Water Activated Paper Tape

Activation and Bonding

Water-activated tape uses a dry starch-based adhesive that is chemically inert until moistened. When water is applied (either manually or through an electric tape dispenser with a built-in water reservoir), the adhesive becomes tacky and is pressed onto the corrugated surface. As the adhesive dries, it penetrates into the corrugated fibers and forms a permanent bond that integrates the tape into the carton surface. Attempting to remove the tape tears the corrugated fibers, making tampering immediately visible.

Reinforced vs. Non-Reinforced

• Reinforced tape is constructed from two layers of kraft paper with fiberglass or polyester filament strands laminated between them in a cross-pattern grid. This construction provides high tensile strength (200+ N per 25 mm width) and puncture resistance, preventing the tape from tearing under stress. Reinforced tape is specified for heavy cartons (up to approximately 70 kg), long-distance shipping, and applications where the carton seal must withstand stacking pressure, vibration, and rough handling.
• Non-reinforced tape is a single layer of kraft paper without filament reinforcement. It provides a strong adhesive bond to corrugated but lower tensile and tear strength than reinforced tape. Non-reinforced tape is suited for light to medium-duty cartons (up to approximately 25 lbs) and applications where full recyclability without fiber separation is a priority.

Tamper Evidence

The fiber-tearing bond created by water-activated tape is the primary security feature. Unlike pressure-sensitive carton sealing tape, which can be peeled off and replaced without visible damage, water-activated tape destroys the carton surface when removed. This makes it the preferred sealing method for high-value goods, pharmaceutical shipments, electronics, and any application where proof of non-tampering is required.

Dispensing Equipment

Water-activated tape requires a dispensing system that wets the adhesive surface during application. Manual dispensers use a water brush or sponge roller, while electric/electronic dispensers automatically wet and cut tape to preset lengths. Electronic dispensers are standard for high-volume operations, providing consistent adhesive activation and precise tape lengths for uniform sealing.

Sustainability

Water-activated tape is manufactured from kraft paper and starch-based adhesive, both of which are derived from renewable resources. Non-reinforced tape is fully recyclable and repulpable in the standard corrugated recycling stream without requiring separation. Reinforced tape is biodegradable but the fiberglass strands may require separation at recycling facilities that do not accept mixed-material tape.