Development of Silent Hook and Loop Closure System

Current hook and loop products bear the producing of noise burden which is of increasing concern to the military community and is an irritation in some commercial applications. Similar to zippers, which have a "zipping noise, snap fasteners and plastic buckles which have a "clicking" noise when either engaged or disengaged, the "ripping" noise generated by hook and loop has become a product standard. The SBIR seeks to enhance technology by collaborating with industry and academia, harnessing these talents with the development of a silent hook and loop (touch fastener) closure system where currently available products are extensively used and is at its loudest. A silent closure system will offer stealth field operation for the individual soldier, especially on reconnaissance mission, and battalion levels where soldiers are gathered and noise must be kept to a minimum. Combat based uniforms that require stealth attributes, will be quieter in varying climatic conditions, resistant to mud and lint pickup in laundering. Opportunities to revolutionize the hook and loop fastener market exist through the purview of this SBIR, developing a lighter weight, more flexible without loss of holding strength product that offers characteristics that counter detrimental qualities in current technology.