Potential of using agricultural waste (orange peel) and empty water sachets/bags in the production of sound absorption panel

Abstract

Noise is an unwanted sound which is mostly produced by the machines, transportation systems, engines, aircraft, etc. Noise pollution is the third pollution resource that has greatly placed an adverse effect on the environment, human health economy. As a result, it became imperative to develop a sound absorption medium that could minimize the aforementioned effects. In this study, orange peels and sachet water bags were used to develop a composite material. The materials (i.e. orange peel and sachet water bags) were prepared into six samples (that is 280g of orange peels and 120g of sachet water bags respectively). These samples were transferred into a two-roll mill (compounding machine), where they were melted at about 150°C temperature before transferring them to a compressing machine which was already set at a temperature of 130°C. This procedure was repeated on the rest of the samples respectively. The composite panel was coupled together to form a box. Three speakers were connected to MP3 and inserted into the box. Test was carried out to check for the sound absorption of the composite using a sound level meter. Various readings were obtained which include: maximum and minimum readings at frequency weighing of "A" and "C" and the sound level drastically reduced after coupling the box, this indicates that the composite board is a good sound absorber. The reduction level of the noise should be quantified.