How to Apply Acetone Activated Asset Tags

Acetone-activated asset tags form a permanent bond when they are applied correctly, and a weak one when they are not. This step-by-step guide covers what you need, how to prepare each surface, how to activate and press the tag, and how long to leave it to cure. For product details see acetone-activated aluminium asset tags.

What you need

• Acetone-activated asset tags, sorted in number order
• Pure acetone (not nail polish remover with added oils)
• A small brush, dropper or lint-free cloth to apply the acetone
• Isopropyl alcohol and clean cloths for surface preparation
• Gloves, and good ventilation
• Your asset list or scanner, to record each tag as it is applied

Step 1: Choose the position

Pick a flat, visible spot that is not handled constantly and use the same spot on every asset of the same type, for example the top right of a desk's side panel or the back of a monitor. Consistency makes audits faster because staff know where to look.

Step 2: Clean the surface

Remove dust, grease, old labels and adhesive residue. Wipe with isopropyl alcohol and let the surface dry completely. On heavily soiled or oily surfaces, clean twice. Most failed bonds come from dirty surfaces.

Step 3: Activate the adhesive

Apply a thin, even coat of acetone to the adhesive on the back of the tag. Do not flood it: too much acetone weakens the bond and can run onto the face of the tag.

Step 4: Wait until tacky

Give the adhesive a few seconds to soften and become tacky. Pressing too early, while it is still wet, reduces the bond.

Step 5: Press firmly

Place the tag and press hard across the whole surface for several seconds, working from the centre to the edges so no air is trapped. Position it correctly first time; moving the tag after placement weakens the bond.

Step 6: Record and leave to cure

Scan the tag or note its number against the asset in your register. Leave it undisturbed: the tag holds within seconds, but the bond keeps strengthening over the following hours. Avoid washing or knocking the asset during that time.

Surface guide

Troubleshooting

• Tag lifts at the corners: surface was dirty or curved; clean again and choose a flatter spot.
• Tag slides when pressed: too much acetone or not yet tacky; wait a few more seconds.
• Weak bond on plastic: the plastic may resist adhesives; use rivets or a self-adhesive tag designed for plastics.
• Cold or damp site: apply in dry conditions and allow extra curing time.

Prefer not to do it yourself?

For large registers or multiple sites, our fixed asset tagging team applies tags, captures asset details and hands over a clean register. Compare fixing methods in acetone-activated vs riveted tags.