Eco-friendly adhesive tapes

An eco-friendly adhesive tape is a solution designed to reduce certain impacts associated with traditional packaging tapes. Depending on the product, this approach may rely on a paper or kraft backing, a plant-based adhesive, a bio-sourced material, or a design that facilitates the sorting of packaging. It is therefore important to check the specific characteristics of each tape rather than relying solely on its name.

The choice depends on the weight of the package, the quality of the cardboard, the transport conditions, and the method of application. A kraft adhesive tape may be suitable for common closures, while a reinforced kraft or a reinforced gummed tape will be more appropriate for heavy boxes. It is also necessary to check the material of the backing, the adhesive technology, and the indications regarding the end-of-life of the product.

A kraft adhesive tape has a pressure-sensitive adhesive that can be applied with a compatible manual or automatic dispenser. A gummed tape has a dry adhesive that must be moistened before application. Once activated, it adheres to the fibres of the cardboard and allows for a closure that is difficult to remove without visibly damaging the packaging.

Not systematically. The recyclability depends on the combination of the substrate, the adhesive, any reinforcements, and the packaging to which the tape is applied. A paper substrate can facilitate compatibility with cardboard, but it is necessary to consult the technical information of the product and the guidelines of the relevant sector before claiming that the whole is recyclable. Citeo specifically evaluates the compatibility of each component with the recycling streams of paper and cardboard.

These terms do not refer to the same property. A bio-based material is made, at least in part, from renewable resources. A biodegradable material can be broken down under certain conditions, while a compostable product must meet specific composting conditions. The term biodegradable does not mean that the tape can be discarded in nature or automatically placed in a domestic compost.

Yes, provided that a solution with sufficient mechanical strength and adhesion is selected. Heavy cartons may require reinforced kraft tape or reinforced gummed tape rather than standard paper tape. The weight of the package, the quality of the cardboard, the duration of transport, and the handling conditions must be taken into account before making a choice.

It is advisable to specify the type of cardboard, the weight of the packages, the storage conditions, the application rate, and the environmental objectives sought. DERFI can compare the different solutions, conduct closure tests, and guide the user towards paper tape, reinforced kraft, gummed tape, or a bio-based adhesive suitable for their application.