WO2017059073A1

WO2017059073A1 - Adhesive tapes

Info

Publication number: WO2017059073A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/054452
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yiwei Fu
Original assignee: Saint Gobain Performance Plastics Corp
Current assignee: Saint Gobain Performance Plastics Corp
Priority date: 2015-09-30
Filing date: 2016-09-29
Publication date: 2017-04-06
Anticipated expiration: 2018-03-30
Also published as: CN106554727A

Abstract

Adhesive tapes adapted to internally delaminate during separation of adhered components such that at least one of the separated sections of the adhesive tape can be removed from an adhered substrate while leaving essentially no residue.

Description

ADHESIVE TAPES FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to adhesive tapes, and more particularly to, double sided adhesive tapes.

RELATED ART

Adhesive tapes have been used in various industries to adhere two components together. For example, adhesive tapes have been used in electronic applications to adhere a screen panel to a housing, such as in the case of a mobile device. When the components are decoupled, existing adhesive tapes can exhibit damage of adhesive layer cohesion or stripping from the substrate layer of the adhesive tape, which causes a residue to remain on the adherend. Accordingly, a need exists for an improved adhesive tape.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and are not limited in the accompanying figures.

FIG. 1 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 3 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 4 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an article according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of separating core layers according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 7 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of separating an adhesive layer from a component according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

Skilled artisans appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

The following description in combination with the figures is provided to assist in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion will focus on specific implementations and embodiments of the teachings. This focus is provided to assist in describing the teachings and should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the teachings. However, other embodiments can be used based on the teachings as disclosed in this application.

As used herein, the term“core” in reference to a section of an adhesive tape, refers to all layers between the outermost adhesive layers.

The terms“comprises,”“comprising,”“includes,”“including,”“has,”“having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary,“or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

Also, the use of“a” or“an” is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one, at least one, or the singular as also including the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clear that it is meant otherwise. For example, when a single item is described herein, more than one item may be used in place of a single item. Similarly, where more than one item is described herein, a single item may be substituted for that more than one item.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing acts are conventional and may be found in textbooks and other sources within the adhesive tape arts.

The present disclosure is directed to adhesive tapes, articles adhered via the adhesive tapes, and methods of making and using the adhesive tapes. In general, the adhesive tapes are structured such that the adhesive tape internally delaminates within the core during separation of adhered components thereby allowing easy removal of one or both of the split adhesive tape parts from the respective components while leaving essentially no residue on the components. The concepts are better understood in view of the embodiments described below that illustrate and do not limit the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 1 includes an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that fewer, additional, or different layers or layer sequencing than is illustrated in FIG. 1 can be employed within the scope of the present disclosure, and that the adhesive tape illustrated in FIG. 1 is but one exemplary embodiment.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the adhesive tape 10 can include a first adhesive layer 20 and a second adhesive layer 30. The first adhesive layer 20 can define a first outer major surface 22 of the adhesive tape 10. The second adhesive layer 30 can define a second outer major surface 32 of the adhesive tape 10.

The adhesive tape 10 can also include a core 40. The core 40 can separate, or be sandwiched between, the first adhesive layer 20 and the second adhesive layer 30 of the adhesive tape 10. The core 40 can contain a first core layer 42 and a second core layer 43. The first core layer 42 can be disposed adjacent the first adhesive layer 20 and the second core layer 43 can be disposed adjacent the second adhesive layer 30. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the first core layer 42 can be directly adjacent and contacting the second core layer 43.

In certain embodiments, the first core layer 42 and the second core layer 43 can be distinct layers. As used herein, the term“distinct layers” refers to layers that are separately formed, are separate pieces, or are different in at least one of composition, structure, or processing. For example, the first core layer 42 and the second core layer 43 can be distinct where they are separate pieces but made of the essentially the same composition.

The first adhesive layer 20 and the second adhesive layer 30 each comprise an adhesive, either the same adhesive or different adhesives. In certain embodiments, the first adhesive layer 20, the second adhesive layer 30, or both, can comprise a pressure sensitive adhesive. In particular embodiments, both the first and the second adhesive layers 20, 30 comprise a pressure sensitive adhesive. Further, the first adhesive layer 20 and the second adhesive layer 30 can comprise the same pressure sensitive adhesive or different pressure sensitive adhesives. In particular embodiments, the first adhesive layer 20 and the second adhesive layer 30 comprise the same pressure sensitive adhesive.

In certain embodiments, when at least one of the first or second adhesive layers 20, 30 comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive, the pressure sensitive adhesive can include a rubber- based pressure sensitive adhesive, an acrylic-based pressure sensitive adhesive, a silicone- based pressure sensitive adhesive, a polyurethane-based pressure sensitive adhesive, or combinations thereof. In particular embodiments, the first or second adhesive layers 20, 30 include a rubber-based pressure sensitive adhesive or an acrylic-based pressure sensitive adhesive.

The first adhesive layer 20 and the second adhesive layer 30 each have a thickness measured from its outer major surface (22, 32) to its interface near the core 40. In certain embodiments, the adhesive layers 20, 30 can each have a thickness of at least about 5 microns, at least about 10 microns, or even at least about 30 microns. In further

embodiments, the adhesive layers 20, 30 can each have a thickness of no greater than about 150 microns, no greater than about 100 microns, no greater than about 80 microns, or even no greater than about 60 microns. Moreover, in still further embodiments, the adhesive layers 20, 30 can each have a thickness in a range of any of the minimums and maximums provided above, such as in a range of from about 10 microns to about 80 microns, or even from about 30 microns to about 60 microns.

In certain embodiments, the first adhesive layer 20 can have generally the same thickness as the second adhesive layer 30. In other embodiments, the first adhesive layer 20 can have a different thickness than the second adhesive layer 30. In particular embodiments, a ratio of the thickness of the first adhesive layer 20 to the thickness of the second adhesive layer 30 can be in a range of from about 0.1 to about 10.

The first adhesive layer 20 and the second adhesive layer 30 have an adhesive strength measured according to ASTM D1000. In certain embodiments, the first and second adhesive layers 20, 30 each have an adhesive strength that is greater than the adhesive strength of at least one other interface within the adhesive tape, such as the adhesive strength between core layers, between a core layer and a third adhesive layer, or the like. In such embodiments, as discussed in more detail below, the interface within the adhesive tape will separate before the adhesive layers separate from a given component.

In very particular embodiments, the first and/or second adhesive layers 20, 30 can have an adhesive strength in range of from about 4N/cm to about 20N/cm.

In certain embodiments, the first and second adhesive layers 20, 30 can have a generally similar adhesive strength, such as within about 10% of each other. In other embodiments, the first and second adhesive layers 20, 30 can have different adhesive strengths. For example, in certain embodiments, a ratio of the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer 20 to the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer 30 can be in a range of from about 0.1 to about 10, from about 0.2 to 5, or even from about 0.5 to 2. FIG. 2 includes a cross-sectional view of an adhesive tape 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that fewer, additional, or different layers or layer sequencing than is illustrated in FIG. 2 can be employed within the scope of the present disclosure, and that the adhesive tape illustrated in FIG. 2 is but one exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 can include the adhesive layers 20, 30, as described above, separated by a core 40. The core 40 of FIG. 2 can include a first core layer 44 and a second core layer 45. In addition, a third adhesive layer 50 can be disposed between the first core layer 44 and the second core layer 45.

When employed, the third adhesive layer 50 can contain any of the compositions or attributes, such as thickness as described above in relation to the first and second adhesive layers 20, 30. In other embodiments, the third adhesive layer 50 can be different from the first and/or second adhesive layers 20, 30. For example, in particular embodiments, the third adhesive layer 50 can have a thickness in a range of from about 0.01 mm to about 0.5 mm, from about 0.04 mm to about 0.35 mm, from about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm, or even from about 0.06 mm to about 0.1 mm. As an additional example, in particular embodiments, the third adhesive layer 50 can include an adhesive that loses adhesive strength when heated, such as a hot-melt adhesive. Accordingly, and as will be discussed in more detail below, the adhered article can be heated when separation is desired, thereby lowering the adhesive strength of the third adhesive layer 50 such that the adhesive tape internally delaminates at the interface with or within the third adhesive layer 50 when the adhered components are separated.

In particular embodiments, the third adhesive layer 50 can have at least one difference in composition or structure from the first or second adhesive layers 20,30. For example, in particular embodiments, the third adhesive layer 50 can have a lower adhesive strength than the first adhesive layer 20. Further, in particular embodiments, the third adhesive layer 50 can have a lower adhesive strength than the second adhesive layer 30. Still further, in particular embodiments, the third adhesive layer 50 can have a lower adhesive strength than the first adhesive layer 20 and a lower adhesive strength than the second adhesive layer 30. For example, a ratio of adhesive strength of the third adhesive layer 50 to the second adhesive layer 30 can be in a range of from about 0.01 to about 0.99, from about 0.1 to 0.9, or even from about 0.25 to 0.75. Further, a ratio of adhesive strength of the third adhesive layer 50 to the first adhesive layer 20 can be in a range of from about 0.01 to about 0.99, from about 0.1 to 0.9, or even from about 0.25 to 0.75. Each of the core layers composing the core 40 comprises a given material. Each of the core layers can comprise the same material or a different material than an other core layer. For example, each of the core layers can comprise a foam-based core layer, a film- based core layer, an adhesive-based core layer, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated in FIGs. 1 and 2, the first core layer 42, 44 and the second core layer 43, 45 can both include a foam-based core layer. In certain embodiments one or more of the core layers can be a foam-based core layer. In particular embodiments, when one or more foam- based core layers are employed, the foam-based core layer can be based on a polymer foam material. For example, a suitable polymer foam material can include a polyacrylic foam, a polyurethane (PU) foam, a polyethylene (PE) foam, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam, an EPDM foam, a polypropylene (PP) foam, or combinations thereof. In particular

embodiments, the core 40 can comprise at least one core layer that contains a PU foam material.

A polymer foam layer can be formed from a multitude of different techniques. For example, a foam layer can be formed by incorporating expandable microspheres within the base polymer reaction constituents as is well understood in the art. Further techniques for forming a foam material can include chemical or mechanical techniques, such as frothing. Any of the above techniques can be used to form a foam based layer according to the broadest embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular embodiments, a foam-based core layer can be formed by employing expandable microspheres.

In particular embodiments, the expandable microspheres can be present in a foam layer in a particular concentration. For example, in certain embodiments, the expandable microspheres can be present in a foam layer in a concentration in a range of at least about 0.5 wt.%, at least about 1 wt.%, or even at least about 3 wt.% based on the total weight of the foam layer. In further embodiments, the expandable microspheres can be present in a foam layer in a concentration in a range of no greater than about 60 wt.%, no greater than about 50 wt.%, or even no greater than about 45 wt.% based on the total weight of the foam layer. Moreover, the expandable microspheres can be present in a foam layer in a concentration in a range of any of the minimums and maximums provided above, such as in a range of from about 1 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, from about 2 wt.% to about 45 wt.%, or even from about 3 wt.% to about 40 wt.% based on the total weight of the foam layer.

In certain embodiments, the adhesive characteristics of the foamed layer can be adjusted depending on the desired application. In certain embodiments, the concentration of the microspheres can be adjusted to influence the adhesive characteristics of the foamed layer. For example, the concentration of the microspheres can be adjusted within the concentration ranges discussed above. In further embodiments, the foamed layer can include adhesion modifiers such as matting powders, organic fillers, inorganic fillers, or any combination thereof. In particular embodiments, the matting powder can be an SiO₂ powder, the organic filler can include an acrylic microsphere, and the inorganic filler can include an Al₂O₃.

In particular embodiments, such as the embodiment described in FIGs. 1 or 2 where two foam-based core layers are present, the two foam-based core layers can comprise the same concentration of microspheres, or different concentrations of microspheres and, thus, exhibit different adhesive strengths. For example, in particular embodiments, the difference in the wt.% concentration of microspheres between the first foam based core layer and the second foam based core layer can be at least about 1 wt.%, at least about 3 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, or even at least about 10 wt.%.

In further embodiments, the core 40 can include one or more core layers other than a foam based core layer. For example, in particular embodiments and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the core 40 can comprise a first core layer 46 comprising a foam-based core layer and a second core layer 47 comprising a film-based core layer. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the core can comprises a first core layer 48 comprising a foam-based core layer and a second core layer 49 comprising a film-based core layer, where the first core layer 48 and a the second core layer 49 are separated by a third adhesive 50. It is to be understood that fewer, additional, or different layers or layer sequencing than is illustrated in FIGs. 3 and 4 can be employed within the scope of the present disclosure, and that the adhesive tapes illustrated in FIGs. 3 and 4 are only exemplary embodiments.

In particular embodiments, a film-based core layer can include a polyurethane film, a polyethylene film, polyolefin film, polypropylene film or combinations thereof. In very particular embodiments, a film-based core layer can include a polyurethane film.

Each of the core layers described herein has a given thickness measured in the same direction as the adhesive layers described above. In certain embodiments, a foam-based core layer generally has a thickness that is greater than a film-based core layer. For example, a foam-based core layer can have a thickness of at least about 0.05 mm, at least about 0.08 mm, or even at least about 0.1 mm. In further embodiments, a foam-based core layer can have a thickness of no greater than about 2.5 mm, no greater than about 2 mm, no greater than about 1.5 mm, or even no greater than about 1.3 mm. Moreover, in particular embodiments, a foam-based core layer can have a thickness in a range of any of the minimums and maximums provided above, such as in a range of from about 0.08 mm to about 2 mm, or even from about 0.1 mm to about 1.5 mm.

In further embodiments, a film-based core layer can have a thickness in a range of from about 0.005mm to about 1mm.

In particular embodiments, such as when the core contains a foam-based core layer and a film-based core layer, the film-based core layer can have a lower thickness than the foam-based core layer. For example, in particular embodiments, a ratio of the thickness of the foam core layer to the film core layer can be in a range of from about 1:0.01 to about 1:0.99, in a range of from about 1:0.1 to about 1:0.9, or even in a range of from about 1:0.25 to 1:0.75.

In certain embodiments, the core 40 can have an elongation measured according to ASTM D412. For example, in particular embodiments, the core 40 can have an elongation of at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, or even at least about 600%. In further embodiments, the core 40 can have an elongation of no greater than about 2500%, no greater than about 2200%, no greater than about 2000%, no greater than about 1800%, or even no greater than about 1700%. Moreover, the core 40 can have an elongation in a range of any of the minimums and maximums provided above, such as in a range of from about 200% to about 2500%, in a range of from about 400% to about 2000%, or even in a range of from about 600% to about 1700%.

Moreover, in certain embodiments, the individual core layers, such as a foam based core layer, can have an elongation measured according to ASTM D412. For example, in particular embodiments, a foam based core layer can have an elongation of any of the values provided above for the core 40 as a whole. In particular embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the first foam-based core layer 44 and the second foam- based core layer 45 can each have an elongation in a range of from about 200% to about 2500%, in a range of from about 400% to about 2000%, or even in a range of from about 600% to about 1700%.

Still further, in certain embodiments, the adhesive tape as a whole can have an elongation measured according to ASTM D412. For example, in particular embodiments, the adhesive tape as a whole can have an elongation of any of the minimums, maximums, or ranges provided above with respect to the core 40. As an explicit example, the adhesive tape as a whole can have an elongation in a range of from about 200% to about 2500%, in a range of from about 400% to about 2000%, or even in a range of from about 600% to about 1700%. A particular advantage of certain embodiments of the present disclosure is employing at least one core layer and a core as a whole having the recited elongation to aid in obtaining essentially residue free removal from at least one and in certain embodiments both of the components to which the adhesive tape was adhered after initial separation of the components. For example, the first and second core layers can have an elongation sufficient to allow stretching of the core layer (and any attached adhesive layer or film layer) at an angle of no greater than 35 degrees in relation to the surface of the component to which it is adhered and debond the core layer and adhesive layer while leaving essentially no adhesive residue on the component. Such constructions can also be referred to herein as“stretch removable.”

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the first adhesive layer can be adhered to a first component and the second adhesive layer can be adhered to a second component. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the first component 60 can be separated from the second component 62. Due to the lower adhesive strength between the core layer, the first core layer 42 is separated from the second core layer 43 before the first and second adhesive layers 20, 30 are separated from the first and second components 60, 62. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the first core layer 42 and the first adhesive layer 20 can be adapted to be stretched at an angle of no greater than about 35 degrees from the surface of the first component 60 to remove the first core layer 42 and the first adhesive layer 20 such that the first component 60 is essentially free of adhesive residue from the first adhesive layer after stretching.

Similarly, in further embodiments (not illustrated), the second core layer and the second adhesive layer can be adapted to be stretched at an angle of no greater than about 35 degrees from the surface of the second component to remove the second core layer and the second adhesive layer such that the second component is essentially free of adhesive residue from the second adhesive layer after stretching.

In particular embodiments, the core layer can contain a first core layer and a second core layer that has essentially the same composition as the first core layer. For example, referring to FIG. 1, both the first and the second core layers 42, 43 can be foam-based core layers, and further can both be polyurethane foam-based core layers.

In other embodiments, the core can contain a first core layer that is formed from essentially the same polymer, but is in a different form. For example, referring to FIG. 3, the first core layer 46 can contain a foam-based layer and the second core layer 47 can contain a film-based layer that is formed from the same base polymer as the foam-based layer. As a particular example, the first core layer can be a polyurethane foam-based layer, and the second core layer can be a polyurethane film-based layer.

In still other embodiments, the core layer can contain a first core layer that is formed from a different type of base polymer from the second core layer. For example, referring to FIG. 4, the first core layer 48 can be a foam-based layer and the second core layer 49 can be a film-based layer as described above. Further, referring to FIG. 2, both the first and the second core layers 44, 45 can be foam based layers, but the first core layer can have a different type of base polymer. For example, the first core layer can be a polyurethane foam- based layer and the second core layer can be a polyethylene foam-based layer.

The tape as a whole can have a thickness measured from the outer surface of the first adhesive layer to the outer surface of the second adhesive layer. For example, in particular embodiments, the tape as a whole can have a thickness of at least about 0.1 mm, at least about 0.18 mm, or even at least about 0.2 mm. In further embodiments, the adhesive tape can have a total thickness of no greater than about 8 mm, no greater than about 6 mm, no greater than about 5 mm, or even no greater than about 4.2 mm. Moreover, the adhesive tape can have a total thickness in a range of any of the minimums and maximums provided above, such as in a range of from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm, or even from about 0.1 mm to about 4.2 mm.

As discussed herein, in certain embodiments, the tape can be adapted to internally delaminate, such as delaminate within the core when being separated from two components adhered together via the adhesive tape. For example, the tape can be adapted to delaminate at the interface between the first core layer and the second core layer when separating the tape from opposing major surfaces.

In certain embodiments, to assist in the targeted location of delamination during separation, the core layers can have a particular bonding strength. For example, the bonding strength between the first and second core layers can be less than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer. Further, the bonding strength between the first and second core layers can be less than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer. Still further, the bonding strength between the first and second core layers can be less than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer and be less than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer.

In certain embodiments, the bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer can be at least about 0.1 N/cm, at least about 0.2 N/cm, at least about 1 N/cm, or even at least about 3 N/cm as measured according to ASTM D1000. In further embodiments, the bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer may be no greater than about 50 N/cm, no greater than about 40 N/cm, no greater than about 30 N/cm, no greater than about 25 N/cm, or even no greater than about 20 N/cm as measured according to ASTM D1000. In still further embodiments, the bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer can be in a range of any of the above minimum or maximum values, such as in a range of from about 0.2 N/cm to about 20 N/cm as measured according to ASTM D1000.

In particular embodiments, a ratio of the bonding strength between the first and second core layers to the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer can be in a range of from about 0.01 to about 0.99, in a range of from about 1:0.1 to about 1:0.9, or even in a range of from about 1:0.25 to 1:0.75. In further embodiments, a ratio of the bonding strength between the first and second core layers to the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer can be in a range of from about 0.01 to about 0.99, in a range of from about 1:0.1 to about 1:0.9, or even in a range of from about 1:0.25 to 1:0.75. In still further embodiments, a ratio of the bonding strength between the first and second core layers to the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer can be in a range of from about 0.01 to about 0.99, in a range of from about 1:0.1 to about 1:0.9, or even in a range of from about 1:0.25 to 1:0.75, and a ratio of the bonding strength between the first and second core layers to the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer can be in a range of from about 0.01 to about 0.99, in a range of from about 1:0.1 to about 1:0.9, or even in a range of from about 1:0.25 to 1:0.75.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to an article comprising a first component and a second component adhered together via an adhesive tape as illustrated in FIG. 5. The adhesive tape can be any embodiment of the adhesive tape described herein and it is to be understood that any of the disclosure herein directed to the tape, or the methods of making and using the tape apply equally to embodiments directed to an article as described above.

In very particular embodiments, the first component can be a housing and the second component can be a panel. For example, the first component can be a housing or a frame from a mobile phone, and the second component can be a panel, such as a screen panel for a mobile phone. Accordingly, in particular embodiments, the article can include components of a mobile phone.

Yet another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method of forming an adhesive tape according to any of the embodiments described herein. In general, such a method can include: a. providing a first core layer;

b. contacting the first core layer with a second core layer

c. disposing a first adhesive layer on the first core layer opposite the second core layer; and

d. disposing a second adhesive layer on the second core layer opposite the first core layer

As described above, the bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer can be less than a bonding strength of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer such that the adhesive tape can internally delaminate within the core when separated. In further embodiments, the method can further include providing a third adhesive layer between the first core layer and the second core layer. In particular embodiments, the third adhesive layer can include a hot-melt adhesive layer such that the tape is adapted to internally delaminate at the interface with the hot-melt adhesive upon application of an effective amount of heat and pulling apart adhered components with an effective amount of force.

Yet another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method of adhering two components via an adhesive tape according to any of the embodiments described herein. In general, the method can include:

a. providing a first component;

b. providing a second component;

c. providing an adhesive tape according to any one of the preceding claims; d. sandwiching the adhesive tape between the first component and the second component

As described herein, the adhesive tape can be adapted to delaminate at the interface between the first core layer and the second core layer when the first component is separated from the second component.

Still yet another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method of releasing two components adhered together via an adhesive tape according to any of the embodiments described herein. In general, the method can include providing an article comprising a first component and a second component adhered together via an adhesive tape; and separating the first component from the second component thereby leaving a first adhesive layer and a first portion of the core on the first component and leaving a second adhesive layer and a second portion of the core on the second component. In particular embodiments, the method can further include removing the first portion of the core and first adhesive layer by stretching the first portion of the core and the first adhesive layer such that the first component is essentially free of adhesive residue from the first adhesive layer. For example, as described above, in particular embodiments, the core layer can have an advantageous elongation to allow the core layer to stretch at an angle of no greater than 35 degrees from the surface of the component to which it is adhered without breaking. When such a core layer having such an elongation and an adjacent adhesive layer is stretched, the tackiness of the adhesive layer is reduced, and essentially all of the adhesive material is removed with core portion from the component to which it is adhered.

Similarly, the method can further include removing the second portion of the core and the first adhesive layer by stretching the second portion of the core and the first adhesive layer such that the second component is essentially free of adhesive residue from the second adhesive layer.

Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of those aspects and embodiments are described below. After reading this specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that those aspects and embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Embodiments may be in accordance with any one or more of the items as listed below.

Embodiment 1. A double sided adhesive tape comprising:

a core comprising at least two core layers; and

first and second adhesive layers forming outer major surfaces of the tape, wherein a bonding strength between the at least two core layers is less than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer and less than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer.

Embodiment 2. A double sided adhesive tape comprising:

a core comprising at least one foam-based core layer,

wherein the tape is adapted to internally delaminate within the core without stretching when separating a first component and a second component adhered via the tape.

Embodiment 3. A double sided adhesive tape comprising:

a core comprising at least one foam-based core layer,

wherein the tape is adapted to internally delaminate within the core upon application of an effective amount of heat. Embodiment 4. A double sided adhesive tape comprising:

a core comprising a first foam-based core layer and a second foam-based core layer that is distinct from the first foam-based core layer,

wherein the first foam based core layer is directly adjacent and contacting the second foam based core layer, and

wherein the tape is adapted to internally delaminate between the first foam-based core layer and the second foam-based core layer when separating a first component and a second component adhered via the tape.

Embodiment 5. An adhesive tape comprising:

a first adhesive layer forming a first outer major surface of the tape;

a core comprising:

a first core layer disposed adjacent the first adhesive layer; and a second core layer disposed adjacent the first core layer;

a second adhesive layer disposed adjacent the second core layer and forming a second outer major surface of the tape;

wherein the adhesion strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is less than the adhesion strength of the first adhesive layer and less than the adhesion strength of the second adhesive layer.

Embodiment 6. An adhesive tape adapted to adhere a first component to a second component,

wherein the adhesive tape comprises:

a first adhesive layer forming a first outer major surface of the tape;

a core comprising:

a first core layer disposed adjacent the first adhesive layer; and a second core layer disposed adjacent the first core layer; and a second adhesive layer disposed adjacent the second core layer and forming a second outer major surface of the tape;

wherein the adhesive tape is adapted to delaminate between the first core layer and the second core layer before delamination between the first adhesive layer and the first core layer, and before delamination between the second adhesive layer and the second core layer when the first component and the second component at both sides of the tape is pulled apart, such that when the first component is separated from the second component that has been adhered together with the adhesive tape, the first adhesive layer and the first core layer remain on the first component and the second adhesive layer and the second core layer remain on the second component.

Embodiment 7. The adhesive tape of embodiment 6, wherein the first core layer and the first adhesive layer that remains on the first component after separation are adapted to be removable while leaving essentially no residue by stretching the first core layer at an angle of no greater than 35 degrees relative to the surface of the first component.

Embodiment 8. The adhesive tape of embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the second core layer and the second adhesive layer that remains on the second component after separation are adapted to be removable while leaving essentially no residue by stretching the second core layer at an angle of no greater than 35 degrees relative to the surface of the second component.

Embodiment 9. An adhesive tape comprising:

a first adhesive layer forming a first outer major surface of the tape;

a core comprising:

a first core layer disposed adjacent the first adhesive layer; and a first film core layer disposed adjacent the first core layer; and a second adhesive layer forming a second outer major surface of the tape, wherein the bonding strength between the first core layer and the first film layer is less than the bonding strength of the first and second adhesive layers.

Embodiment 10. The adhesive tape of embodiment 9, wherein the adhesive tape further comprises a third adhesive layer disposed between the first film and the first core layer.

Embodiment 11. A method of forming an adhesive tape, the method comprising: providing a first core layer;

contacting the first core layer with a second core layer;

disposing a first adhesive layer on the first core layer opposite the second core layer; and

disposing a second adhesive layer on the second core layer opposite the first core layer;

wherein the bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is less than a bonding strength of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer.

Embodiment 12. A method of adhering two components via an adhesive tape, the method comprising:

providing a first component; providing a second component;

providing an adhesive tape according to any one of the preceding embodiments; and sandwiching the adhesive tape between the first component and the second component; wherein the adhesive tape is adapted to delaminate at the interface between the first core layer and the second core layer when the first component is separated from the second component.

Embodiment 13. A method of separating two components adhered together via an adhesive tape, the method comprising:

providing a first component and a second component adhered together via an adhesive tape;

separating the first component from the second component without stretching of the tape thereby leaving a first adhesive layer and a first portion of the core on the first component and leaving a second adhesive layer and a second portion of the core on the second component; and

removing the first core layer and first adhesive layer by stretching the first core layer and first adhesive layer such that the first component is essentially free of adhesive residue from the first adhesive layer.

Embodiment 14. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprise a polyurethane (PU) foam, a polyethylene (PE) foam, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) foam, an EPDM foam, a polypropylene (PP) foam, or combinations thereof.

Embodiment 15. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprise a polyurethane (PU) foam.

Embodiment 16. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprise a foam having an elongation in a range of from about 400% to about 1700% as measured according to ASTM D412.

Embodiment 17. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprises a plurality of microspheres.

Embodiment 18. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprises a plurality of microspheres in a concentration of at least about 0.5 wt.%, at least about 1 wt.%, or even at least about 3 wt.%.

Embodiment 19. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprises a plurality of microspheres in a concentration of no greater than about 60 wt.%, no greater than about 50 wt.%, or even no greater than about 45 wt.%.

Embodiment 20. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprises a plurality of microspheres in a concentration in a range of from 1 wt.% to about 50 wt.%.

Embodiment 21. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer has a different concentration of microspheres than the second core layer.

Embodiment 22. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer has a difference in concentration of microspheres than the second core layer of at least about 1 wt.%, at least about 3 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, or even at least about 10 wt.%.

Embodiment 23. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer comprises a matting powder, an organic filler, an inorganic filler, or any combination thereof.

Embodiment 24. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer have a thickness of at least about 0.05 mm, at least about 0.08 mm, or even at least about 0.1 mm.

Embodiment 25. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer have a thickness of no greater than about 2.5 mm, no greater than about 2 mm, no greater than about 1.5 mm, or even no greater than about 1.3 mm.

Embodiment 26. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer have a thickness in a range of from about 0.08 mm to about 2 mm, or even from about 0.1 mm to about 1.5 mm.

Embodiment 27. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer has essentially the same composition as the second core layer. Embodiment 28. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer has a different composition from the second core layer.

Embodiment 29. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer has essentially the same thickness as the second core layer.

Embodiment 30. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer has a different thickness than the second core layer.

Embodiment 31. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises adjusting the bonding strength of interface between the first core layer and the second core layer such that the bonding strength is lower than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer and lower than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer.

Embodiment 32. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein adjusting the bonding strength of the interface comprises adjusting the respective contents of microspheres in first and/or second core layers.

Embodiment 33. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first adhesive layer and/or the second adhesive layer comprise a rubber base pressure sensitive adhesive, an acrylic base pressure sensitive adhesive, a silicone base pressure sensitive adhesive, a polyurethane base pressure sensitive adhesive, a hot-melt pressure sensitive adhesive or combinations thereof.

Embodiment 34. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first adhesive layer and/or the second adhesive layer comprise a rubber base pressure sensitive adhesive, an acrylic base pressure sensitive adhesive, or combinations thereof.

Embodiment 35. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first adhesive layer and/or the second adhesive layer have a thickness in a range of from about 10 microns to about 80 microns, or even from about 30 microns to about 60 microns.

Embodiment 36. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape comprises a first core layer and a first film layer disposed adjacent the first core layer.

Embodiment 37. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first film layer comprises a polyurethane film, a polyethylene film, or combinations thereof. Embodiment 38. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first film layer comprises the same base material as the first core layer.

Embodiment 39. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first film layer comprises the same base material as the first core layer and wherein the first film layer is directly contacting the first core layer.

Embodiment 40. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape comprises a third adhesive layer disposed between the first core layer and the second core layer.

Embodiment 41. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the third adhesive layer comprises a rubber base pressure sensitive adhesive, an acrylic base pressure sensitive adhesive, a silicone base pressure sensitive adhesive, a polyurethane base pressure sensitive adhesive, a hot-melt pressure sensitive adhesive, a hot-melt adhesive, or combinations thereof.

Embodiment 42. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the third adhesive layer comprises a hot-melt adhesive, such as a pressure-sensitive hot-melt adhesive.

Embodiment 43. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the third adhesive layer has a thickness in a range of from about 0.01 mm to about 0.5 mm, from about 0.04 mm to about 0.35 mm, from about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm, or even from about 0.06 mm to about 0.1 mm.

Embodiment 44. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first film layer comprises a different base material than the first core layer and wherein the third adhesive layer is directly contacting the first film layer and the first core layer.

Embodiment 45. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive strength between the first film layer and the first core layer is less than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer.

Embodiment 46. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive strength between the first film layer and the first core layer is less than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer.

Embodiment 47. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape has a total thickness of at least about 0.1 mm, at least about 0.18 mm, or even at least about 0.2 mm. Embodiment 48. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape has a total thickness of no greater than about 8 mm, no greater than about 6 mm, no greater than about 5 mm, or even no greater than about 4.2 mm.

Embodiment 49. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape has a total thickness in a range of from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm, or even from about 0.1 mm to about 4.2 mm.

Embodiment 50. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape is adapted to internally delaminate.

Embodiment 51. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape is adapted to internally delaminate within the core of the adhesive tape.

Embodiment 52. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises removing the first adhesive layer and the first core layer from the first component by stretching at an angle of no greater than about 35 degrees from the surface of the first component such that the first component is essentially free of adhesive residue from the first adhesive layer.

Embodiment 53. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises removing the second adhesive layer and the second core layer from the second component by stretching at an angle of no greater than about 35 degrees from the surface of the second component such that the second component is essentially free of adhesive residue from the second adhesive layer once the tape is fully stretched.

Embodiment 54. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises pulling apart the first component and the second component without stretching.

Embodiment 55. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises pulling apart the first component and the second component with an effective amount of force; and applying an effective amount of heat to internally delaminate the adhesive tape within the core.

Embodiment 56. The method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape comprises a hot-melt adhesive layer, wherein the method comprises pulling apart the first component and the second component with an effective amount of force; and applying an effective amount of heat to internally delaminate the adhesive tape at an interface with the hot-melt adhesive. Embodiment 57. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is at least about 0.1 N/cm, at least about 0.2 N/cm, at least about 1 N/cm, or even at least about 3 N/cm as measured according to ASTM D1000.

Embodiment 58. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is no greater than about 50 N/cm, no greater than about 40 N/cm, no greater than about 30 N/cm, no greater than about 25 N/cm, or even no greater than about 20 N/cm as measured according to ASTM D1000.

Embodiment 59. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is in a range of from about 0.2 N/cm to about 20 N/cm as measured according to ASTM D1000.

Embodiment 60. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is less than the bonding strength of the first adhesive layer.

Embodiment 61. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is less than the bonding strength of the second adhesive layer.

Embodiment 62. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a bonding strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is less than the bonding strength of the first adhesive layer and is less than the bonding strength of the second adhesive layer.

Embodiment 63. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a ratio of the bonding strength between the first and second core layers and the bonding strength of the first adhesive layer is in a range of from about 0.01 to 0.99, or even from about 0.05 to about 0.95, or even from about 0.1 to about 0.9.

Embodiment 64. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein a ratio of the bonding strength between the first and second core layers and the bonding strength of the second adhesive layer is in a range of from about 0.01 to 0.99, or even from about 0.05 to about 0.95, or even from about 0.1 to about 0.9.

Embodiment 65. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape has an elongation of at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, or even at least about 600% as measured according to ASTM D412.

Embodiment 66. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape has an elongation of no greater than about 2500%, no greater than about 2200%, no greater than about 2000%, no greater than about 1800%, or even no greater than about 1700% as measured according to ASTM D412.

Embodiment 67. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape has an elongation in a range of from about 400% to about 1700% as measured according to ASTM D412.

Embodiment 68. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer has an elongation of at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, or even at least about 600% as measured according to ASTM D412.

Embodiment 69. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer has an elongation of no greater than about 2500%, no greater than about 2200%, no greater than about 2000%, no greater than about 1800%, or even no greater than about 1700% as measured according to ASTM D412.

Embodiment 70. The adhesive tape, article, or method of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first core layer and/or the second core layer has an elongation in a range of from about 400% to about 1700% as measured according to ASTM D412.

Embodiment 71. An article comprising:

a first component;

a second component; and

an adhesive tape disposed between and adhering the first and second components, wherein the adhesive tape comprises the adhesive tape of any one of the preceding embodiments.

Embodiment 72. The article of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the article is adapted to be separated by pulling apart the first component and the second component to thereby internally delaminate the adhesive within the core.

Embodiment 73. The article of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the adhesive tape comprises a hot-melt adhesive layer within the core, and wherein the article is adapted to be separated by pulling apart the first component and the second component while applying an effective amount of heat to the adhesive tape to thereby internally delaminate the adhesive tape at the interface with the hot-melt adhesive.

Embodiment 74. A mobile phone comprising:

a screen;

a housing; and

an adhesive tape disposed between and adhering the screen to the housing, wherein the adhesive tape comprises the adhesive tape of any one of the preceding embodiments.

EXAMPLE

Tensile adhesion tests were conducted on 24 samples with ambient conditions including a room temperature of approximately 25 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of approximately 38%.

Each test specimen included two cores of 0.3 mm thick polyurethane foam tape cut into 1 inch (about 2.5 cm) squares. Between the two cores was a layer of adhesive 0.08 mm thick. The 24 samples were divided into 8 groups of 3 samples each. Groups 1 to 4 included samples that used polyethersulfone, PES117, available from Rheo Technology Co., Ltd. at Shanghai, China, as the layer of adhesive. Groups 5 to 8 used thermoplastic polyurethane, TPU376, available from Rheo Technology Co., Ltd. at Shanghai, China, as the layer of adhesive.

The outer surfaces of each sample were coated with a layer approximately 0.08 mm thick of an acrylic pressure sensitive adhesive, 77307, available from Eternal Chemical Co., Ltd. Each sample was placed between two T-shaped clamps with surface dimensions of 1 inch by 1inch (about 2.5 cm by about 2.5 cm). A pressure of 25 psi (170 kPa) was applied by each clamp for 15 seconds, after which the sample rested for 15 minutes. Each group was allowed to reach one of four temperatures before measuring the tensile adhesion of the cores. Groups 1 and 5 were allowed to reach 25 degrees Celsius, Groups 2 and 6 were allowed to reach 90 degrees Celsius, Groups 3 and 7 were allowed to reach 110 degrees Celsius, and Groups 4 and 8 were allowed to reach 130 degrees Celsius.

Results of the tensile adhesion test for PES117 are presented in Table 1. Results of the tensile adhesion test for TPU376 are presented in Table 2.

Note that not all of the activities described above in the general description or the examples are required, that a portion of a specific activity may not be required, and that one or more further activities may be performed in addition to those described. Still further, the order in which activities are listed is not necessarily the order in which they are performed.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.

The specification and illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The specification and illustrations are not intended to serve as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that use the structures or methods described herein. Separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment, and conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Further, reference to values stated in ranges includes each and every value within that range. Many other embodiments may be apparent to skilled artisans only after reading this specification. Other embodiments may be used and derived from the disclosure, such that a structural substitution, logical substitution, or another change may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A double-sided adhesive tape comprising:

a core comprising at least two core layers;

a first adhesive layer forming a first outer major surface of the tape; and

a second adhesive layer forming a second outer major surface of the tape;

wherein a bonding strength between the at least two core layers is less than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer and less than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer.

2. A double-sided adhesive tape comprising:

a core comprising at least one foam-based core layer,

3. A double-sided adhesive tape comprising:

a core comprising at least one foam-based core layer,

wherein the tape is adapted to internally delaminate within the core upon application of an effective amount of heat.

4. A double-sided adhesive tape comprising:

wherein the first foam based core layer is directly adjacent and contacting the second foam-based core layer, and

5. An adhesive tape comprising:

a first adhesive layer forming a first outer major surface of the tape;

a core comprising:

a second adhesive layer disposed adjacent the second core layer and forming a second outer major surface of the tape; wherein the adhesion strength between the first core layer and the second core layer is less than the adhesion strength of the first adhesive layer and less than the adhesion strength of the second adhesive layer.

6. An assembly comprising an adhesive tape adapted to adhere a first component to a second component,

wherein the adhesive tape comprises: a core comprising:

a first core layer disposed adjacent the first adhesive layer; and a second core layer disposed adjacent the first core layer; and a first adhesive layer disposed adjacent the first core layer and forming a first outer major surface of the tape;

7. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the first core layer and the first adhesive layer that remains on the first component after separation are adapted to be removable while leaving essentially no residue by stretching the first core layer at an angle of no greater than 35 degrees relative to the surface of the first component.

8. The assembly of claim 6 or 7, wherein the second core layer and the second adhesive layer that remains on the second component after separation are adapted to be removable while leaving essentially no residue by stretching the second core layer at an angle of no greater than 35 degrees relative to the surface of the second component.

9. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the first core layer and the second core layer have a thickness of at least about 0.05 mm.

10. The assembly of claim 6, further comprising a hot-melt pressure sensitive adhesive layer between the first core layer and the second core layer.

11. The assembly of claim 6 or 10, wherein the hot-melt pressure sensitive adhesive layer has a thickness in a range of from about 0.04mm to about 0.35mm.

12. An adhesive tape comprising:

a first adhesive layer forming a first outer major surface of the tape;

a core comprising:

13. The adhesive tape of claim 12, wherein the adhesive tape further comprises a third adhesive layer disposed between the first film layer and the first core layer.

14. A method of separating two components adhered together via an adhesive tape, the method comprising:

providing the assembly of claim 6; and

separating the first component from the second component without stretching of the adhesive tape thereby leaving the first adhesive layer and the first core layer adhered to the first component and leaving the second adhesive layer and the second core layer adhered to the second component.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the method further comprises adjusting the bonding strength of the interface between the first core layer and the second core layer such that the bonding strength is lower than the adhesive strength of the first adhesive layer and lower than the adhesive strength of the second adhesive layer.