Abstract: A method for modifying the surface chemistry of an elastomeric substrate and articles embodying the substrate is described. The method involves pre-treating the substrate surface to create active oxygen groups on the substrate for immobilizing securely an antimicrobial agent to the substrate. The active oxygen groups can react and bind with functional groups of the antimicrobial molecules according to predetermined orientation to enhance biocide reactivity.

Abstract: A textured elastomeric article and a method of making such an article is disclosed. The article includes a substrate body having an inside surface and a plurality of alkaline earth salt particles embedded within at least a portion of the inside surface but not extending through the thickness of the article such that no separate binder material is needed to affix the particles.

Abstract: An elastomeric article (e.g., glove, condom, and so forth) coated with a hydrogel is provided. The hydrogel coating facilitates dry and/or damp donning. In addition, due its low coefficient of friction, the hydrogel allows stripping of a dip-formed article without the use of an antiblocking powder. Thus, the present inventors have discovered that certain treatment steps, such as chlorination and/or lubrication, conventionally conducted “off-line” (i.e., after stripping) are no longer required. Moreover, even when such treatments are used, they may conducted “in-line” (i.e., before stripping). The ability to eliminate certain off-line treatment steps provides a significant improvement in the efficiency of the forming process.