duct tape refers to a range of tapes manufactured using three components – a rubber-based adhesive, cloth, and a backing. The term “duck tape” today refers to a specific brand of duct tape. Duck Brand® duct tape takes its name from the original name of duct tape
Why did duck tape become duct tape?
It was commonly used in construction to wrap air ducts. Following this application, the name “duct tape” came into use in the 1950s, along with tape products that were colored silvery gray like tin ductwork. Specialized heat- and cold-resistant tapes were developed for heating and air-conditioning ducts.