Strong and stretchable seam tape

Abstract

The present invention relates to a seam tape comprising at least one layer of unidirectionally aligned fibers whereby the fibers are oriented substantially perpendicular to the length of the tape and the strength of the tape in the perpendicular direction is at least 200 N/2.54 cm [inch]. The fibers are selected from the group of UHMWPE, polyamide, polyester, glass or carbon fibers. Preferably the fibers are UHMWPE fibers. The seam tape may further comprise a hot melt adhesive. The hot melt adhesive preferably has a melting point which is at least 25° C. to 70° C. lower than the melting point of the fibers. The hot melt adhesive is chosen from the group consisting of thermoplastic polymers such as polyamides, co-polyamides, polyamino-amides, polyesters, polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, polyolefins, ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymers or mixtures thereof. The present invention further relates to the use of the seam tape in backpacks, packs, bags, medical gear, outdoor products, sail cloths, tents, tarps, shelters, clothing, ponchos, foul weather gear, mats, outerwear, jackets, sleeping bags, lift bags, parachutes, large kites, inflatable structures, beams, balloons, packraft, inflatable gear, liferaft, inflatable sculptures, airship (HAA: High Altitude Airships), space applications, flexible circuits and footwear, inflatables, radomes, tensioned structures, or umbrellas.