There are a variety of different types of double-sided tapes. Some have a carrier material, like polyester or polyurethane foam while others have no carrier and are much thinner.
The type of stress, friction, and movement the adhesive tape will need to withstand will greatly influence what carrier is required. UV radiation exposure is also something to consider.
Adhesive Strength
The adhesive strength of tape is important, particularly for jobs that require heavy loads. The surface contact-to-weight ratio also matters. For example, thicker tapes work better for rough surfaces than thinner ones. The material’s surface energy plays a role in adhesion as well. Surfaces with high surface energy like glass, glazed tile, and bare metals stick to most adhesives well; plastics can vary from relatively easy to very difficult. Silicone, on the other hand, has very low surface energy and requires a very tacky adhesive or one specially formulated for it.
Another factor is the environment in which the tape will be used. For instance, cold conditions can significantly reduce a tape’s tackiness, and extremely hot temperatures can cause the adhesive to melt. If the tape will be exposed to UV rays, consider choosing one that has been UV-stabilized. Lastly, check to see whether the double-sided adhesive tape will leave any residue after removal.
Temperature Resistant
The surface that the tape is bonding to and the climate it will be used in play a huge role in its ability to stick. For example, if the surface will be subject to extreme heat, then it is best to choose a high-temperature-resistant tape.
In the same way, if the tape is to be used outdoors, then it is important to ensure that the backing of the tape has been treated for UV resistance. This is to protect the adhesive from degradation caused by the sun’s harmful UV rays.
In addition to the physical properties of the tape such as peel strength or adhesion, tensile or breaking strength and temperature resistance, it is also essential to consider the thickness of the tape. The thinner the tape, the less weight it will be able to hold. This factor is especially important when bonding lightweight surfaces such as poly sheeting.
Moisture Resistant
Double-sided tapes have an adhesive layer on both sides, which allows for joining items back-to-back. Unlike transfer tape, which has no carrier and is used in applications that require flexibility and stretch, double-sided tapes have the internal strength to improve handling and enable the bonding of dissimilar materials.
The type of surface on which the tape will adhere plays a key role in selecting the proper adhesive. Smooth surfaces like glass, glazed tile, and bare metals are ideal for thin, clear tapes; rougher or coated surfaces need thicker options that can handle the additional weight.
Ultimately, choosing the right tape comes down to knowing your job and the materials you’re working with. Consider the surface material, temperature range, and load to ensure you’re getting the best results from your project. Remember, it’s always a good idea to test the tape and surface before committing to a permanent bond. The wrong tape can damage your product and lead to an expensive, time-consuming mess.
Chemical Resistant
With pressure-sensitive adhesive exposed on both sides, the double-sided tape allows the bonding of two similar or different substrates or parts. Its versatility allows for a variety of uses, from mounting emblems onto vehicles to temporarily securing items at trade shows.
The selection process begins by evaluating the surface characteristics of the substrates that will be bonded together. The flatter and smoother the surfaces are, the thinner the tape can be. Conversely, rougher surfaces require thicker tape to provide sufficient contact.
Chemical resistance is also an important consideration, especially if the adhesive will be used near chemically treated or coated surfaces. If the chemicals will be highly corrosive, consider using an acetone-based or solvent-resistant tape. Alternatively, Fundermax offers a line of high-performance adhesive tapes for laboratory use, which are resistant to hydrochloric acid and other harsh chemicals. They are also durable, and sustainable, and come in a wide variety of widths and liners, including extended liners.