The Complete Guide to Water-Activated Tape: From Principles to Applications

Have you ever wondered about that brown tape on cardboard boxes? It looks like paper but seals boxes tightly.

That’s water-activated tape (WAT), also known as gummed tape. Unlike regular adhesive tape, it needs water to activate its stickiness.

Once moistened, it bonds securely to the box, making it ideal for packages that require safe transportation.

Today, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about water-activated tape—how it works, what it’s used for, and why it’s so useful!

Where Did Water-Activated Tape Come From?

This tape has been around for quite some time—since the early 20th century! Back then, people started using it for sealing boxes. Over the years, the paper quality and adhesive formula have improved significantly, making it stronger and more convenient.

Nowadays, both logistics companies and small businesses rely on it for secure packaging.

How Does It Stick?

Water-activated tape may seem high-tech, but the principle behind it is actually quite simple.

It has a paper backing with a starch-based adhesive coating. When water is applied, the adhesive is activated and soaks into the fibers of both the tape and the cardboard. Once it dries, the bond is extremely strong.

The best part? Since the adhesive is plant-based starch, the tape is biodegradable. It can be recycled along with the box, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Why Is Water-Activated Tape So Popular?

Here are some key advantages:

✅ Strong Adhesion – Once applied, it becomes one with the cardboard, making it difficult to remove. This makes it ideal for secure packaging of valuable goods.