What Are TPE Gloves? Understanding Their Composition and Applications

Ask GIA™ Blog

Glove Intelligent Assistant
01.14.2025

Gloves can be made out of many different materials, which previous ASK GIA blogs have elaborated on. Some of the more popular materials include latex, nitrile, neoprene, and polyethylene for single-use applications. Mechanical gloves are typically made from different woven textiles combining elastomeric coatings. Meanwhile vinyl gloves are suited for general use or processing food. Recently, there has been a new glove material trending in the industry. Thermoplastic elastomer or TPE is becoming more popular due to its interesting properties.

TPE is usually a combination of plastic and rubber polymers. This quality makes them easier to manufacture as it consumes less energy to produce, generating a smaller carbon footprint. The material is able to withstand a wide range of temperatures. TPE can be colored easily by most dyes and requires little or no compounding. There isn’t a need to add additional stabilizers to prolong TPE’s life cycle or reinforce its plastic properties. TPE has more recyclability potential as per its Thermoplastic property. Overall, this makes a strong economic and environmental argument for producing TPE gloves over other glove materials.

Compared to other glove materials, TPE is hypoallergenic. This makes it edge out over traditional latex gloves. Potentially, even outdoing nitrile gloves. Sometimes nitrile gloves will contain additives that can irritate those with sensitive skin. The clean material and manufacturing process result in low residue gloves that reduce the risk of harmful skin reactions. In terms of comfortability, TPE gloves mold smoothly to the hand, providing great dexterity. The material has great elasticity, which makes TPE gloves tear and puncture resistant. For chemical protection, TPE gloves provide chemical resistance similar to natural rubber latex.

SW recommends using TPE gloves for less demanding and lower risk applications to reserve nitrile and latex gloves for frontline workers during this time of high PPE demand due to the Coronavirus pandemic. SW is well known for our nitrile exam grade gloves and our industrial protection gloves, but we also carry TPE gloves. SW’s Bantam glove series is the economical choice for comfort and convenient protection. Our TPE glove series is available in exam grade or industrial grade styles. On top of TPE’s natural potential for recyclability, one of SW’s Bantam gloves contains EcoTek technology. EcoTek is our patented, environmentally sustainable glove coating that reduces solid waste through microbial action when disposed of in a modern landfill.

More information on our Bantam series can be found on the SW website and individual product pages. As a brand, we are always focused on what are the relevant discussions happening in the industry. Our brand prioritizes developing new sustainable glove technology with our newest TPE glove series.

About SW Sustainability Solutions

At SW, we are committed to leading the glove industry in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Our innovative EcoTek® technology exemplifies our dedication to sustainable solutions, while our expertise in sweat management ensures comfort and performance. We also offer specialized chemical compatibility support, assisting customers in selecting gloves tailored to their unique needs. Our mission is to provide products that prioritize safety, health, and environmental responsibility for our customers and the planet.