Differential Adhesive Tapes

Double-coated tapes with unique adhesives on each side

A diagram from Adhesives Research of a roll of double-sided tape showing labeled layers: liner, adhesive, carrier, adhesive, and liner.

Precision bonding for mixed-material assemblies

In industrial and manufacturing applications, bonding different substrates often requires more than a single adhesive type. Our ARclad® Differential Adhesive Tapes are engineered to deliver optimal adhesion when joining materials with contrasting surface energies, textures, or compositions. Each side of the tape carries a distinct adhesive formulation—one for high surface energy (HSE) materials such as metals and glass, and the other for low surface energy (LSE) materials such as plastics and composites.

This balanced construction allows for secure, long-term bonding where conventional tapes struggle. Whether used in automotive trim attachment, aerospace composites, or building component assembly, ARclad® Differential Adhesive Tapes provide a reliable, clean, and efficient solution to complex bonding challenges.

  • Dual-adhesive construction for dissimilar substrates
    Each side is engineered with a distinct adhesive system, enabling secure bonding between HSE and LSE materials.

  • Versatile bonding performance
    Bonds metals, plastics, composites, painted surfaces, and other industrial materials with consistent reliability.

  • High temperature and environmental resistance
    Maintains bond integrity in automotive, aerospace, and outdoor applications exposed to heat, moisture, and vibration.

  • Clean, efficient assembly
    Simplifies mounting and attachment by replacing mechanical fasteners, welds, or liquid adhesives.

  • Dimensional stability
    Carrier films and scrims resist stretching, ensuring consistent alignment and surface contact under stress.

  • Customizable formulations
    Adhesive systems can be tailored for specific substrates, surface conditions, or regulatory requirements.

  • Improved process efficiency
    Reduces assembly time and cleanup while enhancing long-term product durability.

  • Automotive and Transportation
    Used for trim, emblems, interior panels, and composite attachments requiring reliable adhesion to metal and plastic surfaces.

  • Aerospace and Defense
    Supports bonding of lightweight composite panels, interior assemblies, and insulation materials under variable conditions.

  • Building and Construction
    Provides secure attachment for architectural panels, insulation layers, and glazing materials exposed to temperature fluctuations.

  • Electronics and Industrial Equipment
    Used in component mounting, gasketing, and insulation where materials with different surface properties must be joined.

  • General Industrial Assembly
    Ideal for laminating films, mounting substrates, or bonding textured and coated surfaces without mechanical fasteners.

Product Overview

ARclad® Differential Adhesive Tapes combine engineered carrier films with two distinct pressure-sensitive adhesives—one designed for low surface energy substrates such as plastics and composites, and the other for high surface energy materials like metals and glass. This dual-adhesive design ensures balanced tack, peel, and shear performance across contrasting surfaces.

Available in film, tissue, or scrim constructions, these tapes maintain dimensional stability and adhesion under heat, vibration, and humidity. Each grade is tested for consistent release and long-term durability, making it ideal for high-speed converting and automated assembly operations.

Custom Support Built Around Your Process

We partner directly with engineers and production teams to match adhesive systems to your substrates and environmental conditions. Our technical experts conduct surface energy tests and adhesion trials to confirm bonding performance before scaling. If required, we customize adhesives, carriers, or liner options for easy application.

Implementation and Technical Guidance

Before application, surfaces should be clean, dry, and free from oils or particulates. Apply firm, even pressure to achieve full adhesive contact. Allow for dwell time to reach optimal bond strength, especially when working with low surface energy substrates. Store rolls at approximately 70°F in low-humidity conditions to maintain adhesive stability. Our technical specialists can assist with substrate testing, tape selection, and process optimization to ensure consistent bonding results across production lines.

Related Products

ARclad® 78150 
Double Coated Tape

ARclad® 78150 product is easy-to-use, provide a high bond strength, and our PSA tapes provide reliable and cost-effective solutions for a variety of Industrial Applications.

Let’s Discuss Your Requirements

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