Need Help Getting Out of a Sticky Situation? *
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Abstract
Does adhesive tape hang tight at different temperatures? Measure the adhesive strength of tape at both low and high temperatures. To raise the temperature, we suggest using a blow dryer at both low and high heat settings. To lower the temperature, use an ice pack (try to keep condensation from forming on the tape and confounding the results). For even lower temperatures you could try "dry ice" (frozen carbon dioxide), if available. (Wear heavy gloves when handling dry ice, because it can rapidly freeze your skin.) A possibility for measuring the high and low temperatures is to use a digital multimeter with a temperature probe. There are many relatively inexpensive models available with this function. Use multiple tape samples at each temperature to assure yourself that your results are consistent. Try different kinds of tape. Do all tape adhesives behave similarly at different temperatures? (Foo, 2004)Share your story with Science Buddies!
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Last edit date: 2013-01-10
Bibliography
Foo, F., 2004. "Project S.T.A.T.: Scotch Tape, Adhesion, and Temperature," California State Science Fair Project Abstract [accessed April 26, 2006] http://www.usc.edu/CSSF/History/2004/Projects/J1115.pdf.Share your story with Science Buddies!
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