Herbal waste as a renewable resource for sound absorption: An eco-conscious approach for wall panel

Abstract

Noise pollution, though often imperceptible, profoundly influences human well-being. Employing sound-absorbing materials is a direct and effective method to ameliorate its effects. A notable surge in research endeavors has been observed in eco-friendly acoustic solutions, particularly those sourced from agricultural by-products. This study introduces an innovative chemical treatment applied to herbal waste, specifically engineered to eradicate any lingering scents or odors from the waste particles. Simultaneously, this treatment is tailored to enhance the material's sound absorption coefficient. The study's findings suggest that de-lignified herbal waste has a much better sound absorption coefficient (0.98 at 2563 Hz) than untreated herbal waste (0.78) at 30 mm thickness. Statistical analysis indicates significant variations between the control and treated samples, with the treated waste demonstrating a 15.4 % rise in noise reduction coefficient and a 17.4 % increase in sound absorption average. The chemical treatment eliminates any unwanted odors associated with the herbal waste. This innovative approach highlights the potential of repurposing herbal waste as sound-absorbing materials, offering an eco-conscious approach to waste reduction and sustainable acoustic design for wall panels. Further research in this area has the potential to advance eco-friendly acoustic design practices by utilizing herbal waste as a valuable and sustainable resource.