The ABCs of PET: Improving Soundscapes in Educational Spaces with PET Felt

Sound affects our ability to effectively communicate, listen and learn. It impacts how we feel, our behavior and even how productive and creative we are. This year, students and teachers could benefit from noise reduction solutions as they reacclimate to in-person learning—and Fräsch offers a line of Acoustic PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Felt products able to improve acoustic comfort levels in shared spaces. In honor of a new school year, we are taking a moment to discuss the ABCs of Acoustic Felt while promoting our new CEU about improving educational soundscapes.

A: Acoustical Absorption

Undesirable acoustics in educational spaces have long been considered averse to the goal of effectively teaching, creating, collaborating, listening and learning. Now, in the wake of implementing pandemic protocols, our acoustic comfort in these spaces is challenged. Adding acoustic felt products to shared space improves noise control while keeping visitors comfortable and safe from exposure to emerging viruses.

Sustainability: Acoustic PET Felt is made from recycled plastic and is itself recyclable. If the needs of a space change, many PET installations can be easily dismantled and reused. In addition, it is chemically inert meaning that it does not give of any VOCs or odor, making it safe and stable for indoor use.

Improved reverberation times: The use of PET felt changes the ratio between hard and soft surfaces. Sound waves get trapped in sound-absorbing PET felt, and unwanted reverberation is thereby reduced. This is especially beneficial in school classrooms and dining halls.

Higher NRC values: If an air cavity is created between a wall and a sound-absorbing material, some of the sound waves get trapped in the cavity. PET felt can be formed into many complex geometric shapes. The three-dimensional wall or ceiling treatments help to improve NRC levels in a space.

Cleanability: PET felt is extremely easy to clean and can even be disinfected. Loosen visible dirt or dust with a brush; use a mild detergent to remove any spills; spot-treat stains. Common household cleaners can be generously applied to PET felt for more thorough cleaning or disinfecting—without fear of the color being negatively affected.

Aesthetics: PET felt provides not only acoustic comfort—it also provides eye-catching aesthetics. This helps to take away the clinical look and feel that hard surfaces can sometimes create, instead, helping to offer visual stimulation where appropriate or a relaxed look where required.

Presented by Fräsch Co-Founder, Slavi Younger, Improving Soundscapes in Educational Spaces with PET Felt will earn you one CEU-HSW, AIA or IDEC credit. Sign up here or request a live presentation. Your viewing options are flexible—just like our product installation and customization options.