gloves

Abstract

To provide a rubber latex compound capable of producing gloves excellent in touch panel responsiveness and having high flexibility.SOLUTION: A rubber latex compound for gloves having rubber latex as the main constituent is added with carbon black, an anionic surface active agent, a nonionic dispersant, and a water-soluble polymer. A DBP oil absorption amount of the carbon black is 250 ml / 100 g or more and 600 ml / 100 g or less, a volatile matter content is 0.3 mass% or more and less than 1.0 mass%, an addition amount of the water-soluble polymer is 8 pts.mass or more and 50 pts.mass or less based on 100 pts.mass of the carbon black, and a total additional amount of the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer is 38 pts.mass or more and 200 pts.mass or less based on 100 pts.mass of the carbon black.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to rubber latex compounds, a method for manufacturing gloves, and gloves. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the number of devices operated via touch panels has increased, both for home and industrial use. Capacitive touch panels are the most common type. Capacitive touch panels operate through capacitive coupling, which occurs when electric charge transfers between the human body (e.g., fingertips) and the touch panel. Therefore, wearing gloves, for example, can weaken this capacitive coupling, potentially reducing the responsiveness of the touch panel.

[0003] To avoid reducing the responsiveness of the touch panel, it is necessary to impart conductivity to the glove and change the capacitance, electric field, magnetic field, etc., of the touch panel that is in close proximity to or in contact with the glove, thereby allowing it to be detected as a touch position. As an example of a conductive glove, a glove made by heat-molding a rubber latex compound that is blended with acid-treated carbon black is known (see Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-321581).

[0004] When carbon black is added in large quantities, the glove coating tends to harden. When the glove coating hardens, the flexibility of the glove decreases, leading to problems with workability, such as difficulty in gripping objects. In this rubber latex compound, acid-treated carbon black is used to suppress the aggregation and gelation of carbon black in the compound, making it possible to reduce resistance with a relatively small amount of carbon black added. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-321581 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] In the conventional rubber latex formulations described above, in order to reduce resistance to a degree that does not impair the responsiveness of the touch panel, it is necessary to add carbon black to, for example, 20 parts by mass or more per 100 parts by mass of rubber latex. On the other hand, gloves molded for touch panel operation require high flexibility. Therefore, there is a need for gloves with an even lower amount of carbon black.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and aims to provide a rubber latex compound capable of producing gloves with excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility, a method for producing gloves using this rubber latex compound, and gloves with excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To obtain high conductivity with a small amount of carbon black added, it is necessary to secure a large number of conductive channels through which carbon black particles connect and extend. In order to secure these conductive channels, the inventors focused on improving the compounding stability of carbon black in rubber latex, that is, suppressing aggregation and gelation caused by carbon black and improving dispersibility. Generally, conductive carbon black is unstable in rubber latex and has poor compounding stability. As a result, aggregation caused by carbon black is likely to occur in coatings molded using rubber latex and rubber latex compounding materials containing carbon black, and it is difficult for carbon black particles to connect and extend. In other words, it becomes difficult to secure conductive channels. For this reason, it is thought that a large amount of carbon black must be added to obtain the desired conductivity. In contrast, the inventors have found that by adding an appropriate amount of anionic surfactant, nonionic dispersant, and water-soluble polymer, the compounding stability of carbon black can be significantly improved, and the conductivity of the coating can be improved, thus completing the present invention.

[0009] In other words, a rubber latex compound according to one aspect of the present invention is a rubber latex compound for gloves, mainly composed of rubber latex, to which carbon black, an anionic surfactant, a nonionic dispersant, and a water-soluble polymer are added, wherein the DBP oil absorption amount of the carbon black is 250 ml / 100g or more and 600 ml / 100g or less, and the volatile content is 0.3% by mass or more and less than 1.0% by mass, the amount of water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black is 8 parts by mass or more and 50 parts by mass or less, and the total amount of the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black is 38 parts by mass or more and 200 parts by mass or less.

[0010] The rubber latex compound contains carbon black with DBP oil absorption and volatile content within the above range, thereby enhancing compound stability and facilitating the conductivity of the molded film. Furthermore, the rubber latex compound contains a nonionic dispersant and a water-soluble polymer in the above-mentioned amounts, and also includes an anionic surfactant. This formulation enhances the compound stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex compound. Therefore, in films molded using this rubber latex compound, conductive channels are easily established where carbon black particles connect, resulting in high conductivity with a small amount of additive. Consequently, gloves with excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility can be manufactured using this rubber latex compound.

[0011] The amount of carbon black added per 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the rubber latex is preferably 0.6 parts by mass or more and 9.5 parts by mass or less. By keeping the amount of carbon black added within this range, it is possible to improve conductivity while maintaining the high flexibility of the molded film.

[0012] The addition amount of the anionic surfactant with respect to 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the rubber latex is preferably 0.05 parts by mass or more and 1.0 part by mass or less. By setting the addition amount of the anionic surfactant with respect to 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the rubber latex within the above range, the conductivity can be increased while ensuring the stability over time of the rubber latex formulation and the ease of manufacturing gloves.

[0013] The mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant to the anionic surfactant is preferably 0.2 or more and 285 or less. By setting the mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant to the anionic surfactant within the above range, the conductivity of the gloves to be manufactured can be increased while ensuring the stability over time of the rubber latex formulation, the dispersibility of carbon black, and the ease of manufacturing gloves.

[0014] The total mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer to the anionic surfactant is preferably 0.5 or more and 300 or less. By adding a water-soluble polymer so that the total mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant to the anionic surfactant is within the above range, the blending stability and conductivity of carbon black can be further enhanced.

[0015] A method for manufacturing gloves according to another aspect of the present invention includes a first dipping step of dipping a hand mold into a coagulant solution, a second dipping step of dipping the hand mold after the first dipping step into a rubber latex formulation, and a drying step of drying the hand mold after the second dipping step, wherein the rubber latex formulation is the rubber latex formulation of the present invention.

[0016] Since the method for manufacturing the gloves uses the rubber latex formulation of the present invention, it is easy to secure a conductive path in which carbon blacks are connected and extended, and it is possible to manufacture gloves having excellent touch panel reactivity and high flexibility.

[0017] The glove according to another aspect of the present invention includes a conductive portion exposed on the outer surface of the palm side of at least the second finger region. The conductive portion is mainly composed of rubber and carbon black is added. The addition amount of the carbon black with respect to 100 parts by mass of the rubber is 0.6 parts by mass or more and 9.5 parts by mass or less, and the surface resistance value of the conductive portion is 10 3 Ω or more and 10 8 Ω or less.

[0018] While the addition amount of the carbon black in the conductive portion is within the above range, the glove has high conductivity with the surface resistance value of the conductive portion within the above range. That is, in this glove, it is considered that a large number of conductive paths in which carbon blacks are connected and extended are secured. Therefore, the glove is excellent in touch panel reactivity and has high flexibility.

[0019] It is preferable to include a knitted glove body made of fiber, the knitted glove body contains conductive fibers, and the conductive portion is laminated on the outer surface side of the knitted glove body. By combining the knitted glove body containing conductive fibers and the conductive portion in this way, electrostatic discharge (ESD, Electro-static discharge) can be suppressed, so that the explosion-proof property for preventing fires and explosions caused by flammable gases, vapors, dusts, etc. can be enhanced.

[0020] As the volume resistance value of the conductive portion, 10 3 Ω or more and 10 8 Ω or less is preferable. By setting the volume resistance value of the conductive portion within the above range, high explosion-proof property can be imparted while maintaining the flexibility of the glove.

[0021] Here, the "main component" is the component with the highest content, for example, a component with a content of 50% by mass or more. The "DBP oil absorption amount" is the amount of DBP (dibutyl phthalate) absorbed by 100 g of carbon black, and is the amount measured in accordance with ASTM D 2414 with a sample amount of 9 g.

[0022] Furthermore, the "volatile content of carbon black" can be measured by the following method. A magnetic crucible (diameter 15 mm, height 30 mm, capacity 10 mL) and a drop lid were preheated at 950 ± 20 °C for 30 minutes, then cooled to room temperature (25 °C) in a desiccator, and the mass (MA) of the magnetic crucible and drop lid was weighed with an accuracy of 0.1 mg. Next, 2 g of carbon black was packed into the magnetic crucible to a depth not exceeding 2 mm below the lid, and the drop lid was placed on, and its mass (MB) was weighed with an accuracy of 0.1 mg. After that, it was heated in an electric furnace at 950 ± 20 °C for 7 minutes, cooled to room temperature (25 °C) in a desiccator, and the mass (MC) was weighed again with an accuracy of 0.1 mg, and the volatile content was calculated using the following formula 1. Volatile content [mass %] = (MB - MC) / (MB - MA) × 100 ... 1

[0023] Surface resistance and volume resistivity can be measured by the following methods. If conductive parts exist in both the finger and palm areas, and the conductivity is equivalent between the finger and palm areas, surface resistance and volume resistivity are measured according to the EN standards EN16350 and EN61340-2-3:2016 8, respectively. The measurement sample is cut from the area where conductivity (surface resistance) or explosion-proofness (volume resistivity) is required (for example, the finger area, hereinafter also referred to as the "measurement target area"). However, if the conductive part is only in the finger area, or if the conductivity differs between the finger and palm areas, and a measurement sample cannot be taken from the measurement target area, surface resistance is measured according to EN16350 and EN61340-2-3:2016 10, and volume resistivity is measured according to ANSI / ESD SP15.1-2005. [Effects of the Invention]

[0024] As described above, the rubber latex compound of the present invention can be used to manufacture gloves that have excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility. Furthermore, gloves manufactured using this rubber latex compound and gloves of the present invention have excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0025] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing gloves according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a glove according to one embodiment of the present invention, as seen from the palm side. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of the glove shown in Figure 2, viewed from the back of the hand. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic front view of a glove different from the one shown in Figure 2, viewed from the palm side. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0026] The following describes in detail a rubber latex compound, a method for manufacturing gloves, and gloves according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] [Rubber latex-containing products] A rubber latex compound according to one aspect of the present invention is a rubber latex compound for gloves, with rubber latex as the main component. This rubber latex compound contains carbon black, an anionic surfactant, a nonionic dispersant, and a water-soluble polymer.

[0028] <Rubber latex> The above rubber latex is a homopolymer, copolymer, or carboxy-modified polymer thereof of acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), acrylic rubber, urethane rubber, natural rubber (NR), isoprene rubber, chloroprene rubber, etc., either alone or as a blend of several.

[0029] The above rubber latex is more stable with the carbon black in the formulation when it has a higher gel content. The gel content decreases when the polymer chain of the rubber latex has fewer branches, and increases when it has more branches. In the case of NBR, the gel content of the rubber latex can be evaluated as the MEK insoluble fraction. The lower limit of the MEK insoluble fraction of the rubber latex is preferably 10% by mass, more preferably 20% by mass, and even more preferably 30% by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the MEK insoluble fraction of the rubber latex is preferably 80% by mass, more preferably 75% by mass, and even more preferably 73% by mass. If the MEK insoluble fraction of the rubber latex is below the lower limit, the stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex formulation may decrease. Conversely, if the MEK insoluble fraction of the rubber latex exceeds the upper limit, the film-forming ability of the rubber latex formulation may decrease. Similarly, in the case of NR, it can be evaluated as the toluene-free fraction, and the lower limit of the toluene-free fraction is preferably 50%. The upper limit of the toluene-insoluble fraction is not particularly limited, but is preferably 90% and more preferably 85%.

[0030] Here, the MEK insoluble fraction can be measured by the following method. First, the rubber latex is diluted with deionized water so that the total solid content is 30% by mass. 5 g of this diluted latex is weighed into a glass petri dish with an inner diameter of 10 cm, and dried in an oven at 30°C for 15 hours to remove moisture, thereby obtaining a film with an average thickness of approximately 0.05 mm. The above film is cut into test pieces of approximately 5 mm square, and after weighing out a test piece with a mass of approximately 0.2 g, its mass is measured to 4 significant figures (let this mass be W [g]). This test piece is placed in a #80 metal mesh basket (base approximately 2 cm square, approximately 9 g) whose mass has been measured in advance. Next, the basket containing the test piece is immersed in 100 ml of methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and left to stand for 24 hours at a temperature between 23°C and 25°C. After standing, the basket is removed from the MEK and gently shaken for 30 seconds to allow excess MEK to drip out. Furthermore, the basket containing the test specimens is dried at 30°C for 3 hours, followed by drying at 105°C for 30 minutes, and the total mass of the basket containing the test specimens is measured. The mass of the dried test specimens is calculated from the difference between this mass and the mass of the basket measured earlier (let this mass be B [g]). From the calculated mass, the individual insoluble fraction for each test specimen can be determined using Equation 2 below. This is performed for four test specimens, and the arithmetic mean is taken as the insoluble fraction. Note that the toluene insoluble fraction can also be measured in the same way by replacing MEK with toluene as described above. Individual insoluble fraction [mass%]=B / W×100...2

[0031] <Carbon Black> The lower limit of DBP oil absorption of the carbon black used is 250 ml / 100 g, with 300 ml / 100 g being more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of DBP oil absorption of the above carbon black is 600 ml / 100 g, with 500 ml / 100 g being more preferable. In this rubber latex compound, the DBP oil absorption amount of the carbon black is set to be above the lower limit, making it easier for the aggregated structure of the primary aggregates of carbon black to secure conductive channels. Therefore, it is easier to ensure the conductivity (hereinafter also simply referred to as "conductivity") of the coating formed by this rubber latex compound. If the DBP oil absorption amount of the carbon black is below the lower limit, it becomes necessary to add a large amount of carbon black to obtain conductivity, and there is a risk that the flexibility (hereinafter also simply referred to as "flexibility") of the coating formed by this rubber latex compound will be insufficient. Conversely, if the DBP oil absorption amount of the carbon black exceeds the upper limit, the dispersibility of the carbon black will decrease, and there is a risk that the compounding stability will decrease. As an example of carbon black with a DBP oil absorption amount within the above range, Ketjenblack (registered trademark) can be cited.

[0032] The lower limit of the BET specific surface area for the above carbon black is 250m². 2 / g is preferred, 500m 2 / g is more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of the BET specific surface area of ​​the above carbon black is 1500m². 2 / g is preferred, 1200m 2 A value of / g is more preferable. By setting the BET specific surface area above the lower limit, the pores in the carbon black increase, and the number of conductive holes increases. In addition, polymer molecules in the rubber latex can enter the pores, bringing the carbon black particles closer together and making it easier for conductivity to be exhibited. Conversely, if the BET specific surface area of ​​the carbon black exceeds the upper limit, the dispersibility of the carbon black may decrease, potentially reducing the stability of the compound. Note that "BET specific surface area" refers to the value measured in accordance with ASTM D 3037.

[0033] The lower limit of the volatile content of the carbon black is 0.3% by mass, with 0.4% by mass being more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of the volatile content of the carbon black is less than 1.0% by mass, with less than 0.9% by mass being more preferable. The volatile content is related to the amount of functional groups, such as carboxyl groups, present in the carbon black. The fewer the functional groups, the higher the conductivity, but this may increase the crystallinity of the carbon black and reduce the stability of the formulation. In other words, if the volatile content is below the lower limit, the stability of the carbon black in the formulation may decrease. Conversely, if the volatile content is above the upper limit, the conductivity may decrease.

[0034] Furthermore, the ash content of the carbon black is preferably 0.9% by mass or less. Lower ash content, i.e., less impurities, improves conductivity. The lower limit of the ash content of the carbon black is not particularly limited and may be 0% by mass, but it is usually around 0.01% by mass. Note that "ash content of carbon black" refers to the value measured in accordance with ASTM D 1506.

[0035] The pH of the carbon black described above is preferably between 6 and 10. By keeping the pH of the carbon black within this range, the conductivity can be improved. The pH of the carbon black can be measured by the following method. 1 g ± 0.01 g of carbon black was weighed to an accuracy of 0.01 g and placed in a 20 mL beaker. 1 mL of ethyl alcohol and 10 mL of pre-boiled distilled water were added to create a carbon black dispersion. The dispersion was covered with a watch glass and allowed to cool in a 25°C constant temperature room for 60 minutes. After confirming that the dispersion was at 25°C, the reading was taken one minute after the start of measurement using a pH meter calibrated with pH standard solutions 4, 7, and 9, and this reading was taken as the pH value.

[0036] The lower limit of the amount of carbon black added per 100 parts by mass of solid content of the rubber latex is preferably 0.6 parts by mass, more preferably 2 parts by mass, and even more preferably 3 parts by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of carbon black added is preferably 9.5 parts by mass, more preferably 8 parts by mass, and even more preferably 7 parts by mass. If the amount of carbon black added is less than the lower limit, the conductivity may be insufficient. Conversely, if the amount of carbon black added exceeds the upper limit, the flexibility may be insufficient, and for example, the operability of a touch panel may deteriorate.

[0037] The carbon black is preferably provided as an aqueous dispersion. Specifically, the carbon black is preferably dispersed using the nonionic dispersant described in detail later, and then mixed with the rubber latex. Dispersing the carbon black with the nonionic dispersant and then mixing it with the rubber latex improves the dispersion stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex formulation. This dispersion stability of the carbon black greatly contributes to conductivity, and poor dispersion stability makes aggregation due to the carbon black more likely to occur. This leads to a decrease in the conductivity of the gloves obtained from the rubber latex formulation, which in turn leads to an increase in the amount of carbon black added, causing the gloves to harden. Hardening of the gloves means that the gloves do not conform well to the object, i.e., a touch panel, and that the hardness reduces the contact area for the touch panel to react, leading to a decrease in the responsiveness of the touch panel.

[0038] In the above aqueous dispersion, the lower limit of the amount of nonionic dispersant added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black is preferably 30 parts by mass, more preferably 40 parts by mass, and even more preferably 50 parts by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of nonionic dispersant added is preferably 150 parts by mass, more preferably 140 parts by mass, and even more preferably 130 parts by mass. If the amount of nonionic dispersant added is less than the lower limit, the carbon black cannot be stably dispersed, and aggregation caused by the carbon black may occur, potentially reducing conductivity. Conversely, if the amount of nonionic dispersant added exceeds the upper limit, it may become difficult to mold it into gloves.

[0039] <Anionic surfactants> The above-mentioned anionic surfactant enhances the stability of the rubber latex and suppresses the occurrence of aggregation caused by the carbon black. If the anionic surfactant is not added, the stability of the rubber latex becomes insufficient, and aggregation may occur when the carbon black is added, the viscosity may increase making it unsuitable for use as a rubber latex compound, or the film-forming properties when creating a coating by the salt coagulation method may deteriorate.

[0040] As the above-mentioned anionic surfactant, known ones can be used, for example, fatty acid salts, alkyl sulfate salts, alkylbenzene sulfonates, alkylnaphthalene sulfonates, alkyl sulfosuccinates, polyoxyethylalkyl sulfate salts, naphthalene sulfonic acid formalin condensates, and the like.

[0041] The lower limit of the amount of the anionic surfactant added per 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the rubber latex is preferably 0.05 parts by mass, more preferably 0.1 parts by mass, and even more preferably 0.2 parts by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of the anionic surfactant added is preferably 1.0 part by mass, more preferably 0.8 parts by mass, and even more preferably 0.7 parts by mass. If the amount of the anionic surfactant added is less than the lower limit, aggregation due to carbon black, a resulting decrease in conductivity, and a decrease in the long-term stability of the rubber latex compound may occur. Conversely, if the amount of the anionic surfactant added exceeds the upper limit, the stability of the rubber latex may increase too much, which may actually decrease its coagulation properties and make it difficult to manufacture gloves.

[0042] <Nonionic dispersants> The rubber latex compound in question uses a nonionic dispersant. Nonionic dispersants have high stability with respect to the carbon black mentioned above.

[0043] Known nonionic dispersants can be used, such as modified acrylic polymers, polyalkylene glycols, fatty acid esters and alkyl ethers, or their derivatives, copolymers of styrenes such as styrene and α-methylstyrene with alkoxypolyalkylene glycol (meth)acrylic acid esters, and copolymers of styrenes with maleic anhydride. Among these, copolymers of styrenes such as styrene and α-methylstyrene with alkoxyalkylene glycol (meth)acrylic acid esters, such as styrene-methoxypolyethylene glycol methacrylate copolymer, or copolymers of styrenes with maleic anhydride, such as styrene-maleic anhydride copolymer, are preferred.

[0044] The inventors have learned that the stability of rubber latex formulations with added carbon black tends to depend on the ratio of the anionic surfactant for stabilizing the rubber latex to the nonionic dispersant for stabilizing the carbon black. Specifically, the lower limit of the mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant to the anionic surfactant is preferably 0.2, more preferably 1.0, and even more preferably 2.5. On the other hand, the upper limit of the mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant is preferably 285, more preferably 110, and even more preferably 45. By setting the mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant to or above the lower limit, it is easier to ensure the long-term stability of the rubber latex formulation, the dispersibility of the carbon black, and the ease of glove manufacturing. Furthermore, if the mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant is below the lower limit, aggregation caused by the carbon black may occur in the rubber latex formulation, potentially reducing its conductivity. Conversely, if the mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant exceeds the above upper limit, it may inhibit the carbon blacks from linking together during film formation, potentially preventing the formation of sufficient conductive pathways.

[0045] The lower limit of the amount of the nonionic dispersant added per 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the rubber latex is preferably 0.6 parts by mass, and more preferably 1 part by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of the nonionic dispersant added is preferably 15 parts by mass, and more preferably 10 parts by mass. If the amount of the nonionic dispersant added is less than the lower limit, aggregation caused by the carbon black may occur in the rubber latex compound, potentially reducing conductivity. Conversely, if the amount of the nonionic dispersant added exceeds the upper limit, it may inhibit the linking of carbon black particles during film formation, potentially preventing the formation of sufficient conductive pathways.

[0046] <Water-soluble polymer> The stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex compound can be further enhanced by adding the water-soluble polymer. In particular, when using carbon black with a high DBP oil absorption capacity, the carbon black tends to form long chains, which tends to increase the viscosity of the rubber latex compound. The water-soluble polymer has the effect of stabilizing the carbon black in such cases.

[0047] Furthermore, it has been stated that if the carbon black is provided as an aqueous dispersion, it is preferable that it be dispersed using the nonionic dispersant. On the other hand, it is preferable that the water-soluble polymer is mixed with the rubber latex before the aqueous dispersion is mixed with the rubber latex. In other words, by adding the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer, it becomes possible to independently control the amount of nonionic dispersant added to enhance the stability of the carbon black in the aqueous dispersion and the total amount of the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer added to enhance the stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex formulation. Therefore, it is easier to enhance the stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex formulation.

[0048] Examples of the above water-soluble polymers include cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), methylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, and hydroxyethylmethylcellulose, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyacrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, polyacrylamide, poly-N-isopropylacrylamide, poly-N,N-dimethylacrylamide, polyethyleneimine, polyoxyethylene, poly(2-methoxyethoxyethylene), polyvinyl sulfonic acid, polyvinylidene fluoride, amylose, gum arabic, casein, alginic acid, or salts thereof. Among these, carboxymethylcellulose and polyvinyl alcohol are preferred because they can be easily removed by washing after film formation using the rubber latex compound. When the above rubber latex contains NBR, polyvinyl alcohol is particularly preferred from the viewpoint of film-forming processability.

[0049] When using polyvinyl alcohol as the polymer compound mentioned above, partially saponified (saponification degree 88 mol% or less), intermediately saponified (saponification degree greater than 88 mol% and 98 mol% or less), or fully saponified (saponification degree greater than 98 mol%) can be used. However, due to the relationship between the solubility of polyvinyl alcohol and the viscosity of the rubber latex compound, the intermediately saponified form is preferred.

[0050] The lower limit of the mass ratio of the water-soluble polymer to the anionic surfactant is preferably 0.06, more preferably 0.25, and even more preferably 0.5. On the other hand, the upper limit of the mass ratio of the water-soluble polymer is preferably 60, more preferably 15, and even more preferably 10. If the mass ratio of the water-soluble polymer is below the lower limit, the effect of adding the water-soluble polymer may not be sufficiently obtained. Conversely, if the mass ratio of the water-soluble polymer exceeds the upper limit, the stability of the rubber latex compound may become too high, causing the compound to sag during glove molding and potentially worsening moldability.

[0051] The above-mentioned water-soluble polymer prevents the rubber latex compound from becoming unstable due to the carbon black. In other words, the stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex compound is considered to be determined by the total amount of the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer added. The lower limit of the total mass ratio of the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer to the anionic surfactant is preferably 0.5, more preferably 2, and still preferably 4. On the other hand, the upper limit of the total mass ratio is preferably 300, more preferably 120, and still preferably 50. If the total mass ratio is below the lower limit, the stability of the carbon black will decrease, aggregates may form, and conductivity may decrease. Conversely, if the total mass ratio exceeds the upper limit, the stability of the carbon black will become too high, which may cause the compound to sag during glove molding and worsen moldability.

[0052] Furthermore, the lower limit of the amount of water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black is 8 parts by mass, with 9 parts by mass being more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of water-soluble polymer added is 50 parts by mass, with 18 parts by mass being more preferable. If the amount of water-soluble polymer added is less than the lower limit, aggregation caused by the carbon black may easily occur in the rubber latex compound. Conversely, if the amount of water-soluble polymer added exceeds the upper limit, the compound may sag during glove molding, potentially worsening moldability.

[0053] The lower limit of the amount of the water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the rubber latex is preferably 0.06 parts by mass, more preferably 0.2 parts by mass, and even more preferably 0.3 parts by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of the water-soluble polymer added is preferably 3 parts by mass, more preferably 1.5 parts by mass, and even more preferably 1 part by mass. If the amount of the water-soluble polymer added is less than the lower limit, aggregation caused by the carbon black may easily occur in the rubber latex compound. Conversely, if the amount of the water-soluble polymer added exceeds the upper limit, the stability of the carbon black may become too high, causing the compound to sag during glove molding and potentially worsening moldability.

[0054] The lower limit of the total amount of the nonionic dispersant and the water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of the carbon black is 38 parts by mass, with 50 parts by mass being more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of the total amount added is 200 parts by mass, with 150 parts by mass being more preferable. If the total amount added is less than the lower limit, aggregation due to the carbon black may occur in the rubber latex compound, and the necessary conductivity may not be obtained. This may necessitate adding an excess to ensure conductivity, which may cause the gloves to become hard. Conversely, if the total amount added exceeds the upper limit, the stability of the rubber latex compound may increase too much, which may cause the compound to sag during glove molding, worsening moldability, or hindering the formation of conductive channels in the carbon black.

[0055] The preferred mass ratio of the anionic surfactant, the nonionic dispersant, and the water-soluble polymer in the rubber latex compound is 1:0.2 to 285:0.06 to 60, more preferably 1:1 to 112:0.25 to 15, and even more preferably 1:2.5 to 45:0.5 to 10. Furthermore, the preferred mass ratio of the water-soluble polymer to the nonionic dispersant is 0.1 to 10. By setting the mass ratio of the anionic surfactant, the nonionic dispersant, and the water-soluble polymer within the above range, the stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex compound is enhanced, and highly conductive gloves can be molded without increasing the amount of carbon black added. This makes it possible to provide flexible and highly reactive gloves.

[0056] <Other additives> The rubber latex compound may contain additives such as vulcanizing agents, vulcanization accelerators, metal oxides, metal salts, metal oxide salts, pigments, antioxidants, thickeners, alkali stabilizers, heat-sensitive agents, heat-sensitive point depressants, and film-forming aids. Furthermore, when the raw materials are foamed using a foaming machine, known foaming agents and foam stabilizers may be added separately.

[0057] When carboxymethylcellulose or polyvinyl alcohol is added as the above water-soluble polymer, the salt coagulation processability tends to decrease, so it is preferable to add zinc oxide, which is one of the above metal oxides. The lower limit of the amount of zinc oxide to be added per 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the above rubber latex is preferably 1.0 part by mass, and more preferably 1.5 parts by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of zinc oxide to be added is preferably 5 parts by mass, and more preferably 3.5 parts by mass. By adding zinc oxide in an amount within the above range, the decrease in coagulation processability can be suppressed. Furthermore, it is preferable to use a combination with a heat-sensitive agent to create a formulation in which the viscosity increases with heat.

[0058] Furthermore, to improve the mechanical stability of the latex compound, it is preferable to add an alkali stabilizer to bring the pH between 9.0 and 11.2. Examples of alkali stabilizers include potassium hydroxide and ammonia.

[0059] <Method for manufacturing rubber latex compounds> The rubber latex compound can be manufactured by a manufacturing method comprising the steps of adding the above-mentioned carbon black, the above-mentioned anionic surfactant, the above-mentioned nonionic dispersant, and the above-mentioned water-soluble polymer to the above-mentioned rubber latex.

[0060] It is preferable to adjust the viscosity of the above-mentioned rubber latex to a low viscosity by diluting it beforehand. By lowering the viscosity in this way, the carbon black can be dispersed more easily.

[0061] The upper limit of the viscosity of the adjusted rubber latex before adding the carbon black, anionic surfactant, and nonionic dispersant is preferably 1000 mPa·s, and more preferably 500 mPa·s, as measured using a B-type viscometer. On the other hand, depending on the dilution amount, the proportion of solids decreases and the thickness of the film during molding becomes thinner, but this is not particularly limited as long as it does not affect processability. The lower limit of the viscosity of the adjusted rubber latex can be, for example, 10 mPa·s.

[0062] As described above, it is preferable that the carbon black is prepared as an aqueous dispersion dispersed using the nonionic dispersant. Furthermore, it is preferable that the addition to the rubber latex be carried out in the order of the aqueous dispersion containing the water-soluble polymer, the carbon black, and the nonionic dispersant. The order of addition of the anionic surfactant is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to add it before the water-soluble polymer.

[0063] If other additives are to be added, they should be added after the anionic surfactant mentioned above. The order in which the water-soluble polymer and other additives are added does not matter.

[0064] <Advantages> The rubber latex compound contains carbon black with a DBP oil absorption of 250 ml / 100g to 600 ml / 100g and a volatile content of 0.3% to less than 1.0% by mass, thereby enhancing compound stability and facilitating the conductivity of the molded film. Furthermore, the rubber latex compound contains a nonionic dispersant and a water-soluble polymer, with an amount of 8 to 50 parts by mass of the water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black, and a total amount of 38 to 200 parts by mass of the nonionic dispersant and water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black. An anionic surfactant is also added. This compounding enhances the compounding stability of the carbon black in the rubber latex compound. As a result, the film molded using this rubber latex compound easily secures conductive channels where carbon black particles connect and extend, exhibiting high conductivity with a small amount of additive. Therefore, by using this rubber latex compound, it is possible to manufacture gloves that have excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility.

[0065] [Method for manufacturing gloves] A method for manufacturing gloves according to another aspect of the present invention, as shown in Figure 1, comprises a first immersion step S1 in which a hand mold is immersed in a coagulant solution, a second immersion step S2 in which the hand mold after the first immersion step S1 is immersed in a rubber latex compound, and a drying step S3 in which the hand mold after the second immersion step S2 is dried. In this method for manufacturing gloves, the rubber latex compound is the rubber latex compound of the present invention.

[0066] [First Embodiment] By using the method for manufacturing gloves, a glove 1, which is itself one embodiment of the present invention, can be manufactured as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0067] <Gloves> The glove 1 includes a conductive portion 1a that is exposed on the palmar outer surface of at least the second finger region A. Specifically, the glove 1 comprises a knitted glove body 10 made of fiber and a coating layer 20 that constitutes the conductive portion 1a.

[0068] (Knitted glove body) The knitted glove body 10 has a main body portion 10a formed in the shape of a bag to cover the palm and back of the wearer's hand, bottomed cylindrical first to fifth finger portions 10b extending from the main body portion 10a to cover the wearer's first to fifth fingers respectively, and a cylindrical hem portion 10c extending in the opposite direction from the first to fifth finger portions 10b.

[0069] Examples of yarns that make up the knitted glove body 10 include cotton yarn, polyester yarn, nylon yarn, polyethylene yarn, polypropylene yarn, acrylic yarn, para-aramid yarn, meta-aramid yarn, poly(p-phenylenebenzoxazole) (PBO) yarn, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene yarn, stretched polyethylene yarn, glass fiber yarn, metal fiber yarn, and composite yarns thereof. In addition, elastic yarns made from natural rubber, polyurethane, etc., can also be used to provide elasticity.

[0070] The yarn used to construct the knitted glove body 10 can be single or double yarns such as spun yarn, filament yarn, or composite yarn. When using spun yarn, a yarn with a thickness equivalent to cotton count of 3.3 to 100 count in a combined single or double yarn can be used. When using filament yarn, a yarn with a thickness equivalent to 50 dtex to 1500 dtex in a combined single or double yarn can be used. When using both spun yarn and filament yarn, or a composite yarn thereof, a thickness equivalent to 50 dtex to 1500 dtex in a combined yarn can be used.

[0071] The knitted glove body 10 preferably contains conductive fibers. By combining the knitted glove body 10 containing conductive fibers with the conductive part 1a, electrostatic discharge is suppressed, thereby enhancing explosion-proof properties that prevent fires and explosions caused by flammable gases, vapors, dust, etc.

[0072] Examples of the conductive fibers mentioned above include carbon composite organic fibers, metal oxide composite organic fibers, metal compound composite organic fibers, and metal-plated organic fibers. For example, Kuracarbo (registered trademark) manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd., Vectron (registered trademark) manufactured by Seiren Co., Ltd., Thunderon (registered trademark) manufactured by Nippon Sanmo Dyeing Co., Ltd., and AGposs (registered trademark) manufactured by Mitsufuji Co., Ltd. can be used.

[0073] (Coating layer) The coating layer 20, i.e., the conductive portion 1a, is laminated on the outer surface side of the knitted glove body 10. In the glove 1 shown in Figures 2 and 3, the conductive portion 1a is formed on the entire surface of the knitted glove body 10 except for a part of the palm-side hem 10c, but it is sufficient if it is formed on at least the palm-side outer surface of the second finger region A.

[0074] The coating layer 20 is formed on the surface of the knitted glove body 10 using the rubber latex compound of the present invention and then hardened, and it is preferable that it has a foamed structure. By having such a foamed structure, the flexibility of the coating layer 20 is improved, making it easier to conform to the touch panel and improving the responsiveness of the touch panel.

[0075] If the coating layer 20 has a foamed structure, the air content in the coating layer 20 is preferably 10% to 60%. By setting the air content above the lower limit, flexibility can be increased. On the other hand, by setting the air content below the upper limit, the strength of the coating layer 20 can be maintained. The "air content" is determined by observing the cross-section of a test piece cut from the center of the palm with a microscope at 100x to 200x magnification and determining the proportion of air bubbles in the coating.

[0076] The conductive part 1a is mainly composed of rubber and also contains carbon black.

[0077] The main component of the above-mentioned rubber can be the same as the rubber component of the rubber latex contained in the rubber latex compound of the present invention described above.

[0078] Examples of the carbon black include the same types as those contained in the rubber latex formulation of the present invention described above.

[0079] The lower limit of the addition amount of the carbon black with respect to 100 parts by mass of the rubber in the conductive part 1a is 0.6 parts by mass, more preferably 2 parts by mass, and even more preferably 3 parts by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the addition amount of the carbon black is 9.5 parts by mass, more preferably 8 parts by mass, and even more preferably 7 parts by mass. If the addition amount of the carbon black is less than the lower limit, the conductivity may be insufficient. Conversely, if the addition amount of the carbon black exceeds the upper limit, the flexibility may be insufficient, and for example, the operation feeling of the touch panel may deteriorate.

[0080] The lower limit of the surface resistance value of the conductive part 1a is 10 3 Ω, and 10 4 Ω is more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of the surface resistance value of the conductive part 1a is 10 8 Ω. To make the surface resistance value of the conductive part 1a less than the lower limit, it is necessary to increase the addition amount of the carbon black, and the flexibility may be insufficient, and for example, the operation feeling of the touch panel may deteriorate. Conversely, if the surface resistance value of the conductive part 1a exceeds the upper limit, for example, the reactivity of the touch panel may deteriorate.

[0081] The lower limit of the volume resistance value of the conductive part 1a is 10 3 Ω is preferable, and more preferably 10 4 Ω. On the other hand, the upper limit of the volume resistance value of the conductive part 1a is preferably 10 8 Ω. To make the volume resistance value of the conductive part 1a less than the lower limit, it is necessary to increase the addition amount of the carbon black, and the flexibility may be insufficient, and for example, the operation feeling of the touch panel may deteriorate. Conversely, if the volume resistance value of the conductive part 1a exceeds the upper limit, it may be difficult to impart high explosion-proof performance.

[0082] The upper limit of the modulus of the conductive part 1a at 30% elongation is preferably 25 N / cm, more preferably 18 N / cm, and even more preferably 13 N / cm. If the modulus exceeds the upper limit, flexibility will be insufficient, which may worsen the feel of touch panel operation, for example. On the other hand, the lower limit of the modulus is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of maintaining the strength of the glove, it is preferably 1 N / cm, and more preferably 2 N / cm. The "modulus at 30% elongation" can be measured by the following method: A 1 cm x 6 cm test piece is cut from the finger portion of the glove, set in chucks spaced 40 mm apart, and pulled at a tensile speed of 500 mm / min. The modulus value at 30% elongation is taken as the individual modulus at 30% elongation for this test piece. This is done for four test pieces, and the arithmetic mean is taken as the modulus at 30% elongation.

[0083] The lower limit of the average thickness of the conductive part 1a is preferably 0.1 mm, and more preferably 0.15 mm. On the other hand, the upper limit of the average thickness of the conductive part 1a is preferably 1.0 mm, more preferably 0.8 mm, and even more preferably 0.6 mm. If the average thickness of the conductive part 1a is less than the lower limit, the wear resistance of the conductive part 1a may decrease, or it may become difficult to ensure conductivity. Conversely, if the average thickness of the conductive part 1a exceeds the upper limit, it may lack flexibility, for example, and the operability of the touch panel may deteriorate. The "average thickness" is the arithmetic mean of the thickness of 20 points measured at 200 μm intervals over a width of 4 mm, by observing the cross-section of a test piece cut from the center of the palm in the length direction of the fingers at 50x magnification.

[0084] <Method of manufacturing the gloves> The following describes each step in the manufacturing process of the glove 1.

[0085] (1st dipping step) In the first immersion step S1, the prepared knitted glove body 10 is placed over the hand shape, the hand shape is immersed in the coagulant solution, and after being removed, the solvent of the coagulant solution is evaporated. Examples of the knitted glove 10 to be prepared include those knitted using the aforementioned yarn on a glove knitting machine with a gauge of 13 to 26.

[0086] As the coagulant solution mentioned above, known solutions such as methanol solutions or aqueous solutions containing polyvalent metal salts or organic acids can be used. Among these, the inclusion of polyvalent metal salts is preferable. By including polyvalent metal salts in the coagulant solution, it is easier to suppress excessive penetration of the rubber latex into the knitted glove body 10 for forming the coating layer 20.

[0087] Examples of the polyvalent metal salts mentioned above include barium chloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, zinc chloride, aluminum chloride, barium nitrate, calcium nitrate, zinc nitrate, barium acetate, calcium acetate, zinc acetate, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, and aluminum sulfate. These can be used individually or in combination of two or more.

[0088] The lower limit of the content of the polyvalent metal salt in the above coagulant solution is preferably 0.1 parts by mass, more preferably 0.3 parts by mass, and even more preferably 0.5 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of solvent. On the other hand, the upper limit of the content of the polyvalent metal salt is not particularly limited as long as it can prevent the peeling of the coating layer 20 from the knitted glove body 10, but is preferably 5 parts by mass, and more preferably 4 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of solvent.

[0089] Examples of the above-mentioned organic acids include acetic acid and citric acid. The content of the above-mentioned organic acid in the coagulant solution is preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 50 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of solvent. This organic acid can be used alone, but it is preferable to use it in mixture with a polyvalent metal salt. By using it in mixture with a polyvalent metal salt, it is possible to prevent the thickness of the coating layer 20 from becoming thinner. In addition, it becomes easier to control the film-forming ability of the above-mentioned coagulant solution than when each is used alone.

[0090] When immersing the hand mold in the coagulant solution, the temperature of the hand mold is preferably 40°C to 70°C from the viewpoint of penetration of the coagulant into the knitted glove body 10.

[0091] The temperature at which the solvent is evaporated after immersion in and removal from the coagulant solution is preferably 25°C to 70°C, and the lower limit of the time for evaporating the solvent (evaporation time) is preferably 10 seconds. On the other hand, the upper limit of the evaporation time is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of productivity, 600 seconds is preferred. This evaporation of the solvent can control the penetration of the rubber latex in the next process, thereby preventing the coating layer 20 from penetrating into the inside of the knitted glove body 10 and reducing the tactile feel of the inner surface of the glove, while also preventing the formed coating layer 20 from peeling off. From the viewpoint of controlling the penetration of rubber latex, the evaporation time is more preferably 10 seconds to 180 seconds when the solvent is methanol, and more preferably 30 seconds to 600 seconds when the solvent is water.

[0092] (Second dipping step) In the second immersion step S2, the hand shape covered by the knitted glove body 10 after the first immersion step S1 is immersed in the rubber latex mixture and then removed.

[0093] Furthermore, if the coating layer 20 is to have a foamed structure, it is preferable to use the rubber latex compound that has been foamed using a foaming machine.

[0094] (drying process) In drying step S3, the moisture in the latex film formed by immersion in the rubber latex compound is evaporated. This drying step S3 can be carried out, for example, using a known oven.

[0095] The temperature at which moisture evaporates is preferably between 50°C and 100°C. If the temperature is below the lower limit, the undried latex coating may sag, potentially resulting in an uneven coating layer 20. Conversely, if the temperature exceeds the upper limit, rapid drying can easily lead to uneven drying, potentially resulting in an uneven coating layer 20.

[0096] Preferably, the process includes a solidification step in which the coating layer 20 is solidified at a temperature of 100°C to 140°C once the moisture content in the coating layer 20 has decreased. Alternatively, an additive removal step may be incorporated into the drying process before the solidification step, in which additives that have bled or bloomed from the coating layer 20 are removed by washing with water. Washing with water in the additive removal step before the solidification step is preferable in that it prevents discoloration of the knitted glove body 10 and the coating layer 20.

[0097] From the viewpoint of manufacturing efficiency, the time for evaporating moisture in the drying step S3 is preferably 10 minutes or more and 80 minutes or less, and the time for solidification in the solidification step is preferably 10 minutes or more and 80 minutes or less.

[0098] The second immersion step S2 and the drying step S3 may be repeated multiple times. Repeating these steps multiple times improves the uniformity of the formed coating layer 20. From the viewpoint of manufacturing efficiency, three or fewer repetitions are preferable.

[0099] <Advantages> The method for manufacturing these gloves uses the rubber latex compound of the present invention as the rubber latex compound, making it easier to secure conductive passages where carbon blacks are connected and extend, and enabling the production of gloves with excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility.

[0100] Furthermore, the glove 1 obtained using the manufacturing method of the glove has a carbon black content of 0.6 parts by mass or more and 9.5 parts by mass or less in the conductive portion 1a, while the surface resistance value of the conductive portion 1a is 10 3 Ω or more 10 8 It has high conductivity of Ω or less. In other words, it is thought that the glove 1 has many conductive passages where carbon blacks are connected and extend to each other. For this reason, the glove 1 has excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility.

[0101] [Second Embodiment] By using the glove manufacturing method shown in Figure 1, the glove 2 shown in Figure 4 can also be manufactured.

[0102] <Gloves> The glove 2 includes a conductive portion 2a that is exposed on the palmar outer surface of at least the second finger region A. Specifically, the glove 2 includes a coating 30 that constitutes the conductive portion 2a.

[0103] The covering 30 has a main body portion 30a formed in the shape of a bag to cover the wearer's hand, five finger portions 30b extending from the main body portion 30a to cover the wearer's first to fifth fingers, and a cylindrical base portion 30c extending from the main body portion 30a in the opposite direction to the finger portions 30b to cover the wearer's wrist.

[0104] The coating 30, or conductive part 2a, is mainly composed of rubber and also contains carbon black.

[0105] The main component of the above-mentioned rubber can be the same as the rubber component of the rubber latex contained in the rubber latex compound of the present invention described above.

[0106] Examples of the carbon black mentioned above include the same carbon black contained in the rubber latex compound of the present invention described above.

[0107] The lower limit of the amount of carbon black added to 100 parts by mass of rubber in the conductive part 2a is 0.6 parts by mass, more preferably 2 parts by mass, and even more preferably 3 parts by mass. On the other hand, the upper limit of the amount of carbon black added is 9.5 parts by mass, more preferably 8 parts by mass, and even more preferably 7 parts by mass. If the amount of carbon black added is less than the lower limit, the conductivity may be insufficient. Conversely, if the amount of carbon black added exceeds the upper limit, flexibility may be insufficient, and for example, the operability of the touch panel may deteriorate.

[0108] The lower limit of the surface resistance value of the conductive part 2a is 10 3 It is Ω and 10 4 Ω is more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of the surface resistance value of the conductive part 2a is 10 8The resistance value is Ω. In order to keep the surface resistance value of the conductive part 2a below the above lower limit, it becomes necessary to increase the amount of carbon black added, which may result in insufficient flexibility and, for example, a deterioration in the operability of the touch panel. Conversely, if the surface resistance value of the conductive part 2a exceeds the above upper limit, for example, the responsiveness of the touch panel may deteriorate.

[0109] The lower limit of the volume resistivity of the conductive part 2a is 10 3 Ω is preferred, 10 4 Ω is more preferable. On the other hand, the upper limit of the volume resistivity of the conductive part 2a is 10 8 Ω is preferred. In order to keep the volume resistivity of the conductive part 2a below the above lower limit, it becomes necessary to increase the amount of carbon black added, which may result in insufficient flexibility and, for example, a deterioration in the operability of the touch panel. Conversely, if the volume resistivity of the conductive part 2a exceeds the above upper limit, it may become difficult to provide high explosion-proof properties.

[0110] The upper limit of the modulus of the conductive portion 2a when it is elongated by 30% is preferably 12 N / cm, more preferably 10 N / cm, and even more preferably 8 N / cm. If the modulus exceeds the upper limit, the flexibility will be insufficient, which may worsen the feel of the touch panel, for example. On the other hand, the lower limit of the modulus is not particularly limited, but from the viewpoint of maintaining the strength of the glove, it is preferably 0.3 N / cm, and more preferably 0.5 N / cm.

[0111] The lower limit of the average thickness of the conductive part 2a is preferably 0.06 mm, and more preferably 0.08 mm. On the other hand, the upper limit of the average thickness of the conductive part 1a is preferably 0.4 mm, and more preferably 0.3 mm. If the average thickness of the conductive part 1a is less than the lower limit, the strength of the conductive part 2a may be insufficient, or it may be difficult to ensure conductivity. Conversely, if the average thickness of the conductive part 1a exceeds the upper limit, it may lack flexibility, which may worsen the feel of the touch panel, for example.

[0112] <Method of manufacturing the gloves> The following describes each step in the manufacturing process of the glove 2.

[0113] (1st dipping step) In the first immersion step S1, the handprint is directly immersed in the coagulant solution, and after being removed, the solvent of the coagulant solution is evaporated.

[0114] The above-mentioned coagulant solution can be the same as the coagulant solution used in the first immersion step S1 described in the first embodiment, except that the content of the polyvalent metal salt used is 5 parts by mass or more and 100 parts by mass or less per 100 parts by mass of solvent. Furthermore, the temperature of the handprint when immersing the handprint in the coagulant solution, the temperature at which the solvent evaporates, and the time for which the solvent evaporates can also be the same as those described in the first immersion step S1 described in the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0115] (Second dipping step) In the second immersion step S2, the hand mold after the first immersion step S1 is immersed in the rubber latex mixture and then removed.

[0116] From the viewpoint of moldability, it is preferable that the average thickness of the latex film formed in a single immersion be 0.05 mm or more and 0.6 mm or less. In other words, when forming a thick film 30, it is preferable to form the film 30 by immersing the rubber latex compound multiple times. When the above immersion is performed multiple times, it is preferable to repeat the second immersion step S2 and the drying step S3 described later multiple times in order to evaporate the moisture from the latex film between immersions.

[0117] (drying process) In drying step S3, the moisture in the latex film formed by immersion in the rubber latex compound is evaporated. Drying step S3 can be carried out in the same manner as drying step S3 described in the first embodiment.

[0118] <Advantages> By using this glove manufacturing method, even a glove 2 composed solely of the coating 30 can be made to have excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility.

[0119] [Other embodiments] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various modified and improved forms in addition to those described above.

[0120] The coating layer of the glove in the first embodiment and the coating of the glove in the second embodiment can be given an anti-slip effect or a visual effect. One method for giving the coating layer or coating an irregularity is to pre-make a desired irregularity on a hand shape and then transfer that shape. [Examples]

[0121] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to examples and comparative examples, but the invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0122] [Rubber latex compound] <No.1> For the rubber latex, we prepared "Lx550," an NBR latex manufactured by Nippon Zeon Co., Ltd.

[0123] As carbon black, we use Lion Specialty Chemicals' "W311N," an aqueous dispersion containing conductive carbon (the specific surface area of ​​the conductive carbon is 800 m²). 2 A carbon black aqueous dispersion was prepared (with a concentration of 365 ml / 100 g, DBP oil absorption, 0.4% by mass, and pH 7). The above carbon black aqueous dispersion was dispersed using a nonionic dispersant. The amount of the nonionic dispersant added per 100 parts by mass of the carbon black was 102 parts by mass.

[0124] As an anionic surfactant, we prepared Kao Corporation's "Neopelex G-15" (sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (soft type)). In addition, as a water-soluble polymer, we prepared Kuraray Corporation's polyvinyl alcohol "Poval PVA217" (saponification degree 88 mol%, partially to intermediate saponification).

[0125] To 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the above NBR latex, 0.2 parts by mass of the above anionic surfactant was added as a 16% by mass aqueous solution to the NBR latex, and then 0.3 parts by mass of the above water-soluble polymer was added as a 10% by mass aqueous solution, and the mixture was stirred for 10 minutes. Next, the above carbon black aqueous dispersion was added so that the solid content of the carbon black was 2.5 parts by mass (2.6 parts by mass of the nonionic dispersant) relative to 100 parts by mass of the solid content of the NBR latex, and after stirring for 30 minutes, the additives shown in Table 1 were added as other additives in the amounts (solid content) shown in Table 1 to obtain rubber latex compound No. 1. The solid content of the above rubber latex compound was 43% by mass, and the remainder was water.

[0126] [Table 1]

[0127] <No.2~No.24> Except for the type of rubber latex, the amount of carbon black added, and the type and amount of water-soluble polymer added, as shown in Table 3, rubber latex formulations No. 2 to No. 24 were obtained in the same manner as No. 1.

[0128] In Table 3, SUNWISE's "LATZ" was used as the NR rubber latex. When using NR rubber latex, the types and amounts (solid content) of other additives were as shown in Table 2, and the solid content of the rubber latex compound was 54% by mass, with the remainder being water.

[0129] [Table 2]

[0130] Regarding the types of water-soluble polymers, PVA217 refers to "Poval PVA217" used in No. 1. PVA117 and PVA424H are "Poval PVA117" (saponification degree 98 mol%, fully saponified) and "Poval PVA424H" (saponification degree 80 mol%, partially saponified), respectively, which are polyvinyl alcohols manufactured by Kuraray Co., Ltd. 65SH50 and SM400 are "Metholose 65SH50" (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) and "Metholose SM400" (methylcellulose), respectively, which are methylcelluloses manufactured by Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. "-" indicates that no water-soluble polymers have been added.

[0131] [evaluation] The mechanical stability and film-forming properties of rubber latex formulations No. 1 to No. 24 were investigated.

[0132] <Mechanical stability> A 500g rubber latex mixture was stirred at 200rpm using a turbine-type impeller in a HEIDON BL600 agitator with a 23°C jacket at a constant temperature. The time it took for the rubber latex mixture to gel was then visually observed and evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Table 3. (Evaluation Criteria) A: It remained stable for more than 7 days. B: Aggregated on day 4. C: Aggregated in 18 hours D: Aggregated in 2 hours

[0133] <Film forming properties> Film-like gloves were prepared, and the film-forming properties of the coating were evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Table 3. (Evaluation Criteria) A: No cracks were observed; the condition is good. B: The cracks are minor and do not pose any problems for use. C: Cracks have occurred.

[0134] The glove manufacturing process differed depending on whether NBR rubber latex or NR rubber latex was used, and the following procedure was followed.

[0135] (Preparation of gloves using NBR rubber latex compound) A ceramic hand mold without a surface coating, heated in a 70°C oven, was immersed in a coagulant (a methanol solution of 29% by mass calcium nitrate) and dried in a 70°C oven for 1 minute. Next, the hand mold was immersed in an NBR rubber latex mixture, and then dried and vulcanized in an oven at 60°C for 1 hour and 130°C for 35 minutes. The film was removed from the hand mold by inverting it, leached in 30°C water for 45 minutes, and then dried in a 70°C oven for 60 minutes to obtain the desired film-like glove.

[0136] (Preparation of gloves when using NR rubber latex formulations) A ceramic hand mold without a surface coating, heated in a 70°C oven, was immersed in a coagulant (a methanol solution of 29% by mass calcium nitrate) and dried in a 70°C oven for 1 minute. Next, the hand mold was immersed in an NR rubber latex mixture, and then dried and vulcanized in an oven at 60°C for 1 hour and at 115°C for 35 minutes. The film was removed from the hand mold, leached in 30°C water for 45 minutes, and then dried in a 70°C oven for 60 minutes to obtain the desired film-like glove.

[0137] [Table 3]

[0138] From the results in Table 3, it can be seen that rubber latex formulations No. 1 to No. 17, in which the amount of water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black is 8 parts by mass or more and 50 parts by mass or less, and the total amount of nonionic dispersant and water-soluble polymer added per 100 parts by mass of carbon black is 38 parts by mass or more and 200 parts by mass or less, exhibit excellent mechanical stability and film-forming properties for gloves.

[0139] On the other hand, rubber latex formulations No. 18 to No. 20 and No. 22 to No. 24, in which the amount of the above-mentioned water-soluble polymer added is less than 8 parts by mass, exhibit poor mechanical stability, while No. 21, in which the total amount of the above-mentioned nonionic dispersant and water-soluble polymer added exceeds 200 parts by mass, exhibits poor film-forming properties.

[0140] From the above, it can be said that by setting the amount of water-soluble polymer added to 100 parts by mass to 8 to 50 parts by mass, and the total amount of nonionic dispersant and water-soluble polymer added to 100 parts by mass to 38 to 200 parts by mass, a rubber latex compound with excellent mechanical stability and film-forming properties for gloves can be obtained.

[0141] [gloves] Using the rubber latex compound shown in Table 4 (rubber latex compound No. 2 in Table 3), a glove No. 25 was fabricated, comprising a knitted glove body made of fibers and a coating layer constituting the conductive part. The glove fabrication procedure is as follows.

[0142] (Making gloves No. 25) The glove body was knitted using a composite yarn made by wrapping a core of 312dtex woolly nylon (two strands of 78dtex-24f double yarn) with 22dtex-3f carbon composite organic fiber (KB Seiren's "9R1") at 300T / M, and then knitting the glove body using Shima Seiki's "N-SFG 13G" machine. The average thickness was 0.80mm.

[0143] The viscosity of the NBR rubber latex compound shown in Table 4 was adjusted to 1500 mPa·s (B-type viscometer) using a thickening agent (A-7075, manufactured by Toagosei Co., Ltd.). Next, the knitted glove body was placed over a metal hand mold, and the hand mold, which had been heated in a 70°C oven, was immersed in a coagulant (1.0% by mass calcium nitrate methanol solution) and then dried at room temperature for 30 seconds. Subsequently, the hand mold was immersed in the NBR rubber latex compound, dried at 85°C for 20 minutes, released, leached in 30°C water for 45 minutes, and then vulcanized at 130°C for 35 minutes. The glove was then removed from the hand mold to obtain the desired glove. The average thickness of the coating layer was 0.35 mm.

[0144] [evaluation] For gloves No. 25 and No. 2, surface resistance, volume resistivity, touch panel operability, and modulus at 30% elongation were evaluated.

[0145] (Surface resistance and volume resistance) Surface resistance and volume resistance were measured according to EN standards EN16350 and EN61340-2-3:2016 8, respectively. Specifically, test specimens were cut from the palm of the fabricated gloves, and connected using a PROSTAT PRS-812 resistance meter with concentric ring electrodes, following the surface resistance and volume resistance measurement procedures of the above standards. The displayed resistance value (Ω) was then read. The results are shown in Table 4.

[0146] (Touch panel usability) A cylindrical rod made of nylon (cross-sectional area 16.3 mm²) 2 We placed gloves over the iPhone 8 and evaluated whether the screen and main switch of the Apple iPhone 8 worked according to the following evaluation criteria. The results are shown in Table 4. (Evaluation Criteria) A: Move without stress B: I feel slightly stressed. C: It does not move at all, or it is difficult to touch the intended spot.

[0147] (Modulus when growing by 30%) Four 1cm x 6cm test pieces were cut from the finger of a glove, placed in chucks spaced 40mm apart, and pulled at a tensile speed of 500mm / min. The modulus value at 30% elongation was measured, and the average value was taken as the modulus at 30% elongation. The results are shown in Table 4.

[0148] [Table 4]

[0149] The results in Table 4 show that all forms of gloves perform well with touch panels. Furthermore, the modulus at 30% elongation is 8 N / cm or less, indicating high flexibility. From the above, it can be seen that by using the rubber latex compound of the present invention, gloves with excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility can be obtained, regardless of the glove form. [Industrial applicability]

[0150] As described above, the rubber latex compound of the present invention can be used to manufacture gloves that have excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility. Furthermore, the possible rubber latex compound, the gloves manufactured using this rubber latex compound, and the gloves of the present invention all have excellent touch panel responsiveness and high flexibility. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0151] 1, 2 gloves 1a, 2a Conductive part 10 Knitted Gloves 10a Main body 10b Finger part 10c hem 20 Coating layer 30 Coating 30a Main body 30b Finger part 30c hem A 2nd finger area

Claims

1. It comprises a conductive portion that is exposed on the palmar outer surface of at least the second finger region and is composed solely of a coating, The conductive part described above is mainly composed of rubber and has carbon black added to it. The amount of carbon black added to 100 parts by mass of the above rubber is 0.6 parts by mass or more and 9.5 parts by mass or less. The DBP oil absorption capacity of the above carbon black is 250 ml / 100g or more and 600 ml / 100g or less. The volatile content of the above carbon black is 0.3% by mass or more and less than 1.0% by mass. Gloves having a volume resistivity of the conductive part described above of 10³ Ω or more and 10⁸ Ω or less.

2. The glove according to claim 1, wherein the surface resistance of the conductive part is 10³ Ω or more and 10⁸ Ω or less.

3. The glove according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the average thickness of the conductive portion is 0.06 mm or more and 0.4 mm or less.

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