where was adhesive tape invented

Where Was Adhesive Tape Invented?

Adhesive tape is a household item that we all have in our homes. It is a versatile product with multiple uses. Whether it is for wrapping gifts, fixing a torn document, masking a surface you don't want to paint, or anything else, Adhesive tape always comes in handy. But, have you ever wondered where it all started? Who invented adhesive tape and where was it invented?

The history of adhesive tape is quite fascinating. Let's dive into it.

The Beginning of Adhesive Tape

Adhesive tape was first invented in the early 20th century. However, the first tape wasn't actually invented for household use. In fact, it was invented for industrial use. The first adhesive tape ever invented was a two-inch-wide surgical tape , invented by Johnson & Johnson in 1890. Their adhesive tape was meant to replace the traditional method of using surgical sutures to close wounds.

The invention of this surgical tape opened up a whole new world of possibilities, and it didn't take long for people to start experimenting with different types of adhesive tapes for various purposes.

Scotch Tape

Scotch tape is probably the most popular type of adhesive tape that we are all familiar with. It was first invented by Richard Drew, a engineer, in 1925. Drew was tasked with creating a tape that could be used to seal cellophane food wrappers with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. However, the first version of the tape wasn't successful. It was either too sticky, making it difficult to remove, or not sticky enough, making it ineffective.

After multiple attempts, Drew finally came up with the right formula for the tape in 1930.

Other Types of Adhesive Tape

Since the invention of adhesive tape, many different types have been created for various purposes. Some of the most popular types of adhesive tapes include masking tape, duct tape, electrical tape, and double-sided tape.

Masking Tape

Masking tape was first invented by the Company in 1925. It was initially created for automotive use, but it soon became popular for other purposes, such as painting and decorating. Masking tape is specifically designed to be removed easily without damaging it is the surface applied to.

Duct Tape

Duct tape was first invented during World War II by Johnson & Johnson for the military. It was meant to be a waterproof tape that could repair weapons, vehicles, and other equipment. Since then, it has become a household item for multiple purposes, including fixing everything from leaky pipes to ripped backpacks.

Electrical Tape

Electrical tape was first created by the Company in the 1940s. It is specifically designed for electrical purposes, such as insulating wires and marking circuit locations.

Double-Sided Tape

Double-sided tape was first invented by the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company (now known as ) in 1965. It is a versatile tape that can be used for multiple purposes, including crafting, scrapbooking, and even mounting objects.

Where Was Adhesive Tape Invented?

The invention of adhesive tape has been attributed to various companies in different locations over the years. However, most sources agree that it all started with the surgical tape invented by Johnson & Johnson in the late 1800s.

As for the invention of Scotch tape, it was created by Richard Drew at the Company in Minnesota. The invention of masking tape, on the other hand, was also attributed to the Company.

The invention of duct tape is a controversial topic. Some sources attribute it to Johnson & Johnson, while others credit it to the Permacel Division of Johnson & Johnson, located in New Jersey.

For electrical tape, the Company is credited with the invention, and for double-sided tape, it is also attributed to the Company.

In conclusion, the invention of adhesive tape has a fascinating history, and it is safe to say that we wouldn't be where we are without this incredibly useful product. Whether you need to fix something or wrap a present, adhesive tape is always there to save the day.