BIODEGRADABLE ACOUSTIC ATTENUATING MATERIAL AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application introduces a biodegradable acoustic attenuating material designed for sound absorption, along with its production method. The material consists of a blend of dried seaweed powder, fine cellulose fiber, and water. The production process involves creating a uniform paste from these components, shaping it, and then dehydrating it into a solid form.

Environmental Context

Traditional construction materials significantly contribute to environmental degradation and carbon emissions. Many acoustic panels are made from non-renewable resources like mineral wool and fiberglass, which are energy-intensive to produce and non-biodegradable. These materials often contain harmful chemicals that can negatively impact indoor air quality. The need for sustainable alternatives is critical, as current materials are not eco-friendly and generate substantial waste.

Innovation and Benefits

The proposed material utilizes seaweed, a rapidly growing organism capable of carbon storage, making it an environmentally friendly alternative. Seaweed's natural binding properties and sustainable cultivation potential make it ideal for creating biodegradable acoustic panels. This innovation offers a renewable solution compared to existing synthetic and natural options, addressing both environmental impact and material performance.

Material Composition

The acoustic attenuating material is composed of seaweed, recycled paper, and water. It exhibits similar sound absorption capabilities to conventional materials like mineral fiber and polyester foam. The Noise Reduction Coefficient ranges from 0.5 to 0.7, influenced by factors such as texture and thickness. Seaweed acts as the binder while paper serves as the aggregate, forming a lightweight yet structurally sound material suitable for architectural use.

Technical Details

The invention leverages the unique properties of seaweed species such as Fucus Distichus and Saccharina Latissimi. When combined with hot water, these seaweeds form a gel-like binder due to their alginate content. This binder enhances the structural integrity of the material while maintaining its biodegradability. The process results in an acoustic attenuating material that matches the performance of traditional panels but with sustainable sourcing and end-of-life benefits.