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Adhesive tape is an adhesive-coated fastening tape used for temporary or, in some cases, permanent joining. Single-sided tapes allow joining of two overlapping or adjoining materials, while double-sided tape (adhesive on both sides) allows joining of two items back-to-back.

These tapes are made by applying an adhesive emulsion to a tape or film that is then wound onto a roll. Manufacture often involves winding large films of material onto a roll and then cutting the roll into convenient widths.

Adhesive tape was invented in 1925 by Richard Drew of 3M. The original tape was a paper-backed masking tape. Transparent and other tapes grew from this invention.

Varieties of Adhesive Tape

• Transparent Tape ("Sticky Tape") like Scotch Tape and Sellotape is cellulose-based and transparent.
• 'Gaffer tape' is normally based on a heavy fabric or plastic tape. The name derives from its use by gaffers in the entertainment industry among others, to hold down cables particularly to obviate or prevent tripping hazard.
• Duct tape (sometimes referred to as "duck tape") has a fabric backing and many uses.
• Masking tape is used to cover areas that shouldn't be painted. It has a paper backing and weak adhesive.
• Electrical tape is made of materials like vinyl that do not conduct electricity.
• Surgical tape is an adhesive bandage used to hold a dressing on a wound.

Tape Glossary

• Backing (substrate). The primary component of tape upon which an adhesive is applied. Examples are cloth, paper, metal foil, film etc.
• Conformability. Ability of a tape to make total contact with a surface.
• Release Coating. A very thin coating applied to the impervious tape backing so as to allow the tape to be unwound at a controlled level.
• Tack. The sticky feel of the tape
• Unwind. The act of removing or unwinding the tape from a roll