Stretched-Fabric Acoustical Systems (PVC-Free)

Stretched fabric acoustical systems can be specified for ceilings and walls and are composed of three main parts: a track system, an acoustical panel as the core (also called the infill), and fabric. The fabric is stretched over the core against the track system that holds it in place without the use of adhesives. Track systems are most commonly made of virgin or recycled rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC) but several manufacturers offer PVC-free track systems. PVC-free tracks can be made from various materials including acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), extruded polystyrene, aluminum, and polyphenylene oxide (PPO). The core or infill is commonly a rigid fiberglass board, which may be specified as NAF (no-added formaldehyde). Mineral fiber boards are also commonly specified for tackable panels. Other infill options include polyester and plywood. Manufacturers often indicate that any commercial grade fabric can be used, but generally recommend against natural fibers like cotton, rayon, linen, and silk because they absorb moisture and can cause the fabric to elongate. Polyester or polyester blends are commonly recommended. These polyester fabrics are often composed of entirely post-consumer recycled PET or a mixture of pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled PET. 

This Common Product describes a 1" thick, 2' x 4' stretched-fabric acoustical system with a PPO track, fiberglass core, and polyester fabric. The weight percent of the components will vary based on actual panel dimensions. Building codes require commercially manufactured panel fabrics to meet the unadhered method of ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials. While some fabrics have flame retardants additives, fabrics are available with no additive flame retardants. One such material is flame retardant polyester (FR polyester) that incorporates an organophosphorus comonomer into its polymer chain to give it flame retardant properties. Fabrics may also contain stain-repellent and/or antimicrobial treatments. Stain-repellent treatments can contain per- or polyfluorinated alkyl compounds (PFAS). Fabric treatments were beyond the scope of this Common Product, and could introduce other hazards. While such treatments are readily available, commercial fabrics are available free of added PFAS and antimicrobials.