A comprehensive review on: Mechanical and acoustical characterization of natural fiber-reinforced composite

In our modern era of rapid development, the issue of noise pollution has become increasingly pressing. This relentless surge in noise pollution has brought about significant adverse effects on human health, extending beyond just auditory concerns. To combat this escalating problem, it becomes imperative to explore innovative solutions, such as the utilization of natural fiber-reinforced composites in acoustical applications. These composites offer environmental friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced mechanical and sound-absorbing qualities. In the context of this review, we examine various methods for evaluating both the mechanical and acoustical attributes of these composites. We examine significant acoustical metrics, including the sound absorption coefficient, sound transmission losses, and noise reflection coefficient, as well as mechanical aspects encompassing tensile, flexural, impact strengths, and hardness. Moreover, this comprehensive review delves into the realm of influencing parameters, which exert a notable impact on the mechanical and acoustical characteristics of natural fiber-reinforced composites. A range of variables is encompassed by these influencing parameters, including fiber properties, binder-filler amount, specimen thickness, etc. It is worth noting that manipulating these parameters can yield significant enhancements in mechanical strength and sound absorption. However, it is crucial to recognize and respect certain limitations to avoid adverse effects. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the importance of carefully considering these performance-influencing parameters to optimize the mechanical and acoustical attributes of natural fiber-reinforced composites. By doing so, we can fully harness the potential of these composites to address the challenges posed by escalating noise pollution effectively.