The American inventor Thomas Edison is best known for inventing the electric lightbulb. Lesser known but equally significant was the first adhesive packing tape – kraft paper tape with a starch based, water activated adhesive. In time, plastic film tapes and pressure-sensitive adhesives were developed, and these soon became more popular because they were easier to use.

More recently, the full benefits of Edison’s ‘gummed paper tape’ are being recognised and Tegrabond® water activated tape is now replacing plastic tape in the world’s largest order fulfilment organisations.

Performs better

Water activated tape adhesive penetrates the fibres of cardboard cartons and dries quickly and completely. The bond is highly resistant to distortion of the carton and won’t soften when warm or become brittle when cold, and the tape can’t be removed from the carton without leaving visible damage.

In contrast, pressure-sensitive adhesives never fully dry. They don’t adhere well to poor quality cardboard or uneven surfaces and the bond easily bursts under carton distortion. They soften with moderate heat, increasing the risk of the bond failing in warmer conditions. When the adhesive is soft, the tape is easily peeled back and resealed without trace, so contents are at higher risk of being pilfered or tampered with.

Costs less

Because of this bond strength, Tegrabond uses less tape and time to seal a carton securely. Total cost per carton is reduced and productivity is increased.

Looks smarter

Tegrabond water activated tapes are manufactured from natural unbleached or white kraft papers, which aesthetically blend with the surface finish of cardboard. They are less susceptible to creasing and stretch, and as a single strip of tape is sufficient, taped joins will always look neat and professional.

Stays greener

Environmental legislation is forcing organisations to use sustainable materials, reduce landfill and increase recycling. Tegrabond tapes are made solely from natural materials taken from sustainable sources – natural kraft and starch adhesives, which need no mechanical or chemical separation to be recycled with waste cardboard. Tegrabond is an Xtegra® product brand.

XTEGRA®

Tel: 0333 005 9592

packagingbrands.eu.com/xtegra

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