Double Sided Tape Key Terms

Stick to these key terms for improving your double-sided tape knowledge

By L. Newton

Double-sided tape is a common way of bonding two items; the tape has many different styles, features, and uses. Double-sided tape key terms help users identify the different types of tape materials, adhesives, and strengths. Words such as tensile strength, acid-free, heat-activated, and pressure-sensitive all refer to the features of double-sided tape. The terms acrylic transfer tape and cloth double-sided tape both describe a type of tape. Double-sided tape key terms can help in selecting a type of tape for projects.

Tensile strength

The tensile strength of double-sided tape is the measure of how much the tape can stretch before it breaks. In many cases, the tensile strength is listed in the double-sided tape description. The higher the tensile strength of the double-sided tape, the less likely the tape is to break under pressure.
Try: Read more about measuring tensile strength and its meaning from Britannica.

Pressure-sensitive adhesives, PSA

Pressure-sensitive double-sided tape is the most common type of application for tape. This type of tape sticks when pressed onto a surface. Tapes that are not pressure-sensitive are typically water or heat activated.
Try: The Office Guide discusses more about pressure-sensitive tape.

Acrylic transfer tape

Acrylic transfer tape is a double-sided tape that is durable, long-lasting, and heavy duty. It comes on a siliconized paper liner and has extreme adhesive strength. It is not affected by temperature, UV, water vapor, or aging.
Try: View an article about acrylic transfer tape from Thomas Net News.

Cloth double-sided tape

Cloth double-sided tape is a temporary tape used to bond items for short periods of time. Its most common use is for holding down carpet. You find this tape in a variety of colors.
Try: Find Tape offers information about cloth double-sided tape.

Heat-activated

Some double-sided tape is heat-activated. Heat-activated tape creates a strong bond when it encounters heat. One side of the tape is coated with a heat-activated material. The other is coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive, or PSA. Both sides are covered with a protective silicone liner. This tape works with surfaces that are difficult to bond.
Try: Avery Dennison addresses the meaning of heat-activated tape.