Adhesive tape (also called pressure-sensitive tape, PSA tape, clear tape, or sticky tape) is a type of pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) material coated onto a backing material such as paper, plastic film, cloth, or metal foil.
How is a clear tape made?
A layer of adhesive is attached to the backing material to make an adhesive tape. The adhesive may be applied to the backing in a molten state and then cooled to a stable condition. The adhesive is applied in its solid form in another method and subsequently heated to tack. The adhesive may also be applied in solution form. The backing material may be paper, cloth, or plastic films such as polyethylene or polypropylene.
The glue or adhesive used is generally some form of rubber compound. Natural rubber compounds are preferred for adhesives because they have good resistance to water and weathering; synthetic rubbers have better resistance to chemicals and oils. Synthetic rubber compounds are based on polymers such as polychloroprene and polyisobutylene.
A particular type of clear tape has pressure-sensitive qualities that allow it to stick firmly when pressed but permit easy removal without leaving a residue. This tape consists of a plastic backing coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive covered by a removable strip of waxed paper or plastic film (see pressure-sensitive tapes). Another specialty tape is masking tape, designed for painters who want the paint to adhere only to designated areas on walls and woodwork.