A Guide to Specialty Hook-and-Loop Fasteners
1. Adhesive-Backed Hook-and-Loop Fasteners
Definition: A matched hook-and-loop fastening system with pressure-sensitive or heat-activated adhesive on the back.
Features: It can be attached directly to flat, high-density surfaces. Available constructions include non-brushed loop, low-profile loop, molded hook, injection-molded hook, thin hook, all-nylon hook and loop, mushroom-head fasteners, hook-and-loop combination fabrics, and products designed for baby goods or window screens.
Common adhesive and material options include self-adhesive backing, heat-activated backing, 3M adhesive systems, black, white and custom colors.
Functional options include standard adhesive, high-temperature adhesive for approximately 0–90°C, wider-temperature adhesive for approximately -20–110°C, water-resistant adhesive and high-tack adhesive for difficult surfaces such as PVC.
Available shapes include die-cut pieces, circles, dots, rectangles, ovals, triangles and other custom profiles. These products are used on aluminum frames, craft products and other surfaces that are difficult to sew.
2. Mushroom-Head Fasteners
Definition: A durable polyester fastener with a distinctive mushroom-shaped head that provides strong engagement.
Features: High peel strength, resistance to plasticizers, moisture, ultraviolet light and solvents, good tensile performance, repeatable closure, noise reduction and vibration control.
Applications: Curtains, power tools, vehicle interiors, trunk components, sports protection, grinding and polishing tools, protective clothing and other applications requiring strong fastening with infrequent removal.
3. Low-Profile / Non-Brushed Loop Fasteners
Definition: An all-nylon loop material with a neat, low-profile surface, commonly paired with molded hooks.
Applications: Apparel, medical products, sports products and other applications requiring a soft, low-profile loop surface.