Effect of Pile Parameters on the Noise Absorption Capacity of Tufted Carpets

Abstract

This paper examines the effect of pile characteristics on the noise absorption capacity of tufted carpets in the audible frequency range (125 < f < 4000 Hz.) The parameters considered are fiber content and fiber denier, pile density, and average pile height. The noise absorption coefficients of sample carpets differing from each other in only one pile parameter were measured using the impedance tube technique. Results of the experiments are displayed and evaluated in terms of a heuristic physical picture based on the theory of sound transfer through porous media. One of the interesting results is that when there is an air gap behind tufted carpet used as a wall covering, noise absorption capacity increases significantly in the low and medium frequency range, 250 < f < 1000 Hz.