Maamoun, A.A., Abouomar, R.M., El-Basheer, T.M. et al. Improving the acoustic performance of flexible polyurethane foam using biochar modified by (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane coupling agent. Sci Rep 14, 18382 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-68039-w


Researchers have explored the use of biochar derived from eggshell waste to enhance the acoustic and mechanical properties of flexible polyurethane (FPU) foam. The study examines how different concentrations and modifications of biochar influence the foam’s performance. By incorporating biochar at various weight ratios and modifying it with (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTMS), the team aimed to improve the foam’s density, porosity, and sound absorption capabilities.

The addition of unmodified biochar at low concentrations (0.1 wt.%) increased the foam’s density and improved its thermal stability, as evidenced by a rise in the decomposition temperature. However, higher concentrations led to particle agglomeration, reducing the foam’s mechanical strength. The modification of biochar with APTMS further enhanced these properties, with a 20% modification yielding the best results in terms of compressive strength and thermal stability.

Acoustic tests showed that biochar significantly improved the foam’s sound absorption, particularly in the mid and high-frequency ranges. The best acoustic performance was observed with 0.7 wt.% of biochar, achieving Class D sound absorption classification. The study highlights the potential of biochar-modified FPU foam as an eco-friendly material for noise reduction applications, utilizing waste products to address environmental concerns while enhancing material performance.


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