Adrian Krzysztof Antosik, an assistant professor at the West Pomeranian University of Technology, spent three years developing the three types of tape which he says can be used in the automotive, heating and medical industries.

The 36-year-old told the Polish Press Agency: “One has biocidal properties, the second one is exceptionally resistant to high temperatures, and the third one combines the above-mentioned bio and thermo properties. There are no products of this sort in the world yet.”

He added that the biocidal properties (products which control harmful organisms) are provided by the tape carrier (foil) containing released essential oils. The silicone-based adhesive is exceptionally resistant to high temperatures (even up to 300 degrees Celsius).

“Thanks to this, the bio-thermo tape can be used, for example, in photovoltaic installations,” Antosik said.

He continued: “The biggest disadvantage of photovoltaics is that when the sun shines brightly, the efficiency of the installation decreases.”

“It is cooled by installing tubes with liquid underneath. And to prevent the water from blooming with algae, we should use such tape for installation. Thanks to its heat resistance, the tape is durable.”

“The use of heat-resistant tapes, for example in car engines, instead of the so-called cable ties, bands, rivets, or fireplaces, where installation joints require sealing, the thermal expansion will allow for this kind of tape to last a long time.

“The flexible but strong tape works well in hard-to-reach places and on unusual surfaces. Its biocidal properties allow it to be used in the food industry, for example in cold stores, hospitals or laboratory rooms.”

Antosik says he is now in talks with companies interested in introducing his invention on an industrial scale.