Investigating the Sound Absorption Properties of Silk Cotton and Other Sound-Absorbent Materials

This research investigates the acoustic properties of various materials to mitigate sound transmission and enhance acoustic environments, focusing on silk cotton, cotton wool, chipped foam, and open-cell polyurethane foam. The study evaluates these materials for sound absorption and reduction, considering sound frequency and material density. Materials were tested for their sound reduction and absorption coefficients, with silk cotton emerging as the most effective across a broad frequency spectrum, particularly below 200 Hz and above 1000 Hz. The research demonstrated that silk cotton, with its high porosity and fine fibre structure, achieved significant sound reduction even at low densities The findings align with theoretical predictions of resonance frequencies, showing a strong correlation (r2 = 0.9988 for the sound box and r2 = 0.9894 for the sound pipe). Sound intensity and sound pressure levels were measured using a sound level meter, and data analysis was conducted using graphing and calculating software. The researcher employed modified laboratory methods to account for loose materials and equipment limitations, validating the use of theoretical equations to estimate sound absorption and reduction properties The study provides some insights into using fibrous materials like silk cotton for noise reduction and acoustic enhancement. These findings have practical implications for improving sound quality in various environments, such as schools, studios, and public spaces, contributing to noise reduction strategies and enhancing auditory experiences.