Textile-based Metamaterials for Broadband Noise Absorption in Low-frequency Range

Project Information

TextMetamater

Grant agreement ID: 101063867

DOI

10.3030/101063867

Project closed

EC signature date 10 August 2022

Start date 1 November 2022

End date 31 October 2024

Funded under

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 189 687,36

Coordinated by

TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET MUENCHEN
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - TextMetamater (Textile-based Metamaterials for Broadband Noise Absorption in Low-frequency Range)

Reporting period: 2022-11-01 to 2024-10-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The TextMetamater project addresses the growing need for innovative and sustainable sound-absorbing materials. Noise pollution is a significant challenge in modern urban environments, affecting health, well-being, and productivity. By leveraging the unique properties of textile-based metamaterials, the project develops efficient, customizable, and environmentally friendly solutions for noise control.
The project is structured around three key objectives:
1. Designing Optimal Structures for Textile-Based Metamaterials
This objective focuses on optimizing the design of textile-based metamaterials through theoretical analysis and numerical modeling to achieve perfect impedance matching with air, establishing the foundation for efficient structures.
2. Fabrication and Characterization of Textile-Based Metamaterials
The project fabricates metamaterials based on the optimized designs, using readily available, customizable fabrics. Advanced measurement techniques such as impedance tube and reverberation chamber ensure accurate characterization of the materials in real-world scenarios.
3. Industrial Application and Knowledge Transfer
The project shares findings with manufacturers to enable the production of affordable, broadband sound absorbers, improving quality of life. Industry engagement continues beyond the fellowship phase.
The TextMetamater project bridges cutting-edge research with practical applications, making urban environments quieter and more comfortable.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The project made notable progress in both theoretical and experimental aspects of acoustic metamaterials, advancing noise control and material science.
• Published Work
The paper "Acoustic Bound States in the Continuum in Coupled Helmholtz Resonators" published in Physical Review Applied offers insights into bound states in coupled systems, providing a foundation for innovative low-frequency noise control techniques.
• Submitted Manuscripts
Two papers were submitted to The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America and Nature Communications. These papers discuss novel methodologies for optimizing acoustic properties, available as preprints on Research Square for immediate dissemination to the scientific community.
• Conference Presentations
Research findings were shared at six prestigious international conferences, allowing engagement with leading experts in acoustics. Notable presentations included:
o Optimal Design of Fibrous Materials for Sound Absorption at Acoustics 2023 Sydney (December 2023)
o Simplification of Johnson-Champoux-Allard-Lafarge Model on Fibrous Materials at INTER-NOISE 2024.

Outcomes of the Actions
• Theoretical Models
Advanced models for optimizing acoustic metamaterials, particularly focused on impedance matching and absorption performance.
• Experimental Validation
Two-microphone impedance tube measurements validated theoretical predictions and confirmed the robustness of the designs.
• Technical Impact
The project established scalable design principles for fabricating high-efficiency, low-weight acoustic materials. These materials have practical applications in various industries and improve noise control systems.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The project achieved significant breakthroughs in acoustic metamaterials, offering advancements in noise control, sustainable architecture, and material design. Key innovations include:
1. Advanced Acoustic Metamaterials
New theoretical models and design strategies were developed to improve sound absorption, especially at low frequencies.
2. Improved Low-Frequency Noise Control
The metamaterials provide substantial improvements in low-frequency noise absorption, addressing a major limitation of traditional materials. This has practical applications in urban and industrial environments.
3. Simplified Acoustic Models
A simplified version of the Johnson-Champoux-Allard-Lafarge (JCAL) model was developed, making it easier to predict acoustic properties of materials.
4. Scalable Fabrication
The project explored additive manufacturing techniques, enabling scalable production of high-performance acoustic materials.
Potential Impacts:
• Better Environmental Sound Quality
The materials can significantly improve acoustic environments, particularly in construction and transportation, improving public health in noisy areas.
• Advancements in Green Building Design
The materials align with sustainable architecture goals, enhancing energy efficiency and acoustic comfort in green buildings.
• Industry and Commercialization
Cost-effective and scalable materials have the potential for widespread adoption in various sectors, including construction, automotive, and aerospace.

Key Needs for Further Uptake and Success:
1. Further Research and Testing
Additional studies are needed to validate these materials in real-world applications and confirm their scalability.
2. Market Access and Finance
Investment and partnerships with manufacturers will be essential for scaling production and commercialization.
3. IPR and Commercialization Strategy
Intellectual property protection and a clear commercialization strategy will be critical for market success.
4. International Expansion
Global collaboration and integration into international standards will help ensure widespread adoption of these materials.

Overview of Results
The project successfully developed innovative textile-based acoustic materials with improved sound absorption properties. Achievements include advanced theoretical models, experimental validation, and scalable fabrication techniques. To maximize their impact, further research, demonstration, and a clear commercialization strategy will be essential.