Understanding the Chemicals in Packing Tape: A Comprehensive Guide

Packing tapes contain different types of chemicals; knowing the difference in the types of chemicals can help you choose the right tape for your wants and needs.

Polyterpene Resin Adhesive

• Most packing tape uses a polymer blend enhanced with a polyterpene resin. Unlike glue, which reacts with air to change states and harden, polymer blends do not change states. Natural rubber is a source for the polymer blend; turpentine is the source of the chemical isolates that create polyterpene resin.

Water-based Adhesive

• Other packing tapes have water-based adhesive. These adhesives are nontoxic and do not contain solvents or hydrocarbons. Unlike polyterpene resin tapes, tapes with water-based adhesives do not have an odor.

Acrylic

• Most packing tapes are made of acrylic; the chemical composition of this type of plastic includes natural gas, sulfuric acid and methanol.