Method and device for producing a test element

A method for producing a test element for detecting at least one analyte in a body fluid, the test element having at least one test chemical configured to perform at least one detection reaction in the presence of the analyte, the method comprising the following steps:

• a) providing, in a transport step, a continuous substrate tape, wherein the continuous substrate tape is transported in a transport direction parallel to a direction of extension of the continuous substrate tape;
• b) applying, in an adhesive application step, at least one continuous adhesive strip to the continuous substrate tape by using a liquid adhesive and a slot coating process, the continuous adhesive strip being oriented parallel to the transport direction, wherein the liquid adhesive is provided in a liquid form, wherein the liquid adhesive comprises one or more solvents, and wherein the liquid adhesive is a water-based liquid adhesive;
• c) partially drying, in an at least one drying step, the continuous adhesive strip by removing one or more solvents from the liquid adhesive such that a stickiness or adhesive properties remain after the partial drying, and wherein the liquid adhesive is not fully dried during the at least one drying step;
• d) applying, in a cover element application step, at least one cover element to the continuous adhesive strip, thereby securing the cover element to the continuous substrate tape, wherein the cover element application step is performed after the at least one drying step. and the cover element is applied to the partially dried adhesive strip;
• and
• e) individualizing, in an individualization step, the continuous substrate tape into single test elements.