teippien

Teippi (plural teipit; genitive teippien) is a flexible strip of material coated with an adhesive that adheres to surfaces. The term teippien refers to the plural form in Finnish; in English we speak of tapes. Tapes consist of a backing material, an adhesive layer, and sometimes a release liner. Backings are commonly plastic films such as polypropylene or polyethylene, but can also be paper, cloth, foil, or synthetic fibers. Adhesives are usually rubber-based for strong initial tack or acrylic-based for durability and UV resistance; silicone adhesives are used for high temperature or specialty applications.

Common types include packaging tape, masking tape, duct tape, double-sided tape, electrical insulation tape, medical tapes, and decorative washi tape. Packaging tapes are designed for sealing cartons and often feature strong adhesion and moisture resistance; masking tapes are crepe paper with moderate adhesion; duct tapes are cloth-backed and highly cohesive; double-sided tapes bond two surfaces without a visible layer; electrical tapes insulate and resist heat; medical tapes prioritize skin-friendly adhesion.

Manufacturing involves producing the backing, applying the adhesive, and cutting or winding the product onto rolls or spools. Some tapes carry a removable release liner for double-sided or removable tapes.

Uses range from packaging and construction to crafts, electronics, healthcare, and arts. The technology dates back to the early 20th century with the commercialization of adhesive tapes, notably 3M's Scotch Tape in the 1930s and subsequent expansion into specialized forms.

Environmental considerations include disposal and recycling of backings; some tapes use water-based adhesives and more sustainable materials, though many backings are not readily recyclable.