AkuHops

Acoustic Panels Made from Hop Waste

Reducing reverberation times while ensuring the recyclability of materials used poses a central challenge for the interior design of sustainable buildings. The research project AkuHops explores the potential of acoustic panels made from agricultural residues—specifically hop waste from the Hallertau region. The goal is to develop recyclable panels that are not only acoustically effective but also mechanically stable, reversibly mountable, and aesthetically appealing.

The panel material is based on hop fibers, which are extracted from the stalks left over after the hop harvest. Through a combination of natural binding agents (e.g., lignin) and a material-appropriate pressing process, large-format acoustic elements are to be produced. These elements are connected to a modular support structure that allows for easy disassembly and reuse. The effectiveness of the panels under real-world conditions will be tested through large-scale application in a research hall.

Project Participants

• RPTU Kaiserslautern
  • t-lab Timber Architecture and Wood Materials
  • Boran Hao
  • Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jürgen Graf
• Technical University of Munich
  • Chair of Architecture and Timber Construction
    • Cäcilia Halbgewachs
    • Prof. Stephan Birk
  • Professorship of Architecture and Design
    • Prof. Niklas Fanelsa
• Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVV
  • Department of Sensory Analytics and Technologies
    • Dr. Jonathan Beauchamp
    • Dr. Y Lan Pham
• Department of Sensory Analytics and Technologies
  • Dr. Jonathan Beauchamp
  • Dr. Y Lan Pham

Funding Program

Funded by Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU)

In Cooperation With

onmatter (Raw Material Development & Material Supply)

Project Duration

May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2026

Project Budget

174.996,00 €