May. 13, 2024
Reading Time: 6 minutes
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Acoustic Panels are essential for managing sound quality in various spaces. They fall into three primary categories based on their absorption and diffusion characteristics. To appreciate these categories, one must understand the fundamentals of sound absorption and diffusion.
When sound energy hits a surface, it can be transmitted, absorbed, or reflected, depending on the acoustic properties of the surface. Absorbers help lower noise levels in a room by absorbing sound energy. Figure 1 illustrates how sound behaves when it encounters an absorptive surface compared to a diffuser.
Diffusers are ideal for making a room sound lively without producing echoes. Unlike absorbers, diffusers disperse sound energy uniformly throughout the space without eliminating it. A common use of diffusers is in concert halls, which require an even reverberant field. For optimal results, combining absorbers and diffusers in a single room is often effective. Absorbers can be strategically placed to minimize early reflections that interfere with direct sound, while diffusers contribute to a uniform diffuse field.
Key considerations when selecting an acoustic panel include the type (absorber or diffuser), product finish, cost, durability, and Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC). The NRC measures how much sound a product absorbs, with ratings ranging from 0 (no absorption) to 1 (full absorption). Below is a list of different acoustic panels and their specifications, which can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of a space.
These plasters possess sound absorbing properties and are ideal for spaces requiring customization, such as curved walls or ceilings, and places where additional suspended ceilings aren't feasible. Acoustic plaster systems create a seamless and uniform finish, especially suitable for height-constrained rooms. Typically available in white, they can be tinted or painted to match specific needs. Application can be done with a trowel or spray, depending on the product.
Application: Curved or customized ceilings
Features: Seamless and uniform finishes possible
NRC rating: Up to 1.00+
Cost: To Be Confirmed (TBC)
Category: Absorber
URL: Sto Silent Compact, Diathonite Acoustix
Constructed from plasterboard, these panels enhance acoustic properties with full-depth round perforations. Commonly used in high-traffic spaces like library ceilings, theaters, and auditoriums, these panels are about 13 mm thick and come in lengths from 3.6 m to 6.0 m with a standard width of 1.2 m. Companies like Knauf Danoline offer designs that provide continuous perforations for a seamless ceiling appearance. These panels are fully recyclable and non-combustible.
Application: Residences, Library ceilings, Theaters, auditoriums
Features: Fast and easy installation
NRC rating: 0.45
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Knauf Danoline Stratopanel, Gyprock Perforated Plasterboard
These panels are ideal for environments where durability and aesthetic appeal are crucial along with noise absorption. Made of perforated metal skins with acoustic absorbers, they are perfect for gymnasiums, industrial areas, airports, and concert halls.
Application: Gymnasiums, Airports, Industrial fabrication areas
Features: Durable, Perforated metal skin finish
NRC rating: 0.80 – 0.90
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Kinetics Noise Metal Panels
Featuring 0.5 mm micro-holes, these panels are laminated on a 16 mm thick MDF substrate. They preserve the aesthetic appeal of wood while offering high acoustic absorption.
Application: Residences, Home theatres, Restaurants, Train stations, hospitals, lobbies
Features: MDF core, available in satin, relief, matte, and brushed finishes
NRC rating: TBC
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Topakustik Micro, Oberflex Acoustical Micro
Made from wood wool, cement, and water, BAUX acoustic panels are both environmentally friendly and functional. They are available in five patterns, allowing for infinite design combinations.
Application: Ceilings, walls, wet areas such as swimming pool ceilings
Features: Recyclable, customizable design patterns
NRC rating: 0.5 – 0.8
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: BAUX Acoustic Wood Wool Products, Diacrete Wood Wool
These panels consist of an aluminum mesh outer surface, an acoustic fleece mat, and a 25 mm aluminum honeycomb backing. Their customizable mesh appearance makes them suitable for various projects.
Application: Suspended ceilings in conference halls, lobbies
Features: Lightweight, fast installation
NRC rating: 0.85
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Tectonica Aluminum Composite Panels
Made from 100% polyester, with 60% recycled fiber, these panels are an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional acoustic panels. They are fully recyclable.
Application: Hanging Partitions, ceilings, wall paneling
Features: Environmentally friendly, odor and dust free, no chemical irritants
NRC rating: 0.40 (minimum)
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorbers
URL: Autex Industries Acoustic Panels
These fabric-wrapped acoustic panels are designed for sound absorption in indoor spaces, particularly where speech intelligibility is critical. Available in various shades and textures.
Application: Lecture halls, classrooms walls and ceilings
Features: Customizable, ideal for speech-based rooms
NRC rating: 0.35-0.60
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorbers
URL: Auralaid Fabric Panels, Soft Cells Fabric Panels
These panels feature a lightweight fabric membrane stretched and clipped into a perimeter track. Made from a 0.2 mm thick PVC-based recyclable stretch membrane, they offer seamless ceiling applications.
Application: Seamless ceiling applications
Features: Washable, recyclable, waterproof
NRC rating: From 0.2 to 0.9
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Barrisol Acoustic Ceilings, Edward Ray Stretched Ceilings
Timber acoustic panels come with grooves and are available in various finishes, including laminates and veneers. Different groove widths provide varied acoustic performances.
Application: Libraries, Museums, Theatres, lecture halls
Features: Varied wood finish options available
NRC rating: From 0.6 to 0.9
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Oberflex Timber Panels, Topakustik Timber Panels
These acoustic panels are available with printed designs and can be customized to match the theme of the space. They come in various depths and sizes, suitable for both residential and commercial settings.
Application: Walls for residential or commercial spaces
Features: Customizable, Eco-Friendly
NRC rating: From 0.6 to 0.9
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
Made from acrylic, these panels are free of glass fibers and customizable to blend with the design of the space. Suitable for various interior settings like offices, classrooms, and auditoriums.
Application: Offices, classrooms, lobbies, auditoriums
Features: Recyclable, colored, transparent, or translucent
NRC rating: 0.45 – 0.55
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Deamp Plastic Panels
Designed for open-plan offices, acoustic furniture includes high-backed chairs, sofas, meeting pods, and lamp shades. These pieces absorb noise within the space without affecting overall sound levels.
Application: Furniture
Features: Multi-functional
NRC rating: Varies
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorbers
URL: Buzzi Space Acoustic Furniture, MTM Acoustic Furniture
Made from Reindeer moss, which absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air, these panels also filter air toxins and require no maintenance. They are effective at absorbing sound, especially in the range of the human voice.
Application: Offices, meeting rooms, lobbies
Features: Fire-resistant, maintenance-free, air purifier, hypoallergenic
NRC rating: 0.90 -1.00
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
URL: Nordgrona Acoustic Moss Panels, Ecoplus Acoustic Moss Panels
Using yarn and weave technology, acoustic sheers can replace normal sheers to provide substantial sound reduction. They offer 40% sound reduction when hung flat and up to 60% when draped.
Application: Interior fabric, sheer drapery
Features: Variable designs and applications
NRC rating: 0.45-1.0
Cost: TBC
Category: Absorber
These modular panels can be installed temporarily with double-sided tape or permanently with adhesive. Made from recycled paper, they are suitable for indoor environments.
Application: Residences, Boardrooms, Temporary events
Features: Ideal for indoor environments only
NRC rating: None
Cost: TBC
Category: Diffuser
URL: Mio Culture Acoustic Paper Panels
If you think we missed any acoustic panels, let us know and we will extend the comprehensive range of acoustic materials. Drop us an enquiry if you require any acoustic services.
All images and representations are from the suppliers or projects somewhat used in the course of Soundzipper’s past projects.
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From Fika by AllSär to Fuji by Woven Image, Fost Large by De Vorm, Parthos by Narbutas, and Art Prints by Abstracta and Wall of Art – there has been a surge in acoustic products created to enhance sound quality in workspaces sustainably.
Today, many commercial spaces feature higher exposed ceilings and the use of hard surfaces like brushed or polished concrete. With hybrid working more common, offices increasingly serve as hubs for connection, collaboration, and idea exchange.
These innovative products effectively absorb ambient mid-to-high-frequency sound and reduce noise, fostering relaxation and boosting productivity.
Read on for more about these innovative products that blend acoustic functionality with aesthetic appeal!
Acoustic product brand AllSär collaborates with the Magical Mushroom Company to create Fika, mycelium acoustic wall tiles.
These tiles are made from UK-grown mycelium, manufactured by the Magical Mushroom Company, and industrial hemp.
"Sustainability is crucial to us, our customers, and their clients. Continuous innovation to provide more sustainable products is at the heart of our organization; Fika epitomizes using naturally occurring materials to create something beautiful and functional," shares Morgan Doouss, Founder of AllSär.
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