Acoustic panels are an essential part of modern interior design, particularly in environments where sound quality, comfort, and aesthetics are equally important. From office buildings and theaters to recording studios and restaurants, acoustic panels help manage sound reflections, reduce echoes, and enhance the overall auditory experience.
However, not all acoustic panels are created equal. They vary in material, structure, design, and function, each serving different soundproofing and aesthetic purposes. Understanding the various types of acoustic panels is crucial for choosing the right product for specific environments and applications.
In this article, we’ll discuss in detail the main types of acoustic panels, their materials, features, and applications, and how to choose the most suitable one for your project.
Different Types of Acoustic Panels
1.Fabric Acoustic Panels
1.1 Overview
Fabric acoustic panels are among the most commonly used solutions for controlling sound reflections in indoor environments. They consist of a sound-absorbing core (such as fiberglass or foam) covered with an acoustically transparent fabric.
The porous core traps sound waves and reduces reverberation, while the fabric finish adds a clean and decorative appearance suitable for offices, schools, conference rooms, and theaters.
1.2 Structure and Material
A typical fabric acoustic panel includes:
Core material: Glass fiber, polyester fiber, or polyurethane foam
Surface: Fire-retardant and moisture-resistant fabric
Frame: Wooden or metal frame for structure and mounting support
1.3 Features
Excellent sound absorption across mid-to-high frequencies
Lightweight and easy to install on walls or ceilings
Available in custom sizes, shapes, and colors
Can be printed or patterned to match interior design themes
1.4 Applications
Office meeting rooms
Auditoriums
Recording studios
Classrooms
Hotels and home cinemas
2.Wooden Acoustic Panels
2.1 Overview
Wooden acoustic panels combine natural wood aesthetics with sound absorption or diffusion properties. They often consist of perforated or slatted wooden surfaces mounted over a sound-absorbing backing material.
These panels are ideal for spaces requiring both visual warmth and controlled sound environments, such as hotels, theaters, music halls, and luxury interiors.
2.2 Common Types
Perforated Wood Acoustic Panels: Feature evenly distributed holes on the wooden surface, which help absorb sound waves and reduce noise levels.
Slat Wood Acoustic Panels (Linear Panels): These panels consist of vertical or horizontal wooden slats backed by acoustic felt. They are both decorative and effective at diffusing sound.
2.3 Features
High-end appearance with natural wood textures
Excellent balance between reflection and absorption
Durable and easy to maintain
Customizable in thickness, perforation size, and surface finishes (e.g., oak, walnut, ash veneer)
2.4 Applications
Hotel lobbies and corridors
Music halls and theaters
Office reception areas
Restaurants and cafes
Home cinemas and living rooms
3.Polyester Fiber Acoustic Panels (PET Panels)
3.1 Overview
Polyester fiber acoustic panels, often referred to as PET acoustic panels, are made from recycled polyester materials, making them an eco-friendly option. These panels are lightweight, durable, and easy to shape into various decorative designs.
PET panels are highly popular in modern architecture due to their sustainability, color diversity, and easy installation.
3.2 Structure and Material
Material: 100% polyester fiber compressed into rigid sheets
Thickness: Commonly 9 mm, 12 mm, 24 mm
Density: Around 200–400 kg/m³ for optimal acoustic performance
3.3 Features
NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) typically between 0.75–0.90
Eco-friendly and formaldehyde-free
Can be cut into customized shapes for design flexibility
Lightweight and easy to install using adhesives or mechanical fasteners
3.4 Applications
Open office spaces
Educational institutions
Restaurants and cafeterias
Home decoration and ceiling designs
Exhibition halls and studios
4.Acoustic Foam Panels
4.1 Overview
Acoustic foam panels are commonly found in recording studios, broadcast rooms, and home theaters. They are made from polyurethane foam with a special open-cell structure designed to absorb sound waves, especially high-frequency noise.
4.2 Structure and Material
Material: Polyurethane or melamine foam
Surface shape: Pyramid, wedge, or egg-crate pattern
Color: Typically black or gray, though custom colors are available
4.3 Features
Highly effective in reducing echoes and flutter
Lightweight and affordable
Easy installation with adhesive spray
Ideal for small and medium-sized rooms
4.4 Applications
Music recording studios
Broadcasting rooms
Podcast setups
Home cinemas
Gaming rooms
5.Acoustic Slat Wall Panels
5.1 Overview
Acoustic slat wall panels have gained huge popularity in recent years, especially in residential and commercial design projects. They feature a series of vertical or horizontal wooden slats attached to an acoustic felt backing, combining excellent sound absorption with stylish visual appeal.
5.2 Structure and Material
Front: MDF or solid wood slats
Backing: Polyester felt (PET)
Size: Typically 2400 x 600 mm or 3000 x 600 mm
Thickness: 21–25 mm
5.3 Features
NRC value between 0.7–0.85
Easy to install using screws or adhesive
Modern and elegant design
Can be used on both walls and ceilings
Durable, moisture-resistant, and fire-retardant
5.4 Applications
Living rooms and bedrooms
Office meeting areas
Hotel corridors and reception spaces
Restaurants and coffee shops
Cinema and conference halls
6.Metal Acoustic Panels
6.1 Overview
Metal acoustic panels are designed for industrial, public, and transportation facilities where durability and fire resistance are critical. These panels often use perforated aluminum or steel sheets with acoustic infill materials such as mineral wool or glass fiber.
6.2 Structure and Material
Surface: Perforated aluminum or galvanized steel
Core: Mineral wool, glass wool, or foam
Finish: Powder coating or anodizing for corrosion resistance
6.3 Features
High fire resistance and moisture resistance
Suitable for harsh environments
Strong structural integrity
Long service life with minimal maintenance
6.4 Applications
Airports and train stations
Factories and warehouses
Large auditoriums and stadiums
Transportation tunnels and public facilities
7.Fabric-Wrapped Acoustic Ceiling Clouds
7.1 Overview
Acoustic ceiling clouds are suspended acoustic panels that hang horizontally from ceilings to absorb sound reflections. They are ideal for large spaces where wall-mounted solutions are insufficient.
7.2 Structure and Material
Core: Fiberglass or PET
Finish: Fabric-wrapped or painted
Shape: Square, circular, or custom designs
7.3 Features
NRC up to 0.9 or higher
Improves sound clarity and reduces reverberation
Adds an artistic design element to ceilings
Available in multiple sizes and suspension options
7.4 Applications
Open-plan offices
Restaurants and cafes
Conference rooms
Exhibition halls
Gymnasiums and libraries
8.3D Acoustic Panels
8.1 Overview
3D acoustic panels are decorative sound-absorbing panels with three-dimensional surface designs. Made from materials such as polyester fiber, foam, or fabric, these panels combine art and function, making them suitable for modern architectural aesthetics.
8.2 Features
Unique 3D texture adds depth to walls
Excellent sound absorption (NRC up to 0.85)
Lightweight and easy to mount
Can be used for both visual and acoustic enhancement
8.3 Applications
Hotels and restaurants
Corporate offices
Home decoration
Cinemas and art spaces
9.Acoustic Baffles
9.1 Overview
Acoustic baffles are vertical hanging panels designed to control sound in large open areas. Unlike ceiling clouds, baffles hang vertically and allow sound to pass through both sides, increasing the overall absorption area.
9.2 Features
High-performance acoustic efficiency
Suitable for large spaces with high ceilings
Lightweight and easy to install in rows or patterns
Available in fabric or PET finishes
9.3 Applications
Factories and warehouses
Gymnasiums and sports halls
Open offices and call centers
Exhibition halls and auditoriums
10.Hybrid Acoustic Panels (Multi-layer Systems)
10.1 Overview
Hybrid acoustic panels combine multiple materials and technologies—such as wood, fabric, and PET—to achieve both sound absorption and sound diffusion. These are often used in high-end projects requiring professional acoustic control and decorative value.
10.2 Features
Balanced sound absorption and diffusion
Enhanced acoustic performance across all frequencies
Customizable structure, surface design, and color
Used in premium architectural and commercial spaces
10.3 Applications
Professional recording studios
Concert halls
Home theaters
High-end offices and hotels
Comparison of Acoustic Panel Types
Type
Main Material
NRC Value
Aesthetic Appeal
Applications
Fabric Acoustic Panel
Fabric + fiberglass
0.75–0.9
Moderate
Offices, classrooms
Wooden Acoustic Panel
MDF/solid wood
0.6–0.85
High
Hotels, theaters
PET Acoustic Panel
Polyester fiber
0.75–0.9
High
Offices, homes
Foam Acoustic Panel
Polyurethane foam
0.7–0.85
Low
Studios, cinemas
Slat Wood Panel
Wood + PET felt
0.7–0.85
Very High
Residential & commercial
Metal Acoustic Panel
Aluminum/steel
0.6–0.8
Moderate
Public buildings
Ceiling Cloud
Fabric/fiber
0.8–0.9
High
Open spaces
3D Acoustic Panel
PET/foam
0.75–0.85
Very High
Modern interiors
How to Choose the Right Acoustic Panel
When selecting the right acoustic panel, consider the following factors:
Application Scenario For example, a recording studio needs high sound absorption (foam or fabric panels), while a hotel lobby requires both aesthetics and performance (slat wood or PET panels).
Acoustic Requirements Check the NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient).
Aesthetic Design Choose panels that match the interior style — wood for warmth, PET for color, or 3D panels for modern appeal.
Installation Method Wall-mounted, ceiling-suspended, or free-standing solutions depending on room structure.
Budget and Durability PET panels and fabric panels are cost-effective; wood and hybrid panels are more premium options.
Future Trends in Acoustic Panel Design
The global acoustic panel market is growing rapidly, driven by increased awareness of indoor sound comfort and sustainable building materials. According to market data, the global acoustic panel market size is expected to reach USD 15 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of over 6% from 2024 to 2030.
Future development trends include:
Eco-friendly materials like recycled PET and bamboo charcoal veneer
Smart acoustic systems integrating lighting and sensors
Customizable modular designs for flexible architectural use
Decorative integration that merges function with aesthetics
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of acoustic panels helps designers, architects, and builders choose the most suitable materials for each space. From fabric and wooden panels to PET, foam, and hybrid systems, each type has its unique properties, performance, and design potential.
As a professional acoustic panel manufacturer and supplier in China, we offer a wide range of high-quality sound-absorbing materials suitable for commercial, residential, and industrial applications.
If you’re looking for customized acoustic solutions that balance design, durability, and performance — contact us today to discuss your project needs.
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