Acoustic Coatings—A Discreet Way to Control Acoustic Environment

Abstract

Acoustic comfort is directly related to enhanced well-being and performance of people. A typical challenge faced by architects and acousticians is to achieve adequate acoustics while maintaining the aesthetics of the space and reducing the visual aspects of acoustic materials and elements. In this study, we present a biofiber-based acoustic coating as a feasible solution to improve acoustic environments while preserving the aesthetics of spaces. An acoustic coating is a thin layer of absorption material, but the coating can be sprayed on other sound absorbing structures to make it more effective on a wide frequency range. In addition, this biofiber-based coating acts as a carbon sink during its operating life, thus reducing the carbon footprint of the building. Therefore, the coating is sustainable and is an environmental friendly solution. The absorption properties of the biofiber-based coating are demonstrated in the present study with three case studies, which all had demanding requirements to conceal the acoustic structures.

The potential impacts of using bio-based building materials on human health and wellbeing

“…For example, achieving the best acoustic results using hempcrete [38][39][40] , requires considering more the conditions of installation, the content of binders and the density. Various Biocomposite insulation materials, such as light earth, straw-lime, hempcrete, and olive pit mixes [41], recycled textile waste and biopolymers [42], as well as biofibre-based acoustic coatings [43], have the characteristics of less carbon-based acoustic materials.…”

“…Sound absorption efficiency of materials such as Light earth, straw-lime, hempcrete, olive pit mixes, recycled textile waste, biopolymers, and biofibre-based acoustic coatings [37][38][39][40][41][42][43] Due to frequency variances, it is challenging to compare different materials' acoustic properties precisely. This may make it more difficult to decide which acoustic material is best for a given application or environment.…”