Adhesive tape is a product that features a layer of adhesive designed to bond and join materials while also protecting surfaces. It consists of a backing or carrier, which can be made from materials such as paper, plastic film, cloth, foam, or foil, and is coated with adhesive. In some instances, a release liner is included. These coated backings are rolled into large rolls and then cut into narrower strips for ease of use.
The application of adhesive tape may require slight pressure, heat, or moisture, depending on the specific design of the tape. Pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes adhere when pressure is applied, while heat-activated tapes require a heat source for bonding. Water-activated tapes, often referred to as gummed paper or gummed tapes, utilize a starch or animal glue base along with a kraft paper backing that becomes sticky when moistened. Non-adhesive films, tapes, or laminates are designed to stick on their own.
