Acoustic Performance of Panels Made from Recycled Polyester Fiber Derived from PET Bottles

Abstract The global issue of PET bottles lies in their contribution to plastic pollution, as millions of bottles are discarded daily, often ending up in landfills or oceans. This non-biodegradable waste poses a significant threat to wildlife and ecosystems, while also contributing to the growing plastic waste crisis. This study investigates the acoustic performance of panels made in the laboratory from recycled polyester fibre extracted from post-consumer PET bottles, addressing the growing environmental challenges of plastic waste. The key objective of this research is to evaluate the sound absorption properties of these panels and explore their potential for application in noise control solutions. The acoustic performance of the panels was tested across a range of frequencies. Testing followed standard procedures for determining sound absorption characteristics in accordance with ISO 10534-2 using the impedance tube method. Results indicate that the panel exhibit significant sound absorption, particularly in the mid-frequency range with an absorption coefficient peaking at 0.95 at 4000 Hz, making them suitable for use in spaces such as offices, classrooms, and auditoriums. However, low-frequency absorption remains limited, with a coefficient near zero at frequencies below 80 Hz. In addition to their acoustic properties, the panels offer environmental benefits by reducing PET waste and minimizing reliance on non-renewable resources commonly used in acoustic treatments. This research highlights the potential of recycled polyester fiber panels as an effective and sustainable solution for sound absorption in various architectural applications. Further studies are recommended to explore their long-term durability and performance under different environmental conditions, as well as their cost-effectiveness compared to conventional acoustic materials.