CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Sound can be defined as an airborne vibration that causes the sensation of hearing.

Produced mainly by vibration of medium or objects, It has always been part of our

everyday living. Through it, humans and other living organisms are able to communicate,

hear; and even enhance cell growth and sterilization by the use of ultrasound and

sonication (Ranga.nr, 2016) however, too much sound creates noise: an unwanted or

undesired sound. This annoying level of noise or noise disturbance is what we call Noise

pollution which brings harmful effects to us.

According to Dambrose (2003), the audible frequency limits of sound ranges

from 20 Hertz to 20,000 Hertz. Exceeding this limit will trigger its dangerous effects. In

humans, some of the adverse effects are annoyance, loss of hearing, poor performance

due to noise distractions and sleeplessness. In our country, the most affected by this

pollution are people living in urban areas like Metro Manila, Malolos City, and other

industrialized cities because the common source of loud sound is abundant in

industrialized and modern cities such as numerous vehicles, aircrafts, trains, heavy

equipment, construction works and industries. Noise pollution is also a problem in

overpopulated schools like Bulacan State University. Some of the causes are the old

design of buildings/structures, overcrowded rooms and the noise that people creates when

communicating are some of the main causes. This problem creates struggle to the

students. Noise pollution in classrooms can bring adverse effects to students like loss of

attention or distractions, lower class performance and stress (WHO, 1999).

1
 The researchers wish to address this problem by creating a sound insulating

material for classrooms. Soundproofing in terms of absorbing or blocking of sound is a

good way to lessen the outside noise. Currently, there are available materials in the

market that has soundproofing ability due to their compacted particles and fibers,

example of these are: polystyrene board and fibreglass composites. Their advantage is

both of these composites are really good insulator of sound, resistive to chemical

reactions and have strong physical properties which are already proven. Nevertheless,

these two are expensive and synthetic which contributes in other pollution in their

creation because of the chemicals used and when disposed, they take thousands of years

to decompose.

In respect with this, the researchers of this study will use natural fibers, which are

bio-materials and have sound proofing capability in order to address and lessen noise

problems in classrooms of Bulacan State University - College of Engineering without

harming the environment. A bio-based composite will be created by mixing some of these

fibers with a good binder which will be called as Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel

(BSDP).

Statement of the Problem

2
 The general problem of this study is How to lessen noise problems in classrooms

of Bulacan State University College of Engineering using biofiber materials?

Specifically, this study will answer the following questions:

1 What processes, methods and engineering theories should be done for the

preparation of the raw materials before the creation of Biofiber Sound

Dissipating Panel to the product in terms of physical properties and

soundproofing?

2 How will the Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel be fabricated?

3 Will the Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel be acceptable for end users

considering the following variables:

3.1 Functionality;
3.2 Efficiency;
3.3 Reliability; and

3.4 Accuracy

Significance of the Study

The end users of this research are the following:

1. Bulacan State University engineering students

The use of Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel in classrooms of BulSU-COE

may help in reducing noise and sound transfer in adjacent classrooms/area

during class hours. This will improve the learning capacity of the students

because of lesser noise distractions.

2. Bulacan State University engineering professors

3
 The use of BSDP in classrooms where the professors are conducting their classes

may help them in reducing their effort in talking/delivering their lesson loudly

during discussion because of lesser noise in surroundings.

3. Future Researchers

This study would serve as a guide and reference for the other researchers who

intend to study the following:

3.1 Soundproofing capabilities of biofibers materials and other related studies;

and

3.2 Improvement or modification of the product, the Biofiber Sound Dissipating

Panel.

Scope and Delimitations

The study will be beneficial to the students of Bulacan State University College of

Engineering for the product may be used in the future as sound proofing wall panels in

their classrooms.

The product is consist of a natural fibre specifically bamboo fibre and rice straws

that are compacted together using a good binder. Natural fibres have the same acoustic

absorption capability compared with the other conventional synthetic fibrous materials,

such as fiberglass and mineral wool. It is a composite panel that is similar to the existing

sound proofing boards in the market. The panel is 12 inches long, 12 inches wide and has

a thickness of 1 inch. Four panels were created and were attached in a prototype cube-

room for actual testing.

4
 The creation of the biofiber sound dissipating panel does not intend to replace

existing sound insulation products in the market but rather, it aims to become an

alternative one which will be more eco-friendly and cheaper.

The efficiency of the product as a sound proofing panel may vary depending on

depending on the area of the room, the material of the walls or dividers, the number of

room openings including the windows and doors and the amount or level of noise to be

isolated.

This panel will not work on open classrooms where there are no wall dividers

because the noise level is uncontrollable. The product cannot guarantee a 100% sound

reduction but it may help in reducing noise passage in rooms. The researchers of this

study are suggesting in using the product in a closed room with limited openings.

The product in this study has been subjected to tests specifically sound reduction

test, to ensure its efficiency compared to the existing sound insulators.

5
 CHAPTER II
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

This chapter presents the relevant theories, related literature, related studies,

conceptual framework, hypotheses of the study, and definition of terms or variables.

Relevant Theories

The researchers used the following theories in conceptualizing, designing and

fabricating the output of this study.

Theory of Sound Insulation - Sound insulation is the ability of material separating

two rooms to minimize the passage of airborne sound through either the dividing element

or its surrounding structure. The materials are assessed on a sound reduction index, a

measurement of the level of sound insulation provided by a structure, by relating the

sound power reduction through the material itself.

This theory was considered in the conceptualization and fabrication of present

research project. The product produced is focused on limiting the passage of sound

between rooms. The product itself undergone tests that measures sound reduction index

to know its efficiency as sound insulation.

Edge-Effect Suppression Theory - Sound factor transmitting materials such as a

porous substances and cloth serve to reduce noise when placed over the edge of a plate to

moderate the velocity of air particles.

6
 According to Prof. Yushito Kawai, a distinct person in the field of acoustic

engineering, it is better to fabricate a design of a sound insulation covered by porous

elements rather than a design covered by solid materials.

The researchers of this study applied this theory to suppress the first wave of sound

by capping a wool cloth on the surface of the product. By this, the sound wave will be

altered and minimized while traveling within the product.

Mass Law of Insulation Material

The law states that the sound insulation of a single-leaf partition has a relationship

with the surface density of the partition, and increases with the frequency of the sound.

Heavy structures with high mass transmit less sound energy than lightweight

structures. The high density of heavy materials restricts the size of sound vibrations

inside the material so that the final face of the structure vibrates with less movement than

for a lightweight material.

The above mass law has been a guide of the researchers in the amount of the

materials used. The researchers tried in making the mass of the product in standard as to

avoid vibrations created by sound passage so to restrict sound transfer as explained

above.

Law of Conservation of Energy

The law states that energy can neither be created nor destroyed but it can be changed

from one form to another.

7
 In this study, the sound energy is not destroyed as said by the law but rather, it is

change into another form which is heat. Once the sound wave is incident on the fibers,

the viscous effect between fiber frame and numerous air cavities will attenuate part of

sound energy and convert it into minimal amount of heat.

Heat Transfer Theory - The theory of heat transfer seeks to predict the energy

transfer that may take place between material bodies as a result of temperature difference.

This energy transfer is defined as heat. The three modes by which heat can be transferred

from one place to another are conduction, convection and radiation.

This theory was used in drying some of the biofibers using the heat coming from the

sun as stated on heat transfer.

External Fibrillation Theory - External fibrillation is defined as peeling off of

fibrils from the fiber surface, while leaving them attached to the fiber surface. It is a

process of dispersing fibers of a certain material to a considerable degree of fibrillation.

Grinding, blending, and shaking are some methods used in the material processing.

The bamboo and rice straws in this study were processed and pounded in order to

produce fibers. The fibers then were bonded together using a binder.

Related Literature

Dreossil said in her literature review on 2005 that noises generated inside the

classroom could be minimized with some basic adequacies of the space. The classrooms

must always be separated by walls that will absorb the energy between the classes. If,

even though, the sound of one class is interfering in the other ones, it would be indicated

8
its covering with some kind of material (such as cork, panels, furniture, etc.). The

windows without soundproof treatment, must have curtains to minimize the impact of the

noise coming from outside. If these classrooms are equipped with ventilators and/or air

conditioners, the noise generated by these equipments must also be monitored.

According to Dambrose (2003), exceeding the sound range limit of 20 Hertz to

20,000 Hertz will trigger dangerous effects like annoyance, loss of hearing, low human

performance due to distractions and sleeplessness. Sound absorption panels trap

acoustical energy (sound) and prevent it from reflecting off of the surfaces they cover.

The panels are used to eliminate echoes and reflections that muddle or color amplified

music and speech. These wall panels will also reduce reverberation levels in a room,

which can sometimes provide ambient noise reduction.

Asdrubali stated in his article (2012) that natural fibers are supposed to have the

same mechanism for acoustic absorption as other conventional synthetic fibrous

materials, such as glass fiber and mineral wool. These fibers are often light and they are

not harmful for human health and can therefore be used as sound absorbers in room

acoustical products and noise barriers. Furthermore, many of these materials are currently

available on the market at competitive prices.

According to Sherman in her health news article (2008) that bamboo is the fastest

growing woody plant on earth, it has a short growth cycle. Some bamboo species can

grow up to one meter daily, which makes it a rapidly renewable resource. Because it is so

versatile and high yielding, it solves the problem of replenishing many consumables

within a short time. Bamboo's versatility applies to other building uses also. Ply bamboo

9
can be used for wall paneling and flooring, while the stalks serve as raw material for

housing construction and rebar for reinforced concrete beams. Bamboo's tensile strength

is 18,000 pounds per square inch, making it stronger than any other wood.

An article from Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, University of

Manchester said that rice is the staple food crop in Asia, where 91% of it is grown and

consumed. For every 4 tons of rice grain, 6 tons of straw is produced, which in Asia

amounts to about 550 million tons of straw and 110 million tons of husks each year.

The noises generated in the classrooms that affecting the studies of students and

instructors can be reduced using sound insulation. Biofibers has good sound absorption

ability that can be used as sound absorption panel. Biofibers like bamboo fibers and rice

straws can use as substitute from commercial sound insulation.

Related Studies

Acoustic Composite Board is a special kind of board made of sound absorbing

materials usually polystyrene and fiberglass composites. Its job is to provide sound

insulation for rooms by implanting them into the walls. Its fiberglass insulation is created

by melting sand and glass and then using one of the several processes to spin the molten

glass into a network of interlocking fibers. The process creates tiny air pockets between

fibers making it an excellent insulation material for sound. According to Ogrin (2016), a

layer of fiberglass sound insulation with a thickness of 2 inches will able to stop loud

sound dead in its tracks.

This study is related to the proponents project in terms of its purpose, process of

making and the dimension. This study intends to use an alternative; eco-friendly raw

10
material in creating a soundproofing panel rather than using fiberglass and by using the

same process, the researchers were able to create a similar fibrous insulation with the

same ability of dissipating sounds. The thickness of the proponents product was tried to

base from the study.

Han-Seung Yang (2003) made a study about rice straw regarding soundproofing.

The raw material was chosen to be a sound barrier because of its availability. The

composite boards made from a random cutting of rice straw and wood particles were the

best and recommended for manufacturing processes. The recommended properties of the

rice strawwood particle composite boards are described, to absorb noises, preserve the

temperature of indoor living spaces, and to be able to partially or completely substitute

for wood particleboard and insulation board in wooden constructions.

This is related to the proponents of study in terms of the main material that was

used in making BSDP. The difference is that the researchers of the study cut rice straws

properly and indefinite length to improve its sound absorption properties. The researchers

also didnt use wood particles as one of the raw materials.

Hans J.A. van Leeuwen (2016) made a study about sound isolation using bamboo

plants. Bamboo plants as a noise barrier to reduce road traffic noise. In the diffraction of

noise, the noise reduction is also dependent on the curvature of the noise over the screen.

During insulation of noise, limited isolation of the barrier will ensure that the effect of

screening is less because there is also a noise contribution the leakage transmission

through the screen. With bamboo screens, this is very relevant.

11
 This study is related to the study because it also uses bamboo as main raw

material. The difference is instead of using whole bamboo plants it utilize its fibers and

mixed with other materials to produce a BSDP.

Conceptual Framework

In the fabrication of this project, the researchers used input-process-output (IPO)

model.

Input refers to the technology resources like infoware, technoware and

humanware to be used to help the researchers in this project. Next is the step by step

process of fabrication of the project that the researchers will follow. And finally, the

project output, the Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel.

12
 INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1 Infoware
- Related
Theories
- Related
literature
- Related
Studies
2 Technoware
- Insulation Panel
Bamboo
Fiber
Palay Straw
Foam 1 Preparation of
Wool Cloth Project Proposal
Wood Glue 2 Layout and Design
Scissors
3 Selection of
Metric tape
Water Gathering of
Wood saw Materials
Grinder 4 Molder Making
- Molder 5 Processing of Raw
Plywood Biofiber Sound
Lumber Materials
Dissipating Panel
Metric Tape - Fibrillation
Hammer - Drying
L-Square - Cutting
Grinder 6 Part by Part
Wood saw Fabrication
Drill
- Board Making
Oil
Aluminum
a. Mixing
foil b. Drying
Bolts and 7 Project Assembly
nuts 8 Testing
Nails 9 Polishing and
pencil Finishing Touches
3 Humanware
- Engineer
- Skilled Workers

13
Hypothesis of the Study

The Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel will be acceptable to the end users

considering the variables such as efficiency, functionality, price, and quality and will be

tested at the end of this project study for acceptance or rejection.

Definition of Variables

Biofiber it is the term used to identify biodegradable fibers like bamboo fiber

and rice straw that was used as main materials by the researchers.
Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel- Is the term used by the researchers to their

future product made of biofibers intended to alter sound waves.

Infoware Source of information like books, journals, internet, etc. that the

proponents will use in the preparation of this project.

Humanware- Human abilities, such as creativity and knowledge that made the

fabrication of the project easy and fast, and help the proponents to have a better

output in this project.

Technoware- Tools/equipment such as home appliances (grinder, drill and

scissors in particular) in particular that the proponents used in the fabrication of

the project.
Bamboo Fiber- refers to the cellulose fiber extracted from the bamboo through

fibrillation process; it is mixed with the rice straw to form a biofiber panel.
Rice Straw- an additional natural fiber that added to the panel.
Wool Cloth- a porous fabric that has a good sound absorption ability which

serves as the outermost layer and holds the board panel together with the foam.
Molder- a 12inx12inx1.5in wood case crafted for the biofiber sound panel.

14
 CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

15
 This chapter presents the research design, sources of data, data gathering

procedure, research instrument, respondents (population and samples) and statistical

instrument or treatment.

Research Design/Method

Applied Research is the application of scientific knowledge to the solution of a

problem. There is a development of new system, new device or gadget, or new method in

order to solve the problem.

The researchers made used of this type of research design in order to answer the

noise pollution in Bulacan State University College of Engineering classrooms by

following scientific method and develop another product that is eco-friendly, which can

compete with the existing sound insulation boards in the market.

Descriptive Research refers to the type of research question, design, and data

analysis that will be applied to a given topic.

It has been the guide of the researchers in finding the details on how to answer the

problem including its analysis, design and other data needed in the research.

Sources of Data

This study employed primary and secondary sources of data in finding the

solution to the problem. Primary data are information gathered by the researchers

themselves which includes observations, interviews, case studies, surveys and

questionnaires. Secondary sources of data on the other hand are information that already

16
exists like previous research, official statistics, mass media products, diaries, letters,

government reports, web information, and historical data and information.

Data Gathering Procedures

Direct Method is the method of gathering data through personal interviews that

will be a guide in formulating a good solution to a specific problem.

Direct method can be used by the researchers in finding some data in the problem.

Interviews with the people having enough ideas to the topic may add better details and

information in answering the problem.

Indirect Method it is the method wherein the researchers use survey in gathering

data or information related to the topic.

This method is very important for the researchers in finding ideas and even in

knowing the acceptability of the future products to the end users. Survey will be given to

the students to answer some questions regarding the topic or problem.

Research Instrument

The study will use materials that include books, journals, web information and

government data to gather ideas for the topic. A standardized survey or questionnaire will

also be used for the acceptability by a sample description of instrument regarding the

different parameters or variable.

Population and Sample

17
 After the product of this research has been produced, the researchers will create

questionnaires to be given to possible end users for the reason to know the acceptability

of the output. The feedback will be a guide for the researchers in determining other

variables. It is planned to survey or ask at least fifty (50) out of estimated 6000

engineering students of Bulacan State University who are possible end users of the

output.

Statistical Treatment

Researchers needed to treat data statistically to ensure the accuracy and limiting

the errors in the study. Statistical treatment in a thesis is also way of removing researcher

bias by interpreting the data statistically rather than subjectively. Giving a thesis

statistical treatment also ensures that all necessary data has been collected.

According to William M.K Trochim descriptive statistics are used to describe the

basic features of the data in a study. They provide simple summaries about the sample

and the measures. Together with simple graphics analysis, they form the basis of virtually

every quantitative analysis of data.

Descriptive Statistics are used to present quantitative descriptions in a manageable

form. In a research study we may have lots of measures. Or we may measure a large

number of people on any measure. Descriptive statistics help us to simplify large amounts

of data in a sensible way. Each descriptive statistic reduces lots of data into a simpler

summary.

In descriptive statistics there are limitations in mathematical quantities such as

frequency, mean and standard deviation.

18
 Frequency is the total number of times the event happened in the study. The

frequency of particular data value is the number of times the data value occurs. By

arranging collected data values in ascending order of magnitude with their corresponding

frequencies.

In statistics, the standard deviation is a measure that is used to quantify the

amount of variation or dispersion of a set of data values. A low standard deviation

indicates that the data points tend to be close to the mean of the set, while a high standard

deviation indicates that the data points are spread out over a wider range of values.

CHAPTER IV
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION

19
 This chapter presents the following: labelled isometric view of the project,

detailed step by step fabrication of the project, procedures on how to use/operate the

project, maintenance/trouble shooting procedures, project costing, tabular comparison

between the project and previously conducted projects (related studies) and tabular

summary and interpretation of the results of the acceptability test.

Labelled Isometric View

Figure 4.1 Biofiber Board Molder and Press

Figure 4.2 Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel

Step by Step Procedure: Fabricated Parts

20
 Molder

Materials Needed
1. Marine Plywood (8x4x1/2)

2. Good Lumber (1.5x1.5x10)

Table 4.1 Materials (Molder and Press)

Tools Used
1. Metric Tape 2. Hammer

3. L-Square 4. Electric Drill

5. Electric Saw 5. Grinder

Table 4.2 Tools (Molder and Press)

o Fabrication Process of Molder and Presser

21
A. In a standard size marine plywood (8x4x1/2), measure a 15 in length and

width from the corner using a metric tape. Mark it using a pencil/ballpen.

Figure 4.3
B. Layout a square figure using an L-square to make sure that its corner will have

90 angles. Repeat the procedure in a measurement of 12x12.

Picture 4.1a Picture 4.1b

(Measuring and marking of Plywood)
C. Cut the measured outline of the squares using hacksaw. Use a grinder to refine

the edges of the squares.

Picture 4.2a (Cutting) Picture 4.2b (Grinding)

D. From a 1.5x1.5x 10 good lumber, measure three 16 inches, one 15 in, two

13.5 in and 12 in lengths from the end. Mark it using pencil/ballpen.

Picture 4.3 (Marking in lumber)

E. Cut the measured lengths using a hacksaw.

Picture 4.4 (Cutting of lumber)

F. Lay-out the cut lumbers on the corner of the 15x15 square. Using hammer

and nails, pin them together.

Picture 4.5 (Nailing)

22
G. To make the surface smooth, use a grinder. Paint the molder and presser for

finishing.

Picture 4.6a (Grinding) Picture 4.6b (Molder)

H. For the press, attached the three 12x12 together by nailing them. Lay out the

three 16 inches long lumber on top and fasten them again with nails.

Picture 4.7a (Laying out press) Picture 4.7b (Nailing Press)

I. Affix the press to the molder and mark the spot to be drilled for the bolts and

nuts. Drill the spot depending on the size of the bots to be used. Pin the bolts from

the bottom of the molder.

Picture 4.8a (Marking for drill) Picture 4.8b (Drilling)

23
 Picture 4.8c (Painted Molder and Press)

Biofiber Board Making

Materials Needed
1. 300g of Bamboo Fibers 2. 300g Rice Straws

2. Foam (80x40x1/4) 4. Wool Cloth

5. kg Polyvinyl Acetate (Wood Glue) 6.500mL Sodium Hydroxide

Table 4.3 Materials (Biofiber Board)

Tools Used
1. Basins 2. Weighing scale

3. Measuring cups 4. Scissors

24
 5. Gun tucker 6. Hammer

Table 4.4 Tools (Biofiber Board)

o Biofiber Board Making Process

A. Bamboo Fiber Preparation
1. Prepare the bamboo by cutting/slicing smaller sticks out of it.

Picture 4.9 (Bamboo Cutting)

2. In a basin, mix 150mL of Sodium Hydroxide and 500mL of water to make

a solution. Put the bamboo sticks in the solution and let the sticks stay for

2 hours.

Picture 4.10 (Bamboo Sticks in Solution)

3. Remove the bamboo sticks from the solution and let it dry a bit. Pound the

bamboo sticks as fibrillation process.

25
 Picture 4.11 (Fibrillation Process Pounding)
4. Cut the produced bamboo fibers in 1 cm length using scissors.

Picture 4.12 (Bamboo Fibers)

B. Rice Straw Preparation
1. Gather a sack of rice straw. Dry the rice straw under the sunlight. Cut the

dried rice straw in 1 cm length.

Picture 4.13 (Cut Rice Straws)

C. Biofiber Board Preparation

1. Using weighing scale, measure 300g of bamboo fibers, 300g of rice

straws and mix them in a basin.

Picture 4.14 (Mixing dried fibers)

2. In a cup, blend kg of polyvinyl acetate (wood glue) and 150mL water.

Mix the combined colloid thoroughly.

Picture 4.15 (Binder)

3. Mix the biofibers and binder properly until combined together.

26
 Picture 4.16 (Mixing)

4. Lay an aluminium foil in the molder. Put some oil on the foil to prevent

sticking of the mixture. Set the mixture and press it for an hour or until it

compacted together.

Picture 4.17a (laying foil) Picture 4.17b (Setting/Pressing)

D. Drying Process
1. Remove the pressed board from the molder and let it dry under the

sunlight for a day, or until completely dried and hardened.

Picture 4.18a (Drying) Picture 4.18b (Biofiber board)

Note: Procedure A, B, C and D are used to create the biofiber board.

o Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel Preparation

A. From the standard size of foam (80x40x1/4) draft a square with the

same size of the board (12x12). Cut it using scissors.

27
 Picture 4.19 (Foam cutting)
B. Attached the foam into the biofiber board.
C. Out of the 1 yard length of wool cloth, measure a 15in width and 32in

length rectangle for the cover of the biofiber sound dissipating panel. Cut

it using scissors.

Picture 4.20 (Cut wool cloth)

D. Cover up the biober board with foam using the cut wool cloth. Use a gun

tucker to fasten it or using sewing machine makes a cover out of it.

Picture 4.21 (Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel)

How to use or install the Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel

o The following are the procedures in installing the BSDP if used for

walls/windows:

A. Using Industrial Glue

Step 1. Clean the surface of the wall where the BSDP will be mounted.
Step 2. Lay-out the BSDP on the desired area and mark it precisely.

28
 Step 3. Apply industrial glue on the back of the BSDP and attached it to

the marked area of the wall. Use a support and let the glue dry.
B. Using Wall pins
Step 1. Spot the area at the back of the BSDP where the pin is to be

attached.
Step 2. Using screw driver fasten the pin(s) at the back.
Step 3. Measure the wall in which the pins is to be hang. Use a level for

accurate placing. Mark the place to be drilled.

Step 4. Drill the spot, place the pin hanger and screw it using screw driver.
Step 4. Hang the BSDP in the wall.

Project Costing

o Material Cost

MOLDER/PRESS
ITEMS QUANTITY PRICE
Marine Plywood
1 pc Php 300.00
(8x4x1/2)
Good Lumber 1 pc Php 100.00
Total Php 400.00
BIOFIBER SOUND DISSIPATING PANEL
ITEMS QUANTITY PRICE
Polyvinyl Acetate (wood
1 kg Php 130.00
glue)
Foam (80x40) 1 pc Php 90.00
Wool Cloth 1 yard Php 75.00
Total Php 295.00
Total Material Cost Php 695.00
Table 4.5 (Material Cost)

Actual Cost

29
 The total cost of the 1 inch BSDP as computed in Table 4.5 is Php 400 for the

molder/presser and Php 355.00 for the sound insulation board. But if the items are to be

mass produced, the following expenses can be saved:

MOLDER/PRESS

ITEM SAVINGS COST

Marine Plywood (only Php 300.00 Php 255.00
Php 255.00
15% was used) =Php 45.00
Good Lumber Php 0.00 Php 100.00

TOTAL Php 145.00/molder

BIOFIBER SOUND DISSIPATING PANEL

ITEM SAVINGS COST

Polyvinyl Acetate (wood Php 130.00 Php 32.5
Php 32.5
glue) = Php 97.50
80x40 Foam (only 1/20 Php 90.00 Php 85.50
Php 85.50
was used) = Php 4.50
Wool Cloth (only 12% Php 75.00 Php 66.00
Php 66.00
was used) = Php 9.00
TOTAL Php 111.00/BSDP
Table 4.6 (Actual Cost)

The total actual cost of a 1 x 1 x 1 BSDP as tabulated in table 4.5 and table 4.6

is Php 256.00 which includes the molder, and panel costs. But if the product will be mass

produced, with 50 molders (in which each molder is capable of producing 8 panels a

day), the price can become Php 129.13 and can save 50% from the original price.

30
 Tabular Comparison

Project
Variables Existing in the Market
Output
Phenolic Polystyrene Acoustic
Raw Material BSDP
Foam Board Fiberglass

Appearance

PhP PhP2350.48 Php Php

Price
1194.79/sq.m1 /sq.m 1350.56/sq.m 1535.50/sq.m
0.3048m x
Area 1m x 1m 0.6m x 1.25m 0.6m x 0.6m
0.3048m
Thickness 1 inch 0.60 inch 0.25 inch 2 inches
Density 42 kg/m3 80 kg/m3 36 kg/m3 90kg/m3
Odor Tolerable Odor Odorless Odorless Tolerable Odor
Slight Slight Slight Slight
Maintenance maintenance maintenance maintenance maintenance
needed needed needed needed
Already Already Already
Available in
Parts assembled in assembled in assembled in the
the market
the market the market market
Already Already Already
Assembly Easy assembled in assembled in assembled in the
the market the market market
Installation Easy Easy Easy Easy
Compressive 315 psi or 33.37 psi or 100 psi or 690 100 psi or 690
Strength 2,171kPa 230 KPa kPa kPa
To be
Decomposition Long Long Long
determined
Table 4.8 (Tabular Comparison)

Notes:
1
Justified on computations for project costing

Trials, Tests and Experiments

Trials

31
 Using Urea-Formaldehyde
On this trial, the bamboo and rice straws mixture didnt bonded together. The

board is soft and breaks easily. It took longer time in drying the board. The binder

is also expensive.
Using Wood Glue mixed with starch
On this trial, mixing process becomes hard because of the added starch. The board

has powdered texture on the surface and had an unpleasant odour after few days.
Using Wood Glue mixed with water

Proportion
(added to 600g of
Description Findings
bamboo fiber and rice
straw)
Drying took longer time.
60:40 Cracks were seen when
540g of wood glue
60% wood glue
360mL of water dried and the board
40% water
breaks easily.
Good, but the board still
70:30 has cracks when dried.
630g of wood glue
70% wood glue
270mL of water Shorter drying period
30% water
from the first trial.
90:10 When added to the dry
810g of wood glue
90% wood glue components, it is hard to
90mL of water
10% water mix.
Best. Had enough time of
83.3:16.7 drying. The board is
750g of wood glue
83.3% wood glue durable. The board
150mL of water
16.7% water attained the cork board
appearance.
Table 4.9 (Trial proportions using wood glue and water)
Tests
1. Reverberation Time (RT60)
0.049 SA
RT=
A

Where: RT = Reverberation Time (seconds)

= Absorption coefficient of the material
A = Area of the material (ft2)
SA = Surface Area of the room (ft2)

Reverberation Time of Untreated Box

32
 A 125 Hz 250 Hz 500 Hz 1 kHz 2 kHz 4 kHz
Materia
(ft2
l A A A A A A
)
0.2 1.4 0.1 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.3 0.0 0.4
Plywood 5 0.5
9 5 0 5 5 4 0 7 5 9 5
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Glass 1
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2
A (Sabins) 1.48 0.53 0.28 0.23 0.37 0.47
RT (seconds) 0.033 0.092 0.175 0.213 0.132 0.104
Table 4.10 (RT of Untreated Box)
Sample Calculation:

For 125 Hz

0.049 A 0.049(1)
RT=
SA = 1.48 = 0.033 seconds

Reverberation Time of Box with BSDP

A 125 Hz 250 Hz 500 Hz 1 kHz 2 kHz 4 kHz
Materia
(ft2
l A A A A A A
)
0.2 1.4 0.1 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.3 0.0 0.4
Plywood 5 0.5
9 5 0 5 5 4 0 7 5 9 5
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Glass 1
3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2
0.2 0.7 0.3 1.4 0.4 0.3 1.4 0.5 0.4 1.7
BSDP 4 1.8 2
0 8 6 4 5 6 4 0 4 6
A (Sabins) 2.26 1.97 2.08 1.67 2.37 2.23
RT (seconds) 0.023 0.025 0.024 0.029 0.021 0.022
Table 4.11 (RT of Box with BSDP)

Sample Calculation:

For 125 Hz

0.049 SA 0.049(1)
RT=
A = 2.26 = 0.023 seconds

33
 Reverberation Time
0.25

0.2

WITH BSDP
0.15
WITHOUT BSDP
Seconds
0.1

0.05

0
125 250 500 1000 2000 4000
Note:

The values of the absorption coefficients came from the journal, A review on the

acoustical properties of Natural and Synthetic Noise Absorbents by Ravandi because

there is no testing center for determining the absorption coefficient near Region III,

Philippines.

Chart 4.1 (Comparison of RTs)

34
 In the Reverberation Test, the calculated values of RTs of the box model with and

without the BSDP are shown in tables 4.10 and 4.11. Reverberation time is the time

required for the sound to "fade away" in a closed area. Sound in a room will repeatedly

bounce off reflective surfaces such as the floor, walls, ceiling, windows or tables. It was

found that by adding a BSDP in the box, the decay of sound increases as shown in the

tables. The values of RTs of the box with BSDP are lower and are almost constant which

means that the decay of sound is much faster than the decay without the BSDP shown in

Chart 4.1.

2. Sound Transmission Loss (STL) Test

Material
Speaker Model Box (1x1x1)

Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel

Table 4.12 (Materials for STL)

Tool Used
Sound Level Meter

Table 4.13 (Tool used in STL)

35
 Procedure
a. Put the speaker inside the model box and play the tone with a frequency of

125 Hz, 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz and 4000 Hz. Measure the

level of the sound inside the box using sound level meter and list down the

data.
b. Play the tones again and measure the sound outside the box at a certain

distance. List down the data.

c. Repeat the procedures in the model with BSDP and measure the sound

level in the adjacent box.

Sound Level (Decibel)

Sound Sound
Sound
Level Level
Frequency(Hz Level Sound Transmission Loss
(inside (adjacent/
) (inside with in dB
without outside the
BSDP)
BSDP) box)
125 91.6 89.8 60 29.8
250 103.9 101.1 74.1 26
500 110.9 106.5 86.9 19.6
1000 110.3 104.5 84.3 20.2
2000 112.3 97.8 79.6 18.2
4000 105.9 104.2 85.4 18.8
Table 4.14 (Sound Transmission Loss)

Sample Computation:

For 125 Hz

TL = Sound Levelreceiving room Sound Leveladjacent room

TL = 89.8 dB 60 dB = 29.8 dB (sound loss)

For the Minimum Sound Transmission Loss

TL = 20 log(fm) 47
Where: TL = Transmission Loss
f =Frequency in Hertz
m = mass per area of the material (kg/m2)

36
Note: 125 Hz is used for the standard computation of the minimum STL

1.20
TL = 20 log(125 0.30492 ) 47

TL = 17.511 dB

Sound Transmission Loss

35

30

25
STL
20
Minimum STL
Decibels
15

10

0
125 250 500 1000 2000 4000

Chart 4.2 (Sound Transmission Loss)

In this experiment, the researchers have determined the transmission loss of the

panel by using the sound level meter. The data are listed in table 4.14 which also

indicate the level of sound before and after putting BSDP in the model box and also

the sound level outside/adjacent the box. The calculation for the minimum

transmission loss has been used to determine if the transmission loss is within the

range of the minimum value which is shown in Chart 4.2.

37
 3. Compressive Strength Test

Material Tool used

Biofiber Sand Dissipating Panel Universal Testing Machine (UTM)

Table 4.15 (Material and Tool used in Compressive Strength Test)

Procedure
a. Cut a portion of Biofiber board with an area of 7309mm2.
b. Insert the cut portion of the BSDP in the UTM.
c. Operate the UTM and let the material be compressed until it

reaches its breaking point.

d. Tabulate the data and compare it to the compressive strength of the

sound insulations in the market as shown below:

Acoustic Foam Polystyrene

Acoustic
Materials BSDP (Phenolic Board
Fiberglass
Foam)

Appearance

Compressive 315 psi or 33.37 psi or 230 100 psi or 690 100 psi or 690
Strength 2,171kPa KPa kPa kPa
Maximum
16 kN 1.75 kN 1.97 kN 0.51 kN
Load
Table 4.16 (Compressive Strength Comparison)

38
 Compressive Strength (kPa)
Compressive Strength (kPa)

2171

230
100 100

BSDP Phenolic Foam Polystyrene Board Acoustic Fiberglass

Chart 4.3 Compressive Strength Test

` The experiment regarding compressive strength of the BSDP and the existing

sound insulation in the market is tabulated in Table 4.12 and was graphed in Chart 4.3.

The compressive strengths of the insulations existing in the market were researched

through internet with their corresponding dimensions. On the other hand, the researchers

went to the Terms Testing Center located in Guiguinto, Bulacan to test the compressive

strength of the BSDP using the universal testing machine (UTM). After the experiment, it

was revealed that the BSDP compared to the existing sound insulation in the market has

the highest compressive strength making it the best option in terms of strength.

Summary and Interpretation of the Acceptability Test

Respondents Acceptability in Terms of Functionality

Table 4.17

Variable FREQUENCY MEAN VERBAL

INTERPRETATIO

39
 N

5 4 3 2 1
FUNCTIONALITY
1. The BSDP functions according to its
24 22 4 0 0 4.4 AGREE
intended purpose.
2. The BSDP is easy to install in any surface. 23 18 9 0 0 4.28 AGREE
3. The BSDP is durable and lasting. 13 27 9 1 0 4.04 AGREE
Grand Mean Score : 4.24

LEGEND
1 - 1.49 Strongly Disagree
1.5 - 2.49 Disagree
2.5 - 3.49 Moderately Agree
3.5 - 4.49 Agree
4.5 - 5 Strongly Agree

FUNCTIONALITY
5 4 3 2 1

27
24
23
22

18

13

9 9

4
1

Iintended Purpose.
0 0 Ease of Installation
0 0 Durable and Lasting
0

Chart 4.4 Acceptability Test (Functionality)

Fifty (50) respondents evaluated the functionality of the BSDP by using a survey

instrument after seeing the product and the video of the actual testing. The statistical

results of the evaluation are tabulated and shown in table 4.17 and graphed in Chart 4.4.

40
 Looking at the data tabulated in Table 4.17, the verbal interpretation is Agree

and it is supported by the computed mean value ranging from 4.04 to 4.50 in which the

BSDP was evaluated by its intended purpose, its installment, and its durability and if it

can be used in a longer span of time.

Specifically most of the respondents strongly agreed that the BSDP is functional

as shown in the recorded frequency in each statement in table 4.17

Respondents Acceptability in Terms of Reliability

Table 4.18

VERBAL
MEAN INTERPRETATIO
Variable FREQUENCY N
5 4 3 2 1
RELIABILITY
1. The BSDP can be used for classrooms. 25 20 4 1 0 4.38 AGREE
2. The BSDP can meet/satisfy the users
16 28 6 0 0 4.2 AGREE
needed output.
3. The BSDP is reliable in terms of strength,
13 29 8 0 0 4.1 AGREE
capacity and performance
Grand Mean Score : 4.23

41
 LEGEND
1 - 1.49 Strongly Disagree
1.5 - 2.49 Disagree
2.5 - 3.49 Moderately Agree
3.5 - 4.49 Agree
4.5 - 5 Strongly Agree

RELIABILITY
5 4 3 2 1
28 29
25
20
16
13
6 8
4
1

0 0 0 0 0

Chart 4.5 Acceptability Test (Reliability)

42
 The reliability of the BSDP was evaluated by fifty (50) respondents who were

able to see the product and the actual video testing. The statistical results of the

evaluation are tabulated and shown in table 4.18 and graphed in Chart 4.5.

Looking at the data tabulated in Table 4.18, the verbal interpretation is Agree

which is supported by the computed mean value ranging from 4.1 to 4.38 where in the

BSDP was evaluated if it is usable for classrooms, users satisfaction on their needed

output such as reliability as sound insulation and its strength, capacity and performance.

Specifically most of the respondents strongly agreed that the BSDP is reliable as

sound insulation as shown in the recorded frequency in each statement in table 4.18.

In general, respondents were satisfied with the reliability of BSDP in which the

product scored a mean value of 4.23, interpreted as agree.

Respondents Acceptability in Terms of Effectiveness

Table 4.19

VERBAL
MEAN INTERPRETATIO
Variable FREQUENCY N
5 4 3 2 1
EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS
1. The BSDP meets the users objectives and
23 22 5 0 0 4.36 AGREE
requirements.
2. The BSDP can be used to its maximum
17 24 9 0 0 4.16 AGREE
design capacity.
3. The BSDP insulates sounds efficiently and
17 22 11 0 0 4.12 AGREE
effectively.
Grand Mean Score : 4.21

LEGEND
1 - 1.49 Strongly Disagree
1.5 - 2.49 Disagree
2.5 - 3.49 Moderately Agree
3.5 - 4.49 Agree
4.5 - 5 Strongly Agree
43
 EFFICIENCY
5 4 3 2 1
23 22 24 22
17 17
9 11
5

0 0 0 0 0 0

Chart 4.6 Acceptability Test (Efficiency)

The efficiency of the BSDP was evaluated by fifty (50) respondents who were

able to see the product and the actual video testing. The statistical results of the

evaluation are tabulated and shown in table 4.19 and graphed in Chart 4.6.

Looking at the data tabulated in Table 4.19, the verbal interpretation is Agree

which is supported by the computed mean value ranging from 4.12 to 4.36 where in the

BSDP was evaluated if it was able to meet the users objectives and requirements, its

design and insulation capability efficiently.

Specifically most of the respondents strongly agreed that the BSDP is reliable as

sound insulation as shown in the recorded frequency in each statement in table 4.19.

In general, respondents were satisfied with the reliability of BSDP in which the

product scored a mean value of 4.21, interpreted as agree.

Respondents Acceptability in Terms of Accuracy

44
 Table 4.20

VERBAL
MEAN INTERPRETATIO
Variable FREQUENCY N
5 4 3 2 1
ACCURACY
1. The BSDP can be used with minimal
17 26 7 0 0 4.2 AGREE
maintenance.
2. The BSDP can adapt to changes in its
20 26 4 0 0 4.32 AGREE
working condition.
3. The BSDP is accurate in terms of lessening
18 26 6 0 0 4.24 AGREE
sound transfer in rooms.
Grand Mean Score : 4.25

LEGEND
1 - 1.49 Strongly Disagree
1.5 - 2.49 Disagree
2.5 - 3.49 Moderately Agree
3.5 - 4.49 Agree
4.5 - 5 Strongly Agree
Chart 4.7 Acceptability Test (Accuracy)

The efficiency of the BSDP was evaluated by fifty (50) respondents who were

able to see the product and the actual video testing. The statistical results of the

evaluation are tabulated and shown in table 4.20 and graphed in Chart 4.7.

Looking closer at the data tabulated in Table 4.20, the verbal interpretation is

agree which is supported by the computed mean value ranging from 4.2 to 4.32 where

in the BSDP was evaluated with its maintenance, working condition and its accuracy in

lessening sound between rooms.

Specifically most of the respondents strongly agreed that the BSDP is reliable as

sound insulation as shown in the recorded frequency in each statement in table 4.20.

In general, respondents were satisfied with the reliability of BSDP in which the

product scored a mean value of 4.25, interpreted as agree

45
 CHAPTER V

SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION

This chapter presents the summary of what the research is all about, the findings,

conclusion drawn from the findings and recommendations based on the conclusion.

Summary:

The research study is focused on creating a cheap and eco-friendly sound

insulation panel made out of bamboo fibers and rice straws for classrooms. Specifically,

this study sought answers to the following questions:

1. What processes, methods and engineering theories should be done for the

preparation of the raw materials before the creation of Biofiber Sound

Dissipating Panel to the product in terms of physical properties and

soundproofing?
2. How will the Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel be fabricated?
3. Will the Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel be acceptable for end users

considering the following variables:

3.1 Functionality;
3.2 Efficiency;
3.3 Reliability; and
3.4 Accuracy

The fabricated sound insulation material is proposed for the following

applications:

1. Classrooms
2. Bedspace/Dormitories

46
 3. Auditoriums/Theaters
4. Partitioned rooms
5. Audio-Visual Rooms
6. Recording Studios/KTV rooms

Findings:

Based on the data obtained from the survey conducted by the researchers, it was

established that the respondents were satisfied and they agreed with the output of this

study considering the functionality, efficiency, reliability and accuracy as sound

insulation.

In connection with this, the following were seen as strengths and weaknesses of

the output:

Strengths

1. The Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel (BSDP) has the capabilities of a

sound insulation which has been proven by the reverberation and sound

transmission loss tests conducted by the researchers.

2. The BSDP can compete with the existing sound insulations in the market

such as polystyrene and fiberglass insulations in terms of price and

capabilities.
3. The BSDP has an easy way of installation just like the existing sound

insulations.
4. The BSDP is an eco-friendly sound insulation compared to those in the

market because of the organic fibers (raw materials) used in the

fabrication.
5. The BSDP can increase the decay of sounds or reverberation time based

on the experiment 1 of Chapter 4.

47
 6. The BSDP sound transmission loss is in the minimum range of sound loss

based on the experiment 2 of Chapter 4.

7. The BSDP has the highest compressive strength compared to the existing

insulations such as phenolic foam, polystyrene board and acoustic

fiberglass based on the experiment 3 of Chapter 4.

Weaknesses

1. The BSDP has a tolerable odor.

2. The BSDP decomposes faster than the existing sound insulation in the

market.
3. The BSDP is flammable and not water resistant.
4. The BSDPs size is smaller compared to the existing sound insulations.
5. The BSDP is ineffective in open areas/classrooms.

Conclusions:

In connection with the findings, the following conclusions were drawn:

1. The BSDP has a tolerable odor because of the binder used.

2. The BSDP decomposes faster because the primary materials used are

biodegradable compared to those in the market which are made of

chemicals and synthetic materials.

3. The BSDP is flammable because of the materials used such as wool cloth

and foam which has low fire resistance.

4. The BSDP is not water resistant because the foam and board absorbs

water.

Recommendations:

In relation with the findings and conclusions drawn, the researchers of this study

suggest to modify the Biofiber Sound Dissipating Panel to improve its overall

48
characteristics including its appearance, functionality, accuracy and efficiency to meet the

expectations of the end users.

In general, the researchers suggested the following factors in order to improve the

BSDP.

1. Research and try to add chemicals that will enhance the odor, the fire and

water resistance of the board.

2. Create a larger molder to increase the size of the panel board.
3. The BSDP is more effective when used in closed area/room.
4. The measure of BSDPs lifespan is recommended for the future

researchers.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Biofiber Materials (Zhu et.al, 2014)

https://www.ncsu.edu/bioresources/biores_09/biores_09_1_174_review_b_Zhu_Wu_rece

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DAmbrose, Chris (2003). Frequency Range of Human Hearing. The Physics

Factbook. Retrieved 2007-02-08.

Definition of Noise Polution, Causes and Effect

http://www.emcyclopedia.com/science-and-technology/biology-and-

genetics/environmental-studies/noise-pollution

Edge-effect Suppression Theory by Prof. Kawai, Kansai University

http://www.kansai-u.ac.jp/English/about_ku/research/fc_env/indec.html

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Importance of Sound
49
 http://www.steadyread.com/importance-of-sound/

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J.A. van Leeuwen

Materials for acoustic barriers

http://aidecworld.com/engineering/acoustical-materials/

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Natural News: Bamboo: A Multi-Purpose Plant With Eco-Friendly Potential,

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and-its-control-Okulda-Guerueltue-Kirliligini-Nedenleri-Etkileri-ve-Kontrol-edilmesi

Principles of Sound Proofing

50
 http://bpcan.com/en-CA/bp-academy/soundproofing/basic-knowledge/sound-

deadening-principles/

Study on Sound Absorption Properties of Coconut Coir Fibre Reinforced Composite with

Added Recycled Rubber of S. Mahzan*, A.M. Ahmad Zaidi, N.Arsat, M.N.M. Hatta, M.I.

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Theory of Heat transfer

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http://soundproof.info/theory-behind-soundproofing/

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51