Acoustical, Thermal, and Mechanical Performance of Typha Latifolia Fiber Panels: Experimental Evaluation and Modeling for Sustainable Building Applications Publisher



Khosro SK¹ ; Soltani P² ; Sheikhmozafari MJ¹ ; Piegay C³ ; Amininasab S⁴ ; Faridan M⁵ ; Taban E⁶ ; Monazzam Esmaeelpour MR¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Journal of Building Engineering Published:2025

Abstract

Using natural fibers is a practical method for achieving the best possible levels of both acoustic and thermal comfort in residential and office environments. The present study delves into the investigation of the acoustic and thermal performance of fibrous panels made of Typha Latifolia natural fibers. The specimens were produced in varying thicknesses (ranging from 30 to 50 mm), two distinct densities (150 and 200 kg/m³), and three different binder concentrations (7.5 %, 10 %, and 12.5 %). Acoustic properties were assessed through a combination of experimental impedance tube methodology and mathematical modeling, employing the Johnson-Champoux-Allard-Lafarge (JCAL) and Attenborough models. The Finite Element Method (FEM) within COMSOL software was employed for modeling purposes. To evaluate the insulating properties, the effective thermal conductivity (Keff) was measured in oven-dried and moisture-conditioned circumstances. The outcomes of this investigation revealed the highly favorable acoustic performance of Typha fibers within the frequency range of 63–6300 Hz, with particular effectiveness demonstrated in the critical indoor frequency band of 500–2000 Hz. Moreover, enhancements in sound absorption were observed with increased specimen thickness, airgap, and density, while variations in binder concentration displayed relatively minimal influence. Both the JCAL and Attenborough models exhibited an impressive accuracy rate of approximately 95 % in predicting sound absorption coefficients. The panels demonstrated Keff values spanning from 0.039 to 0.052 W/(mK), suggesting favorable thermal insulation attributes. It was observed that although Keff tends to rise when the samples are subjected to moisture, this elevation lacks statistical significance, suggesting that there is no significant decrease in insulation performance. The panels' performance was also assessed using ODEON software in a multipurpose hall, revealing a notable enhancement in the hall's acoustic properties. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd