The potential of date palm midribs-based fabric acoustic panels for sustainable interior design

Abstract

This paper presents an experimental study of acoustic absorption of novel fabric acoustic panels utilizing non-woven fabric cores and fabric facings made of date palm midribs-fibers; to be used as absorbent panels for spaces with privacy needs. Normal acoustic absorption coefficients of various configurations; different densities, thicknesses and facings; were measured using impedance tube. Findings showed that the highest absorption was exhibited by 50 mm- thick midribs-fibers cores. Additionally, 150 kg/m³ cores balanced between high tortuosity and porosity. Results of full assembly tests showed that 30 mm-150 kg/m³ and 40 mm-100 kg/m³ cores with woven midribs-fibers facings enjoyed significantly high absorption at low frequencies and high frequencies. Additionally, 40 mm-100 kg/m³ and 50 mm-200 kg/m³ cores with cotton facings provided competitive overall performances to commercial acoustic panels while providing flexible interior design options. Thus, interior designers can incorporate midribs-based fabric acoustic panels into their designs as local sustainable absorbent panels to enhance acoustical quality and complement space aesthetics.