The adhesive on packaging tape can be activated in three main ways, depending on the type of tape:
1. Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs)
- This is the most common type for general packaging tapes like acrylic or hot-melt tapes.
- The adhesive is a mixture of elastomers and tackifiers that is sticky at room temperature.
- Activation occurs by applying pressure when the tape is pressed against the surface, causing the adhesive to bond quickly and conform to surface irregularities without needing heat or moisture
2. Water-Activated Adhesives (WAAs)
- Often called gummed tape or water-activated tape, this type uses a starch-based adhesive that is dry and non-sticky until moistened.
- Activation requires wetting the adhesive side with water using a sponge, tape dispenser with a water brush, or similar tool.
- Once wetted, the adhesive becomes sticky, penetrates the fibers of cardboard or paper packaging, and forms a very strong, tamper-evident bond as it dries within seconds
- This type is especially suited for sealing corrugated cardboard boxes and heavy-duty shipping containers.
3. Heat-Activated Adhesives (HAAs)
- These adhesives require a heat source to activate.
- Upon heating, the adhesive undergoes chemical changes that increase bond strength over minutes.
- Heat-activated tapes are used for bonding various materials like plastic, metal, or wood, depending on the adhesive formulation
Summary
- Pressure-sensitive tape : Activated by pressing the tape onto the surface.
- Water-activated tape : Activated by moistening the adhesive side with water before application.
- Heat-activated tape : Activated by applying heat to trigger bonding.
Your packaging tape's adhesive activation method depends on the tape type, but most common packaging tapes use pressure-sensitive adhesives activated by pressure, whereas water-activated tapes require wetting to activate the adhesive
