Texlon® is acoustically transparent with a mass of less than 1kg/m2. As a result, it does not reflect internally generated noise back to the occupants. The internal environment is considerably more comfortable with shorter reverberation times than if the cladding had been constructed from an acoustically hard material such as glass. This is particularly evident in spherical domes or other structures where the focusing effect of hard acoustic cladding can make speech almost unintelligible.

This intrinsic feature of Texlon® cladding means that cost intensive counter measures, such as the integration of acoustic absorbers into the internal walls, are usually unnecessary. Furthermore, with a sound reduction index of less than 10dBA, the Texlon® ETFE envelope can provide increased comfort levels and encourage occupants to make full use of the space.

For applications where reverberant noise is particularly critical, we can fit the Texlon® with Helmholtz resonators, which can be engineered to selectively increase high frequency absorption. 

As an acoustically soft material, Texlon® cushions transmit the sound of rain falling on the outer surface, through to the internal space. Many clients consider this a positive attribute, increasing an awareness and connection with the natural environment. Rain noise can however be intrusive to spaces such as quiet offices, call centres and libraries. In these situations we recommend the use of our patented Texlon® RS® rain suppressors, which absorb the impact of rain drops falling on the upper membrane.

Texlon®'s unique acoustic qualities allow the positive reclamation of the natural world into the built environment.