Experimental Investigation of the Wettability of Protective Glove Materials: A Biomimetic Perspective

Abstract

The objective of the present work was to evaluate the surface wettability of commercially available polymeric protective gloves, as well as to determine the effects of their surface topography in conjunction with the glove material on the hydrophobic properties of the final products, together with surface free energy (SFE) and work of adhesion. The geometric structures imparted to the surface led to different levels of hydrophobicity and SFE. Most of the studied materials were characterized by good wettability properties. It was shown that a textured surface topography affects wettability. The highest SFE was found for nitrile butadiene rubber materials. All materials except for nitrile butadiene rubber exhibited good hydrophobic properties and relatively low work of adhesion.