Stadtallendorf, August 2024. – Wet adhesive tapes from Schümann are currently becoming an increasingly sought-after standard solution for the tamper-proof, dust-tight and environmentally friendly sealing of cardboard packaging made from corrugated and solid cardboard. They are available in a variety of different versions and are helping to support the creation of modern supply chains in several areas of the retail and manufacturing industries that are aligned with the principles of sustainability and ecology. A decision that was only taken a few weeks ago is especially relevant in this respect: the packaging tapes from Schümann are now also certified according to FSC® and PEFC. This means that the Kraft paper used to make the sealing tapes primarily originates from sustainable forests in the EU that are managed in accordance with the FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) or PEFC (Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes). Against this background, it is also worth mentioning that the German manufacturer regularly occupies award-winning places in reviews by the international ratings agency EcoVadis. This is considered proof that the values of environmental protection, employment and human rights, ethics and sustainability are integrated into corporate management. For many commercial and industrial procurement processes, these are now the key criteria in selecting business partners. At its stand 110 in Hall 3A at this year’s Fachpack in Nuremberg (24th-26th September 2024), Schümann will be providing information on the contribution that both FCS®/PEFC certification and a positive EcoVadis assessment can make to the design of modern and competitive supply chains.

Paper, natural glue and water

Visitors to the Schümann stand will also learn first hand why, at least at the moment, they are unlikely to find any other cardboard closure that is as environmentally friendly and disposal-friendly as the water activated tapes from Stadtallendorf. Regardless of the version of these packaging tapes, the sustainability

factor is always a key quality feature. In the unreinforced version – which is suitable for cardboard packaging weighing up to 12 kg – a wet adhesive tape from Schümann consists only of Kraft paper and a coating of potato starch. The coating’s adhesive effect is activated by economical and cost-effective wetting with water, whether by hand or automated. Within seconds, a material bond between the cardboard packaging and wet adhesive tape is created that can only be opened by tearing – which is immediately identifiable. The wet adhesive tape therefore acts like a seal: the damage makes any manipulation visible, and enables parcels that have been “tampered with” to be removed from the supply chain before they arrive at the recipient in compromised form, leading to complaints or insurance claims. In addition to manufacturers of natural products and foodstuffs, suppliers of medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and hygiene products in particular appreciate the sealing character of the wet adhesive tapes. It is also advantageous when sending valuable components or documents. Moreover, it isn’t necessary to separate the cardboard packaging and wet adhesive tape, which are of the same material, when it comes to disposal.

Reinforcement made from natural raw materials

Schümann offers filament and fibre-reinforced wet adhesive tapes for users who require especially strong cardboard packaging closures. These are available in numerous versions and are characterised by their exceptionally high degree of tear resistance. In terms of sustainability, the sealing tapes in the Green Line are outstanding. This is because in addition to the product characteristics of natural glue and Kraft paper, they also have a reinforcing strip made of renewable raw materials.

Schümann offers its wet adhesive tapes in brown and white as well as in the widths of 60, 70 and 80 mm as standard. Customised special widths are also available and printing with water-soluble inks is an integral part of the product range. An Easy-Opening function for the unreinforced versions, which allows for the rapid manual opening of the cardboard packaging, is also available. This consists of a tear-strip which is integrated into the wet adhesive tape at the factory and enables the recipient to rip the tape open without the use of tools. It does not require a cutter, scissors or significant muscle power. Printed orientation arrows are also optionally available, which indicate the best tear or pull direction. Cardboard packaging that has been sealed with wet adhesive tape from Schümann featuring a tear-strip can be opened and unpacked quickly without the risk of injury. This closing solution improves usability and ergonomics as well as the processing efficiency for both the distributor and the end customer.

The wet adhesive tapes from Schümann are delivered as reels with lengths of several hundred metres.