Understanding How Water-Activated Tape Can Transform Your Packaging Process!

Water-activated tape (WAT) is rapidly gaining popularity among courier services, e-commerce platforms, manufacturers, and exporters due to its eco-friendly nature. But is it truly worth adopting? This article will help you explore its working principles, advantages, usage recommendations, and JL3 product model suggestions from multiple perspectives. Ready? Let’s dive in!

What Is Water-Activated Tape, and How Does It Work?

Water-activated tape is a new type of eco-friendly packaging tape made from kraft paper and starch-based adhesives. Its adhesive properties are activated only when moistened . Once applied to a carton surface, it "fuses" into the cardboard fibers, creating a permanent, tamper-evident seal that cannot be peeled open without damage.

Unlike traditional plastic tapes (e.g., OPP), it does not rely on synthetic solvents and leaves no sticky residue or pollutants. This sealing method offers significant advantages in terms of environmental sustainability, safety, and durability.

When Should You Consider Using Water-Activated Tape?

1. You need to seal lightweight or medium-weight boxes for export to countries with strict environmental regulations.

2. You aim to enhance your brand’s professional image and eco-friendly credentials.

3. You worry about tape loosening or peeling during transit.

4. You require a non-resealable, tamper-proof solution.

5. You plan to integrate it with automated taping equipment or dispensers to improve efficiency.

Benefits of Water-Activated Tape：

1. Stronger Adhesion

The water-activated adhesive bonds permanently with cardboard fibers upon application. For example, JL3’s JLN-870 maintains strong adhesion throughout transportation, resisting vibrations and impacts.

2. Higher Load-Bearing Capacity

Reinforced models like JLN-8140 and JLN-39150 , embedded with plant fibers or glass fiber layers, are ideal for heavy-duty shipments (e.g., industrial parts, electronics, furniture).

3. Eco-Friendly

100% plastic-free, recyclable, and biodegradable. Models like JLN-39140 , JLN-39150 , and JLN-39160 (with plant fiber reinforcement) meet EU green compliance standards and Amazon’s sustainability requirements.

4. Superior Waterproofing and Weather Resistance

Maintains adhesion even in humid, rainy, or snowy conditions, outperforming traditional OPP tape.

How to Use Water-Activated Tape？

Using water-activated tape requires a dedicated dispenser. JL3 recommends the following:

KN-266 (Manual Model): Suitable for small batches or low-frequency use.

KN-366H Series (Electric Model): Features automatic cutting, counter, and moistening functions. Available with UL certification, battery-powered options, or heavy-duty versions.

KN-1721R (Automatic Carton Sealer): Integrates with production lines for large-scale warehouses.

After installing the dispenser, simply add water, load the tape roll, pull out the tape, moisten it, and apply it to the box.

Key Considerations Before Purchasing Water-Activated Tape

Roll Size Selection

JL3 offers customizable widths and lengths. For example:

72mm x 137m rolls suit high-volume operations.

Smaller rolls like 50mm x 50m are ideal for testing or entry-level use.

Standard vs. Reinforced Types

Standard (e.g., JLN-8100, KN-870): For daily e-commerce packaging.

Reinforced (e.g., JLN-8150, JLN-39150): For Light or medium packaging.

Disadvantages of Water-Activated Tape

1.Not Reusable

Once applied, the tape cannot be removed and reapplied. Adjust packaging workflows accordingly.

2.Additional Moistening Step

Requires dampening before use (e.g., with a sponge). However, this becomes efficient when paired with automated dispensers.

Tip: Contact JL3 to request samples before bulk purchasing.

Due to its production-dependent performance, JL3 strongly recommends testing samples to ensure compatibility with your packaging environment before committing to large orders.

Conclusion: Is Water-Activated Tape Worth It?

If you’re seeking an eco-friendly, tamper-proof, and ultra-durable sealing solution, water-activated tape is a game-changer. JL3 provides a full range of standard and customized products to meet diverse needs—from lightweight e-commerce shipments to heavy-duty export logistics.

Contact Us for Technical or Procurement Support:

Email: info@jl3tape.com

Phone: +86-592-207-5506