Eco-Friendly, Sound Absorbing Materials Based on Cellulose Acetate Electrospun Fibers/Luffa Cylindrica Composites

Sound absorption plays a crucial role in addressing noise pollution that may cause harm to both human health and wildlife. To tackle this environmental issue, the implementation of natural-based sound absorbing materials attracts considerable attention in the last few years. In this study, sound absorbing, eco-friendly composites are produced by combining a 3D natural sponge namely Luffa Cylindrica (LC) with cellulose acetate (CA) microfibrous layers that are fabricated through electrospinning. Electrospun microfibers can effectively absorb sound waves due to their unique properties such as high porosity, small diameter, and large surface area. The individual components and the resulting composites, exhibiting various configurations, are characterized in respect to their morphology, porosity, density, and sound absorption properties. More precisely, the sound absorption coefficient is determined through the standing wave ratio method within the range of 500-4000 (Hz) frequency. The most promising materials consist of a multilayer combination of LC with CA microfibrous layers, which creates new prospects in the development of such materials for sound absorption applications.