Laboratory experiments reported by multiple outlets suggest that duct tape–based barriers can keep more floodwater out than traditional sandbags. Tests compare tape sealed around edges and barrier material against sandbags, measuring how much water leaks through under controlled conditions.
According to the reporting, the tape approach reduces leakage substantially—figures cited include up to a 99% reduction in leakage in laboratory trials. The Conversation frames the findings as evidence from controlled testing of barrier performance, while PerthNow emphasizes the practical implication for emergency flood protection and describes tape as a potentially better option for quick deployment.
The coverage is aligned on the core outcome: tape barriers perform better than sandbags in lab conditions for limiting water ingress. Differences mainly relate to emphasis—academic interpretation versus a more direct recommendation for emergency use—rather than the underlying experimental comparison and results.
