Eco-materials with noise reduction properties

Abstract

Eco-materials employed to reduce noise are used either independently or as components of complex composite materials, which are a growing area of research. These eco-materials have the potential to be used as high-performance sound-absorbing noise isolators in a number of applications in areas such as transportation, architectural, industrial, and construction. Public concern about the environmental impact of transportation is leading to reduced fuel consumption and the use of recycled materials. These are clearly related to the reduction of weight, extending durable years. Currently, the concept of "green" building materials is used in practice in several European countries. In addition, public awareness and concern about the negative effects of pollution have led consumers to favor environmentally friendly materials, less contaminating processes, and recycled products. This chapter discusses eco-materials produced for the specific purpose of reducing noise. After an introduction to the subject, a section is devoted to the assessment of sustainable materials. Then, the fundamentals of the sound absorption, airborne sound insulation, and impact sound insulation properties of acoustical eco-materials are presented. The following section reviews common acoustical eco-materials, including those using natural fibers instead of synthetic ones, recycled fibers and surplus materials, advanced mix and composite eco-materials designed to provide better performance and produce lightweight materials that help in reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere, and, finally, green walls and roofs used on top of some buildings. All these eco-materials provide an alternative to chemical building materials, polymers, and other artificial non-sustainable materials.