BASF announced that its open-cell melamine resin foam, Basotect, has been chosen by Nuove Dimensioni Ambientali (N.D.A.), an Italian company, for use in its Zeus ventilation system. N.D.A. has used the light gray material as an interior lining for the Zeus system, which is engineered to offer better sound absorption and thermal insulation in building air vents.
Basotect foam has been applied to a 20 mm thickness. The material helps the 54 dB rated ventilation system to meet the minimum noise control requirements specified for Italian residential buildings. The minimum 40 dB requirement was launched in the Decreto del Presidente del Consiglio dei Ministri (DPCM) on December 5, 1997.
The Zeus system, measuring 45x34x18 cm, can be easily installed into the façade and it is compatible with all roughcasts and mortars. It is ideal for Italian kitchens, where more safety is required. N.D.A. has selected BASF’s insulation material for its superior thermal and sound absorbing properties. In addition, Basotect possesses several other features, including flexibility at low temperatures, can be utilized up to 240°C and it has an ability to retain its properties in a wide range of temperatures. Basotect is abrasive, flame-retardant and is free from mineral fibers. In addition, it is easy to process and can be cut into any size and shape.
The special open-cell melamine foam from BASF will also be used in Mediterranean countries such as Spain and Greece that have similar noise control requirements.