Georges de Mestral

Swiss engineer who revolutionized fastening systems by inventing Velcro

Georges de Mestral (1907-1990), a Swiss electrical engineer, made an indelible mark on material science through his invention of Velcro®. This revolutionary hook-and-loop fastener system was inspired by nature itself - specifically the burdock burrs that clung stubbornly to his dog's fur during hunting trips in the Jura mountains.

The development process took over a decade of experimentation with different materials before perfecting the nylon-based design. Unlike traditional fasteners requiring precise alignment (buttons) or tools (zippers), Velcro worked through simple pressure application, making it:

• Accessible for children and people with disabilities
• Reusable without wear degradation
• Functional in extreme environments from space suits to military gear

NASA's adoption of Velcro during the Apollo missions cemented its status as an engineering marvel. Today, this biomimetic innovation remains vital in medical braces, athletic equipment, and countless industrial applications.