Electrically conductive and electrically insulating adhesive tapes

Isotropic vs. anisotropic adhesive tapes

As the automotive industry continues to develop technologically, electrically conductive adhesive tapes are proving to be an indispensable element in the manufacture and assembly of vehicles. These innovative adhesive tapes not only provide robust electrical connections between components, but also impress with their mechanical strength.

A basic understanding of their types is essential: Isotropic adhesive tapes conduct electricity evenly in all directions, which makes them ideal for general applications. In contrast, anisotropic adhesive tapes conduct electricity selectively in one direction, making them ideal for highly specialised applications where targeted conductivity is required.

Areas of application

Electrically conductive adhesive tapes are used in a wide range of applications in the automotive industry. They are used to attach electrical components such as sensors and displays, but also offer solutions for shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI). Furthermore, they are essential in the battery technology of electric vehicles to ensure a secure and long-term connection between the battery cells.

A special aspect of electrically conductive adhesive tapes is their function as an earthing solution. They ensure the safe dissipation of electrostatic or functional currents and are therefore a decisive factor for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in vehicles. This property is particularly relevant when integrating electronic systems that are susceptible to interference from electromagnetic fields.

Materials used

Metal particle interspersed polymers: These offer excellent conductivity and are flexible in their application.
Metal foils: Commonly used materials are copper or aluminium, which are known for their conductive properties and often serve as a carrier material.
Conductive adhesive: Often based on silver, this allows current to flow through the tape itself and provides a strong, conductive connection.
To summarise, electrically conductive adhesive tapes are a key component in modern automotive engineering. They contribute to the realisation of safe, reliable and powerful vehicles while supporting grounding and EMC safety, which underlines their importance in an increasingly electrified vehicle landscape.