Acoustic behavior of three-dimensional woven fabrics and their composites: role of fiber type and weave architecture

Abstract

The ability of composites to insulate against noise and heat is crucial when utilized in buildings and other public structures and provide enhanced load bearing properties. Three-dimensional (3D) woven textile structural fabric and composites are one of the least investigated. Therefore, in this research, the acoustic behavior of various woven structures was investigated. The effect of weave geometry, weave architecture, number of stuffer layers, etc. on the acoustic behaviors of 3D woven orthogonal fabrics was studied. The textile reinforced composites were also characterized for tensile properties. The acoustic performance of the woven fabrics also depends on the air porosity in the structure. Therefore, investigation of air flow resistance and its correlation with sound absorption coefficient is very essential. It was observed that the acoustic behavior of jute and flax orthogonal fabrics is superior to glass fabrics. Fiber-reinforced composites show less sound absorption characteristics due to the infusion of epoxy resin.