Does tape adhesive deteriorate when exposed to air?

[DVieau2]

For example. I have a roll of Framers tape in a dispenser and the leading 3 inches of tape is unrolled, exposed to air so I can easily grab it when I need it. It may sit there for a week or more.

Is that leading three inches compromised?

Doug

 

[05]

Not by much, if at all. If it had sat there for months in moving air and collecting dust, maybe.

Most pressure-sensitive adhesives (i.e. the stuff on sticky tapes) these days are made as little bubbles that pop to release the adhesive, so they are at least somewhat protected form oxidation and other forms of degradation.

If you really, really care, you might consult Henry R. Dunning's book 'Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Formulations and Technology', 2nd ed.

 

[framah]

Literally, yes it does deteriorate but for that short of a time, I don't think you have to worry.

 

[preservator]

Pressure-sensitive adhesives

Polymer adhesives that come on a roll are commonly modified with additives, plasticizers and tackifiers, all of which will oxidize at varying rates. Tapes with metal carriers slow this process, by helping to exclude oxidizing gases. Boards with alkaline reserves in them seem to accelerate the oxidation as does exposure to the atmosphere. All of these tapes will give up to gravity, in time and none should be used in contact with valued works.



Hugh