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Adhesive tape

technology Maturity 11-13 Next article →

Adhesive tape is a versatile tool used in many industries. It consists of a backing material coated with a sticky substance called an adhesive. This backing provides strength and structure to the tape. The adhesive layer allows the tape to bond to various surfaces. Different types of tape exist to serve very specific purposes. Some stick instantly, while others require a change in temperature or moisture.

Adhesive tapes clear
Adhesive tapes clear

Pressure-sensitive tape is one of the most common varieties. It is also known as PSA tape or self-stick tape. This type of tape is tacky without any heat or solvent. It works by applying light pressure to the surface. The adhesive is often a polymer, which is a large molecule. Common examples include acrylates or natural and synthetic rubber.

MODODennison
MODODennison

Because PSA tape is always sticky, it needs special protection. It usually requires a release agent on its backing. Alternatively, a release liner may cover the adhesive layer. The backing materials for these tapes vary widely. They can be made of paper, plastic film, cloth, or metal foil. This variety allows the tape to be used on many different objects.

Water-activated tape is another distinct category. This is also called gummed paper tape or gummed tape. It uses an adhesive made from starch or animal glue. The backing for this tape is always paper. The tape remains non-sticky until it is moistened with water. Once wetted, the adhesive becomes active and bonds to surfaces.

Water Activated Gummed Tape
Water Activated Gummed Tape

This water-activated variety is often used for sealing corrugated fiberboard boxes. It is typically 3 inches or 7.5 cm wide. A specific type is called reinforced gummed tape, or RGT. This version is much stronger than standard gummed tape. It features two layers of paper with fiberglass filaments laminated between them. The adhesive used for this lamination was once asphalt. Today, manufacturers more commonly use a hot-melt atactic polypropylene.

Carton box seal tape
Carton box seal tape

There are also tapes that react to temperature. Heat-sensitive tape is usually tack-free during normal use. It only becomes sticky when it is activated by a heat source. This specific property is very useful in the semiconductor industry. Other specialized tapes exist for construction needs. Drywall tape is used to join the seams between sheets of drywall. It can be made from paper, cloth, or mesh. Some of these tapes use gummed adhesive, while others use PSA adhesive.

Technical standards ensure that these products work reliably. For example, the specifications for gummed tapes are covered by ASTM standard D5749. This standard helps define the quality and use of the tape. From sealing heavy boxes to working with tiny semiconductors, adhesive tape is essential. It connects different materials through various chemical and physical processes.

Water Activated Gummed Tape
Water Activated Gummed Tape
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File:Adhesive tapes clear.JPG
Adhesive tapes clear.JPG
File:MODODennison.jpg
MODODennison.jpg
File:Carton box seal tape.jpg
Carton box seal tape.jpg
File:Water Activated Gummed Tape.jpg
Water Activated Gummed Tape.jpg
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