In a recent ruling passed down by Flemish environmental, health and safety agencies, 3M was forced to shut down their Brussels manufacturing location indefinitely. The Flemish Environmental Inspectorate of the Department of Environment found significantly elevated PFAS levels in more than half of the approximately 800 residents it tested who live within three kilometers of the 3M facility.

Polyfluoroalkyl substances also known as PFAS are known to cause cancer and a variety of other health and environmental issues. In order to mitigate the release of these harmful substances into the surrounding areas and protect the surrounding communities, the ministries involved elected to move swiftly on their ruling, shutting down the facility on 11/12/21.

As a result of the ruling and the indefinite closure of their Brussels manufacturing facility, 3M has now discontinued their RP, CV, 4941 and 4611 series products. In total, 347 3M SKUs have been affected causing major headaches for manufacturers and fabricators.

Where Can I Find the Closest 3M Tape Replacement?

General Purpose
Brand	Product	Length (yds.)	Length (M)	Thickness (in.)	Color	3M Comparable
Chem-Set	VST 6364G VST 6364W	36	33	0.025	GRAY WHITE	3M4936, 3M RP25
Chem-Set	VST 6110G VST 6110W	36	33	0.031	GRAY WHITE	3M RP32
Chem-Set	VST 6120G VST 6120W	36	33	0.047	GRAY WHITE	3M RP45, 3M 4941, 3M 4941F, 3M 4943F, 3M 4611, 3M RP45F
Chem-Set	VST 6160G VST 6160W	36	33	0.063	GRAY WHITE	3M RP62, 3M 4956, 3M CV62

 

Clear
Brand	Product	Length (yds.)	Length (M)	Thickness (in.)	Color	3M Comparable
Chem-Set	VST 3025	60	55	0.010	CLEAR	3M F9473PC Clear VHB Tape
Chem-Set	VST 3050	36	33	0.020	CLEAR	3M 4905
Chem-Set	VST 6100	36	33	0.040	CLEAR	3M 4910

Given the current supply chain environment, this type of ruling could not have come at a worse time. And if you’ve relied on these product lines for your projects or assembly processes, you’re probably scrambling to find a replacement. Fortunately, there is one. 

Chemical Concept’s Chem-Set VST series of high bond-strength tapes are the perfect substitute, consisting of a wide range of high-bond, structural, adhesive tapes ready to suit any industry application or assembly process. 

Our VST line of tapes are designed to adhere to various surfaces including…

• ABS
• Polycarbonates
• Rigid PVC
• Phenolic Resins
• Glass
• Epoxy
• Aluminum
• Galvanized Steel
• Enameled Steel
• Stainless Steel
• Nickel
• Ceramic

Why is Chem-Set VST a Useful Replacement?

VST tapes are highly durable and resistant to a variety of conditions, making them ideal for the type of long-lasting applications you previously entrusted to 3M products. Here’s why:

• Closed cell structure that is wind and water-resistant
• 100% acrylic-based and forms an almost indestructible bond between materials
• Resistant to UV, aging, and solvents, with good plasticizer resistance
• Bonds immediately and offers resistance to the peel and shear loads that can affect a bond
• Well suited to absorb dynamic loads as they are viscoelastic and can act as a sealant, form a permanent, tension free bond
• Suitable to bond many different types of synthetic materials.

Who is Chemical Concepts?

Chemical Concepts is more than just an adhesive and bonding tape supplier. We’re a solutions provider. We consult with companies every day to overcome challenges in design, process and labor by providing high-performance products and expert support, delivered on time.

Chemical Concepts has 50+ years of experience pioneering the use of adhesives and bonding tapes. Our products and decades of experience combine to give you custom-engineered solutions designed to meet your needs.

Our own proprietary Chem-Set line of products was born from our decades of experience and expertise. The VST line of tapes offers comparable performance to 3M at a competitive price. You can get the performance specs you need directly from industry experts who care about your success. 

Conclusion: Don’t Waste Time, Use Chem-Set 

If you’re looking for a replacement for a discontinued 3M tape, save time and try Chem-Set right now. We have the right replacement product for you, in stock and ready to ship, so you can stay operational despite the regulation and supply chain problems.

Plus our experts are always here to help you with any application or process questions you may have. Give us a call today, and get your processes back up to speed. Your months-long headache is over.