32 x Vs x 100

w
Where

Vs = Volume of serum

W = Weight of the test portion

M = Molarity of I lYl'A

V2 = Volume of FI)TA in ml used I'or Sample + Mg

(NO3 )2 titi'ltiol1,

V3 = Volume of EDTA in ml used for Mg(NO3)2

24
 blank titiiitioii.

V1 Volume olAcetic Acid and distilled water.

TSC = Total Solid Content (Ref: TM/LA/10/01)

2.3.1.5 Viscosity

P rin ci p Ic:

Flow method

Apparatus:

I. Viscosity Cup

2. Stop Watch

Procedure:

The cleaned and dried viscosity ctip with stand was leveled and the orifice closed with

a linger and filled the cup with filtered compound. With a help of a clean strip, the

CXCCS compound on the mouth of viscoSity cup was removed.

The stopwatch was activated and at the same time the finger, which used to close the

orifice of the viscosity cup was taken out. The point at which the latex flow, flowing

through the orifice break at first instance was observed and stopped the watch. The

time was recorded in seconds.

Ca Icu lati() n:
Above flow time is taken as Viscosity of the latex

25
2.3.2 C0m1)ounding
('entriliiged latex was taken for the compounding with according to their stock

height measurement and then it was processed. After 20-hour maturation, the bulk-

compounded latex was fed in to latex dipping tank of the glove machine.

2.3.3 Manufacturing Process of Gloves

Maim lacturing of gloves was done using a glove manufacturing machine called BRG

4T-9000. The following steps were highlighted as the quality of the product is depend on

these steps.

2.3.4.1 Coagulant dipping

2.3.4.2 Latex dipping

2.3.4.3 Leaching

2.3.4 Quality Evaluation of Powdered Gloves

The following parameters were determined to check the consistency of the samples.

2.3.4. 1 Permanent Set Value

2.3.4.2 Tensile Strength

2.3.4.3 Assessment of residual Ca2 content in glove

26
2.3.4.1 E.-aluation oft1ie .Permanent Set Value

I rinc I I Ic

I )clerin i nation of curing ( Vulcanization) condition

A a ra tu s:

Sample Cutter M/C

2. 'l'he machine LLSC to check the permanent set

l'rocedure:

A tumbler-dried glove was selected as a sample and the dumb-bell sample was cut

from the selected glove. (Sample was cut from place about 2 cm above the cull hand

of the glove) The middle point ()['the sample was marked and also 2.5 cm in either

side of the middle point (A. B) were marked. (Distance between A and B is 5 cm &

record it as AB) The sample was lixed to the machine and stretched by the machine

Lintil the distance between A and B becomes to 25 cm within a time of' 30 seconds.

l'hen the sample was kept as it was for 60 seconds. The two ends of the sample were

gradually released and allowed it to conic hack to normal condition within a time of

30 seconds. The sample was allowed to rest for another 30 seconds and measured the

distance between A and B and recorded it as AB 1.

(a Ic ul at 1() n:

(AB1 - AB)x 100

Permanent set value = -------------------------------%
AB

27
2.3.4.2 Tensile Strength

Fri n ci pie:

Load at Break (N) upon the cross Sectional Area (mm 2) of the rubber film

Apparatus:

Tensometer

Tensile Specimen die.

Press cutting Machine

Procedure:

A few cardboard sheets were laid in to the top of the cutting board and then least

03 pieces of gloves were laid on the top of cardboard layers. When laid gloves,

ensured that there is no creases between the glove films. The specimen die was placed

at the mid of the glove and direction of the longitudinal axis of the glove. Specimen

was cut.

The width (W) of the specimen was measured by using ruler. Reading accuracy was

0.1 mm. Thickness of the specimen at point "A', "B", & "C" were measured by using

Thickness Gauge. The median thickness (D) value was taken.

'lensometer was power ON and the test specimen was mounted to the GRI P knobs.

EXTENSOMETER arms were fixed at the mid of the specimen and Ensured distance

between 02 sharp heads of EXTENSOMETER arms is 20 mm.

28
 'IThe sv'itch of the "PEAK HOLDER" and "AUTO REVERSE" buttons were offed.

FORCE ZERO" and "EXT. ZERO" buttons were pressed to reach the Force "0" and

Extension "0". "SELECTOR UNITS" button under the Force was recorded and 10% of'

Force Record Range was set.

SELECTOR UNITS' button was pressed under the Extension Record Range displayed

and I 00mm of Extension Record Range was set.

500 of spied selector was set. Red bulb was flashed. "RESET/HOLD" button was pressed

to reset the Extension % Gauge Length of' Extensometer. 1 000 % of recorder range was

set. The machine was started press Down Arrow T button in the Control Panel.

Readings were recorded in Extension % Gauge Length of Extensorneter when Specimen

got broken.

Ia ten Ia tio U:

I'cnsile Strength = Load at Break (N)

Cross Sectional Area (mm2 )

Tensile Strength at Break = E,Break N / mm2

WxD

29
 lensi Ic Strength at 700 % Lloiigat ion =700 N / mm2
WxD

2.3.4.3 Assessment of Residual Ca2 Content in Glove

P ri n ci p Ic:

Number of grams of residual Ca2 content in the glove

Apparatus:
B a an ce

Reagents:

0.OIM EDTA

0.1 M NaOH Solution

Calcon indicator

Procedure:

The weight of the glove, which was subjected to experiment, was taken and recoded.

The six grams of a piece of glove which was selected from the area of cuff to midd'e

finger was cut. The above 6g of pieces was cut in to small pieces by using pair of

scissor. The sample of glove pieces was put in to the polypropylene beaker and 60 ml

ol'de ionized water was added into it. The beaker was heated at 70 ± 5 °C degree in a

water bath about one hoot. A ftcr one hour the beaker was taken from the water bath

and water was decant into another beaker. Then 50ml of this sample was taken into

conical flask. SOml of 0.1 M NaG I-I solution and two drops of Calcon indicator were

added into the conical flask. Then this sample was titrated with 0.01 M EDTA

30
 conical husk. 50m1 oh' 0. I M Nu( )l I solution and two drops of Calcon indicator were

added into the conical flask. Then this sample was titrated with 0.01 M EDTA

( a Ic u tat 10 n

'l'hc residual Cu content in (lie glove 8xI0xVxW g /glove

Where

V = Volume of EI)1'A in ml used for titration

W = Weight of the glove which was subjected to experiment

2.3.5 Chlorination of Powdered Gloves in the Chlorinator

Chlorination of'powdered gloves was done using following steps.

((1) First pren'asli - Water filling time- 300 Sec.

- Tumbler time - 600 Sec.

- Drain time - Sec. 240

- Water volume - 675 L

(b) Secoizdpren'asli - Water filling time- 300 Sec.

- Tumbler time - 600 Sec.

- l)rain time - 1 5OSee.

('c) Chlorine Cpck' - Rate of C12 dosage = X / 24h

- C12 filling time - 280 Sec.

31
 (il) ATeiiiralizing - Nl-l 3/Na2S2 0 [illing time - 20 Sec.
- 'iamb lering time - 360 Sec.

(e) Rinsing - Water filing time- 260 Sec.

- 'Fumbler lime - 300 Sec.

- Drain time - 240Sec.

1irst pre wash step was done by using water to remove the adsorbed powder of the

gloves.

Second pre wash step was done by using water to wash out the remain powder

on gloves at frst pre wash step.

Chlorination with chlorine water to obtain a surface modification. The chlorine

concentration could be adjusted by changing the chlorine flow rate.

(ci) N'eutraiizing step was done In neutralize the excess chlorine.

(e) R insi rig was done to wash out neutralizing agents on glove.

2.3.6 Determination of Effect of EDTA Addition in the Pre Wash Step

and Changing the Chlorine Concentration in Chlorination Step by

Changing Cl2 / H20 Flow Rate

5000 gloves, which had similar properties. were taken for each lot

'ihese glove lots were chlorinated to the following condition

Z g of EDTA in I L solution was added into the Chlorinator at first pre wash

step. Z was varied as 0g. 100g. 200g, 300, 400 and 500g.

32
 NIYIi\ Ill II. sIutiun Was aLklcd 1110 the CI1IOL1L1LItOF at first pre W11511

step. 7. was varied as 0g. I OOg. 200g, 300, 400 and 500g.

While keeping constant dosage of NDlA (Z g), eight lots of gloves were
subjected to clllori nation process while changing the chlorine concentration to
73. 764, 655, 546, 436, 327. 2 19 111d 1 0) ppm respectively by adjusting the
chlorine flow rate as in 'fables ol 3.Ib, 3.2b,3.3b, 3.4b, 3.5b and 3.6b,

respectively.
The chlorinated gloves are kept stand 24 hours in the covered plastic baskets

alier chlorination process. 'l'hen, physical & chemical properties of chlorinated

gloves were measured.

2.3.7 Determination of physical and chemical properties of chlorinated

gloves

2,2.7.1 Sticky glove %

2.2.7.2 Wet glove %

2.2.7.3 Periiianent Set Value ( as described in 2.3.4.1 )

2.2.7.4 l'ensilc Strength (as described in 2.3.4.2

2.2.7.5 ('a2 content ( as described in 2.3.4.3

2.2.7.1 The Measuring of the Sticky Glove Percentage

I 1I fl ci Ic:

Slickiiess ol' the glove surlitce due to the inherent tackiness property of rubber

due to the less surtice treLitillenI by chlorination.

Proce(Jurc:

ftc hundred ol chlorinated glove were taken randomly from the chlorinated glove lot.

.2.2
 [he number ol' gloves that stick together (The sticky gloves can be easily identi1ed

due to its' surface stick tightly) was counted. Number of sticky gloves was taken as the

sticky glove percentaoc.

( alcEllatioll:

Wet glove % no. ol the sticky glove X 100

Initial no. of the glove

2.2.7.2 The Measuring of the Wet Glove Percentage

l u'i ii ci t i c:

Ilie irons in the glove surluec adsorbed the moisture in the air and changed

to give a shiny surface.

Pro CC(l LIre:

[he chlorinated gloves were stored in the covered plastic baskets and these baskets

were kept br 24 hours in a room in which humidity was controlled at 70-74 %. The

hundred Iieces of chlorinated glove were selected randomly from the chlorinated

glove lot. The number of' gloves which had the shiny surface (The moisture absorbed

gloves can be easily identified due to its' shiny surthce) was counted. Number of

shiny surface gloves was taken as the wet glove percentage.

( 'a Ic ul a ii on:

Wet glove V0 110. Of the shiny glove X 100

Initial no.of the glove

34
3. Results & Discussion

3.1 Physiocheniical Quality Evaluation of Gloves

In glove manufacturing process, the physiochernical quality evaluation ofa glove

is very essential step to maintain the glove quality. Permanent Set Value ( SV ), Tensile

Strength ( TS ). and Ca t ion concentration in glove were tested in order to obtain

consistency or physical and chemical properties of gloves in the production line. The
fables of 3. Ia, 3.2a, 3.3a, 3.4a, 3.5a and 3.6a described the evaluation of quality parameters
ol a glove.

Since the set value indicates curing condition of a glove, it was maintained less
than the 7% to prevent under cure conditions and this is a specific value which depends on
compound formulation and plant condition. Our results indicate that the set values are
ran'in° from 4.5 % to 6.8 % and they are in the acceptable range.

Tensile Strength indicates the strength of a glove. ( N/rn2 ) The tensile strengths
are not varied in wide range as results shown in the Tables of 3. Ia, 3.2a, 3.3a, 3.4a, 3.5a

and .3.6a.
Ihe Ca2 ion contents of gloves indicate the idea of leaching condition of the plant.
The average Ca2 ion contents of the gloves are varied from plant to plant according to it's
leaching process. When the gloves were being produced in glove machine, the flow rate of
leaching tank was adjusted to keep the Ca2 ion content of a glove less than 0.00900 g.

3.2 Chlorination process of gloves

A 11cr manuticturing of gloves. they were subjected to chlorination process ill

hatch wise to increase the surface lubricity. Each batch/lot is consisted of 5000 numbers of

35
Trial - I

Table-3. 1 a Test parameter before chlorination of Trial -1

Test Lot Test pam. before Chlorination
No SV I TS I [Ca 2 ]g
T-1 6.2 27.3 0.006193
T-2 4.5 26.9 0.007556
T-3 5.9 27.0 0.007911
T-4 6.1 25.8 0.006459
T-5 5.8 27.0 0.006548

Averages : 5.7 26.8 0.006933

'rable-3. lb Chlorination conditions of Trial -1

Test Lot I Chlorination_Condition
No. Y z Clppm 'EDTA(g)
T-1 0.0 400 873 0.00
T-2 12.5 350 764 0.00
T-3 25.0 300 655 0.00
T-4 37.5 250 546 0.00
T-5 50.0 200 436 0.00

Y :- The reduction percentage of chlorine concentration (ppm)

in chamber of chlorinator from initial value.
z :- Chlorine Flow Rate (lb / 24h)
Tablc-3.J ' Test naramcter after chlorination of Trial -1
Test Lot Test para. after Chlorination
No [Ca 2 19 SG % IS SV EAB WG %
T-1 0,00655 4 20.6 5.1 760 89
T-2 0.00587 8 22.8 5.1 860 92
T-3 0.00625 8 21,7 4.8 736 100
T-4 0.00587 10 23.4 5.3 759 100
T-5 0.00750 17 23.9 5.2 790 100

Averages : 0.00641 9.4 22.5 5.1 Iöl UO

% of SG % of sticky glove after the chlorination process.

% of WG :- Percentage of wet glove

36
Trial - 2
i'hle-3.2a Test parameter before chlorination of Trial -2
Test Lot Test para. before ChlorinationL. J
No. SV TS [Ca 2+ Ig
T-1 5.2 26.5 0.006844
T-2 4.9 27.2 0.005867
T-3 6.1 26 0.007259
T-4 5.3 25.8 0.007644
T-5 5.6 27.2 0.007378
T-6 4.8 27.1 0.008919
T-7 6.1 26.3 0.008563
T-8 5.8 27.2 0.007081

Averages: 5.5 26.7 0.00(44

Chlorination conditions of Trial -2

Table-3.2I
Test Lot
No
- -z
Y
Chlorination Condition
Clppm EDTA(g)
I

T-1 0.0 400 873 100

T-2 12,5 350 764 100
T-3 25.0 300 655 100
T-4 37.5 250 546 100
T-5 50.0 200 436 100
T-6 62.5 150 327 100
T-7 75.0 100 218 100
T-8 87.5 50 109 100

The reduction percentage of chlorine concentration (ppm)

in chamber of chlorinator from initial value.
Chlorine Flow Rate (lb I 24h
'I'able-3.2" Test n rniit'r after chlorination of Trial -2
Test Lot Test para. after Chlorination
No. [Ca 2+ [g SG % TS SV EAB WG %
T-1 0.00560 0 22.6 4.9 890 18
T-2 0.00456 1 22.8 4.7 840 34
0.00530 3 23.6 5.2 790 32
T-3
T-4 0.00569 2 23.4 6.8 850 40
T-5 0.00554 5 24.1 5.9 810 38
0.00596 7 23.8 4.9 830 40
1-6
T-7 0.00587 16 24.8 4.6 860 49
T-8 0.00507 29 25.2 5.1 780 56

Averages : 0.00545 8 23.8 5.3 o. -i ao

% of SG :- % of sticky glove after the chlorination process.

% of WG :- Percentage of wet glove

37
Trial - 3

Tablc-3.3a Test narameter before chlorination of Trial -3

Test Lot Test para. before Chlorination
No. SV TS [Ca 2+ ig]
T-1 4.9 26.5 0.00714
T-2 5.3 27.4 0.00782
T-3 5.9 26.4 0.00640
T-4 6.1 25.9 0.00599
T-5 5.1 27.2 0.00587
T-6 4.8 26.9 0.00913
T-7 6.3 27.8 0.00773
T-8 5.6 26.5 0.00720

Averages : b. to Z.O.0 u.vv' IV

Table_3,3h . Chlorination conditions of Trial -3

Test Lot Chlorination_Condffion
No. Y z Clppm EDTA(g)
T-1 0.0 400 873 200
T-2 12.5 350 764 200
T-3 25.0 300 655 200
T-4 37.5 250 546 200
T-5 50.0 200 436 200
T-6 62.5 150 327 200
T-7 75.0 100 218 200
T-8 87.5 50 109 200

Y The reduction percentage of chlorine concentration (ppm)

in chamber of chlorinator from initial value.
z :- Chlorine Flow Rate (lb I 24h
In'.n fTrq1 -
Tab1c-3. YL I

Test Lot Test para. after Chlorination

SG % TS SV EAB WG %
No. [Ca 2i- Ig
2 22.7 4.6 920 10
T-1 0.00474
2 23.1 4.9 890 14
T-2 0.00462
5 23.9 5.1 870 15
T-3 0.00456
3 24.7 6.4 810 17
T-4 0.00507
0.00527 4 24.9 4.8 840 23
T-5
5 24.1 5.3 864 21
T-6 0.00530
12 25.1 5.8 820 25
T-7 . 0.00542
19 24.9 5.4 800 27
T-8 0.00507

Averages : U.UuLJi i

% of SG % of sticky glove after the chlorination process.

% of WG :- Percentage of wet glove

939
Trial - 4

Tablc-3.4a Test nararneter before chlorination of Trial -4

Test Lot Test para. before Chlorination
No. SV IS [Ca 2+ )g
T-1 4.7 27.1 0.00759
T-2 5.3 28.5 0.00791
T-3 4.7 26.9 0.00892
T-4 6.1 26.3 0.00833
T-5 5.2 27.8 0.00732
T-6 5.4 27.6 0.00587
T-7 6.0 28.2 0.00735
T-8 5.3 27.4 0.00794

Averages: i.o
lable-3.4h . Chlorination conditions of Trial -4
Test Lot Chlorination Condition
No. Y z Clppm EDTA(g)
T-1 0.0 400 873 300
T-2 12.5 350 764 300
T-3 25.0 300 655 300
T-4 37.5 250 546 300
T-5 50.0 200 436 300
T-6 62.5 150 327 300
T-7 75.0 100 218 300
T-8 87.5 50 109 300

Y The reduction percentage of chlorine concentration (ppm)

in chamber of chlorinator from initial value.
z :- Chlorine Flow Rate (lb I 24h)
Fable-3.4c Test nirinwter after chlorination of Trial -4
Test Lot Test para. after Chlorination
No. [Ca2+]g SG% TS SV EAB WG%
T-1 0.00453 0 23.6 5.1 970 1
T-2 0.00441 3 24.8 4.7 890 1
T-3 0.00439 7 24.8 5.2 930 0
T-4 0.00471 4 25.3 4.9 830 3
T-5 0.00462 9 26.1 6.1 870 7
T-6 0.00501 8 25.9 5.4 790 10
T-7 0.00495 12 25.9 5.9 860 14
T-8 0.00480 18 26.6 5.2 810 15

Averages : 0.0046t oo

% of SG :- % of sticky glove after the chlorination process.

% of WG Percentage of wet glove
Trial - 5

Table-3.5a Test naraineter before chlorination of Trial -5

r Test Lot
No
Test para. before Chlorination
SV TS [Ca2+]g
T-1 6.4 26.6 0.00764
T-2 5.7 27.4 0.00856
T-3 5.3 27.1 0.00856
T-4 4.9 26.1 0.01010
T-5 5.9 27.4 0.00818
T-6 4.8 25.9 0.00883
T-7 5.2 27.6 0.00560
T-8 5.6 27.1 0.00806

Averages 5.5 26.9 0.0081

1able-3.h . Chlorination conditions of Trial -5
Test Lot Chlorination_Condition
No. Y z Cl ppm EDTA (g)
T-1 0.0 400 873 400
T-2 12.5 350 764 400
T-3 25.0 300 655 400
T-4 37.5 250 546 400
T-5 50.0 200 436 400
T-6 62.5 150 327 400
T-7 75.0 100 218 400

Y
L T8
87.5 50 109 400

The reduction percentage of chlorine concentration (ppm)

in chamber of chlorinator from initial value.
Chlorine Flow Rate (lb I 24h
Tab I e-3 . 5i' Tt niraniter after chlorination of Trial -5
Test Lot - Test para. after Chlorination
SV EAB WG%
No. [Ca 2+ ]g SG% ' TS
T-1 0.00450 1 24.3 5.6 990 0
T-2 0.00424 0 24.9 4.9 890 2
T-3 0.00468 3 25.9 4.7 920 1
T-4 0.00453 4 26.1 5.8 870 3
T-5 0.00477 5 26.4 6.3 850 2
T-6 0.00462 4 25.9 5.9 820 4
T-7 0.00450 13 26.2 5.3 780 8
T-8 0.00498 17 26.4 6.1 830 12

Averages 0.00460 6 25.8 5.6 869 4

% of SG % of sticky glove after the chlorination process.

% of WG Percentage of wet glove

40
Trial - 6

Table-3.6a Test iararneter before chlorination of Trial -6

Test Lot Test para. before Chlorination
No. SV TS [Ca2+]g
T-1 5.6 26.9 0.008148
T-2 5.8 27.2 0.007674
T-3 4.8 27.8 0.007348
T-4 6.2 27.5 0.009363
T-5 5.8 28.2 0.009511
T-6 5.7 27.9 0.007437
T-7 6.2 26.8 0.007052
T-8 6.6 27.5 0.008385

Averages 5 u.uuoii
Table-3.6b Chlorination conditions of Trail -6
Test Lot Chlorination_Condition
No. Y z Cl ppm EDTA ( g)
T-1 0.0 400 873 500
T-2 12.5 350 764 500
T-3 25.0 300 655 500
T-4 37.5 250 546 500
T-5 50.0 200 436 500
T-6 62.5 150 327 500
T-7 75.0 100 . 218 500
T-8 87.5 50 109 500

Y :- The reduction percentage of chlorine concentration (ppm)

in chamber of chlorinator from initial value.
z :- Chlorine Flow Rate (lb / 24h)
lahle-3.6c Test parameter after chlorination of Trial -6
Test Lot Test para. after Chlorination
No. [Ca 2+ ]g SC % TS SV EAB WG %
T-1 0.004533 0 25.9 5.3 970 0
T-2 0.004415 0 26.1 5.9 840 0
T-3 0.004385 3 26.3 4.8 910 0
T-4 0.004504 1 27.1 6.1 860 2
T-5 0.004622 4 26.9 5.3 790 3
T-6 0.004326 5 27.1 5.8 830 7
T-7 0.004563 9 26.9 6.4 810 7
T-8 0.004415 19 27.3 6.2 790 4

Averages : 0.00447 5 2U.1 b.!

% of SG :- o,/o of sticky glove after the chlorination process.

% of WG :- Percentage of wet glove

41
Sarnary of the data which were received from the series of Trials

Table - 7. The average test parameters of the gloves before chlorination process
(3.la .... 3.6a)

Test Lot Average test para before Ch'orination

No. SV TS [Ca]g
3,la 5.7 26.8 0.00693
3,2a 5.5 26.7 0.00744
3.3a 5.5 26.8 0.00716
3.4a 5.3 27.5 0.00765
3,5a 5.5 26.9 0.00819
3.6a 5.8 27.5 0.00811

Average : b.b zI.0 v.uvlo

Table - 8. The average test parameters of the gloves after chlorination process
(3.lc .... 3.6c)

Test Lot EDTA _____ Average test para. after Chlorination

No. Quantity [Ca 2 ]g SG% TS SV EAB WG%
3.lc 0 0.00641 9 22.5 5.1 781 96
3.2c 100 0.00545 8 23.8 5.3 831 38
3.3c 200 0.00501 7 24.2 5.3 852 19
3.4c 300 0.00468 8 25.4 5.3 869 6
3.5c 400 0.00460 6 25.8 5.6 869 4
3.6c . 500 0.00447 5 26.7 5.7 850 3

Average U.UUb1U

Table - 9. The TS values of the gloves after the chlorination at different chlorine
concentrations and different EDTA addition in chlorination process

Tensil strengh of gloves at different EDTA level

Cl ppm EDTA-O.00g EDTA-1 OOg EDTA-200g EDTA-300g EDTA-400g EDTA-500g
873 20.6 22.6 22.7 23.6 24.3 25.9
764 22.8 22.8 23.1 24.8 24.9 26.1
655 21.7 23,6 23.9 24.8 25.9 26.3
546 23.4 23.4 24.7 25.3 26.1 27.1
436 23.9 24.1 24.9 26.1 26.4 26.9
327 - 23.8 24.1 25.9 25.9 27.1
218 - 24.8 25.1 25.9 26.2 26.9
109 - 25.2 24.9 26.6 26.4 27.3

22.5 L0.1

42
Table - 10. The wet glove % of the gloves after the chlorination at different
chlorination concentrations and different EDTA addition in
chlorination process

Wet glove % at different EDTA level

EDTA-200g EDTA-3009 EDTA400g EDTA-500g
Cl ppm EDTA-OOOg EDTA-lOOg
89 18 10 1 0 0
873
92 34 14 1 2 0
764
100 32 15 0 1 0
655
40 17 3 3 2
546 100
100 38 23 7 2 3
436
40 21 10 4 7
327 100
49 25 14 8 7
218 100
56 27 15 12 4
109 100

A t
I
96 38

100 :- Assumption

Table -11. The average reduction of Calcium Iron content of the gloves before
and after chlorination process in series of trails
(3.lc .... 3.6C)

Before chlorination After chlorination Difference

Test Lot
[Ca 2 ]g [Ca 2 ]g %
No.
0.00693 0.00641 7.5
3.1c
0.00744 0.00545 26.7
3.2c
3.3c 0.00716 0.00501 30.0
3.4c 0.00765 0.00468 38.8
3.5c 0.00819 0.00460 43.8
3.6c 0.00811 0.00447 44.9

43
 li_i this stLillY. 011c INIOt trial vi tl_i0L11 LJ)'lA was done (as a control study) and live
pilot trials will_i dosages of different concentration of EDTA were added separately to
pie \\aSl_i step i_i chlorination process. Ihese dilhrent dosages of EDTA were 100g. 200g,
300. 400- and 500g. While keeping constant dosage of' ED'l'A g, eight lots of gloves were
subjected to chiori nation process will_i cliat_igi ng the ehloiiiie eot_icenti'ation of' 873, 764.
6. )46, 436, 327, 21 8 and 109 ppm respectively by adjusting the chlorine flow rate as in
Tables of' 3.1 b. 3.2b. 3.3b, 3.4h, 3.5b, and 3,6h.

3.3 EDTA Trial-i (control Trial) (Addition - O.00g EDTA)

Witl_ioui addition of' EDTA. The chlorine concentration of chlorinator was changed

as mention in table 3. lb. 'I'l_ie initial dosage of' chlorine was 873ppm. Then it was gradually
i'educed by 1 2.5 % in each step by changing the flow rate from 400,350,300,250, 200, 150,
100 and up to 50 lh/24h in chlorine machine until to obtain 436ppm. The physiochemical
l oves without addition of ED'I'A are shown in Table 3.1 c.
parameters of' g

These test results ii_idicates that the Ca2 011 S in glove are reduced by 7.5 % (Table
- I I ) after the chlorinaiion process, 'l'he percentage of Sticky Glove (SG) and Wet Glove
WG) after el_iloi'ii_iation process, were ii_icreased with reduction of concentration of
chlorine. This trial indicates ti_ic higher percentage of' WG even at high dosage of chlorine.
'lhercfbre this cot_idi tioi_i is not good at all for the productiot_i of a good quality chloi'i i_iated
glove.

After ti_ic Trial - 1, there are not considerable differences in changing values of SV
& I B. 'l'l_iese results f'urlher it_idicaled ti_iat the TS after the clilorii_iation process were
drop j_ied thai_i the TS before chlorinatioi_i process. When additioi_i of chlorine (ppm) was
decreased it_i the lots, TS was increased gi'aclually. It indicated the general phenoi_iiena of
weakening of i'ubber net by breaking the double bonds of the rubber molecules due to
substitution reaclioi_i of chlorine.

44
3.4 I1YFA 'I'rial-2 (Addition - I OO(-, EDTi\)

Quality evaluation of aloves before chlor ialion process is indicated as

described in Table 3.2a, Addition of' [D'l'A in constant amount of I OOg is described in

[able 31.21) with changing 01 concentration of' chlormc. The initial dosage of chlorine is
73ppm. [hen the dosage o! chlorine is gradually reduced by 12.5 % in each step by

changing the chlorine/water flow rate to 173 ppm. Normally Ca2' ion content on glove
surface is varied from 0.00600g to 0.00900 g. The average value is around 0.00758 g.

Iherelore the total Ca2 quantity in 5000nos of gloves is approximately 37.9 g. The

stoicheiometry between Ca2 and EDTA reaction is 1: 1 and therefore theoretically there
required 352 g of 100 % pure EDTA to deactivate the total Ca2 iron quantity in 5000
gloves. The industrial grade EDTA is used for this trail and purity of EDTA is

appmximately 75 u/u. Therefore LD'[A addition was varied as 0. 100,200,300,400 and 500g
during this trial series. The amount of' I OOg of EDTA in 675 L of water gives
approximately ill ppm EDTA solution, which applied at the pre wash step in chlorination

'[he physiochemical parameters, alter changing the dosage of chlorination with

add i lion of constant amount of' I (lOg of' II )'!'A are shown in Fable 3.2c.

Ihese test results indicate that the Ca 2 ion content in glove is reduced by 26.71/0 (Table -
I I ) aflem' the chlorination process. The percentage of SO & WG after chlorination are
increased with reduction of chlorine concentration ( ppm ). This Trial reveals that the
percentage of SO & WG is considerably high even at the application of high dosage of
chlorine, but they are less than Trial -

There lbre Oils condition is nut good ibm' the production of good quality gloves.
After and hcl'ore the EDTA triall -2, there are not present considerable difference in
changing values SV & EB. Results are further indicated that the TS is slightly increased

with the reduction of chlorine concentration ( ppm ) in the chlorination step. The
improvement of TS in Trial —2 is higher than in the Trial —1 at the same condition of

chlorine ppm.

45
3.5 EDTA Trial - 3 (Addition of EDTA - 200g)

Addition 0 I .l)I/\ in constant amount of 200g with changing concentration of

chlorine ppm is descried in Table 3,3h. These results are shown that the Ca2 ion content is

reduced by 30.0% ( Table II ) alter cli br nation process and also it further indicates the
positive direction of our experiment. l'he WG % is reduced drastically when compared to
above Trial-I and Ti ial-2. Trial-3 has higher TS than Trail - 2. The % of SG & WG are
increased with the reduction ci chionne dosage. The % of SO & WG are reduced relatively
when compared Trial - I. In general there are not considerable difference in SV value and

3.6 E1)TA Trial - 4 (Addition of EDTA - 300g)

Addition of FDTA in constant amount of 300g with changing concentration of

chlorine (ppm) is descried in Table 3.4h.

These results show that the Ca2 ion concentration is reduced by 38.8 % ( Table -
I I ) allcr chlorination process. The WG % is reduced when compared to above three Trials
(Trial-I 'I'rial-2 and I'rial-3) and also the higher TS could be seen in Trial-4 than the Trial-

3. The % of SO & WG are increased with the reduction of chlorine concentration while the
% o SO & \VG were reduced relatively when compared Trial test —3.

3.7 EDTA Tiial— 5 (Addition of EDTA - 400g)

Addition of 1 DI'\ in constant amount of 400g with changing concentration of

chlorine (ppm) is descried in Table 3 .5b.

[he results have shown that the Ca2 1011 concentration is reduced by 43.8 % (Table

- 11 ) aler chlorination process. The WG 0/0 is reduced relatively when compare to above

46
lur 'I rials and also the higher IS values could he obtained than Trial - 4 .The % of SG &
the % of WG are increased with the reduction of chlorine dosage while the % of SG & WG
are reduced rclatively when compared Trial —4.

3.8 EDTA Trial— 6 (Addition of EDTA - 500g)

Addition of EI)TA in constant aniount of 500g with changing concentration of

chlorine is descried in Table 3.6b.

2+- ( Table —Il )

1 hese results are shown that the Ca ion content is reduced by 44.9 /o

aIcr chlorination process The WG % is reduced when compared to above four Trials. The
results were revealed the TS was higher in Trial - 6 than Trial —5 .The % of SG & WG are
increased with the reduction of chlorine dosage while the % of SG & WG are reduced
relatively when compared trial test —5.

47
 Figure - 1. The Ca2 conteit on the glove surface before and after chlorination

0.00900 - ---- --- - --

0.00850

0.00800

0.00700

---
' 0.00650 -j--- ---- -----.- --. ------- --- - ______ -------- -- - -

ca
ca 2* contentachlorination
fter
0.00550

0.00500

0.00450

0.00400 -
300 400 500
0 100 200

4 . 5 6
1 2 3
EDTA ad ition (g)
Test trial number

—.—Before chlorination —.--After chlorination

48
 Figure - 2. The Variance of TS of the Test Series vs Additions of EDTA at different Cl levels

27

Na

25
z

22

21

20 500
200 300 400
0 100
EDTA addtion (g)

-h-655 ppm of C12 —.--546 ppm of C12 --436 ppm of C12

—.-873ppm of C12 -.- 764 ppm of C12

49
 Figure- 3. The average TS of glove film vs Additions of EDTA before and after chlorination

28.0

27.0

- 260
E
z
25.0
C,
a,

(1) 24.0
a,

a,
23.0

22.0

21.0

Test trail number

—4--TS before chlorination —.--TS after chlorination

911
 Figure - 4. EB of test series vs additions of EDIA

1000

950

900

850

800

750
cn
w
700

650

600

550

500
0 100 200 300 400 500

EDTA Addition ( g )

51
 Figure - 5. The average wet glove % in the trial series vs additions of EDTA

100

90

80

70

60

40

30

20

10

0
0 100 200 300 400 500
EDTA addition ( g )

52
 Figure - 6. Wet glove % vs EDTA additions at different Cl levels

100

90

80

70

>
50

40

30

20

10

0
0 100 200 300 400 500
EDTA Addtion (g)

—'--873 --786 ---'---698 —w-545 —*--435 --327 —'--218 —109

53
3.9 General Discussion

The general discussion could be made out of average values in one series of the
irial set with constant amouit addition of EDTA while changing concentration of chlorine
dosage (ppm).

The average test parameters of SV, TS and Ca2 ions content in gloves before
subjected to the chlorination process did not indicate considerable changes compared to the
trial series. Therefore they are aligned with almost same physical properties as shown in

Tables 3.1a, 3.2a, 3.3a, 3.4a, 3.5a and 3.6a. Since physical properties of all the gloves
before chlorination were almost same, they would not influence final results of the

cx per IT) cit.

The Ca 1' ions content in gloves, before chlorination and after chlorination versus
the trial series (3.1, 3.2, 3.3............ ) are plotted in a same graph as shown in Figure - I.
liere the Ca2 ion content of gloves after chlorination decreases gradually with the addition
of' increasing amount of EDTA.

With increasing dose ol' ED[i-\ addition, Ca2 ions are removed or deactivated on
the love matrix.

[he variation of' TS of the trial series versus amount of EDTA added between
0,1 OOg, 20061. 300g, 400g, and 500g are plotted at respective levels of chlorine
concentration (873 ppm, 764 ppm, 655 ppm, 546 ppni and 483 ppm) in Figure - 2. This
graph shows '[S of' the chlorinated gloves is increased with addition of EDTA, recording
the highest 'IS of' a glove at a Cl concentration of 436 ppm. The '[S of the gloves varied
between 23 - 27 Nm'2 .

The lowest value oUTS ranging from 20 —26 (N/ni2 ) was when the added chlorine
concentration was 873 ppm. Other levels of chlorine concentration of' 764 ppm, 655 ppm.
and 546 ppm show the '[Sin mocf crate levels, which lay, in between the level of addition of'
chlorine concentrations 873 - 436 ppm. When levels o[concentration oichlorine are
increased, the TS was reduced due to the cleavage of double bonds in poly-isoprene
molecules by chlorine. When the addition of EDTA was increased, the TS ol a glove also
increased

Avei-age TS of gloves versus trial series before chlorination and after chlorination
are ptotted in Figure -3. This graph shows the gap between TS before chlorination and TS
alter chlorination, which are reduced with EDTA addition. The reason for the above change
may he due to the addition of increasing amount of EDTA.

l'he figure - 4 shows the average 1-13 of chlorinated gloves versus trial series (3 Ic
.3.2c, 3.3c, 3.4c, 3.5c and 3.6c).

The average WG % oltrial series versus amount of EDTA added is shown in Figure

-5. This graph shows a drastic drop oiwet glove percentage when increasing the addition of
FDTA dosage. This is due to the removal of Ca 2 ions or deactivation of the ionic state of
Ca ions from the glove matrix. Therefore it will cause the reduction of WG % due to the
less absorption of moisture into a glove during storage.

[he Figure-S shows the wet glove percentage decreases drastically up to the
addition of EDTA. dosage of 0-I OOg and there after the WG % decreases slightly when the
EDTA dosage increased to 200g-500g.

The WG% at different chlorine levels versus addition of EDTA is shown in

l'igure - 6. The graph shows that the wet glove percentage is increased when the processed
chlorine concentration is reduced in the series of trials.

55
3.10 Conclusion

The Following could be concluded from the results of the trials carried out during the

project.

I. In chlorination process, when the chlorine dosage is reduced, the % WG, % SG and
% TS are increased.
Increase of chlorine dosage does not make considerable effect on the SV and EB.
Addition of EDTA dosage at pre-wash step in chlorination process enhances the

reduction of Ca2 ion content in a glove.

Addition of [DTA does not cfl'ect the SG %, SV % and [B.
Addition of EDTA can reduce the processing chlorine concentration of a glove
without effecting properties SG, WG and TS.

56
 References

I Annual Report ( 2005 ) . Central Bank of Sri Lanka 22-23

i3lackley D.C., Polymer Lattices, Vol. III. London: Chapnian & Hall , 1997 , 185-199

Robert Francis MaLISSCF ,]he Vunderbi Ii Latex l-landhook

Third Edition) . 1987 .208-210

Blackley D.0 l-Iioh Polymer Latices

Volume I - Funderrnental Principles

Volume 2- Testings and Application ,1966

Wong Niap Poh, Formulating Latex Compoud

Vandebilt News , Volume 40 No 2, 1986

Gazeley K. F. , Leaching behavior of prevulcanized natural rubber latex film ,1985

Latex di'pping- Leaching treatment, Natural Rubber Technical Information Sheet- L16

MR1RA, 1977

Latex products-cletacki fjing techniques, Natural Rubber Technical Information Sheet-

lXO, MRPRA, 1994

Karunanayake L. Effect oh' Magnesium and Phosphate ions on the stability of

concentrated natural rubber latex and properties of natural rubber latex dipped products
2004

1. I lizabcth I). Jacobson , Latex Allergies , 1997, 4-5

12. Viyaavood S incharoenku I . Poonsuk Cherdkiugunicliai, Developiiiciil. ol I ,ow Protein

Latex and impact on latex Examination Gloves, 1995 , 1-4

57
Aziz N. N. A, Chlorination of Gloves. Proceeding of the latex protein workshop of the

International Rubber Technology confeence, Kuala Lumpur, Malayasia,June 1993;

Paper no: 5

Garry F. Gordon, EDTA and Chelation Therapy

Latex products- chlorination , Natural Rubber Technical Information Sheet- L 17,

MRPRA, 1997

Romberg V.G. ,Aqueous Chlorination of Natural Rubber Surfaces ,American

Chemical Society ,New York, 1986

Sumit Sen, Clayton Mabuni, Donna Walsh, Characterizing Commercial Chlorinated

Latex Gloves , 2001