How Richard Drew Invented Modern Transparent Adhesive Tape

The 1930 patent for the first pressure-sensitive adhesive tape, which replaced messy glues and paper tapes with a convenient, clear, and sticky strip.

What it covers

This patent describes a strip of flexible material, such as cellophane, coated with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. Unlike previous tapes that required heat or water to activate, this invention relies on a tacky substance that sticks immediately upon contact with a surface. The design includes a backing that is strong enough to hold items together but thin enough to remain flexible and transparent. It allows users to join materials like paper or fabric without leaving thick, unsightly residues or requiring complex application tools.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover tapes that require heat to activate the adhesive.
• —Does not cover water-activated tapes like traditional gummed paper.
• —Does not cover non-flexible backing materials like metal sheets.
• —Does not cover adhesives that are not pressure-sensitive.

The clever bit

The innovation was balancing the adhesive's 'tackiness' to ensure it stuck firmly to the target surface while still being able to be unrolled from its own backing without tearing or losing its stickiness.

Why it matters

This invention fundamentally changed how we package, repair, and organize items. It led to the creation of the Scotch Tape brand, which became a household staple and a primary revenue driver for 3M for decades. It remains one of the most successful examples of industrial chemistry applied to consumer convenience.

Real-world examples

• 1.Scotch Brand transparent tape
• 2.Office supply adhesive tapes
• 3.Cellophane gift wrapping tapes