Will ChemTape® provide a liquid-tight seal?
ChemTape® is ideal for situations where the user might be exposed to chemical splashes. ChemTape® should NOT be fully immersed. ChemTape® uses a pressure-sensitive adhesive, so applying a high degree of pressure is crucial for application. Do not wrinkle or fold the tape when applying.
Will using ChemTape® make suits gas-tight?
No. If conditions exist that require gas-tight protection, use the appropriate protective garment.
How should ChemTape ® be properly applied? In which areas should it be used?
ChemTape® was designed to effectively seal the interfaces and closures of protective garments (boots, suits, gloves, etc.) for added liquid resistance and protection from chemical threats. ChemTape® should be applied by hand with a high degree of pressure to the interfaces between glove and sleeve, boot and boot flap, zipper, storm flap, and around respirator masks. ChemTape® should be unrolled to the desired length without wrinkling or folding, then cut with a knife or scissors. ChemTape® can also be torn by hand, by pulling with considerable force rapidly at a right angle. A single continuous strip of ChemTape® should be used if possible. Several wraps may be required to provide the desired coverage and performance for your specific scenario.
Is it possible to reuse ChemTape®?
No. ChemTape® is designed to be disposed of after a single-use.
Does removing ChemTape® affect the chemical resistance of the suit material?
ChemTape® uses an especially strong adhesive to maximize the bond to the fabric. ChemTape® may damage fabrics when removed, although this is generally limited to lightweight fabrics. Various factors including temperature, exposure, fabric type, and length of adherence will affect the characteristics of ChemTape® removal. Users must carefully inspect their garments for signs of degradation, tearing, or damage if the suit is intended for reuse.
Will chemicals affect or attack the adhesive on ChemTape®?
ChemTape’s® polyisoprene-based adhesive can be affected by a number of chemicals. Proper application is crucial to ensure that only a minimal flat edge of the adhesive is exposed to any contaminants.
What’s the difference between ChemTape® and standard duct tape?
Duct tape is designed to minimize the gross leakage of air from heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning equipment (HVAC). In contrast, ChemTape® is designed to minimize the influx of hazardous particles and liquids through the interfaces of protective garments. These two items have radically different intended purposes, construction, and performance.
Will ChemTape® removal affect the chemical resistance of gloves or will the adhesive affect the resistance?
Most chemically-resistant gloves are either “cured” or “vulcanized,” which makes them largely impervious to rubber-based adhesives like the one used in ChemTape®. Film-based gloves like 4H and Silvershield may be affected by the removal of ChemTape®. Users should always fully inspect their gloves for signs of physical/chemical degradation and discard if found.
Is it possible to use ChemTape® over serged or bound seams to enhance holdout?
Yes. ChemTape® can be used to reinforce seams, closures, and other interfaces. Once again, the careful application of ChemTape® dictates its performance.
What is the temperature service range of ChemTape®?
We recommend a maximum storage temperature of 120ºF (49ºC). Note that high temperatures may affect performance. Storage for 1 month at a high temperature equates to about 1 year of storage in the recommended conditions of 73ºF (23ºC).
