Multiscale acoustical study on graphene oxide impregnated polyurethane foam

This study examines the multiscale acoustic properties of sound-absorbing polyurethane (PU) foam impregnated with graphene oxide (GO). GO impregnation into the PU foam was achieved through a vacuum-assisted process. The effects of GO impregnation on the macroscopic acoustic behavior, transport parameters, and sound absorption coefficients were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed that the impregnated GO enveloped the open pores within the porous structure. Geometric parameters derived from the microstructural observations were used to perform acoustic simulations. Models with partially open cells could be used to accurately predict the transport parameters and sound absorption coefficients of foams with low levels of GO impregnation. For foams with high levels of GO impregnation, it was necessary to incorporate closed cells into the model, which significantly enhanced the prediction accuracy for the transport parameters and sound absorption coefficients. This study advances our understanding of the acoustic properties of GO-impregnated PU foams and will be beneficial for developing more effective sound-absorbing materials. Graphical abstract Acoustical characterization of graphene oxide impregnated polyurethane foam