Glossary

Kapton Adhesive Tape

Written by: GOBA Editorial Team·March 1, 2026·6 min read

Kapton Adhesive Tape: ideal for high-temperature applications and more

Kapton adhesive tape, based on DuPont's well-known polyimide film, is one of the high-performance solutions for demanding applications. Whether in electrical engineering, high-temperature processes, or aerospace, Kapton convinces through its unique properties. In this article, you will learn everything about the versatile applications, advantages, and properties of Kapton adhesive tape.

What is Kapton adhesive tape?

Definition and properties of Kapton

Kapton adhesive tape consists of a polyimide film coated with a heat-resistant adhesive. This combination offers extraordinary resistance to high temperatures up to 350 °C, chemical influences, and mechanical stress.

Main features:

  • Thermal stability: operable at extreme temperatures
  • Mechanical strength: tear-resistant and load-bearing
  • Chemical resistance: unaffected by oils, acids, and solvents

Difference between Kapton and other adhesive tapes

Compared with conventional adhesive tapes, Kapton offers:

  • Higher temperature resistance
  • Better chemical resistance
  • Minimal outgassing: particularly important in electronics and aerospace

Where does Kapton come from?

Kapton is a brand film from DuPont, which has been known for over 40 years for its extraordinary properties. This polyimide film was developed specifically for applications that must withstand extreme conditions.

How is Kapton adhesive tape applied?

Typical applications in electrical engineering

Kapton adhesive tape is frequently used in electrical engineering, for example:

  • Insulation of printed circuit boards
  • Protection of components during soldering
  • Shielding against electrical corona discharges

Use in high-temperature applications

Kapton is ideal for high-temperature processes such as:

  • 3D printing: adhesion on print beds
  • Thermal insulation: in heating devices and transformers
  • Painting and coating processes: protection of surfaces

How to apply Kapton adhesive tape correctly

  1. Cleaning the surface: remove dust and grease
  2. Even application: apply the tape without folds or bubbles
  3. Firm bonding: light pressure ensures optimal adhesion

What advantages does Kapton adhesive tape offer?

High temperature resistance up to 350 °C

Kapton adhesive tape remains stable at temperatures between -269 °C and +350 °C. It is therefore suitable for extreme applications, from aerospace to high-temperature testing.

Mechanical and thermal properties

  • Tear resistance: robust even under load
  • Thermal insulation: effective protection against overheating

Resistance to outgassing and chemical influences

The polyimide film minimises outgassing and is resistant to:

  • Oils and lubricants
  • Acids and alkaline substances

Are there special variants of Kapton adhesive tape?

Double-sided adhesive Kapton

This variant is ideal when bonding on both sides is required, for example for mounting or fixing components.

Kapton films and their use

Kapton films without adhesive are often used as insulating material in transformers and motors.

Different sizes and formats (for example x 33m)

Kapton adhesive tapes are available in various widths and lengths, for example 10 mm x 33 m or 20 mm x 33 m, to meet individual requirements.

How long does Kapton adhesive tape last?

Service life under extreme conditions

Kapton adhesive tape is designed for long-term use, even under extreme temperatures or aggressive environments.

Factors that influence durability

  • Exposure to UV light: can affect the adhesive layer
  • Mechanical stress: continuous stress can reduce adhesion

Comparison with other adhesive tapes

Kapton surpasses other adhesive tapes such as PVC or fabric tapes in terms of temperature resistance and chemical stability.

GOBA Takeaway

Kapton adhesive tape is the ideal choice for applications that require extreme temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and mechanical strength. From electrical engineering to 3D printing and aerospace, Kapton offers unsurpassed performance. Thanks to its long service life and versatile applications, it remains an indispensable solution in high-temperature applications.

Related articles

Related glossary terms

Deepen your knowledge with related articles.

  • Polyimide (PI)

    Polyimide is a high-performance plastic with extreme thermal, chemical and mechanical resistance for electrical engineering, aerospace and more.

  • Nomex and Nomex 410

    Nomex 410 is a high-performance aramid insulation material from DuPont with outstanding heat and flame resistance.

  • High-temperature Insulation

    High-temperature insulation refers to special insulating materials for extreme heat up to 1200 °C. Materials, properties and industrial applications.

Matching GOBA services

Concrete products and services around this topic.

  • Polyester films

    Hostaphan, Mylar and other PET films in thicknesses from 12 to 350 µm.

  • Insulation materials

    Electrical insulation materials of all thermal classes for motors, transformers and high-voltage use.

  • EMC shielding film slitting

    Copper foils and conductive shielding tapes for electromagnetic compatibility.

Do you have a specific requirement?

Contact us to find the optimal solution for your needs.

FAQ on Kapton Adhesive Tape

What kind of material is Kapton?

Kapton is a polyimide film developed by DuPont. This material is known for its extraordinary temperature resistance (from -269 °C to +350 °C), chemical resistance, and mechanical strength. Kapton is frequently used in electrical engineering, aerospace, and industry, especially for applications that require extreme conditions.

What is the strongest adhesive tape in the world?

The strongest adhesive tape in the world is T-Rex Brute Force tape. It withstands a tensile load of up to 700 kg/m and is suitable for heavy applications such as construction and repair projects. While Kapton adhesive tape does not fall into the "strongest tape" category, it surpasses many other tapes in terms of temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation.