Pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) is a specific type of what most of us would call tape. Though, a PSA is any material (cloth, paper, metal, plastic, et.) that has a tacky adhesive on one or both sides as well as a release liner protecting the adhesive until it is used. PSAs are made in various formats and types and are typically sold in master roll form.
PSAs do not require water, heat, or solvent to activate, and they remain bonded or permanently attached at room temperature without changing phases (i.e., liquid to solid). Perhaps most importantly though, PSAs are the preferred choice of adhesive due to their ease of application with no drip or overspray and an easy clean up. PSAs easily bind to surfaces like foam, sponge, plastic, metal, or paper. These qualities, along with their affordability are why PSAs are being used at increasing rates by engineers, scientists, and consumers around the world.
Formats of Pressure Sensitive Adhesives
PSA are available in variety of formats with the three main formats being: Single Sided Tapes, Double Coated Adhesives, and Transfer Adhesives.