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Investigating Polylactic Acid Foam–Plant Fiber Composites for Sound Absorption and Insulation

Author

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  • Federico Rotini

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy)

  • Lorenzo Fiorineschi

    (Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy)

  • Leonardo Conti

    (Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy)

  • Giuseppe Rossi

    (Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, I-50144 Florence, Italy)

Abstract

This study explores the acoustic properties of composite biomaterials using a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix reinforced by plant fibers for sound insulation applications. Acoustic tests evaluated the absorption coefficient, reflection factor, and characteristic impedance, examining various configurations with different thicknesses of the composite biomaterial. The combinations of PLA/grape stem and PLA/wood straw were analyzed for their acoustic behaviors. Grape stems and wood straw were chosen because they are abundant, undervalued waste materials, especially in Italian regions like Tuscany. Therefore, using these materials in composite biomaterials could offer opportunities for valorization. The findings highlight the impact of plant fiber characteristics on acoustic properties, emphasizing the need to optimize these factors for desired acoustic outcomes. The results suggest implications for developing eco-friendly construction materials that balance environmental sustainability with performance requirements. This investigation contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable material utilization for acoustic purposes, reinforcing the potential for innovative and environmentally conscious building solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Federico Rotini & Lorenzo Fiorineschi & Leonardo Conti & Giuseppe Rossi, 2024. "Investigating Polylactic Acid Foam–Plant Fiber Composites for Sound Absorption and Insulation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(16), pages 1-16, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:16:p:6913-:d:1454763
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Hammad Ahmad & Gyan Chhipi-Shrestha & Kasun Hewage & Rehan Sadiq, 2022. "A Comprehensive Review on Construction Applications and Life Cycle Sustainability of Natural Fiber Biocomposites," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(23), pages 1-34, November.
    2. Ana Fonseca & Edgar Ramalho & Ana Gouveia & Filipa Figueiredo & João Nunes, 2023. "Life Cycle Assessment of PLA Products: A Systematic Literature Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(16), pages 1-19, August.
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