static dissipative protective gloves

Abstract

Approximately 10 when measured according to EN1149-2 8 It has a normal resistivity of less than 10 ohms when measured in accordance with EN1149-1 6 A static dissipative protective glove having a sub-ohmic surface resistivity, the glove comprising a polymer layer containing conductive filler particles. A method of manufacturing a disposable glove is also disclosed.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to protective articles, and more particularly to protective articles such as disposable gloves and / or other wearable articles that include one or more protective polymer layers that dissipate electrostatic charges by adding conductive fillers to at least one of the polymer layers forming the article. [Background technology]

[0002] Polymer barriers have been placed in protective articles such as gloves, sleeves, and the like worn in industrial and / or domestic environments, but such articles typically do not allow the end user to operate touchscreens or other capacitance-sensing electronic devices and lack the electrostatic charge dissipation capabilities required for use in certain environments.

[0003] When two materials come into contact and rub against each other, an exchange of electrostatic charges (static electricity) occurs. If these charges are not dissipated, they build up and electrostatic discharge can occur spontaneously. In certain environments, electrostatic discharge can have devastating effects. While gloves and other protective equipment are required in most industrial environments, polymeric gloves and other protective equipment typically do not have the static dissipation properties that make their use appropriate in some environments.

[0004] Electrostatic charge dissipation measures to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) are required not only in electrostatic protected areas (e.g., EPA and ESD areas) but also in certain industries, such as when handling electronic devices, components, or subassemblies that may be damaged or weakened by electrostatic discharge. Examples of industries requiring such ESD protection include electronics, automotive, and consumer products.

[0005] Another industry where ESD protection is necessary is in explosive atmosphere areas (ATEX areas) where smoke, dust, or other materials create an explosion hazard in the event of an electrostatic discharge. Examples include the chemical industry, the pharmaceutical industry, and agriculture (e.g., grain silos).

[0006] There are various standards that specify the requirements for gloves and other protective equipment to be considered suitable for use in explosive atmosphere areas or ATEX areas. According to EN16350, ATEX gloves must be able to withstand temperatures of 10°C or less when measured at 25% relative humidity. 8 It should have a vertical resistance of less than ohms (Ω).

[0007] Additionally, polymeric gloves have poor static dissipative properties that often prevent end users from operating various computer inputs, such as touch screens, switches, sensors, etc., making them unsuitable for use in examinations and other procedures requiring the operation of various computers and other capacitance-sensing electronic devices. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] There is a need for disposable gloves and other protective equipment with improved static dissipative properties. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In view of the above, the present inventors have determined that the normal resistivity is about 10 when measured according to EN1149-5:2018. 8 He has invented polymer gloves, including disposable polymer gloves that are sub-ohm and suitable for use in ATEX environments, and allow the end user to operate touchscreens and other capacitive-triggered electronic devices while wearing the gloves.

[0010] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. In embodiments, static-dissipative protective gloves, including disposable gloves, substantially as shown in and / or described in connection with at least one of the Figures and methods for making static-dissipative protective gloves are disclosed and more fully described in the claims. Various advantages, aspects, and novel features of the present disclosure, as well as details of illustrated embodiments thereof, will become more fully understood from the following description and drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] So that the above-described features of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the above-briefly summarized embodiments may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, since the invention disclosed herein may be susceptible to other equally effective embodiments, the accompanying drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and therefore should not be considered as limiting its scope.

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a disposable glove having conductive filler particles according to an embodiment disclosed herein.

[0013] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows a close-up view of the disposable glove of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment disclosed herein.

[0014] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a method of forming a disposable glove with a polymer layer containing conductive fillers according to embodiments disclosed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] It should be noted at the outset that the development of any such actual embodiment will require numerous implementation-specific decisions, including compliance with system- and business-related constraints, that will vary from implementation to implementation, in order to achieve the developer's particular goals. It will also be appreciated that such a development effort may be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. Additionally, the compositions used / disclosed herein may include components other than those recited. In the Summary and this Detailed Description, each numerical value should be read once as modified by the term "about" (unless already expressly so modified) and then reread as unmodified, unless the context indicates otherwise. Similarly, each limitation of an embodiment should be read once as including or comprising that embodiment, then reread as consisting essentially of that embodiment, and then reread as consisting of that embodiment, unless otherwise indicated. For simplicity, the terms "comprising" and "comprising" are used throughout, unless otherwise indicated.

[0016] The following definitions are provided to aid those skilled in the art in understanding the detailed description.

[0017] As used in the specification and claims, "near" includes "at."

[0018] As used herein, the words "have," "may have," "include," "comprise," "may include," and "may comprise" indicate the presence of the corresponding feature (e.g., value, function, operation, or component, etc.) but do not exclude the presence of additional features.

[0019] In this disclosure, phrases such as "A or B" represent alternative selections, e.g., (1) if A is included or (2) if B is included, but not if both A and B are included.

[0020] In this disclosure, phrases such as "A and / or B," "at least one of A and / or B," and "one or more of A and / or B" refer to possible inclusion of any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, the phrases "A and / or B" and "at least one of A or B" may refer to (1) the inclusion of A, (2) the inclusion of B, or (3) the inclusion of both A and B.

[0021] While terms such as "first," "second," and the like as used herein may refer to various elements in various embodiments disclosed herein, it should be understood that these labels do not limit the elements to a particular order, quantity, or importance; such terms are used only to distinguish one element from another, and do not limit the order and / or priority of the elements. Similarly, such terms are used in comparison with other terms and do not denote an absolute position, location, or order. For example, a first element in one embodiment may be referred to as a second element in another embodiment, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0022] As used herein, "phr" refers to per hundred parts rubber by mass, unless otherwise specified, and "rubber" refers to an elastomeric polymer.

[0023] For purposes herein, the conductive filler may include or consist of carbon black, carbon nanotubes, or a combination thereof. Reference to carbon black refers to a paracrystalline carbon having a relatively high surface area to volume or surface area to mass ratio.

[0024] For purposes herein, reference to a particulate component, e.g., a conductive filler having a minimum particle size and a maximum particle size, refers to at least 95% by weight of the material having a particle size equal to or greater than the specified minimum value, and at least 95% by weight of the material having a particle size equal to or less than the specified maximum value. This designation recognizes that the particulate component may contain less than about 5% by weight of fine particles and / or agglomerates may be present at levels that do not materially affect the intended properties of the final product or article in which they are present. For purposes herein, particle size refers to the longest dimension of the particle, unless otherwise specified.

[0025] The polymeric glove may further comprise one or more polymer layers covering the user's fingers, palm, or both, having a thickness of at least about 0.05 mm and not more than about 0.2 mm. Similarly, the polymeric glove may further comprise a palm region having a thickness of at least about 0.07 mm, or at least about 0.08 mm and not more than about 0.17 mm, or not more than about 0.15 mm. The thickness of the palm region may be at least about 0.07 mm and not more than about 0.15 mm. The thickness of the palm region may preferably be at least about 0.08 mm and not more than about 0.17 mm. The polymeric glove may have a thickness of at least about 10 mm, as measured in accordance with EN1149-2. 8 Similarly, the polymeric glove may have a normal resistivity of less than about 10 ohms when measured in accordance with EN1149-1. 6 The polymeric glove may further have a surface resistivity of less than ohms. The polymeric glove may further have a static decay half-life t50 (s) of less than 0.01 seconds when measured in accordance with EN1149-3. At least one of the polymeric layers of the polymeric glove may further comprise a conductive filler in an amount of about 2 phr or more and about 15 phr or less. The conductive filler in the polymeric glove may have a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less. The conductive filler in at least one layer may preferably have an average particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and about 5 micrometers or less.

[0026] The polymer layer of the glove has a resistance of approximately 10 5 Preferably, the polymer layer has a normal resistivity of about 10 ohms or less according to EN1149-1. 6 The polymer layer may have a surface resistivity of less than or equal to 10 Ohms. The polymer layer may further have a static decay half time t50(s) of less than or equal to about 0.01 seconds when measured in accordance with EN 1149-3. The polymer layer may have a surface resistivity of less than or equal to about 10 Ohms when measured in accordance with EN 1149-2. 5 Preferably, the polymer layer has a normal resistivity of about 10 ohms or less according to EN1149-1. 6 The gloves have a surface resistivity of 0.1 ohm or less and a static decay half-life, t50 (s), of about 0.01 seconds or less, as measured in accordance with EN 1149-3. The gloves may further have a chemical permeability to heptane of greater than a 30-minute breakthrough time. The gloves may further have a chemical permeability to sodium hydroxide of greater than a 30-minute breakthrough time, as measured in accordance with EN ISO 374 Type B. The gloves may further have a chemical permeability to hydrogen peroxide of greater than a 30-minute breakthrough time, as measured in accordance with EN ISO 374 Type B. The gloves may further have a chemical permeability to formaldehyde of greater than a 30-minute breakthrough time, as measured in accordance with EN ISO 374 Type B. Preferably, the gloves may further have a chemical permeability to heptane, sodium hydroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and formaldehyde of greater than a 30-minute breakthrough time, as measured in accordance with EN ISO 374 Type B.

[0027] The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of polyisobutylene. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of polychloroprene. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of ethylene vinyl acetate. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of ethylene vinyl acetate. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of ethylene methyl acrylate. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of ethylene propylene rubber. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of ethylene propylene diene rubber. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of natural rubber. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of polyisoprene. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of polyurethane. The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR). The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber.The elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of polyisobutylene, polychloroprene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, natural rubber, polyisoprene, polyurethane, nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or a combination thereof. Preferably, the elastomer forming at least one polymer layer of the polymeric glove may comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or a combination thereof.

[0028] The polymeric glove may further include at least a portion of the exterior surface having a textured surface.

[0029] The polymeric glove may be formed from an aqueous emulsion containing an elastomer comprising an acrylonitrile-derived portion and a butadiene-derived portion. The polymeric glove may be formed from an aqueous emulsion containing from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler. The polymeric glove may be formed from an aqueous emulsion containing an elastomer comprising a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of from about 2 micrometers to about 10 micrometers. The polymeric glove may be formed from an aqueous emulsion containing a surfactant system. Preferably, the polymeric glove is formed from an aqueous emulsion containing an elastomer comprising an acrylonitrile-derived portion and a butadiene-derived portion, from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of from about 2 micrometers to about 10 micrometers, and a surfactant system.

[0030] Alternatively, the polymeric glove may be formed from an aqueous emulsion containing a surfactant system containing a diol moiety, such as ethylene glycol, 1,2 propanediol, 1,3 propanediol, butanediol, e.g., 1,2 butanediol, 1,3 propanediol, 1,4 butanediol, 2,3 butanediol, etc.; pentanediol, e.g., 1,5 pentanediol, 1,3 pentanediol, 2,3 pentanediol, etc.; hexanediol, e.g., 1,6 hexanediol, 2,5 hexanediol, etc.; substituted diol, e.g., 2-methyl 2,4 pentanediol, 2-methyl 2,3 butanediol, etc.; glycerin, trimethylolpropane, hexanetriol, etc. triol moieties including hexanetriols, for example, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, 1,3,5-hexanetriol, etc.; trialkanolamines, for example, triethanolamine, etc.; tetraol moieties including pentaerythrite, diglycerin, etc.; hetanol moieties including glucose, furanose, etc.; hexanol moieties including sorbitol, mannitol, etc.; octanol moieties including sucrose, etc.; lower alkylene oxide addition products of these compounds; and / or lower alkylene oxide copolymers of these compounds, for example, ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, butylene oxide, etc.

[0031] Polymer gloves are a) coating a glove former in a coagulant aqueous solution to produce a coagulant-coated former; b) coating the coagulant-coated former with a rubber dispersion; c) curing the rubber coated on the coagulant-coated former to form a polymer layer thereon; d) removing the polymer layer from the former to obtain a disposable glove according to any one of the embodiments disclosed herein; The film may be formed by a method comprising:

[0032] A method for forming a polymeric glove may include a rubber dispersion comprising an aqueous emulsion including an elastomer and at least about 5 phr and at most about 15 phr of a conductive filler. The rubber dispersion used to form the polymeric glove may include an aqueous emulsion including a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of at least about 2 micrometers and a maximum particle size of at most about 10 micrometers.

[0033] The polymeric glove may be formed by coating a coagulant-coated former with a rubber dispersion, which may include drying the coated rubber on the coagulant-coated former, and preferably coating the dried coated rubber on the coagulant-coated former with a second layer of the rubber dispersion.

[0034] The rubber dispersion from which the polymeric glove is formed may be an aqueous emulsion containing a surfactant system or a surfactant having an HLB of less than about 15.

[0035] The polymeric glove may further comprise one or more polymeric or elastomeric layers, or alternatively, the polymeric glove may be formed from a single polymeric layer.

[0036] The polymeric glove includes at least one polymer layer, also referred to herein as an elastomeric layer, further comprising a conductive filler. The conductive filler is preferably carbon black or includes carbon black. The conductive filler may be carbon nanotubes or include carbon nanotubes. The conductive filler preferably includes carbon black and carbon nanotubes. The conductive filler is present in an amount effective to dissipate electrostatic charges, and is about 10 times as measured according to EN 1149-2. 8 The conductive filler may be present in an amount effective to impart to the article a normal resistivity of less than or equal to about 10 ohms as measured in accordance with EN 1149-1. 6 The conductive filler may be present in a concentration that provides a surface resistivity of less than or equal to 10 ohms. The conductive filler may be present in an amount effective to provide static decay with a half-life t50(s) of about 0.01 seconds or less when measured in accordance with EN 1149-3. The conductive filler is preferably present in an amount effective to dissipate electrostatic charge, with a half-life t50(s) of about 10 ohms or less when measured in accordance with EN 1149-2. 8 Give the article a normal resistivity of less than 10 ohms when measured in accordance with EN1149-1 6 It is present in an amount effective to provide a sub-ohmic surface resistivity and static decay with a half-life time, t50(s), of about 0.01 seconds or less when measured in accordance with EN1149.

[0037] The polymeric glove may further include a plurality of conductive filler particles disposed within a polymer layer forming a disposable glove. The polymeric glove may be unsupported. Alternatively, the polymeric glove may be a supported glove. Inherent in being a glove, the polymeric glove may include a pinky finger, a ring finger, a middle finger, an index finger, a thumb, and a palm component. The polymeric glove may further include a beaded cuff. The polymeric glove includes a polymeric layer including a plurality of conductive filler particles. The polymeric glove may further include a plurality of polymeric layers including a plurality of conductive filler particles.

[0038] 1 shows an unsupported disposable glove 100 having a plurality of conductive filler particles 122 disposed within a polymer layer forming a disposable glove according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. While illustrated as an unsupported disposable glove, the embodiments disclosed herein apply equally to supported gloves. The disposable glove 100 includes a pinky finger 106, a ring finger 108, a middle finger 110, an index finger 112, a thumb 114, a palm component 116, and a beaded cuff 118. The unsupported disposable glove 100 includes a polymer layer 120 containing a plurality of conductive filler particles 122.

[0039] The polymeric glove may include a polymer layer containing a plurality of conductive filler particles. The polymeric glove may include the conductive filler particles present in the polymer layer at a concentration of about 5 phr or more and about 15 phr or less. The conductive filler particles may have a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less. The conductive filler particles may have a size range of about 2 to 5 microns.

[0040] FIG. 2 shows a close-up view 200 of the disposable glove 100 of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment disclosed herein. The close-up view 200 shows that the polymer layer 120 includes a plurality of conductive filler particles 122. The conductive filler particles 122 are present in the polymer layer at a concentration of about 5 phr or more and about 15 phr or less. The conductive filler particles have a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less. The plurality of conductive filler particles 122 are not drawn to scale for ease of illustration and include different sizes; that is, particle sizes range from about 2 to 10 micrometers, and in some embodiments, the particle size of the conductive filler particles ranges from about 2 to 5 micrometers.

[0041] The polymer layer may comprise acrylonitrile butadiene rubber. The polymer layer may comprise a blend of different acrylonitrile butadiene rubbers, such as carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene, highly carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene, non-carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene, and / or a blend of elastomers derived from acrylonitrile and butadiene having different average molecular weights and different relative compositions or ratios of acrylonitrile moieties to butadiene moieties. The polymer layer may comprise one or more blends of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber and other elastomers. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the polymer layer may further comprise a natural or synthetic polymer layer, or a mixture or blend thereof. The polymer layer may comprise a natural latex, such as guayule or natural rubber. The polymer layer may comprise a synthetic latex, such as synthetic polyisoprene, acrylic, butyl latex, polychloroprene, aqueous and / or non-aqueous polyurethane, or styrene butadiene. The polymer layer may comprise a mixture or blend of natural and synthetic latex. Preferably, the polymer layer comprises a highly carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene latex, which for purposes herein is defined as about 35-40% by weight carboxylated.

[0042] A method for forming an unsupported glove including a polymer layer having a plurality of conductive filler particles disposed therein may begin or commence with a bare, hand-shaped former, which may be heated prior to processing.

[0043] The former may then be coated with a coagulant, for example, by immersing the former in a bath of the coagulant solution. The coagulant solution may be coated onto the former by spraying, etc. The coagulant solution may be an aqueous mixture. Alternatively, the coagulant solution may be an alcohol mixture. The coagulant solution may contain calcium citrate, calcium nitrate, calcium chloride, acetic acid, formic acid, and / or other salts and / or concentrates at concentrations between 3 and 12%, as known to those skilled in the art.

[0044] The coagulant solution may be heated, for example, to a temperature of about 42° C. to 55° C. The method may further include allowing excess coagulant solution to drip dry from the liner and / or former, and in a preferred embodiment, the liner and / or former are rotated so that the fingers of the former face up and can dry.

[0045] The method may further include dipping the bare former into the polymer or elastomer composition disclosed herein to form a polymer layer (elastomer layer) thereon. The dipping step may be palm dipping. The dipping step may be ¾ dipping. The dipping step may be knuckle dipping. The dipping step may be full dipping. The polymer layer may then be allowed to drip down, i.e., the fingers may be turned downward to allow excess dipping composition to drip off and reduce the thickness of the polymer layer formed thereon.

[0046] The method may further include rotating the former on which the polymer layer is disposed so that the polymer layer can dry in ambient air for several minutes. Preferably, the polymer layer is dried for about 1 hour. The method may include curing the polymer layer. Preferably, the unsupported polymer layer is subjected to a curing step in an oven at a temperature of about 130°C or higher for at least 10 minutes to harden the polymer layer. The polymer layer may be cured in a stepwise process including different curing stages at different temperature ranges for different periods of time. For example, the polymer layer may be cured in a stepwise process including, for example, a first stage at 90°C for 15 minutes, a second stage at 100°C for 15 minutes, and a third stage at 130°C for 15 minutes.

[0047] The method may further include leaching or washing the polymer coating using water at an appropriate temperature. The former may be washed before coating with the coagulant, or a release layer may be applied to the former before applying the coagulant to facilitate easy removal of the formed disposable glove from the former. The polymer layer may be cured, for example, at a temperature ranging from 90 to 130°C. The polymer layer is preferably cured, for example, at 120°C for about 1 hour. The method may include curing in an oven, such as an infrared oven, for example, at 90°C for about 10 to 20 minutes in a first curing stage, at 100°C for about 10 to 20 minutes, and at 130°C for about 10 to 20 minutes to form a cured disposable glove. The disposable glove may then be removed, and the process may be repeated. The method may further include beading the polymer layer to form a cuff before removing the disposable glove from the former.

[0048] 3 illustrates a method 300 for forming an unsupported disposable glove including a polymer layer 120 having a plurality of conductive filler particles 122 disposed thereon, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In step 302, method 300 begins with providing a bare, hand-shaped former. In some embodiments, the former is heated (step 301) before proceeding to step 304.

[0049] At block 304, the former is coated with a coagulant, for example, by immersing the former in a bath of the coagulant solution. The coagulant solution may be applied to the former by spraying, etc. The coagulant solution may be an aqueous or alcoholic mixture containing 3-12% concentrations of calcium citrate, calcium nitrate, calcium chloride, acetic acid, formic acid, and / or other salts and / or concentrates, as known to those skilled in the art.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, the coagulant solution is heated, for example, to a temperature in the range of about 42° C. to 55° C. In some embodiments, excess coagulant solution is allowed to drip dry from the liner and / or former, and the liner and / or former are rotated so that the fingers of the former can face up and dry.

[0051] In step 306, the bare former is dipped into a polymer or elastomer composition according to embodiments disclosed herein to form a polymer layer (elastomer layer) thereon. The dipping step may be palm-dipping, ¾-dipping, knuckle-dipping, or full-dipping, as known to those skilled in the art. The polymer layer is allowed to drip down, i.e., with the fingers facing downward to drip off excess dipping composition and reduce the thickness of the polymer layer formed thereon.

[0052] In step 308, the former with the polymer layer disposed thereon is rotated so that the polymer layer can dry in ambient air for several minutes. In at least one embodiment, the polymer layer is allowed to dry for approximately one hour. In step 310, the unsupported polymer layer undergoes a curing process, such as in an oven, at a temperature of approximately 130°C or higher for at least 10 minutes to harden the polymer layer. In at least one embodiment, the polymer layer is cured in a staged process, for example, a first stage at 90°C for 15 minutes, a second stage at 100°C for 15 minutes, and a third stage at 130°C for 15 minutes. In step 312, method 300 ends.

[0053] In embodiments, the method of manufacturing disposable gloves according to embodiments disclosed herein is carried out using an apparatus suitable for carrying out the method, the apparatus including one or more controllers, conveyors, formers, tanks, ovens, etc. In embodiments, the formers may be made of metal or ceramic and generally have a hand shape. The formers may have an arcuate shape, such as a partially closed hand, or alternatively, may be flat.

[0054] In embodiments, the polymer coating may be leached or washed using water at an appropriate temperature (step 309). The former may be washed before coating with the coagulant, or a release layer may be placed on the former before applying the coagulant to facilitate easy removal of the formed disposable glove from the former. In embodiments, the polymer layer is cured at a temperature ranging from, for example, 90 to 130°C. In some embodiments, the polymer layer is cured at, for example, 120°C for about 1 hour. In some embodiments, one or more curing steps may include curing in an oven, such as an infrared oven, for example, at 90°C for about 10 to 20 minutes in a first curing stage, at 100°C for about 10 to 20 minutes, and at 130°C for about 10 to 20 minutes to form a cured disposable glove. The disposable glove may then be removed (step 311), and the process may be repeated. In some embodiments, the method further includes beading the polymer layer to form a cuff before removing the disposable glove from the former.

[0055] The polymer layer may be further chlorinated while on the former during at least one block of the process, or after the disposable gloves have been removed from the former, by immersing or otherwise contacting the disposable gloves with an aqueous solution containing chlorine for a time sufficient to at least partially chlorinate the polymer. Chlorination may be carried out in an aqueous chlorine solution containing 500 to 15,000 ppm chlorine. In a preferred embodiment, the aqueous chlorine solution contains 1,000 to 10,000 ppm chlorine. In some embodiments, the disposable gloves may undergo multiple chlorination steps at different steps in the manufacturing process and after the disposable gloves are formed.

[0056] Also, some steps of the above-described method may be omitted or performed in a different order. Furthermore, additional steps may be employed. For example, after one or more curing steps, the uncured polymer layer on the former may be peeled off, washed, and dried. Washing may be performed at a temperature of about 25°C to 60°C for about 15 to 90 minutes. The disposable gloves may then be dried in a tumble dryer at 50°C to 70°C for about 20 to 60 minutes. Other processes may also be applied before the curing step.

[0057] At least a portion of the outer surface of the disposable glove may have a textured surface. The texturing or creping process may include a salt-based texturing applied to a polymer layer, as disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Nos. 8,522,363 and 7,771,644, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. The disposable glove having a textured outer surface may include a textured outer layer disposed over a portion of the polymer layer to impart the texture to the outer surface. A portion of a former used to manufacture the disposable glove may include one or more textured portions sized and positioned to impart a textured surface to a portion of the disposable glove formed using the textured former. For example, upon curing, the elastomeric coating formed on the former provides a grip-defining portion of the former having an Ra average roughness of about 7-14 micrometers, an Rsm average roughness amplitude of about 500-720, and an Rpc and peak count of about 15-20, as disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 10,058,137 B2, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In embodiments, the glove former has one or more surfaces in the fingertip region having an Ra average roughness of about 7-14 micrometers, an Rsm average roughness amplitude of about 500-720, and / or an Rpc and peak count of about 15-20. In some embodiments, the fingertip region of the glove former has an Rz average roughness depth of about 30-50 micrometers, an Rmax maximum roughness depth of about 40-70 micrometers, an Rp height of highest peak of about 8-22 micrometers, and / or an Rv depth of deepest valley of about 16-35 micrometers, as disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 10,405,593 B2, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0058] The polymeric glove may include a second polymeric layer. For example, the method of making a disposable glove may further include disposing another polymeric layer on the former. The polymeric layer may optionally include a coagulant disposed therein.

[0059] Disposable gloves according to embodiments disclosed herein have been found to unexpectedly enhance static dissipation to the environment. Applicant has discovered that a relatively low amount of conductive filler, combined with a relatively large size and limited size range of the conductive filler, i.e., from about 5 phr to about 15 phr, having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or greater and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less, results in a glove having a thickness of about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm and, in embodiments, a thickness of about 10 micrometers or less, as measured in accordance with EN 1149-2 as defined at the time of filing this application. 8 ohm or less and, in embodiments, about 10 measured in accordance with EN 1149-1 as defined at the time of filing of this application. 6 The present invention has been discovered to provide an unexpected advantage in that it provides disposable gloves having a surface resistivity of sub-ohms and, in embodiments, static decay with a half-life t50(s) of about 0.01 seconds or less as measured in accordance with EN 1149-3 as defined at the time of filing this application.

[0060] Elastomeric polymer At least one polymer layer may comprise an elastomer including polyisobutylene, polychloroprene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, natural rubber, polyisoprene, polyurethane, nitrile butadiene rubber, carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or combinations thereof.

[0061] At least one polymer layer may comprise nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or a combination thereof.

[0062] The polymer layer may comprise a blend of one or more nitrile-butadiene rubbers. The elastomer may comprise a blend of one or more nitrile-butadiene rubbers in combination with one or more elastomers derived from isobutylene, chloroprene, ethylene vinyl acetate, vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, natural rubber, synthetic polyisoprene, polyurethane, styrene, α-methylstyrene, dimethylstyrene, poly(meth)acrylamide, poly-N,N-dimethylacrylamide, polymethyl(meth)acrylate, polybutyl(meth)acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl(meth)acrylate, or combinations thereof.

[0063] The polymer layer may have a minimum elongation of about 400% or more, about 500% or more, or about 600% or more, and a tensile strength of about 14 MPa or more, as measured according to ASTM D412 or an equivalent standard.

[0064] Conductive Filler Conductive fillers suitable for use herein may include carbon black, such as acetylene black, channel black, furnace black, lamp black, thermal black, or combinations thereof.

[0065] Carbon black suitable for use herein may also be produced by the incomplete combustion of coal and coal tar, vegetable matter, or petroleum products. In embodiments, the carbon black is produced from fuel oil, fluid catalytic cracking tar, ethylene cracking, etc.

[0066] Conductive fillers suitable for use herein may include carbon nanotubes.

[0067] The conductive filler may be present in the polymer layer at a concentration by weight of about 2 phr or more, or about 3 phr or more, or about 4 phr or more, or about 5 phr or more, or about 6 phr or more, and at a concentration of about 15 phr or less, or about 13 phr or less, or about 10 phr or less, or about 9 phr or less, or about 8 phr or less.

[0068] The conductive filler may have a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more, or about 3 micrometers or more, or about 4 micrometers or more, or about 5 micrometers or more, hi embodiments, the conductive filler has a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less, or about 8 micrometers or less, or about 7 micrometers or less, as measured according to methods known in the art.

[0069] The conductive filler may be present in the polymer layer and have an average particle size of about 2 micrometers or more, or about 3 micrometers or more, or about 4 micrometers or more, and about 7 micrometers or less, or about 5 micrometers or less.

[0070] Dipping compositions / coating emulsions In addition to one or more other elements related to certain embodiments of disposable gloves, the gloves are formed by coating a former with an emulsion containing nitrile-butadiene rubber and from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less. The solvent is then removed from the coating solution, and the resulting layer on the former is cured to form a polymer layer. This coating emulsion, also referred to in the art as a "dipping solution" or dipping composition, further includes a surfactant system that stabilizes the rubber and the conductive filler therein so that the components present in the polymer layer disposed on the former during the coating process are uniformly dispersed throughout the layer.

[0071] Although the coating emulsion is sometimes called a "dipping solution," it is not a "transparent" solution in the strict sense, but a heterogeneous emulsion containing dispersed rubber polymers, conductive fillers, water, and / or other solvents, and stabilized by a surfactant system. The dipping solution may further contain other components and additives.

[0072] In embodiments, the dipping solution and the polymer layer formed from the dipping solution may contain any of a variety of additives, including fillers, surfactants, waxes, paraffins, thickeners, rheology agents, pigments, antioxidants, vulcanizing agents such as sulfur, zinc oxide, rubber accelerators, activators, thiazoles such as thiourea, benzothiazole sulfenamide, mercaptobenzothiazole, zinc mercaptobenzothiazole, dibenzodithiazyl disulfide, sodium dimethyldithiocarbamate, zinc dimethyldithiocarbamate, zinc diethyldithiocarbamate, zinc dibutyldithiocarbamate, sodium diethyldithiocarbamate, sodium dibutyldithiocarbamate, The dipping composition may further comprise a dialkyldithiocarbamate, such as zinc dibenzyldithiocarbamate, or a combination thereof; a thiuram, such as tetramethylthiuram disulfide, tetraethylthiuram disulfide, tetrabutylthiuram disulfide, or dipentamethylenethiuram tetrasulfide; a xanthogen, such as diisopropylxanthogen polysulfide, dihydrocarbylxanthogen polysulfide, or dibutylxanthogen polysulfide; an antioxidant; an antiozonant; a rheology modifier, such as various clays and aluminosilicates; a pH adjuster, such as a hydroxide, such as potassium hydroxide; a pigment; a treating agent; and / or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the dipping composition is formed by diluting a masterbatch containing the various components in the corresponding ratios, such that upon dilution with water, the appropriate dipping composition is produced.

[0073] In addition to one or more other factors related to certain embodiments of the disposable gloves, the dipping solution forming the disposable gloves includes from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less. The components of the dipping solution are present as a stable emulsion in which water is the continuous phase. The components are emulsified by a surfactant system. In some embodiments, the surfactant has a hydrophobe to lipophobe balance (HLB) of less than about 15. In embodiments, the surfactant has an HLB of about 13 or less, or about 12 or less. In embodiments, the surfactant system includes an ethoxylated moiety, and in embodiments, the ethoxylated moiety includes from about 5 to about 15 moles of ethylene oxide (5-15 EO), or from about 9 to 11 moles of EO.

[0074] In addition to one or more other factors relevant to particular embodiments of the disposable gloves, the dipping solution may include a mixture of surfactants including dodecylbenzenesulfonate and / or aliphatic sulfonate; cationic sulfonate, cationic surfactants such as polyethylene glycol alkyl ethers, ethoxylated amines, ethoxylated quaternary amines, polyethylene glycol alkyl esters, ethoxylated diols, amino acid surfactants, imidazoline surfactants, betaines, and the like.

[0075] In addition to one or more other elements relevant to a particular embodiment of the disposable glove, the dipping solution may further include one or more curing agents, such as sulfur or a sulfur donor. Flow and / or rheology modifiers, accelerators, and / or activators, such as zinc oxide, may be added to the nitrile-butadiene composition. In embodiments, water is added to form a nitrile-butadiene composition having a total solids content (TSC) of about 30-40%, e.g., 33%. In some embodiments, the dipping solution is essentially "solvent-free," meaning that no organic solvents are present in the dipping solution. In some embodiments, the dipping solution may include an aliphatic carboxylic acid and / or a pH stabilizer. In some embodiments, the nitrile-butadiene resin is carboxylated. In some embodiments, the nitrile-butadiene is highly carboxylated, e.g., 35% or greater.

[0076] ESD characteristics In addition to one or more other factors relevant to certain embodiments of the disposable gloves, the disposable gloves are EN 16350 compliant, i.e., the disposable gloves have a normal resistivity of less than about 10 ohms (Ω) when measured according to EN ISO 1149-2 or equivalent, and a surface resistivity of less than about 10 ohms (Ω) when measured according to EN ISO 1149-1 or equivalent. In embodiments, the disposable gloves have a normal resistivity of less than about 10 ohms, or less than about 10 ohms when measured according to EN ISO 1149-2 or equivalent. In some embodiments, the disposable gloves have a static decay half-life, t (s), of less than or equal to about 0.01 seconds when measured according to EN 1149-3 or equivalent.

[0077] Chemical / biological protection The disposable gloves may have a chemical permeability to heptane, sodium hydroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and formaldehyde of greater than a 30 minute breakthrough time when measured in accordance with EN ISO 374 Type B.

[0078] A disposable glove may include a hand-shaped polymer layer containing conductive fillers, the polymer layer having stalls for the thumb, index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and little finger for receiving a wearer's hand, wherein the conductive filler particles are present in the polymer layer at about 5 phr or more and about 15 phr or less, and the conductive filler has a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less.

[0079] The disposable gloves may have a thickness of about 0.05 mm or more to about 0.2 mm. In an embodiment, the disposable gloves have an average thickness of about 0.08 mm to about 0.15 mm. In an embodiment, the ratio of the average particle size of the conductive filler to the average thickness of the disposable gloves is about 0.06 to about 0.25.

[0080] The disposable gloves are preferably suitable for use with touchscreens.

[0081] The embodiments discussed herein include the following: E1. A polymeric glove suitable for disposable use, comprising one or more polymeric layers covering the fingers and palm of a user, at least one of said polymeric layers comprising from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less, wherein the polymeric glove has a normal resistivity of less than about 10 ohms. E2. The polymeric glove of embodiment E1, having a thickness of about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm. E3. The polymeric glove of embodiment E1 or E2, having a thickness of about 0.08 mm to about 0.15 mm. E4. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E3, wherein the conductive filler has an average particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and about 5 micrometers or less. E5. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E4, having a normal resistivity of about 10 5 ohms or less. E6. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E5, having a chemical permeability to one or more of heptane, sodium hydroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and formaldehyde of greater than 30 minutes breakthrough time. E7. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E6, wherein at least one of the polymeric layers comprises a crosslinked elastomer. E8. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E7, wherein at least one of the polymer layers comprises polyisobutylene, polychloroprene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, natural rubber, polyisoprene, polyurethane, nitrile butadiene rubber, carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or a combination thereof. E9. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E8, wherein at least one of the polymer layers comprises nitrile butadiene rubber. E10. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E9, wherein at least a portion of the exterior surface of the glove has a textured surface. E11. A latex emulsion comprising one or more elastomers; The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E10, wherein the glove is formed from an aqueous emulsion comprising: at least about 5 phr and at most about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of at least about 2 micrometers and a maximum particle size of at most about 10 micrometers. E12. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E11, wherein the aqueous emulsion further comprises a surfactant system having an HLB of less than about 15. E13. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E12, wherein the conductive filler comprises carbon black. E14. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E13, wherein the conductive filler comprises carbon nanotubes. E15. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E14, having a surface resistivity of about 10 6 ohms or less. E16. The polymeric glove of embodiment E15, wherein the surface resistivity is determined in accordance with EN 1149-1. E17. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E16, having a static decay half-time t50(s) of about 0.01 seconds or less. E18. The polymeric glove of embodiment E17, wherein the static decay is determined in accordance with EN 1149-3. E19. The polymeric glove of one or more of embodiments E1-E18, wherein the normal resistivity is determined in accordance with EN 1149-2. E20. The polymeric glove of embodiment E6, wherein the chemical permeability is determined in accordance with EN ISO 374-3 Type B. E21. A method of manufacturing a disposable glove according to one or more of embodiments E1-E20, comprising: Coating the glove former in an aqueous coagulant solution to produce a coagulant-coated former; Coating the coagulant-coated former with a rubber dispersion; curing the rubber coated on the coagulant-coated former to form a polymer layer thereon; removing the polymer layers from the former to obtain a glove comprising one or more polymer layers covering the fingers and palm of a user, at least one of the polymer layers comprising from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less; The method, wherein the polymeric glove has a normal resistivity of less than about 10 8 ohms. E22. A method for producing disposable gloves, comprising: Coating the glove former in an aqueous coagulant solution to produce a coagulant-coated former; Coating the coagulant-coated former with a rubber dispersion; curing the rubber coated on the coagulant-coated former to form a polymer layer thereon; removing the polymer layers from the former to obtain a glove comprising one or more polymer layers covering the fingers and palm of a user, at least one of the polymer layers comprising from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less; The method, wherein the polymeric glove has a normal resistivity of less than about 10 8 ohms. E23. The method of embodiment E21 or E22, wherein the rubber dispersion comprises an aqueous emulsion comprising an elastomer and from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less. E24. The method of one or more of embodiments E21-E23, wherein the rubber dispersion comprises a surfactant system having an HLB of less than about 15. E25. The method of one or more of embodiments E21-E24, wherein the rubber dispersion comprises at least one of polyisobutylene, polychloroprene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, natural rubber, polyisoprene, polyurethane, nitrile butadiene rubber, carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or a combination thereof. E26. The method of any one of embodiments E21-25, wherein the polymer layer comprises from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of conductive filler comprising carbon black, carbon nanotubes, or a combination thereof, the conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less, and has a normal resistivity of about 108 ohms or less. E27. The method of one or more of embodiments E21-E25, wherein the polymer layer has a surface resistivity of about 106 ohms or less, a static decay to half-life t50(s) of about 0.01 seconds or less, or a combination thereof.

[0082] The foregoing disclosure and description of the present invention is illustrative and explanatory of the present invention, and those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications may be made in the size, shape, and materials as well as in the details of the construction shown or in the combinations of the elements described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0083] While only a few example embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications can be made to the example embodiments without substantially departing from the present invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure, as defined by the following claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function, and cover not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Thus, while nails and screws may not be structural equivalents in that nails employ cylindrical surfaces while screws employ helical surfaces to fasten wooden parts, in the context of fastening wooden parts, nails and screws may be equivalent structures. It is Applicant's express intent not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, with respect to any element of the claims herein unless the claim expressly uses the word "means" in conjunction with the relevant function.

[0084] All numerical values ​​listed herein are exemplary and should not be considered limiting, and may include ranges therebetween, including or excluding the endpoints. Optional inclusive ranges can be taken from integer values ​​therebetween to the listed or next lower decimal place. For example, if the lower range value is 0.1, optional inclusive endpoints can be 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, ..., 1.1, 1.2, etc., and 1, 2, 3, etc. If the upper range is 10, optional inclusive endpoints can be 7, 6, etc., and 7.9, 7.8, etc.

[0085] To facilitate understanding, the same reference numerals have been used, wherever possible, to designate similar elements common to the figures. The figures are not drawn to scale and may be simplified for clarity. It is expected that elements and features of one embodiment may be beneficially incorporated in other embodiments without further elaboration.

[0086] All publications and references cited herein, including but not limited to patents and patent applications, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication or reference was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference herein as if fully set forth. Any patent application to which this application claims priority is also incorporated by reference herein in the manner described above for publications and references.

Claims

1. one or more polymer layers covering the fingers and palm of the user; at least one of the polymer layers comprises from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less; Disposable polymer gloves.

2. 10. The polymeric glove of claim 1, having a thickness of about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm.

3. 10. The polymeric glove of claim 1, having a thickness of about 0.08 mm to about 0.15 mm.

4. The polymer glove according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the conductive filler has an average particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and about 5 micrometers or less.

5. about 10 ８ 10. The polymeric glove of claim 1 having a sub-ohmic normal resistivity.

6. The polymer glove according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which has chemical permeability to one or more of heptane, sodium hydroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and formaldehyde with a breakthrough time of more than 30 minutes.

7. The polymeric glove of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the polymer layers comprises a crosslinked elastomer.

8. 6. The polymeric glove of claim 1, wherein the at least one polymer layer comprises polyisobutylene, polychloroprene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, natural rubber, polyisoprene, polyurethane, nitrile butadiene rubber, carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or a combination thereof.

9. The polymeric glove of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the polymer layers comprises nitrile butadiene rubber.

10. The polymeric glove of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of the glove has a textured surface.

11. a latex emulsion comprising one or more elastomers; and a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or greater and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less, in an amount of about 5 phr to about 15 phr. formed from an aqueous emulsion, The polymer glove according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

12. 12. The polymeric glove of claim 11, wherein the aqueous emulsion further comprises a surfactant system having an HLB of less than about 15.

13. The polymer glove according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the conductive filler comprises carbon black.

14. The polymer glove according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the conductive filler comprises carbon nanotubes.

15. about 10 ６ The polymer glove of any one of claims 1 to 5, having a surface resistivity of less than or equal to an ohm.

16. 16. The polymeric glove of claim 15, wherein the surface resistivity is determined in accordance with EN 1149-1.

17. The polymer glove according to any one of claims 1 to 5, having static electricity decay with a half-life time t50 (s) of about 0.01 seconds or less.

18. 18. The polymeric glove of claim 17, wherein the static decay is determined in accordance with EN 1149-3.

19. The polymeric glove of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the normal resistivity is determined in accordance with EN1149-2.

20. 7. The polymeric glove of claim 6, wherein the chemical permeability is determined in accordance with ENISO 374-3 Type B.

21. Coating the glove former in an aqueous coagulant solution to produce a coagulant-coated former; Coating the coagulant-coated former with a rubber dispersion; curing the rubber coated on the coagulant-coated former to form a polymer layer thereon; removing the polymer layer from the former to obtain a glove comprising one or more polymer layers covering the fingers and palm of a user, at least one of the polymer layers comprising from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less. A method for producing disposable gloves.

22. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the rubber dispersion comprises an aqueous emulsion including an elastomer and from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of a conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or greater and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less.

23. 23. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein the rubber dispersion comprises a surfactant system having an HLB of less than about 15.

24. 23. The method of claim 21 or 22, wherein the rubber dispersion comprises at least one of polyisobutylene, polychloroprene, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene methyl acrylate, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene rubber, natural rubber, polyisoprene, polyurethane, nitrile butadiene rubber, carboxylated nitrile butadiene rubber, or combinations thereof.

25. The polymer layer comprises from about 5 phr to about 15 phr of conductive filler comprising carbon black, carbon nanotubes, or a combination thereof, the conductive filler having a minimum particle size of about 2 micrometers or more and a maximum particle size of about 10 micrometers or less, ８ 23. The method of claim 21 or 22, having a sub-ohmic vertical resistivity.

26. The polymer layer is about 10 ６ 26. The method of claim 25, having a surface resistivity of ohms or less, a static decay to half-life t50 (s) of about 0.01 seconds or less, or a combination thereof.

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