Pressure sensitive tape consists of a pressure sensitive adhesive coated onto a backing material such as paper, plastic film, cloth, or metal foil. Some tapes have a removable liner which protects the adhesive until the liner is removed. Layers of adhesives, primers, easy release materials, filaments, printing, etc. are made for specific functions.
Pressure sensitive tape will stick with the application of pressure, without the need for solvent, heat, or water for activation. By contrast a "water activated" tape requires water for activation. Likewise, some "heat activated" tapes require heat.
Single-sided tape allows bonding to a surface or joining of two adjacent or overlapping materials. Double-sided tape(adhesive on both sides) allows joining of two items back-to-back.
Pressure sensitive tapes are available in a variety of backings and adhesives offering a large range of tackiness, adhesion, temperature and chemical resistance. Typical uses include but are not limited to paint masking, holding, bundling, strapping, palletizing, surface protection, tabbing, mounting, bonding, adhering, cushioning, gasketing, surface protection to name just a few.
Additional information about our industry can be found at the Pressure Sensitive Tape Council.