Low-Frequency Sound Absorption of an Inhomogeneous Micro-Perforated Panel with J-Shaped Cavities of Different Depths

In this paper, a micro-perforated panel (MPP) composite structure consisting of an inhomogeneous MPP (IMPP) backed with J-shaped cavities of different depths for low-frequency sound absorption is proposed. The goal is to increase the low-frequency (≤ 500 Hz) sound absorption performance of the IMPP. Sound absorption in a frequency range of 300–480 Hz was achieved with parallel-arranged IMPPs backed by J-shaped cavities, with average absorption of greater than 90%. A parametric analysis was used to optimize the structure's geometric parameters for the specified frequency range. The results show that when the length and volume of the back cavity depths increase, the low-frequency sound absorption peaks shift to a lower frequency. Similarly, the sound absorption curves are enhanced and move towards lower frequencies as the thickness of the IMPP increases. The structure was studied using an electro-acoustic equivalent circuit model (ECM) and finite element method (FEM) simulation. Model prototypes were then made using stereolithography (SLA) and verified by a square-shaped impedance tube-based experimental study to determine the normal absorption coefficient. The results revealed that the three types of curves, namely theoretical, FEM simulation, and experimental, were in good agreement.