Investigating Polylactic Acid Foam–Plant Fiber Composites for Sound Absorption and Insulation

Federico Rotini (), Lorenzo Fiorineschi (), Leonardo Conti and Giuseppe Rossi
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Federico Rotini: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy
Lorenzo Fiorineschi: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy
Leonardo Conti: Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy
Giuseppe Rossi: Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 16, 1-16

Abstract: This study explores the acoustic properties of composite biomaterials using a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix reinforced by plant fibers for sound insulation applications. Acoustic tests evaluated the absorption coefficient, reflection factor, and characteristic impedance, examining various configurations with different thicknesses of the composite biomaterial. The combinations of PLA/grape stem and PLA/wood straw were analyzed for their acoustic behaviors. Grape stems and wood straw were chosen because they are abundant, undervalued waste materials, especially in Italian regions like Tuscany. Therefore, using these materials in composite biomaterials could offer opportunities for valorization. The findings highlight the impact of plant fiber characteristics on acoustic properties, emphasizing the need to optimize these factors for desired acoustic outcomes. The results suggest implications for developing eco-friendly construction materials that balance environmental sustainability with performance requirements. This investigation contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable material utilization for acoustic purposes, reinforcing the potential for innovative and environmentally conscious building solutions.

Keywords: bio-foam; sound polylactic acid foam; PLA-foam; sound insulation; sound absorption; sustainable composite biomaterial; plant fiber; waste material; reuse (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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