Appraising the Acoustic Performance and Related Factors of Natural Fiber: A Review

Over the last couple of decades, there is an increasing demand to control interior noise occurring in aircraft, automobiles, railways, and construction works. Interior noise could impair people’s health, affecting passenger comfort and active safety performance. One of the contemporary noise control technologies is the use of sound-absorbing materials. Traditionally, mineral fibers, foams, and composites are used as sound-absorbing materials. However, they are expensive and energy consumptive as they add to the structure’s weight and affect structural integrity. Natural fibers could contribute to the replacement of conventional mineral fibers with decreased environmental impact, carbon neutrality, and improved sound-absorbing qualities. Also, previous research proved that sound-absorbing materials having natural fiber possess better acoustic properties comparable to those of synthetic fibers. However, high water absorption, termite attack, low fire resistance, and low strength are some of the issues restricting natural fibers usage. Here, an attempt is made to present the potential of natural fibers for acoustic absorbers by understanding the benefits of their inherent porous and tortuous structure. This paper involves a review study of experimental methods and parameters used to regulate the acoustic performance of natural fibers. Natural fibers seem a proven alternative as an acoustic absorber, thereby reducing sustainability concerns related to synthetic materials in acoustics applications.