Panels of eco-friendly materials for architectural acoustics

Abstract

The objective of this work is to study the acoustic and mechanical properties of environmentally friendly materials manufactured through the process of resin infusion made from different types of fibres: some are biodegradable obtained from renewable resources and others from recycled textile waste. The materials studied are composed of fibres of jute, hemp, coconut, biaxial linen and textile waste. The modulus of elasticity and the airborne sound insulation are determined through dynamic and acoustic tests, respectively. The behaviour of these innovative materials is compared to some traditional materials commonly used in architectural acoustics. The acoustic study of these environmentally friendly materials is carried out considering them as light elements of a single layer for their application to insulation of walls. The results are compared to plasterboards, considered as the most commonly used light material in buildings for airborne sound insulation. In conclusion, these materials are a real and effective alternative to the traditional composites of synthetic matrices and reinforcements of glass fibres and there is a reduction in the production cost compared to the usual porous synthetic media that have expensive production processes.