Screeching sound of peeling tape

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Acoustics

Background:

• The acoustic phenomenon of tape peeling has been studied for decades.
• The precise mechanism generating the characteristic screeching sound remains poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the source of the sound produced during tape detachment.
• To elucidate the physical processes underlying tape screeching.

Main Methods:

• High-speed videography capturing fracture dynamics within the adhesive.
• Schlieren imaging to visualize shock waves in the air.
• Synchronized acoustic recordings using two microphones.

Main Results:

• The sound originates from discrete, weak shock waves generated by supersonic fractures.
• Fractures propagate transversely within the adhesive layer.
• Each sound pulse corresponds to a fracture tip reaching the tape's edge.

Conclusions:

• Tape screeching is a consequence of supersonic fracture propagation and shock wave formation.
• The study provides a clear physical explanation for a common, yet previously unexplained, acoustic event.