Anticut

Anticut, also written anticut, is a broad term used to describe materials, fabrics, and products designed to resist cuts and lacerations from sharp tools or blades. It covers protective gloves, sleeves, aprons, and protective fabrics used in various workplaces where handling sharp objects is common.

Anticut solutions typically rely on high-performance fibers and composites. Common components include aramid fibers (such as Kevlar or Twaron), UHMW-PE fibers (like Dyneema or Spectra), stainless steel or steel-miber fibers, and blends with cotton or polyamide. Protective layers may be knitted or woven and can be combined with coatings (nitrile, polyurethane, or Latex) to improve grip, chemical resistance, or water to wet conditions. Some systems use metal mesh or chainmail for higher levels of protection. The goal is to balance cut resistance with dexterity, comfort, and heat tolerance.

Standards and testing for anticut products typically involve mechanical and cut-resistance assessments. In Europe, gloves are evaluated under EN 388 for overall mechanical protection and ISO 13997 for precise cut resistance measured in newtons. In the United States, ANSI/ISEA standards provide guidance on glove performance, including cut resistance categories. Results are used to indicate the level of protection and are intended to guide selection for specific tasks.

Applications and industries that rely on anticut products include food processing, meat and fish handling, woodworking, metal fabrication, glass handling, and healthcare settings where sharp instruments are used. Proper use also involves training, correct sizing, and combining gloves with other safety measures to reduce exposure to sharp objects.

Limitations include variability in real-world performance, potential degradation from abrasion or chemicals, and the need for regular inspection and replacement. Anticut gear is most effective when selected to match the specific risk and task, rather than as a universal solution.