Which Packing Tape to Use – Acrylic or Hot Melt Adhesive? Packing tapes are ultimate packaging accessories that are essentially required to secure the open ends of cartons for spill-proof and safe shipping. Among the various types of industrial tapes available on the market, the debate between water-based acrylic and hot-melt adhesive carton sealing tapes persists. While both the varieties have separate features and a list of benefits, both can be used for carton sealing at room temperature. The difference occurs when the conditions feature a wide range of extreme temperatures and very rigid corrugated flaps. Let’s look at the advantages & applications of both the types of packing tapes: WATER-BASED ACRYLIC CARTON SEALING TAPES Advantages: 1. Functional in a wide temperature range – Acrylic tapes feature a service temperature of -10°F to 200°F vs. 30°F to 122°F of hot melt. 2. Extended shelf life – Acrylic is known to have a longer shelf life without compromising on performance. 3. Resistant to UV light sources – The material will not allow yellowing on exposure to direct sunlight or UV sources. 4. Enhanced seal strength – Acrylic adhesive tends to absorb deeply into the corrugated flaps over time. 5. Economically priced – The Acrylic sealing tapes are comparatively more affordable than the hot melt varieties. Application: • General purpose carton sealing • Display boxes (as they do not yellow) • Hot as well as cold applications