Comparison of multiple-layer versus multiple-cavity microperforated panels for sound absorption at low frequency

Microperforated panels (MPPs) are recognized as suitable absorbers for noise control applications demanding special clean and health requirements.While it is relatively easy to design single-layer MPPs for sound absorption in one-to-two octave bands at medium-high frequencies, the performance for low frequencies (below 600 Hz) leads to a rather narrow-band absorption, similar to that of a Helmholtz resonator. However, multiple-layer MPPs can be designed as sound absorbers that yield low-frequency absorption in a wide frequency band. Recently, multiple-cavity perforated panels have been proposed to improve the performance of MPPs in the low-frequency range. In this article, the capability of multiple-layer and multiple-cavity MPPs to provide sound absorption at low frequencies is analyzed.