Mechanical and acoustical evaluation of bio-based composites made of cork granulates for acoustic ceiling tiles

Abstract

This work is a study about new acoustic panels made of cork granulates coming from stopper by-products to be used as acoustic ceilings tiles, providing a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional building materials. Cork granulates were bonded with water-based epoxy and acrylic resins. The obtained panels were acoustically and mechanically tested. The results showed values of sound absorption coefficient close to 0.50 and acceptable flexural strength for their use as suspended ceiling tiles. Therefore, these bio-based panels could be used as an alternative product to the traditional materials used for noise control applications inside commercial spaces like closed entertainment areas.

Eco-efficient thermoacoustic panels made of totora and gypsum for sustainable rural housing ceilings

“…However, to increase the NRC of the panel, it can be modified, such as with perforated gypsum ceiling panels with weighted sound absorption coefficients of 0.65 and 0.70 for frequencies of 125 to 4000 Hz, depending on the thickness, opening, perforation ratio, type, and location of the porous material (59). Other studies on acoustic panels made from agricultural waste (rice husk, vine pruning, cork, and prickly pear agglomerated with resin) to be used as ceiling tiles showed NRC results close to 0.80 in the frequency range of 200 Hz to 6400 Hz (60). Similarly, studies on the acoustic behavior of materials based on fibrous plant waste such as esparto grass, cane, fig tree, olive tree, olive leaves, and sawdust show good acoustic performance with an NRC in the range of 0.60-0.90 for mid-range frequencies (40).…”