Utilizing Pineapple Leaf Fibers to Improve the Sound Absorption Properties of Natural Rubber Materials

Abstract

This study focuses on developing sound-absorbing materials from natural rubber compounded with pineapple leaf fibers (PALF) to enhance sound absorption efficiency and reduce noise pollution in various environments. The research employs physical and mechanical methods to analyze the properties of wall panel foams incorporating varying amounts of PALF. Increasing the PALF content influences the material's density and sound absorption characteristics. The panel containing 3 parts per hundred rubbers of PALF, at a 1.5 cm thickness, demonstrates the highest noise reduction coefficient of 0.36 ± 0.13. Additional analyses include density testing yielding 0.72 ± 0.02 g/cm3, energy absorption of 86.7 ± 6.8%, and acoustic property evaluation using a single microphone method across various frequencies. The results show that PALF significantly enhances the low-frequency (500 Hz) sound absorption performance of natural rubber foams, achieving a sound absorption coefficient of 0.43 ± 0.07. These findings underscore the potential of natural materials in creating sustainable environments and mitigating environmental impacts.