Moss Wall Acoustic Performance: ASTM C423 Test Results and NRC 1.01
Wildleaf's Preserved Moss with Acoustic Backing was independently tested to ASTM C423-23, achieving an NRC of 1.01 and providing tested acoustic performance data for commercial interior applications.
1. How the Moss + PET Assembly Absorbs Sound
Sound waves enter the porous structure of the dimensional moss surface and continue into the PET acoustic backing. Part of the sound energy dissipates within the materials, reducing reflected sound returning to the space and helping control reverberation.
2. ASTM C423 Test Results: NRC 1.01
An independent laboratory tested Preserved Moss with Acoustic Backing in accordance with ASTM C423-23. The figure below summarizes the sound absorption coefficients at different frequencies, the test curve, and the NRC 1.01 result.
3. What NRC 1.01 Means for Commercial Interiors
NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) is a commonly used metric for the average sound absorption performance of a material or assembly. A higher NRC indicates greater average sound energy absorption across the frequency range used to calculate the rating.
An NRC of 1.01 indicates strong average sound absorption performance for the tested assembly. It can be used to add absorptive surface area in commercial interiors, helping reduce reflected sound, control reverberation, and support a more comfortable acoustic environment.
4. Common Commercial Applications for Acoustic Moss Walls
Workplace & Collaboration
Open offices, meeting rooms, and collaboration areas often combine higher occupant density with extensive hard finishes. Acoustic moss walls can add absorptive surface area while preserving the visual value of biophilic design.
Education, Healthcare & Wellness
Education, healthcare, wellness, and fitness environments often prioritize both visual comfort and acoustic performance. These spaces can benefit from solutions that combine sound absorption with a natural material expression.
Hospitality & Shared Spaces
Lobbies, reception areas, amenity spaces, and hospitality environments often feature larger volumes and reflective finishes. Adding absorptive surface area can help reduce excessive sound reflections and reverberation.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
How much acoustic moss wall coverage does a space need?
Coverage is typically determined based on room size, surrounding finishes, occupancy, installation location, and project acoustic requirements. For projects with defined acoustic performance targets, the project design team or an acoustic consultant can further coordinate coverage area and placement.
When should an acoustic consultant be involved?
When a project has defined reverberation time, speech intelligibility, or other acoustic performance targets, or when the space is large or material conditions are complex, an acoustic consultant can support overall acoustic design and layout coordination. Wildleaf's NRC 1.01 test data can be used as a reference for material selection and design coordination.
Can acoustic moss walls be used as part of an overall acoustic treatment strategy?
Yes. Acoustic moss walls can serve as one of the absorptive surfaces in a space and can work alongside ceiling treatments, acoustic panels, furnishings, and other acoustic measures as part of a more complete interior acoustic strategy.
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