The most common product used to seal cartons is an adhesive tape that utilizes OPP film as the backing, but did you know that not all packaging tape is created equal? The 3 most widely accepted adhesives are Natural rubber, Synthetic rubber (hotmelt) and Acrylic. We’d like to share with you the advantages and disadvantages for each type of adhesive and hopefully make the selection process perhaps a little less complicated.

NATURAL RUBBER SOLVENT BASED ADHESIVE

Advantages

• Will provide a more aggressive adhesion when compared to that of an acrylic Water Based Tape. It’s essentially more “sticky”.
• Bonds with a wide variety of material types; including plastic and cardboard packaging made from recycled fibre and kraft paper.
• Suitable for use in a broad range of temperatures, including cold storage and freezer applications

Disadvantages

• Not suitable for exposure to UV light or chemicals.
• Susceptible to oxidation and may darken or discolour over time.

SYNTHETIC RUBBER BASED ADHESIVE (HOTMELT)

Advantages

• Synthetic rubber adhesive is aggressive, strong and holds well.
• Can withstand low temperatures.
• Low unwinding force, allowing the tape to be easily pulled from the roll. Good choice for use with automatic packing machinery.

Disadvantages

• Can’t withstand high temperatures.
• Low resistance to UV light, so avoid exposure to sunlight.

ACRYLIC WATER BASED ADHESIVE

Advantages

• Offers superior durability and longevity on surfaces such as metal and glass.
• Will not break down when exposed to UV light, chemicals or oxidation.
• Colour stable and resistant to aging (will remain clear and not yellow).

Disadvantages

• Lower tack & therefore weaker adhesion to materials such as used boxes and cardboard packaging made from recycled fibre.
• Poor tolerance to low temperatures and humidity.

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