Experimentation, simulation, and statistical analysis of nanofillers reinforced bio‐based polyurethane foam for acoustical applications

Abstract This research aims to develop bio‐based polyurethane foam (PU) with nanofillers to absorb sound energy across a broad frequency range and compare experimental results to those from simulation and optimization. PVDF (Polyvinylidene fluoride), MgO (Magnesium oxide), and Ni (Nickel) nanofillers were incorporated into bio‐based PU through absorption and hydrothermal reduction technique, which includes mechanical stirring, compressing, heating, and evaporating. To determine the weight percentages of nanofillers, the design of the experimental approach was utilized. As per ASTM standard E 1050‐12, the bio‐based PU foam composite's sound absorption coefficient (SAC) was assessed using an impedance tube setup. Response Surface Methodology was utilized to estimate optimum sample weight percentages using a central composite design (CCD) with weight percentages of the three nanofillers as input and the noise reduction coefficient (NRC) as response output. According to the CCD results, the combination of 15 wt% PVDF, 10 wt% MgO, and 5 wt% Ni shows the highest NRC value of 0.66. Then, a confirmation sample was prepared, and the NRC was calculated. The NRC achieved for the confirmation sample was 0.62. SAC simulation results are contrasted with experimental data using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.5. The confirmation sample's average sound pressure level (SPL) reduction ranges from 2 to 29 dB, according to the SPL plot. The conclusion shows that bio‐based composite foam may be an excellent material for absorbing sound in vehicles and aircraft and reducing industrial noise.