Euan Clyde Aguinaldo | Renzo Adrian De Vera | Ingrid Ylora Bernabe | Yeesha Marie Catores | Shane Aira Gabon
University of Baguio High School
ABSTRACT
Noise pollution is excessive noise that may harm the activity or balance of human and animal life. Along with the growth of population, there is an increase in noise pollution, and problem regarding waste management arises. In this modern society, soundproofing panels are mostly made of synthetic materials such as foams and glass wool that can be hazardous to our health, harmful to the environment, and disruptive in workplaces. This study investigates and compares the properties of the produced soundproofing panel out of corn husk fiber and unsaturated polyester resin to a commercial soundproofing panel in terms of their sound absorption, flammability, porosity, air-flow resistivity, and tortuosity. The study utilized an experimental design to gather the data needed. Sound Meter app was used to measure the sound received from two panels. It was assumed that the produced panel is more efficient and safer for health and the environment than the commercial panel. The results show the soundproofing panel made of the cornhusk and unsaturated polyester resin has improved qualities than the commercial panel. In terms of sound absorption, the cornhusk panel was proved to have better sound absorption as it was able to absorb more amounts of sound decibels as well as for the flammability test. The corn husk panel was also found to have lower porosity, lower airflow resistivity, and lower tortuosity compared to the commercial panel. The researchers recommend adding and painting the soundproofing panel a fire-retardant substance to reduce the flammability of fuels or delay their combustion, using lightweight materials to lessen the weight of the soundproofing panel, and using adequate facilities and equipment. This cornhusk panel has the potential to lead to long-term building growth and improved acoustic conditions as it would reduce sound propagation in interior spaces or better controlled outdoor noise propagation.
Keywords: unsaturated polyester resin, porosity, air-flow resistivity, tortuosity, Flammability
