What is eco packaging?
Eco packaging means using materials and methods that reduce environmental impact during production, use, and disposal. In our field, it includes replacing plastic with kraft paper tape, biodegradable wrapping, and recyclable cartons.
Jota Machinery provides the converting equipment that supports this change — from paper tape slitting to eco-friendly roll packaging. Our goal is to help manufacturers work efficiently while meeting modern sustainability standards.
A Simple Way to Protect Our Planet
Water-activated paper tape may look ordinary, yet it plays an important role in reducing plastic waste. Made from natural kraft paper and starch-based adhesive, it breaks down harmlessly and blends back into the recycling stream — helping make every package a small step toward a cleaner, more beautiful Earth.
A Century of Progress in Paper Tape Technology
Early Inspiration
The idea of water-activated adhesion first appeared with gummed postage stamps, introducing the concept of moisture-activated bonding in paper products.
First Product LaunchBirth of Water-Activated Tape
J. Donald MacLaurin developed the first gummed kraft paper tape in the United States, transforming packaging by replacing string and waxed paper.
Reinforced for Strength
During World War II, fiberglass threads were added to kraft tape for durability and high-load packaging, setting new standards for industrial sealing.
Automation Begins
Automatic gummed tape dispensers were introduced, streamlining box-sealing operations in warehouses and shipping facilities worldwide.
Modernization and Global Reach
New European technologies, including fiberglass scrim layers and electric dispensers, enhanced reliability and consistency for high-speed production.
The Sustainable Comeback
With rising awareness of plastic waste, water-activated tape re-emerged as the eco-friendly choice for secure and recyclable packaging.
Smarter, Greener, Stronger
Jota Machinery supports this evolution with advanced slitting and rewinding equipment, helping manufacturers produce high-performance, sustainable paper tapes for a cleaner future.
Kraft paper tape vs plastic(BOPP) tape
Innovative Solutions
Discover how smarter engineering and greener materials redefine modern packaging. Jota Machinery combines automation with sustainability to help you move from plastic to paper — achieving stronger seals, lower costs, and a cleaner future.
Gummed Paper Tape
Made from renewable kraft paper with a water-activated adhesive, it bonds securely to cartons, providing a tamper-evident seal and eco-friendly alternative to plastic. Ideal for brands prioritizing sustainability and strength.
BOPP Tape
Plastic-based BOPP tape offers convenience and quick application for general packaging. It remains a low-cost option for light-duty sealing but lacks recyclability compared to kraft paper tape.
We are the leading paper slitter rewinder machine manufacturer in China
Designed for precision and efficiency, the paper tape slitter rewinder machine integrates flexographic printing directly into the slitting and rewinding process. It allows users to print, cut, and rewind in one continuous operation—reducing handling time, improving accuracy, and ensuring perfect logo or label alignment on every roll. A seamless solution for converters aiming to combine quality and speed in production.
Engineered for precision and stability, this machine delivers smooth, accurate slitting for kraft paper and reinforced gummed tape production. Dual center shafts ensure balanced winding tension, allowing uniform roll formation even at high speed. Designed for converters who value consistency, efficiency, and long-term reliability in every cut.
Reinforced Manufacturing Solution for Water-Activated Tape
Building Stronger Bonds in Sustainable Packaging
Our reinforced paper tape line integrates fiberglass filaments with kraft paper to achieve exceptional tensile strength and durability. The process combines precision coating, lamination, and controlled drying to ensure consistent adhesion and stability. Designed for heavy-duty packaging, this solution supports industries seeking recyclable, high-performance sealing materials.
The manufacturing system allows converters to produce tapes suitable for demanding logistics, export packaging, and industrial sealing, where both strength and sustainability matter.
Water Activated Tape FAQ — Everything You Need to Know
Find straightforward answers to the most common questions about water-activated tape, its uses, and manufacturing process. From adhesive composition to packaging applications, this section helps you understand how WAT supports sustainable, secure, and professional sealing in today’s eco-packaging industry.
Water-activated tape, also called gummed paper tape, is made from kraft paper coated with a starch-based adhesive. When moistened, the adhesive penetrates and bonds with the cardboard surface, creating a tamper-evident and permanent seal used widely in packaging and shipping.
Yes. Once activated with water, the adhesive fuses with the box fibers, forming a seal stronger than plastic pressure-sensitive tape. Reinforced versions, which contain fiberglass threads, add extra tensile strength for heavy or large cartons.
It is produced by coating kraft paper with a natural or synthetic starch-based adhesive. The paper can be single-ply or reinforced with fiberglass mesh for added durability. After coating and drying, rolls are slit and rewound to size, ready for use in manual or automatic dispensers.
Per roll, it may cost slightly more than plastic tape, but it covers fewer strips per box and reduces waste. Since one strip securely seals a carton, total usage and labor costs are often lower, especially in automated or high-volume packaging lines.
Yes. Made from renewable kraft paper and natural adhesives, water-activated tape is fully recyclable and biodegradable. It can be recycled along with corrugated boxes, without separating the tape from the carton — making it one of the most sustainable sealing materials available.
Yes. Amazon and many global e-commerce companies use water-activated tape for parcel sealing. It provides tamper-evident security, professional appearance, and supports corporate sustainability goals by reducing plastic use.