10 Facts About Duct Tape
Regarded as one of the most durable and versatile adhesive tapes, duct tape is famous for its endless variety of uses, from medical care to fashion. The iconic gray tape dates back to World War II when it was used to prevent war supplies from getting wet. Since then, duct tape has become a household staple. Does this Spark an idea?
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Composition
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Duct tape is made up of three layers. The top layer is very durable plastic called polyethelyne, the middle layer is a fabric-based mesh and the bottom layer is made from a rubber-based adhesive.
Strength
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Duct tape is most effective when it sticks to itself and least effective on wet surfaces. When duct tape is taped to itself, it can pull up to 2,000 lbs.
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Ease
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You can rip duct tape with your hands. No scissors are required.
History
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Duct tape originates back to World War II. In 1942, Johnson and Johnson's Permacel Division manufactured the tape to protect ammunition cases from moisture. It was originally called "duck tape" because it was waterproof and made from cotton duck, a material found in medical tape.
From "Duck Tape" to "Duct Tape"
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"Duck tape" became "duct tape" when, following the war, people used it to seal air ducts at home. The original duct tape color was Army green. It changed to silver to match household duct work.
Duck Brand
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Duck brand has trademarked the name "Duck Tape" and is the top manufacturer of duct tape for the consumer market. At least eight other North American companies make different brands of duct tape.
Quality
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Not all duct tapes stick the same. If the fabric of the tape has a tighter weave, it is better quality.
Medical Uses
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Duct tape has many medical uses, including bandaging and eliminating warts. Duct tape can also serve as an insulator and you can tape it on to skin to keep warm. For this reason, many skiers stick the tape onto their face to prevent frostbite and protect against cold wind.
Logo
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Manco T. Duck is the official name of the cartoon duck that appears on the Duck Tape logo. It was named by Jack Kahl, a former CEO of Manco Inc.
Duct Tape Fashion
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Since 2000, Duck brand has hosted a yearly scholarship contest called Stuck at Prom, which encourages high school students to create their prom outfits with duct tape. First place winners receive $5,000 each. Honorable mentions are also awarded to Best Purse, Best Corsage, Best Shoes, Best Tie, Best Jewelry and Best Prop.
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References
- Photo Credit George Doyle/Stockbyte/Getty Images
