Why TPU tape exude powder on surface?

No matter manufacturers or users, those who are in industry about TPU tape may find a problem: TPU tape exude powder on surface after a period of time. For clear transparent tape, the powder can be seen. It makes the tape become heterogeneously matte. For semi-transparent tape, especially that added dull polish grain, hand feeling will be more accurate. If TPU tape has powder, the powder will must adhere to your fingers when you touch the tape.

The powder isn’t the original substance of TPU elastic tape, but the result of oxidization and ageing. So the powder is a signal that TPU tape goes bad. Then a question comes out: why TPU elastic tape exude powder on surface? There are several reasons.

1. The feature of polyester type TPU

TPU clear elastic tape for garment sewing is made from polyester type TPU material. When one made from this type of TPU material, it must exude powder in 3 years. But some low quality tape would have powder even in just several month. Compared with polyester type, polyether type TPU has better performance and not easy to go bad. Why manufacturers don’t choose polyether type TPU to produce TPU tape? That refers to the cost of raw material and customers’ price consideration.

2. Accessory ingredient adding

Some manufacturers will add accessory ingredient such as elasticizer to make TPU tape softer. However, accessory ingredient will have chemical reaction with TPU, which expedites powder exuding. In this case, TPU tape may only has life in one year.

3. Oxidization and ageing

Oxidization and ageing are the primary cause. No matter for the reason of raw material or accessory ingredient, TPU tape go bad only after touching air and sunlight. Therefore, storage method of TPU tape is important if the tape is not in use immediately. Generally, TPU tape should be kept in sealed bag avoiding sunlight, moisture and high temperature.

In conclusion, exuding powder is an unavoidable problem. However, choosing high quality TPU tape and storing in right way will help apparel manufacturers decrease complaint rate.