Guide to Tape Adhesives

There are many different types of adhesive systems when it comes to pressure-sensitive tapes. Each type of adhesive is designed specifically for a purpose and application. Knowing the difference between each type of adhesive system is important in order to get the best results for your particular job or use.

Pressure sensitive adhesives are most commonly offered in silicone, solvent-acrylic, and rubber-based formulations. The method in which bonding occurs, for a pressure sensitive adhesive, is by determining adhesive compatibility to your substrate surface. Pressure-sensitive adhesive systems require applied pressure and dwell time to provide ultimate adhesion to your substrate. Each adhesive type exhibits unique performance characteristics.

SILICONE ADHESIVE

Silicone adhesive systems are most commonly used in applications that require high temperature performance and clean removability.

Silicones are available in both single-coated and double-coated tape constructions with varying coat weights and colors depending upon your application requirements. Compared to acrylic and rubber adhesive systems, silicone psa’s are considerably costlier.

Low Surface Energy Surfaces (LSE):

PVA, Polystyrene, Acetal, EVA, Tedlar, Silicone, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PVF, PTFE, Powder Paint, Acetal

SOLVENT ACRYLIC ADHESIVE 

Solvent Acrylic adhesive systems are most commonly used in applications that require a steady resistance to solvents, chemicals, UV light, plasticizers, and moisture. They are available in both single-coated and double-coated tape constructions with varying coat weights and colors depending upon your application requirements. Acrylic adhesive performance provides a good balance of initial tack and shear strength. Compared to silicone adhesive systems they are less costly.

High Surface Energy Surfaces (HSE):

PET, ABS, Polycarbonate, Rigid PVC, Acrylic, Nylon, Epoxy Paint, Polyurethane, Copper, Aluminum, Zinc, Tin, Lead, Stainless Steel, Glass

Low Surface Energy Surfaces (LSE):

PVA, Polystyrene, Acetal, EVA, Tedlar, Silicone, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PVF, PTFE, Powder Paint, Acetal

RUBBER ADHESIVE

Rubber adhesive systems are most commonly used in applications that require a very high initial bond, mild chemical and solvent resistance at low operating temperatures 25F to 150F. They are available in both single-coated and double-coated tape constructions with varying coat weights and colors depending upon your application requirements. Rubber adhesive is most commonly used in applications that require short-term, permanent, indoor bonding. Compared to acrylic adhesive systems they are less costly.

Low Surface Energy Surfaces (LSE):

PVA, Polystyrene, Acetal, EVA, Tedlar, Silicone, Polyethylene, Polypropylene, PVF, PTFE, Powder Paint, Acetal

QUESTIONS TO IDENTIFY THE CORRECT ADHESIVE SYSTEM FOR YOUR APPLICATION:

Now that you have a basic understanding of the 3 main types of pressure-sensitive adhesive systems, here are some questions that you may want to ask when selecting the right tape for your application. Of course, your Elite Tape specialist will be happy to further talk about these important differences.

Elite Tape’s Technical Support Team is ready to help by providing any additional information and options. Our technical expertise, customer support, converting capabilities and fast turnaround put us in a unique position to address your most challenging application requirements.

At Elite Tape, “We Make It Easy.”