Skip to main content

Properties of Adhesives: A Sticky Situation: 02 Testing Tape

Properties of Adhesives: A Sticky Situation: 02 Testing Tape
Contributors
Beyond Benign, Inc.
Learning Objets
Summary
In this hands-on laboratory lesson, students investigate the properties of adhesives by testing different types of tape using green chemistry decision-making criteria: performance, safety, and cost. Students measure the force required to remove tape using spring scales, analyze data across multiple trials, and compare results with environmental impact and material sourcing information. By integrating data analysis, unit conversion, and sustainability considerations, students develop a deeper understanding of how materials are evaluated in real-world engineering and green chemistry contexts.
File (PDF, PPT, image, etc)
Learning Goals/Student Objectives
- Compare the performance of different adhesive tapes using experimental data.
- Measure force using a spring scale and record data with appropriate units.
- Calculate averages and convert units to solve real-world problems.
- Evaluate materials using green chemistry criteria (cost, safety, performance).
- Use evidence to recommend a material for a specific application.
Object Type
Laboratory experiment
Audience
Elementary School
Other Faculty Educators/Teachers
Green Chemistry Principles
Waste Prevention
Designing Safer Chemicals
Safer Chemistry for Accident Prevention
U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Quality Education
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Responsible Consumption and Production
Safety Precautions, Hazards, and Risk Assessment
Spring scales should be used carefully to avoid snapping back

Hole punches used under supervision

Tapes are safe when used appropriately

No chemical hazards present

Overall risk level: Low
NGSS Standards, if applicable
5-PS1-3: Make observations and measurements to identify materials based on their properties.

3–5-ETS1-1: Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.