ECOpanel (ECOfelt)

Smooth, flexible fiber panel comprised of recycled polyester (PET), with acoustical absorption properties. The panel provides high acoustical absorption and sound dampening at a very low profile, 1.3 mm (0.05 in) in thickness. The construction of the panel from compressed layers of fibers makes it possible to have a surface that appears solid but is covered with fine texture and some porosity, causing it to absorb and prevent reflection of sound waves. Due to the flexibility of the panel non-linear structures can be formed, to achieve both decorative looks and increased sound dampening. Made from recycled PET bottles, the panel is also recyclable at the end of life in areas the support textile recycling infrastructure. The bottles are shredded, washed and melted into pellets. The resulting PET pellets are extruded into fine fibers through the meltspun process, creating lightly bonded fiber webs. The panel is created by compressing, partially melting and bonding layers of fine nonwoven webs together into a sturdy sheet; this is accomplished by calendaring the layers between two smooth heated rolls. After calendaring the surface of the textile is smoothed and prepared for decoration through sublimation printing. Panels are offered in four sizes, 1000 x 550, 800 x 550, 1000 x 270 and 800 x 270 mm (39 x 22, 31.5 x 22, 39 x 10.6 and 31.5 x 10.6 in) all at a thickness of 1.3 mm (0.05 in). Five solid colors are offered, as well as 4 graphic patterns and 7 faux wood patterns. Both pattern and color can be fully customized with color matching, and logo or graphic reproduction. Applications include room dividers, office spaces, interior décor, acoustical paneling, celling panels and privacy screens.