Clear-backed packaging tapes are commonly associated with crime scenes. The ability to critically compare tape samples found at a crime scene to those found in a suspect's possession could be crucial in solving a crime. The strongest association that can be made between two pieces of tape is an end-match where the two torn tape ends fit together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. The chances of having a perfect match, however, are small. Lacking this type of association, forensic chemists are left with comparing physical and chemical properties of the tapes in questions. Our group is comparing polymer orientation in the polypropylene backing of clear-backed packaging tape by polarized infrared (IR) spectroscopy to look for key differences between tapes. If IR data show significant differences between tape samples, this instrumental technique could supplement current tape analysis protocols already utilized in forensic laboratories.