The effect of physical parameters on sound absorption properties of natural fiber mixed nonwoven composites

In this study, the effects of physical parameters on sound absorption properties of nonwoven fabrics were investigated. Eight different nonwoven composites including different fiber types mixed with different ratios were tested. Along with sound absorption properties, thickness, weight per area, and air permeability parameters of the samples were measured. The increase in thickness and the decrease in air permeability results in an increase in sound absorption properties of the material. The samples including 70% cotton and 30% polyester resulted in the best sound absorption coefficient in the mid-to-high frequency ranges. The increase in the amount of fiber per unit area resulted in an increase in sound absorption of the material. Addition of acrylic and polypropylene into a cotton and polyester fiber mixture increased the sound absorption properties of the composite in the low and mid-frequency ranges also.