Periodic Reporting for period 1 - Bio-Acouis (Bio-based Solutions for Improved Acoustic Applications)
Reporting period: 2023-01-01 to 2024-12-31
The Bio-Acouis project addresses the growing concern of noise pollution in workplaces and open spaces. Excessive noise has been shown to have direct negative effects on human health and behavior, leading to increased stress, reduced productivity, and long-term health issues. As urbanization and technological advancements continue to intensify noise pollution, the need for innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly acoustic solutions has become more pressing.
Traditional synthetic acoustic materials often contain harmful chemicals and contribute to environmental degradation. In contrast, bio-based materials offer a sustainable alternative. These materials are biodegradable, recyclable, and renewable, making them both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Objectives and Innovation
The primary objective of Bio-Acouis is to develop advanced acoustic solutions using bio-based materials, including agricultural waste, natural fibers, mycelium particles, and nanofibers. The project will:
- Develop innovative bio-based acoustic panels that are lightweight, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly.
- Utilize nanofiber technology and multi-layered bio-based materials to enhance sound absorption and insulation properties.
- Support social distancing strategies by creating adaptable and acoustically optimized workplace solutions.
-Bridge the gap between academia and industry through research collaborations, knowledge transfer, and market-oriented product development.
The project takes an interdisciplinary approach, combining expertise from materials science, acoustic engineering, architecture, environmental sustainability, and business innovation.
Pathway to Impact
The expected impact of the Bio-Acouis project extends across multiple domains:
- Scientific Impact
- Environmental Impact
- Economic Impact
- Social Impact
Integration of Social Sciences and Humanities
The project integrates social sciences and humanities by studying the behavioral and psychological effects of noise pollution. Research on workplace ergonomics, user experience, and social dynamics will inform the design of acoustic solutions. Additionally, studies on policy and environmental economics will contribute to developing guidelines for implementing bio-based acoustic solutions on a broader scale.
Traditional synthetic acoustic materials often contain harmful chemicals and contribute to environmental degradation. In contrast, bio-based materials offer a sustainable alternative. These materials are biodegradable, recyclable, and renewable, making them both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
Objectives and Innovation
The primary objective of Bio-Acouis is to develop advanced acoustic solutions using bio-based materials, including agricultural waste, natural fibers, mycelium particles, and nanofibers. The project will:
- Develop innovative bio-based acoustic panels that are lightweight, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly.
- Utilize nanofiber technology and multi-layered bio-based materials to enhance sound absorption and insulation properties.
- Support social distancing strategies by creating adaptable and acoustically optimized workplace solutions.
-Bridge the gap between academia and industry through research collaborations, knowledge transfer, and market-oriented product development.
The project takes an interdisciplinary approach, combining expertise from materials science, acoustic engineering, architecture, environmental sustainability, and business innovation.
Pathway to Impact
The expected impact of the Bio-Acouis project extends across multiple domains:
- Scientific Impact
- Environmental Impact
- Economic Impact
- Social Impact
Integration of Social Sciences and Humanities
The project integrates social sciences and humanities by studying the behavioral and psychological effects of noise pollution. Research on workplace ergonomics, user experience, and social dynamics will inform the design of acoustic solutions. Additionally, studies on policy and environmental economics will contribute to developing guidelines for implementing bio-based acoustic solutions on a broader scale.
During the first reporting period of the Bio-Acouis project, the following technical and scientific activities were performed, leading to several significant achievements:
Technical and Scientific Activities:
1. Knowledge Exchange and Training:
- Secondment training sessions and workshops were conducted to facilitate the selection and methodologies for bio-based materials among academic and industrial partners.
- Scientific discussions enabled the integration of socio-economic aspects to enhance collaborative efforts.
2. Raw Material Procurement and Evaluation:
- Sourcing of raw materials such as wood fibers and annual plant-based particles (including cellulose nanofibers and mycelium particles) was carried out to evaluate their suitability for acoustic panel development.
- Two types of bio-based resins, lignin and tannin, were utilized in producing laboratory-scale panel prototypes.
3. Prototype Development:
- Laboratory-scale panel prototypes were produced from various bio-based materials, including four different lignocellulosic sources: corn stalk, corn cob, hemp hurd, and wood as a reference material.
- Experimental prototypes helped in optimizing the composition of the acoustic panels.
4. Testing and Performance Evaluation:
- Comprehensive mechanical and physical testing was conducted to assess the performance parameters of the produced panels.
- Initial impedance tube tests provided insights into the absorption coefficients which align with further optimization efforts.
5. Selection and Integration of Bio-Based and Nanomaterials:
- A thorough selection process for suitable bio-based materials for acoustic panels was executed, highlighting the use of hemp cotton and wood fibers/chips as the most promising materials.
- Mycelium composites were developed using substrates like pine sawdust and cellulose for exploring their application suitability in acoustic panels.
Achievements:
- Successful Prototype Creation
- Innovative Material Selection
- Testing Insights
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Outcomes:
- The activities during this reporting period have laid a solid foundation for further experimental validation and refinement of acoustic panel formulations, which will enhance their acoustic efficiency, durability, and environmental performance.
- The identification and optimization of innovative materials signify a valuable contribution towards the development of cost-effective and eco-friendly acoustic solutions.
These technical and scientific efforts reinforce Bio-Acouis' commitment to achieving sustainable solutions for noise reduction and addressing noise pollution challenges through innovative research and collaboration.
Technical and Scientific Activities:
1. Knowledge Exchange and Training:
- Secondment training sessions and workshops were conducted to facilitate the selection and methodologies for bio-based materials among academic and industrial partners.
- Scientific discussions enabled the integration of socio-economic aspects to enhance collaborative efforts.
2. Raw Material Procurement and Evaluation:
- Sourcing of raw materials such as wood fibers and annual plant-based particles (including cellulose nanofibers and mycelium particles) was carried out to evaluate their suitability for acoustic panel development.
- Two types of bio-based resins, lignin and tannin, were utilized in producing laboratory-scale panel prototypes.
3. Prototype Development:
- Laboratory-scale panel prototypes were produced from various bio-based materials, including four different lignocellulosic sources: corn stalk, corn cob, hemp hurd, and wood as a reference material.
- Experimental prototypes helped in optimizing the composition of the acoustic panels.
4. Testing and Performance Evaluation:
- Comprehensive mechanical and physical testing was conducted to assess the performance parameters of the produced panels.
- Initial impedance tube tests provided insights into the absorption coefficients which align with further optimization efforts.
5. Selection and Integration of Bio-Based and Nanomaterials:
- A thorough selection process for suitable bio-based materials for acoustic panels was executed, highlighting the use of hemp cotton and wood fibers/chips as the most promising materials.
- Mycelium composites were developed using substrates like pine sawdust and cellulose for exploring their application suitability in acoustic panels.
Achievements:
- Successful Prototype Creation
- Innovative Material Selection
- Testing Insights
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Outcomes:
- The activities during this reporting period have laid a solid foundation for further experimental validation and refinement of acoustic panel formulations, which will enhance their acoustic efficiency, durability, and environmental performance.
- The identification and optimization of innovative materials signify a valuable contribution towards the development of cost-effective and eco-friendly acoustic solutions.
These technical and scientific efforts reinforce Bio-Acouis' commitment to achieving sustainable solutions for noise reduction and addressing noise pollution challenges through innovative research and collaboration.
Results and Potential Impacts
1. Results:
- Material Innovation
- Quality Assessment
- Sustainability
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
2. Potential Impacts:
- Economic Impact
- Environmental Impact
- Societal Impact
Key Needs for Future Uptake and Success
1. Further Research:
2. Demonstration Projects:
3. Access to Markets and Finance:
4. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Support:
5. Internationalization:
6. Supportive Regulatory and Standardization Framework:
7. Outreach and Awareness Programs:
These identified needs will be essential in addressing challenges that arise as the project seeks to transition from research and development to practical implementation and broader market adoption. By focusing on these areas, the Bio-Acouis project can ensure not only its own success but also contribute meaningfully to the development of sustainable materials in the industry.
1. Results:
- Material Innovation
- Quality Assessment
- Sustainability
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
2. Potential Impacts:
- Economic Impact
- Environmental Impact
- Societal Impact
Key Needs for Future Uptake and Success
1. Further Research:
2. Demonstration Projects:
3. Access to Markets and Finance:
4. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Support:
5. Internationalization:
6. Supportive Regulatory and Standardization Framework:
7. Outreach and Awareness Programs:
These identified needs will be essential in addressing challenges that arise as the project seeks to transition from research and development to practical implementation and broader market adoption. By focusing on these areas, the Bio-Acouis project can ensure not only its own success but also contribute meaningfully to the development of sustainable materials in the industry.