Cutresistance

Cutresistance is the ability of a material to resist being cut by a sharp edge or blade. It is a material property that spans textiles, polymers, metals, and composites, and it is especially important for safety equipment such as cut-resistant gloves and protective clothing. The level of cut resistance depends on material composition, structure, thickness, and surface characteristics, as well as how the material is used, including the blade type, speed, force, and angle of contact.

In textiles, cut resistance arises from high-strength fibers, such as aramids and UHMWPE, and from fabric architecture, layering, and finishes that limit blade penetration. In metals and composites, hardness, toughness, and fracture energy govern resistance to cutting action. The performance is often enhanced by multi-layer constructions and surface treatments that reduce ease of blade ingress.

Measurement and standards for cut resistance vary by application. Common approaches include tests that measure the force required to cut through a sample or the depth of blade penetration under a given load. ISO 13997 is a widely cited method that reports cutting force in newtons. For gloves and protective apparel, standards such as EN 388 and ANSI/ISEA 105 provide rating scales or classifications that enable comparison of products, though the exact scoring systems differ by standard and region.

Applications include personal protective equipment for construction, meat processing, glass handling, and logistics, as well as protective fabrics and laminates. Limitations include the context-dependent nature of protection; performance can change with humidity, wear, blade geometry, and real-world work conditions. See also protective clothing, PPE, material science, blade safety.