Historical: Acoustical Ceiling Panels (FGD Gypsum) - 2015

Gypsum acoustical ceiling panels are classified under ASTM E1264 as Type X and come in a variety of ceiling patterns. Ceiling panels are typically sold as 2x2 or 2x4 feet panels and are 1/2 inches thick. Sound performance characteristics of these ceiling panels are determined by the noise reduction coefficient (NRC) and ceiling attenuation class (CAC). The NRC refers to how well the panel absorbs noise, which can be as high as 1. An NRC of 0.5-1 is considered to have good acoustical ratings. The CAC refers to how well the panel stops the transmission of sound, which can go as high as 45. Gypsum may be obtained from natural as well as synthetic sources. Natural gypsum is mined, while synthetic gypsum is a by-product of flue-gas desulfurization, scubber technology utililzed at power plants to reduce sulfur dioxide emissions. Synthetic gypsum use is typically reported as post-industrial recycled content. These products also typically contain a small percentage (around 5%) of post-consumer content, which is paper waste pulp used in the gypsum substrate's core and paper facing. Gypsum ceiling panels are constructed by combining gypsum, paper pulp (often post consumer recycled), lightweight aggregate(s) (such as vermiculite, perlite, and/or kaolin clay), and binder (typically starch) into an aqueous slurry. The slurry is then formed and dried onto a fiberglass matt and faced with paper and other materials depending upon the design and application. Due to its durability and cleanability, vinyl facing is commonly used. In applications where high moisture and mold resistance are required, such as hospitals or commercial kitchens, in addition to the vinyl facing a vinyl backing, edge sealant, and biocidal paints or antimicrobial solutions may also be applied. However, that application was not covered in this CP. This CP characterizes ASTM E1264 Type X vinyl faced gypsum ceiling panels made primarily from synthetic gypsum.

A more up to date Common Product is available here: https://pharos.habitablefuture.org/common-products/2085505.